15 Best Trades That Happened On NBA Draft Night Over The Last 10 Seasons

The NBA Draft Night is always filled with excitement, hope, and, sometimes, chaos. Teams not only select their next potential star but also engage in last-minute trades that can redefine their future. 

Over the past ten years, we’ve witnessed some blockbuster trades that have left a lasting impact on the league. Whether it was a strategic move to grab a future superstar or a gamble that paid off, these trades are worth revisiting. From Luka Doncic’s trade to the Mavericks to Jayson Tatum’s path to the Celtics, let’s take a look at the 15 best trades that went down on NBA Draft Night over the last decade. Get ready for a trip down memory lane as we explore these game-changing moves that continue to shape the NBA today.

1. The Mavericks’ Best Trade Of All-Time?

Mavericks receive: Luka Doncic

Hawks receive: No. 5 pick (Trae Young), 2019 first-round pick

On the night of the 2018 NBA Draft, the Dallas Mavericks made a bold move that would alter their franchise’s trajectory. The Mavericks traded the No. 5 pick (Trae Young) and a 2019 first-round pick (which became Cam Reddish) to the Atlanta Hawks for the No. 3 pick, Luka Doncic.

Since joining the Mavericks, Doncic has become a perennial MVP candidate. He won the Rookie of the Year award in 2019 and has been selected to 5 All-NBA First Teams. By the end of the 2023-24 season, Doncic was averaging 33.9 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 8.8 assists per game. Doncic has transformed the Mavericks into a playoff contender each year since his arrival, leading them to the NBA Finals in 2024. His clutch performances and all-around game have made him one of the most exciting players to watch in the NBA.

This trade is widely regarded as one of the best in Mavericks’ history, potentially setting them up for future championships. The Mavericks’ decision to trade up for Doncic showcased their commitment to building around a generational talent, and it has paid off handsomely.

2. The Celtics Secured Their Future

Celtics receive: No. 3 pick (Jayson Tatum)

76ers receive: No. 1 pick (Markelle Fultz)

In the 2017 NBA Draft, the Boston Celtics pulled off a masterstroke by trading the No. 1 pick to the Philadelphia 76ers for the No. 3 pick, which they used to select Jayson Tatum. This move has proven to be monumental for the Celtics.

During the 2023-24 season, Tatum continued to shine, averaging 26.9 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game. His stellar play didn’t stop in the regular season. Tatum has been instrumental in leading the Celtics to the NBA Finals in 2024, where he averaged 20.0 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 6.3 assists over the series. Despite a challenging career start, Tatum’s performances over the years solidified his reputation as one of the league’s top players and a true cornerstone for the Celtics’ future.

Tatum’s career has been marked by consistent growth and impressive achievements. Since his rookie season, he has been selected to multiple All-Star games and has earned All-NBA honors. Known for his scoring versatility, defensive prowess, and clutch performances, Tatum has become the face of the Celtics franchise. One of his most memorable moments came in the 2022 Eastern Conference Finals when he scored 46 points in Game 6 against the Milwaukee Bucks, forcing a Game 7 that the Celtics eventually won, propelling them to the NBA Finals.

This trade not only brought immense value to the Celtics but also set them up for continued success, showcasing their foresight in acquiring a player of Tatum’s caliber.

3. Utah’s Steal With Donovan Mitchell

Jazz receive: Donovan Mitchell

Nuggets receive: No. 24 pick (Tyler Lydon), Trey Lyles

On Draft Night 2017, the Denver Nuggets traded the No. 13 pick, Donovan Mitchell, to the Utah Jazz for the No. 24 pick and Trey Lyles. This trade turned out to be a game-changer for the Jazz.

Donovan Mitchell quickly established himself as a star in Utah. In his rookie season, he averaged 20.5 points per game and led the Jazz to the playoffs. Over the course of his career with the Jazz, Mitchell became a multiple-time All-Star and a key figure in their playoff runs. In the 2020 NBA Playoffs, he had an unforgettable series against the Denver Nuggets, where he averaged 36.3 points per game, including two 50-point games. Mitchell’s dynamic scoring and leadership made him one of the league’s most exciting young talents and a cornerstone for the Jazz.

