Trades require at least two teams, and in theory the maximum limit is the number of teams in the league -- i.e., it is possible (although very unlikely) for there to be a single trade in which every NBA team is involved. Each team in a trade must send something out
and take something back, where the following requirements must be met:
- In all trades (no matter how many teams are involved), each team must send out and take back at least one of the following:
- A player under contract.
- A future draft pick. If a pick is protected (see question number 87), then no more than 55 picks in a single draft can be protected.
- The draft rights to an "NBA prospect" -- a player with a reasonable chance of becoming an NBA player during his career, or a contributing player in a reputable professional league (as determined by the league office).
- The right to swap unencumbered picks in a future draft.
- $75,000 or more.