Giannis and Bucks Say NBA Trade Deadline Will Fizzle

Merlin sees young fans waiting with bated breath but the league whispers a different tale. An Eastern conference executive said "I don't see an eventful trade deadline," and signs point that way. Giannis is the headline but not being shopped, and the Bucks are operating as buyers. Big salary players with injury risk like Anthony Davis are hard to move, and teams such as the Clippers have "no plans" to sell. Salary cap apron rules also clip the wings of obvious buyers. Merlin knows this piles pressure into the summer. With teams protecting picks and swap rights and avoiding salary headaches, expect fewer blockbusters before Feb 5 and more patient chess moves afterward. Small deals will happen, but the real fireworks may wait until teams have clearer room and appetite.