Over the past year, the NBA has experienced a whirlwind of change as 13 of its biggest stars made bold and unprecedented team switches. From blockbuster trades to free-agent signings, these moves have not only redefined team dynamics but have also set the stage for a highly anticipated and competitive season. It also shows the way the NBA has changed in terms of player movement.
In this article, we will delve into the fascinating stories behind these 13 high-profile player movements, exploring the motivations, implications, and potential game-changing impacts on their new teams. As we have gone through countless changes in championship contenders and even seen more than a handful of superteams, here are the major names that have switched teams in the modern era.
13. Deandre Ayton
Deandre Ayton’s transition from the Phoenix Suns to the Portland Trail Blazers marks one of the most significant player movements in the NBA over the past year. Ayton played a pivotal role in the Suns’ memorable run to the NBA Finals in 2021, showcasing his potential as a dominant center in the league.
With an impressive track record of consistently delivering double-double performances, he averaged 16.7 points, 10.4 rebounds, and 1.0 blocks per game over five seasons with the Suns. Ayton’s contributions on both ends of the floor were integral to the Suns’ success, and he quickly became a cornerstone for the team’s future.
However, Ayton’s time in Phoenix wasn’t without its challenges. His reported friction with head coach Monty Williams and constant involvement in trade rumors seemed to detract from his focus on the court. These distractions may have hindered his development and the team’s chemistry, leading to the decision to trade him. Ayton’s move to the rebuilding Portland Trail Blazers, who themselves traded their franchise star Damian Lillard, presents a fresh start and an opportunity for Ayton to establish himself as an elite player in the league.
With the departure of Lillard and the arrival of rookie Scoot Henderson, Ayton will likely assume a central role in Portland’s offense and defense, and he aspires to earn his first All-Star selection while helping the Blazers build toward a brighter future.
12. Marcus Smart
(From Boston Celtics to Memphis Grizzlies)
The trade of Marcus Smart from the Boston Celtics to the Memphis Grizzlies sent shockwaves through the NBA community. Smart had been an integral part of the Celtics franchise, exemplifying grit and determination on the court. In 2022, he even earned the prestigious Defensive Player of the Year award, underlining his prowess as a lockdown defender.
During the Celtics’ impressive Finals run in the same year, Smart was the heart and soul of the team, bringing both leadership and defensive tenacity to the forefront. Over his nine seasons with the Celtics, he maintained his reputation as a consistent contributor, averaging 10.6 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per game. His commitment to upholding the Celtics’ culture and work ethic was undeniable.
However, in a surprising turn of events during the 2023 preseason, the Celtics made the bold decision to trade Smart to the Memphis Grizzlies in exchange for Kristaps Porzingis. While initially met with shock and skepticism, this move proved to be the correct one, especially when the Celtics later acquired Jrue Holiday via trade.
These moves demonstrated the Celtics’ clear intent to prepare for a strong championship run, bolstering their roster with established talent. Smart’s departure opened up new possibilities for the Celtics, and their dynamic offseason reshuffle indicates a commitment to competing at the highest level and contending for an NBA championship at all costs.
11. Jrue Holiday
(From Milwaukee Bucks to Boston Celtics)
In a significant move during the offseason, Jrue Holiday made the transition from the Milwaukee Bucks to the Boston Celtics, signifying one of the most notable trades of the year. The Bucks had previously made waves by acquiring Damian Lillard, a move that necessitated parting ways with Jrue Holiday, a five-time All-Defensive player and a two-time All-Star.
Holiday’s contribution to the Bucks had been instrumental in their 2021 championship victory, as he served as the crucial third piece alongside stars Giannis Antetokounmpo and Khris Middleton. Despite his vital role, the franchise aimed for a major transformation in its roster to stay competitive.
