The NBA offseason has been nothing short of tumultuous, as major moves have dramatically altered team rosters and future prospects. Key players have switched allegiances, and substantial contract extensions have been signed, setting the stage for what promises to be an electrifying season.
Philadelphia 76ers: A Whole New Look
Leading the charge in offseason activity, the Philadelphia 76ers made headlines by acquiring Paul George from the Los Angeles Clippers. The addition of George, a player renowned for his scoring and defensive prowess, is expected to significantly bolster the 76ers' lineup. Not stopping there, Philadelphia also signed Tyrese Maxey to a $204 million extension, ensuring their dynamic backcourt remains intact for years to come. Complementing these moves, veterans Eric Gordon, Andre Drummond, and the re-signed Kelly Oubre will bring both depth and experience to the squad.
Clippers Opt for Depth Over Stars
The Clippers, having decided against offering Paul George a four-year max contract, chose a different route by enhancing their roster's depth. In a series of sweeping changes, they added Derrick Jones Jr., Nic Batum, Kevin Porter, Kris Dunn, and Mo Bamba. Moreover, the Clippers secured the services of James Harden on a two-year, $70 million deal, a move that will add significant firepower to their backcourt.
Knicks and Thunder Shake Things Up
The New York Knicks, aiming for a fresh start, made a critical move by acquiring Mikal Bridges. To make room for Bridges, the Knicks traded Isaiah Hartenstein to the Oklahoma City Thunder. The Thunder weren't done, as they also landed Alex Caruso and parted ways with Josh Giddey, who was sent to the Chicago Bulls.
Mavericks Secure Thompson Amid Warriors Rift
Another major development saw the Dallas Mavericks signing Klay Thompson to a three-year, $50 million contract. The Golden State Warriors had reportedly offered Thompson a two-year, $48 million deal, but sources close to the player indicated that "Thompson feels slighted by the Warriors, and he ends up taking less money on an annual basis from the Mavericks." In related moves, Dallas traded Derrick Jones Jr. for Naji Marshall, and Josh Green along with Tim Hardaway Jr. for Thompson, resulting in a significant reshuffling of their roster.
Significant Extensions Across the League
Notable contract extensions have also been a focal point this offseason. Donovan Mitchell committed to the Cleveland Cavaliers with a three-year, $150.3 million extension. In Boston, Jayson Tatum secured his future with a five-year, $315 million contract extension. Cade Cunningham of the Detroit Pistons signed a five-year max rookie extension worth $226 million, while Scottie Barnes agreed to a potential $270 million, five-year extension with the Toronto Raptors. Additionally, the Raptors signed Immanuel Quickley to a five-year, $175 million deal.
Pelicans and Nets Capitalize on Trades
The New Orleans Pelicans made significant strides by acquiring Dejounte Murray in exchange for Larry Nance Jr., Dyson Daniels, and two first-round picks in 2025 and 2027. Meanwhile, the Brooklyn Nets received a staggering nine first-round picks in exchange for Kevin Durant, regaining control of their 2025 and 2026 first-round picks in the process.
Spurs, Magic, and Hawks Make Key Moves
The San Antonio Spurs showed savvy decision-making by signing veteran Chris Paul to an $11 million deal and acquiring the rights to rookie Stephon Castle. They also traded Rob Dillingham to the Timberwolves for future draft considerations. The Orlando Magic reinforced their squad by signing Kentavious Caldwell-Pope to a three-year, $66 million contract and extending Jonathan Isaac on a five-year, $84 million deal. Lastly, the Atlanta Hawks benefited from the Pelicans' acquisition of Murray, securing a 2025 first-round pick from the Lakers and a 2027 pick from the Pelicans.
As the dust settles on an action-packed offseason, the NBA's new landscape promises intrigue and intense competition. With revamped rosters and fresh faces in new places, fans eagerly anticipate the start of the season to see how these moves will play out on the court.