What happened: The league’s trade deadline falls Aug. 2. New roster rules include a minimum salary-cap exception and protection for seven veteran contracts, up from six.
Why it matters: Contenders must weigh immediate upgrades against the cost of draft capital. Sellers can turn veteran value into future assets before the window closes.
By the numbers: Eight in-season trades were completed across the previous two seasons.
What to watch: Watch for completed deals and corresponding roster moves before the cutoff.