Given Portland’s rebuilding phase, they found it advantageous to trade Jrue Holiday to the Boston Celtics. This trade saw Holiday heading to the Celtics in exchange for a package that included Robert Williams III, Malcolm Brogdon, and two first-round picks. The move signified both teams’ strategic decisions to strengthen their positions and build for the future.
For the Celtics, acquiring Holiday added a seasoned and versatile playmaker to their roster, bolstering their championship aspirations, while the Bucks continued their quest to stay at the top of the league by making a significant move to secure Damian Lillard. The aftermath of this trade holds the promise of exciting basketball dynamics and shifting team landscapes in the NBA.
10. Russell Westbrook
(From Los Angeles Lakers to Los Angeles Clippers)
Russell Westbrook’s high-profile transfer from the Los Angeles Lakers to the Los Angeles Clippers marked a significant turn of events in the NBA landscape. Westbrook’s stint with the Lakers proved to be a disastrous experiment, as the team not only missed the playoffs in 2022 but also struggled to maintain a winning record in 2023 with Westbrook as a key part of their roster.
The struggles led the Lakers to make the quick decision to trade him, and surprisingly, they managed to reach the Western Conference Finals after his departure, showcasing a remarkable turnaround in their fortunes.
Westbrook’s shift to the Clippers brought an interesting twist to his career. Now serving as the starting point guard for the Clippers, Westbrook found new life with a different Los Angeles team. It’s intriguing to witness a player who struggled with one team, the Lakers, reviving his career and potentially making a significant impact with a rival franchise.
However, the question remains about how Westbrook will fit in with James Harden, another high-profile guard who has arrived on the Clippers’ roster. The dynamics of this new partnership and its implications for the Clippers’ championship ambitions are yet to be fully understood, making it a storyline to watch closely in the upcoming NBA seasons.
9. Mikal Bridges
(From Phoenix Suns to Brooklyn Nets)
The move of Mikal Bridges from the Phoenix Suns to the Brooklyn Nets might benefit the player’s career more than anything. Bridges had been an integral part of the Suns’ journey to the NBA Finals in 2021, where he served as their starting swingman, providing not only defensive prowess but also an outside shooting threat.
His consistency on both ends of the floor made him a linchpin for the Suns. Over five seasons with the team, Bridges averaged 12.2 points and 4.0 rebounds per game, solidifying his reputation as a valuable contributor.
However, the decision to trade Bridges sent shockwaves through the basketball world, especially considering his contributions to the Suns. The Suns’ failure to capture the championship in 2021 and their inability to return to the Finals in 2022 highlighted their desire to go all-in for a championship run.
This led to the bold move of trading Bridges in exchange for superstar Kevin Durant, a player known for his scoring prowess and ability to change the course of a game. This trade underlined the Suns’ commitment to making the necessary moves to bring home an NBA championship, even if it meant parting ways with a player as integral as Mikal Bridges. The impact of this trade on both the Suns and the Nets, as well as the NBA landscape, is a narrative to closely monitor in the seasons to come.
8. Jordan Poole
(From Golden State Warriors to Washington Wizards)
The trade of Jordan Poole from the Golden State Warriors to the Washington Wizards was one that many might not have seen coming. Poole had played a pivotal role for the Warriors during the 2022 season, with impressive stats of averaging 18.5 points per game, shooting 36.4% from the field, and maintaining a remarkable 92.5% free-throw shooting percentage.
His contributions in the playoffs, where he posted 17.0 points per game and shot 39.1% from three-point range, were instrumental in helping the Warriors clinch the championship. However, the beginning of the 2023 season took an unexpected turn for Poole. An altercation in practice with Draymond Green resulted in Poole being punched out, and his performance suffered during the season, with his playoff scoring dropping to only 10.3 points per game.
In a surprising move, the Warriors chose to trade Poole, opting to retain the 33-year-old Draymond Green instead. This decision signaled the Warriors’ clear intent to go all-in for another title run and indicated that they were not interested in developing Poole for an extended period. The trade of Jordan Poole is a reflection of the Warriors’ commitment to their championship ambitions and their willingness to make strategic roster adjustments to achieve their championship goals.
