The trading started late Wednesday when Philadelphia acquired five-time All-Star Chris Webber from Sacramento for Brian Skinner, Kenny Thomas and Corliss Williamson. The deal gives the Sixers some lift as they head into the stretch run neck-and-neck with the Celtics for the lead in the Atlantic.

Philadelphia GM Billy King is also excited about the Webber deal because he thinks it will help the team's talented, young core to grow.

"I think, the way we play, it will allow our young guys to develop more, because now you've got a big guy who can make passes and hit the jump shot," King told Sixers.com.

Philadelphia wasn't done dealing, however, and sent Glenn Robinson to New Orleans for Jamal Mashburn and Rodney Rogers.

Boston also made some moves of their own on Thursday. First, they sent Jiri Welsch to the Cavaliers for a first-round pick in 2007. Then, they brought Antoine Walker back to Beantown by sending Gary Payton, Tom Gugliotta, Michael Stewart and a future first-round pick to Atlanta. Walker is averaging 20.4 points, 9.4 rebounds and 3.7 assists per game so far this season.

In the West, standout point guard Baron Davis was sent from New Orleans to Golden State for Speedy Claxton and Dale Davis. Although Davis has been hampered by injuries this season, Warriors Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations Chris Mullin believes the move gives his team high hopes for the future.

“We're thrilled to be able to acquire a proven All-Star like Baron Davis,” Mullin told Warriors.com. “He ranks among the best point guards in the NBA and we feel that he will be a tremendous addition to our roster – not only with what he brings to the table on his own, but also what he can provide to the continued development of our team.”

Meanwhile, in Dallas, the Mavericks brought versatile forward Keith Van Horn to Texas from Milwaukee. Mavericks President of Basketball Operations Donnie Nelson thinks the move will give Dallas more flexibility on offense.

"We are excited to bring Keith Van Horn to Dallas," Nelson told Mavericks.com. "Keith’s versatility, experience and shooting ability were the factors for us to make this decision."