Why is there a trade deadline of July 31st.but yet somehow teams are still picking up players 2 weeks later?

Question

I just dont understand the "so called" deadline if there really isn't one?

Answer 1

There is a deadline. The deadline that just passe don July 31st was TRADING deadline. Players are still being picked up is because they are waivers and the waiver deadline has not yet passed.  

Answer 2

Because a team tcan put a player on waivers but somebody has to claim them, and make a trade for that player within 48 hours. If they don't agree within 48 hours no trade. July 31 is the non waiver deadline and it's easier to make trades.