The Athletic NBA staff decided to offer an assist. For all 30 teams, we’ve selected a short-term route — buy, sell or stand pat — they should take as the clock ticks to Feb. 6. Some choices may surprise you. Others might not.

The NBA trade deadline is not until Feb. 6, but the buzz around notable players and teams is building up. Keep an eye on players such as Jimmy Butler, Zion Williamson and Zach LaVine, who'll be linked to possible trades. One team to watch is the Phoenix Suns, who have stayed busy in January, making two trades while remaining in the mix for Butler.

Do the Lakers and Warriors owe it to LeBron James and Stephen Curry to trade away a distant first-round pick to give them a better shot at winning a fifth championship?