We know 7 teams in the West and 5 in the East that will make the playoffs. It makes sense for most of them to make trades
For those fighting for the playoffs - Boston, Tampa, Detroit, Ottawa or Columbus - it doesn't make sense. Because their combined chance of winning the cup is zero percent.
Sure, but you need to at least guarantee a playoff spot. Are you confident TB will make the playoffs EVEN if they make a few trades? This team isn't a trade or two away from being decent.
What really wastes your star players prime years is that you're wasting assets in seasons where you're definitely not going to win anything. The salary cap will go up. Pray that Howard is legit, sign a new bottom, and then make trades.