However, in September 2022, Mitchell was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers in a blockbuster deal that sent Collin Sexton, Lauri Markkanen, Ochai Agbaji, three unprotected first-round picks, and two pick swaps to the Jazz. This trade marked the end of an era for Mitchell in Utah but opened a new chapter for him in Cleveland, where he continued to shine as a top player, averaging 26.6 points per game in the 2023-24 season and leading the Cavaliers to the playoffs.

4. A Future Star In Alperen Sengun For The Houston Rockets

Rockets receive: Alperen Sengun

Thunder receive: 2022 first-round pick (via Pistons), 2023 first-round pick (via Wizards)

On Draft Night 2021, the Houston Rockets made a strategic move by trading two future first-round picks to the Oklahoma City Thunder for the No. 16 pick, Alperen Sengun. This trade has turned out to be a significant win for the Rockets.

Sengun quickly showcased his potential with his impressive footwork, playmaking, and scoring ability. In his rookie season, he averaged 9.6 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game, earning a spot on the NBA All-Rookie Second Team. By the 2023-24 season, Sengun developed into a key player for the Rockets, averaging 21.1 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game.

Sengun’s impact on the Rockets has been profound, but the 2023-24 season wasn’t without its challenges. He suffered an ankle injury in January 2024, causing him to miss 15 games. Despite this setback, Sengun returned strong, helping to solidify the Rockets’ frontcourt with his versatile skill set and high basketball IQ. His ability to play both as a traditional big man and a playmaker from the post has made him a crucial part of the Rockets’ rebuilding process.

5. A Key Piece: Domantas Sabonis To The Oklahoma City Thunder

Thunder receive: Domantas Sabonis, Victor Oladipo, Ersan Ilyasova

Magic receive: Serge Ibaka

On Draft Night 2016, the Orlando Magic selected Domantas Sabonis with the 11th pick, then traded him, along with Victor Oladipo and Ersan Ilyasova, to the Oklahoma City Thunder for Serge Ibaka. Sabonis spent just one season with the Thunder, where he averaged 5.9 points and 3.6 rebounds per game. Despite a modest rookie year, his potential was evident.

In the summer of 2017, Sabonis was traded to the Indiana Pacers as part of the deal that sent Paul George to the Thunder. This move marked the beginning of Sabonis’ rise to stardom. With the Pacers, Sabonis blossomed, becoming a two-time All-Star. By the 2020-21 season, he was averaging 20.3 points, 12.0 rebounds, and 6.7 assists per game, showcasing his versatility and skill.

In February 2022, Sabonis was traded to the Sacramento Kings in exchange for Tyrese Haliburton, Buddy Hield, and Tristan Thompson. His impact in Sacramento was immediate, helping to revitalize the franchise. During the 2023-24 season, Sabonis averaged 19.4 points, 13.7 rebounds, and 8.2 assists per game, earning All-NBA Third Team honors and solidifying his role as a cornerstone player for the Kings. Despite his efforts, the Kings missed the playoffs in 2024, but Sabonis’ performance remained a bright spot for the team.

6. The Rise Of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Clippers receive: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Hornets receive: No. 12 pick (Miles Bridges), 2020 and 2021 second-round picks

On Draft Night 2018, the Los Angeles Clippers traded up to acquire Shai Gilgeous-Alexander from the Charlotte Hornets in exchange for the No. 12 pick (Miles Bridges) and two future second-round picks. This move set the stage for a promising career.

In his rookie season with the Clippers, Gilgeous-Alexander averaged 10.8 points, 3.3 assists, and 2.8 rebounds per game, quickly establishing himself as a valuable player. However, his stint with the Clippers was short-lived as he was traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder in the blockbuster deal for Paul George in July 2019.