7. Kristaps Porzingis
(From Washington Wizards to Boston Celtics)
During his two seasons with the Wizards, Kristaps Porzingis put up solid numbers, averaging 22.9 points per game and 8.5 rebounds. However, his impact on the team was limited, primarily due to the absence of Bradley Beal due to injuries. With the Wizards choosing to part ways with Beal in a blockbuster trade, they also decided to trade Porzingis to the Celtics, while simultaneously re-routing Marcus Smart to the Memphis Grizzlies in the same deal.
The trade made by the Celtics signified a strategic shift in their roster. While it was a difficult decision to trade away their Defensive Player of the Year, Marcus Smart, they saw an opportunity to acquire the 7’3″ Porzingis, who could provide not only strong defense but also floor spacing.
This move positioned Porzingis as a perfect third option behind Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown in the Celtics’ offensive scheme. The trade underscores the Celtics’ ambition to create a more balanced and dynamic team, and the addition of Porzingis promises to bring a new dimension to their playstyle as they pursue their championship aspirations after failing to return to the Finals after the 2022 defeat.
6. Bradley Beal
(From Washington Wizards to Phoenix Suns)
The blockbuster trade of Bradley Beal from the Washington Wizards to the Phoenix Suns marked the end of an era for the Wizards and the beginning of a new chapter for Beal’s career. Beal’s tenure with the Wizards solidified his status as one of the franchise’s all-time great players, as he averaged 22.1 points per game over 11 seasons and earned three All-Star selections. Notably, he had two seasons where he averaged over 30 points per game, showcasing his scoring prowess in the league.
However, Beal’s frequent injuries and the need for the Wizards to rebuild prompted a blockbuster trade that sent him to the Phoenix Suns. In the process, Chris Paul was routed to the Golden State Warriors, and Jordan Poole made his way to Washington, signifying significant changes for multiple teams.
The trade signaled the Wizards’ readiness to embark on a rebuilding phase, while the Suns demonstrated their all-in approach by forming a formidable Big Three consisting of Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, and Bradley Beal. This move added a new level of excitement and competitiveness to the Suns, who aim to make a championship push with their star-studded trio.
5. Chris Paul
(From Phoenix Suns to Golden State Warriors)
The unexpected trade of Chris Paul from the Phoenix Suns to the Golden State Warriors was a rather surprising move in the NBA landscape. Paul had a remarkable impact on the Suns during his first season with the team, helping them reach the NBA Finals in 2021. His influence extended beyond the court, as he served as an emotional leader, bringing a winning mentality and veteran leadership to the squad.
Despite his significant contributions, Paul’s age became a concern, prompting the Suns to make the bold decision to trade him in an effort to create a superteam. The Warriors saw the opportunity to bring in Paul to lead their bench and maintain salary cap flexibility, as Paul’s contract was set to come off the books after the 2024-25 season. This unexpected move has seemingly paid off for the Warriors, as they have started the season strong, losing only two games so far.
The trade exemplifies the dynamic and strategic nature of the NBA, where even surprising moves can yield positive outcomes for the teams involved. While the Suns got their way with a new Big Three (Booker, Durant, Beal), the Warriors managed to shore up their depth chart.
4. Damian Lillard
(From Portland Trail Blazers to Milwaukee Bucks)
Damian Lillard’s move from the Portland Trail Blazers to the Milwaukee Bucks was a seismic shift in the NBA landscape. Lillard had undoubtedly established himself as arguably the greatest player in Trail Blazers’ history, playing a pivotal role in making the franchise relevant in the Western Conference and leading them to the Conference Finals in 2019. His incredible scoring ability, clutch performances, and unwavering loyalty to Portland had made him a beloved figure in the city.
