The NBA trade deadline is approaching, and things are escalating quickly.
A little past the halfway point in the season, 11 teams in the East are battling for eight playoff spots, and about 12 West squads are pushing for postseason play. That means the moves by contenders could make a greater impact than usual.
MORE: Pelicans may make counter-offer to Lakers
We've already seen one blockbuster so far with the Knicks trading Kristaps Porzingis to the Mavericks. The Pelicans are also discussing potential deals for Anthony Davis, so there could be plenty of fireworks before deadline day.
Here's everything you need to know ahead of the 2019 NBA trade deadline.
When is the NBA trade deadline?
The NBA trade deadline is Thursday, Feb. 7. The cutoff point is 3 p.m. ET, though the news of some trades may emerge shortly after that deadline.
Who are the top targets at the NBA trade deadline?
Anthony Davis, Pelicans: Yep, that guy. The five-time All-Star forward has requested a trade out of New Orleans. That doesn't mean the Pelicans will deal him before the deadline, though. They could wait until the summer when the Celtics can put together a strong trade package and drive up their asking price.
JR Smith, Cavs: The Rockets and Pelicans have previously expressed interest in Smith, who has been floating in basketball purgatory after accusing the Cavs of tanking. In the right environment, Smith could at least provide a spot-up shooting, but his past couple years in Cleveland have been rough.
Robin Lopez and Jabari Parker, Bulls: Chicago won't back down in buyout negotiations with Lopez, leaving the big man stuck on a bad squad with limited opportunities. Parker's predicament isn't much better with the former Duke star removed from head coach Jim Boylen's rotation.
Wayne Ellington, Heat: Sporting News' Sean Deveney reported back in December that the Lakers could be targeting Ellington to add some much-needed shooting to their roster. They won't be the only team asking about Ellington's status. (Important note: Ellington can veto any trade because he signed a one-year deal this past offseason and has full Bird Rights next summer.)
Enes Kanter, Knicks: Multiple teams have already inquired about Kanter, who is averaging a double-double for the lowly Knicks. His play isn't what makes him attractive, though — Kanter would be helpful for salary-cap reasons, as he is on an expiring contract ($18.6 million).
A few Hawks players: Atlanta isn't concerned with its record. The Hawks should be focused on acquiring assets. Kent Bazemore and Dewayne Dedmon could be available, but the most intriguing trade piece might be Jeremy Lin. The Pelicans, Sixers and Trail Blazers have all asked about the backup point guard, according to Sporting News' Sean Deveney.
A few Magic players: This situation is slightly different. Orlando is just outside of the East playoff bracket, so the Magic's front office could put a fire sale on hold. Terrence Ross and Jonathon Simmons will likely be part of multiple trade discussions before the deadline passes. Even leading scorers Nikola Vucevic and Aaron Gordon don't feel completely safe at the moment.
Latest NBA trade rumors and news
— TRADE: Sixers land Tobias Harris in stunning blockbuster
— TRADE: Bucks send Thon Maker to Pistons for Stanley Johnson
— TRADE: Lakers acquire Reggie Bullock from Pistons
— Wizards "not budging" on core trio ahead of deadline
— Lakers end talks with Pelicans over "outrageous" demands
— Grizzlies, Hornets skeptical on Marc Gasol trade, SN sources say
— Lakers have discussed dealing for Bulls' Jabari Parker
— Clippers' Tobias Harris drawing interest from multiple teams
— TRADE: Rodney Hood heading to Trail Blazers
— TRADE: Knicks send Kristaps Porzingis to Mavs
— Anthony Davis won't re-sign with Pelicans, demands trade
— Grizzlies will listen to offers for Marc Gasol, Mike Conley