With the Thunder, Gilgeous-Alexander’s career truly took off. By the 2023-24 season, he had become one of the league’s elite guards, averaging 31.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per game. His exceptional performance earned him multiple All-Star selections and solidified his status as a franchise cornerstone for the Thunder. Gilgeous-Alexander’s ability to score efficiently, facilitate offense, and play solid defense has made him one of the most dynamic and exciting players to watch in the NBA.

7. Raptors Land Norman Powell And OG Anunoby

Raptors receive: Norman Powell, 2017 first-round pick (became OG Anunoby)

Bucks receive: Greivis Vásquez

In the 2015 NBA Draft, the Toronto Raptors made a notable trade involving their 2017 first-round pick, which eventually led to the acquisition of OG Anunoby. Additionally, the Raptors secured Norman Powell in a draft-day trade with the Milwaukee Bucks, sending Greivis Vásquez to Milwaukee in exchange for Powell and a 2017 first-round pick (which became OG Anunoby).

Norman Powell proved to be a crucial player for the Raptors. He played a significant role in their 2019 championship run, providing key performances off the bench. Over his six seasons with Toronto, Powell’s scoring and defensive prowess developed steadily. In the 2020-21 season, Powell averaged 19.6 points per game before being traded to the Portland Trail Blazers. He then moved to the Los Angeles Clippers, where he continued to be a valuable scorer. By the 2023-24 season, Powell was averaging 13.9 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game with the Clippers.

OG Anunoby also made a significant impact during his time with the Raptors. Known for his defensive skills, Anunoby was a part of the 2019 championship team and was named to the NBA All-Defensive Second Team in the 2022-23 season after leading the league in steals. In the 2023-24 season, Anunoby was traded to the New York Knicks as part of a deal that sent RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley to Toronto. At the Knicks, Anunoby averaged 14.7 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game, solidifying his role as a defensive stalwart and an efficient scorer.

8. A Strategic Move: Jalen Duren To The Detroit Pistons

Pistons receive: Jalen Duren, Kemba Walker

Knicks receive: 2025 first-round pick (via Bucks)

Hornets receive: 2023 first-round pick (via Nuggets), 2023 second-round pick (via Knicks), 2023 second-round pick (via Jazz), 2023 second-round pick (Dallas/Miami), 2024 second-round pick (via Knicks)

On Draft Night 2022, the Detroit Pistons acquired Jalen Duren, the No. 13 overall pick, in a three-team trade involving the Charlotte Hornets and the New York Knicks. The Hornets initially selected Duren, then traded his rights to the Knicks, who subsequently sent him to the Pistons along with Kemba Walker. This move was part of a larger strategy to clear cap space for the Knicks while the Pistons secured a promising young talent to bolster their roster.

Jalen Duren quickly became a vital part of the Pistons’ rebuilding efforts. In his rookie season (2022-23), Duren averaged 9.8 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks per game, showcasing his defensive abilities and potential as a future cornerstone of the team. His development continued into the 2023-24 season, where he improved his averages to 13.8 points, 11.6 rebounds, and 0.8 blocks per game. Duren’s performance on both ends of the court has made him one of the most promising young centers in the league.

Despite some challenges, including adapting to the physicality and pace of the NBA, Duren has remained a consistent and impactful player for the Pistons. His growth and contributions have been crucial for the team’s strategy moving forward, aiming to return to playoff contention with a solid young core.

9. A Defensive Gem With Mikal Bridges For The Phoenix Suns

Suns receive: Mikal Bridges

76ers receive: Zhaire Smith, 2021 first-round pick (Jaden Springer)

On Draft Night 2018, Mikal Bridges was selected by the Philadelphia 76ers with the 10th overall pick, only to be traded minutes later to the Phoenix Suns in exchange for Zhaire Smith and a 2021 first-round pick. This trade marked a significant turning point for the Suns and Bridges’ career.

Bridges quickly became known for his defensive prowess and versatility on both ends of the floor. Over his four-and-a-half seasons with the Suns, he averaged 13.5 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.0 steals per game. Bridges played a crucial role in the Suns’ run to the 2021 NBA Finals, where his defensive efforts and timely scoring were invaluable.

