As the NBA offseason quiets down, notable names are fewer, especially with the Kings acquiring DeMar DeRozan from Chicago in a sign-and-trade. The rumors surrounding Lauri Markkanen persist, but for now, we evaluate the transactions already executed. Here’s a look at the offseason winners and losers, knowing this list could change swiftly.
Winner: Sacramento Kings
Though some, including our Sam Quinn, criticized the Kings’ sign-and-trade move for DeRozan, giving a D- grade, there’s a different perspective worth considering. DeRozan, nearly 35, may not fit Sacramento’s offensive style perfectly and could be a defensive liability. However, the Kings have struggled with playoff appearances, and DeRozan represents an immediate upgrade over Harrison Barnes.
In their context, maintaining momentum is crucial. DeMar DeRozan’s consistent scoring can help over the 82-game season, and Sacramento must focus on the regular season before considering playoffs. DeRozan might adapt to the Kings, fitting dynamically with De’Aaron Fox and Malik Monk. Moreover, Sacramento can still make significant trades, with Kevin Huerter as a potential candidate for dealing, enhancing their roster without exceeding the tax threshold.
The acquisition didn’t cost them future draft picks, positioning it as a possible better deal than the Minnesota Timberwolves’ trade for Rudy Gobert. Even if he doesn’t fit seamlessly, DeRozan could still hold trade value down the line. Considering their long playoff absences, taking a swing at DeRozan appears worthwhile for the Kings.
Loser: Los Angeles Lakers
The Lakers’ offseason has been underwhelming. Despite searching for a significant third star, they’ve only managed to add minor pieces. LeBron James hinted at helping financially to add a star before signing his two-year deal. Yet, current acquisitions like coach Darvin Ham and LeBron’s son, Bronny, won’t substantially change the team’s fortunes.
Role players like Dalton Knecht are promising but hardly game-changers. Without a major addition, the Lakers have barely held their ground or perhaps even slipped slightly. Rumors about acquiring Trae Young persist, but unless something significant materializes, it’s a lackluster offseason for the Lakers.
Winner: Philadelphia 76ers
The Sixers secured Paul George, fitting neatly between Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. Adding George makes them a strong title contender, as he addresses their need for a strong wing player. Re-signing Kelly Oubre, and adding Eric Gordon for shooting and Andre Drummond as backup, makes Philadelphia poised for a competitive season.
Loser: Los Angeles Clippers
Losing Paul George to the Sixers without getting substantial return hurts the Clippers. They missed another trade opportunity involving George and now pay hefty salaries to Kawhi Leonard and James Harden. Despite adding defensive players like Derrick Jones Jr. and rotational depth, being tied to Leonard and Harden seems more detrimental than beneficial.
Winner: New York Knicks
The Knicks acquiring Mikal Bridges drives their defense and complements their offensive strategy. Bridges’ impact, alongside Jalen Brunson’s leadership, makes New York a formidable team. Despite losing Isaiah Hartenstein to the Thunder, keeping Mitchell Robinson and their overall strong draft work, including securing second-round picks for financial flexibility, leaves the Knicks with an excellent offseason.
Winner: Oklahoma City Thunder
The Thunder’s acquisition of Isaiah Hartenstein fixes their rebounding issues and bolsters their defense. With Hartenstein and Alex Caruso joining an already stout defensive lineup, OKC could be a surprising contender in the West.
Loser: Golden State Warriors
Losing Klay Thompson and failing to acquire significant trades like Paul George are hits for the Warriors. However, they’ve made under-the-radar moves like acquiring De’Anthony Melton, Kyle Anderson, and Buddy Hield, possibly leading to an overall improved roster.
Winner: Cleveland Cavaliers
Donovan Mitchell’s max extension secures Cleveland’s future. Balancing potential trades involving Darius Garland, they maintain flexibility while keeping an All-Star backcourt, making it a significant win for the Cavaliers.
Winner: Boston Celtics
Jaylen Brown secured the richest contract in NBA history after winning his first championship, marking a successful offseason for the Celtics.
Winner: Dallas Mavericks
Dallas made strategic upgrades by exchanging players like Derrick Jones Jr. for Naji Marshall and acquiring Klay Thompson. Thompson’s shooting ability adds to Dallas’ offensive arsenal, potentially alleviating pressure on Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving.
Winner: Klay Thompson
Though feeling slighted by Golden State, Thompson secures a $50 million deal with Dallas, providing a fresh start and a legitimate shot at another title.
Winner: James Harden
Despite not obtaining a max deal, Harden secured another lucrative contract with the Clippers, remaining a key player while teams continue to invest heavily in him.
Winner: New Orleans Pelicans
Acquiring Dejounte Murray from Atlanta, the Pelicans strengthened their defense and shooting capacity. With potential further moves involving Brandon Ingram, New Orleans is solidifying its competitive standing.
Winner: Brooklyn Nets
The Nets turned Kevin Durant into nine first-round picks, setting them up for a rapid rebuild or a long-term development strategy, a significant gain from the offseason.
Loser: Denver Nuggets
Losing Kentavious Caldwell-Pope to Orlando weakens Denver’s defense and overall team structure. They must now rely on internal replacements, which may not measure up to KCP’s contributions.
Winner: San Antonio Spurs
Chris Paul’s acquisition will aid Victor Wembanyama’s development, and their draft strategy, including trading for future picks from Minnesota, sets them up well for the future without exceeding payroll limits.
Winners: Young players
Cade Cunningham, Scottie Barnes, Immanuel Quickley, and Tyrese Maxey all secured substantial extensions, ensuring financial security and validating their promising performances.
Winner: Orlando Magic
Orlando’s smart moves, including signing Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and renegotiating Jonathan Isaac’s contract, reinforce their defensive prowess and plan for long-term financial flexibility.
Loser: Atlanta Hawks
Despite reasonable returns on trades, the Hawks are in a tough position, lacking high-value picks and facing limited options for significant improvements.
The NBA offseason remains fluid, with potential changes to these assessments. However, these moves currently define the league’s shifting landscape as teams prepare for the next season.