In the buildup to the NBA trade deadline, several teams are making waves as they explore potential roster upgrades and seek to make significant moves. Let's dive into the latest buzz surrounding the Houston Rockets, Milwaukee Bucks, and Orlando Magic.

The Houston Rockets surprised many by acquiring injured center Steven Adams from the Memphis Grizzlies, signaling their patience in building for the future rather than making a playoff push. Despite rumors of pursuing top-notch wings like Mikal Bridges, the Rockets failed to generate any traction in trade talks. However, expect the Rockets to continue searching for ways to improve their roster before Thursday's deadline, with a focus on potentially making a major move during the offseason.

Meanwhile, the Milwaukee Bucks are actively looking to bolster their roster as they seek to defend their title. With limited outgoing package options, they are reportedly "shopping hard for help" and are willing to include players like Pat Connaughton and Cam Payne in potential trades. To go after bigger salary players such as Dejounte Murray, Bruce Brown, or Andrew Wiggins, the Bucks may need to include Bobby Portis. While their pursuit of forward Miles Bridges from the Charlotte Hornets makes them the leading suitor, they only have second-round draft picks to offer, while the Hornets hope to receive a first-round pick in return.

Turning our attention to the Orlando Magic, there have been whispers of the team pursuing veteran point guards like Chris Paul and Kyle Lowry. However, sources indicate that these rumors may not be accurate, as an aging floor general wouldn't align with the Magic's current strategy of building a team around young, defensive-minded players. While the Magic could consider adding Lowry if he reaches the buyout market, there are no ongoing trade discussions with the Charlotte Hornets for him at this time. Additionally, Orlando seems content with their roster's perimeter shooting and may not seek upgrades unless the player offers significant defensive value as well.

On the flip side, the Charlotte Hornets find themselves at the center of trade talks involving their forward Miles Bridges and PJ Washington. While the Phoenix Suns are seen as the leading suitor for Miles Bridges, they are limited in terms of draft capital and may only be able to offer second-round picks. Charlotte is hopeful of receiving a first-round pick in return for Bridges, and if not, they could consider re-signing him to a multi-year deal, potentially increasing his trade value in the future. Detroit and Utah are also among the teams connected to Bridges. Meanwhile, the Dallas Mavericks have not shown interest in Bridges or Dorian Finney-Smith in recent discussions.

Lastly, the Atlanta Hawks, despite making most of their roster available, may hold onto Dejounte Murray past the trade deadline. With a recent winning streak and Murray's impressive performances, the Hawks can afford to wait and potentially garner the two first-round picks they seek for the former All-Star point guard in the summer when draft capital becomes more accessible. This scarcity of teams with significant first-round draft picks and the evolving salary-matching rules for tax teams are posing challenges for several front offices.

With the trade deadline looming, teams are actively considering their options and exploring various trade scenarios. As the deadline approaches, expect rumors and discussions to intensify, potentially leading to significant moves that could shape the landscape of the NBA.