However, it became apparent that Lillard’s championship aspirations were unlikely to be fulfilled with the Trail Blazers. In light of this, he made a trade request, setting the stage for a high-stakes transfer. Many had anticipated a move to the Miami Heat, given their strong interest in Lillard, but it was the Milwaukee Bucks who emerged as the surprising destination.
The trade formed a superstar duo with Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo, making the Bucks one of the top contenders for the NBA title. While the Bucks aimed to bolster their championship ambitions, the Trail Blazers entered a rebuilding phase, focusing on developing new talent, notably the No. 3 overall pick, Scoot Henderson. The trade marked a significant moment in the careers of both Lillard and the Trail Blazers, as well as in the overall balance of power in the league.
3. Kyrie Irving
(From Brooklyn Nets to Dallas Mavericks)
The trade of Kyrie Irving from the Brooklyn Nets to the Dallas Mavericks was a significant trade that reshaped the landscape of both teams and was a transaction that nobody saw coming. Before that, Irving was expected to be a key figure in the Nets’ quest for a championship, alongside Kevin Durant, forming a dynamic duo with immense potential. However, Irving frequently found himself at the center of controversy due to his off-court comments and his stance on the COVID-19 vaccination, which created a tumultuous atmosphere within the team.
Amidst the drama and the player’s desire to sign a long-term deal, the Nets decided to trade Irving to the Dallas Mavericks. The move signaled the Nets’ intention to enter a rebuilding phase and create a new team dynamic. On the other side, the Mavericks were willing to make significant changes to the core of their team in order to pair Irving with Luka Doncic, offering Doncic a new running partner.
Despite missing the playoffs in 2023, the Mavericks appear ready for a deep playoff run in the upcoming season with Irving on board. This trade underscores the ever-evolving nature of NBA rosters and the importance of chemistry and team dynamics in a league filled with talent and high expectations.
2. James Harden
(From Philadelphia 76ers to Los Angeles Clippers)
James Harden’s journey through multiple teams since 2020 has been a rollercoaster of expectations and aspirations. Despite his immense talent, he has struggled to find long-lasting happiness with a single team. His stint with the Brooklyn Nets alongside Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving offered a tantalizing glimpse of success, but Harden was seemingly unwilling to accept a secondary role in the team’s offensive scheme.
He then sought to make his mark with the Philadelphia 76ers, forming a dynamic duo with Joel Embiid. During his time in Philadelphia, Harden led the NBA in assists in 2023 (10.7), showcasing his versatility as a playmaker. However, the 76ers’ playoff journey was cut short by the Boston Celtics, leading Harden to once again request a trade.
The 76ers moved him to the Los Angeles Clippers, where he joins forces with Kawhi Leonard, Paul George, and Russell Westbrook, creating a star-studded lineup. The question remains whether Harden can find happiness in Los Angeles and lead his team to the NBA Finals for the first time since 2012, marking an intriguing chapter in his ever-evolving career.
1. Kevin Durant
(From Brooklyn Nets to Phoenix Suns)
The trade of Kevin Durant from the Brooklyn Nets to the Phoenix Suns marked a significant moment in the NBA last year, as one of the best players in the modern era found himself on a new team. Durant’s time with the Nets, while laden with high expectations, was plagued by injuries and the inability of the Nets’ star trio – Durant, Kyrie Irving, and James Harden – to consistently stay healthy. The results fell short of the championship aspirations that came with their union.
Faced with the challenges and disappointments in Brooklyn, Durant requested a trade to the Suns, joining forces with Devin Booker and Bradley Beal to form a star-studded trio in Phoenix in 2023. Durant, a player with two championships during his time with the Golden State Warriors, faces the task of proving he can secure an NBA title without the presence of key Warriors players like Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green, who were pivotal to the Warriors’ dynasty.
This move to the Suns presents a new opportunity for Durant to solidify his legacy and further demonstrate his championship prowess. It’s a storyline to watch closely as Durant, Booker, and Beal aim to make their mark in the competitive Western Conference.
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