In February 2023, Bridges was traded to the Brooklyn Nets as part of the blockbuster deal that sent Kevin Durant to Phoenix. This trade allowed Bridges to step into a larger offensive role, and he flourished. By the end of the 2023-24 season, Bridges had established himself as a key player for the Nets, averaging a career-best 19.6 points, 4.5 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.0 steals per game.

10. Building The Future In Memphis With Desmond Bane

Grizzlies receive: Desmond Bane

Celtics receive: 2023 second-round pick (Jordan Walsh), 2025 second-round pick

On Draft Night 2020, the Memphis Grizzlies pulled off a smart move by grabbing Desmond Bane from the Celtics, who had picked him 30th overall. This move quickly turned out to be a win for the Grizzlies.

Desmond Bane wasted no time making an impact in his rookie season, averaging 9.2 points, 3.1 rebounds, and shooting an impressive 43.2% from beyond the arc. His game only got better from there. By the 2023-24 season, Bane had blossomed into a top-tier player, averaging 23.7 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game. One highlight of his career was scoring a career-high 49 points against the Detroit Pistons on December 6, 2023. His sharpshooting and all-around play earned him a five-year, $207 million max extension with the Grizzlies, making him a cornerstone of the franchise.

Bane’s journey from a late first-round pick to a franchise star underscores the Grizzlies’ excellent scouting and strategic moves. They’ve turned a solid draft-night trade into a long-term win, with Bane poised to be a key part of their future success.

11. Trey Murphy Heads To New Orleans

Pelicans receive: Trey Murphy, Jonas Valanciunas, No. 51 pick (Brandon Boston Jr.)

Grizzlies receive: Steven Adams, Eric Bledsoe, No. 10 pick (Ziaire Williams)

Alright, so here’s how Trey Murphy III ended up with the Pelicans. On Draft Night 2021, the Grizzlies picked Trey at No. 17, but they quickly traded him to New Orleans. The full trade was Jonas Valanciunas, and the No. 17 and No. 51 picks to the Grizzlies for Steven Adams, Eric Bledsoe, and the No. 10 pick (Ziaire Williams).

Murphy came out strong in his rookie season, showing off his shooting skills and defensive abilities. By the 2023-24 season, he was averaging 14.8 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game. His ability to stretch the floor and play solid defense has been a huge asset for the Pelicans. Murphy’s development into a reliable two-way player highlights just how smart that trade was for New Orleans, giving them a key piece for their roster’s future.

This trade really shows how a well-timed move on Draft Night can pay off big, bringing in talent that fits perfectly with the team’s needs and long-term plans.

12. Brandon Clarke’s Big Move To Memphis

Grizzlies receive: Brandon Clarke

Thunder receive: 2024 second-round pick, Darius Bazley

Back in the 2019 NBA Draft, the Memphis Grizzlies made a savvy move by acquiring Brandon Clarke from the Oklahoma City Thunder. The trade sent the draft rights to Darius Bazley and a future second-round pick to the Thunder in exchange for Clarke.

Clarke hit the ground running in his rookie season, putting up averages of 12.1 points, 5.9 rebounds, and shooting an impressive 61.8% from the field. His solid play earned him a spot on the NBA All-Rookie First Team. Over the years, Clarke has been a reliable contributor for Memphis, known for his efficient scoring and energetic play off the bench.

In the 2023-24 season, Clarke faced some setbacks due to injuries, including a torn Achilles that sidelined him for a significant part of the 2022-23 season. However, upon his return in late March 2024, he managed to average 11.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.0 blocks per game over six appearances before another minor injury kept him out of the season finale.

This trade has paid off well for the Grizzlies, with Clarke providing consistent and impactful minutes whenever he’s on the court. His journey from a draft-night acquisition to a key piece in Memphis’s lineup highlights the importance of strategic moves on Draft Night.

13. Dario Saric Ending Up In Philadelphia

76ers receive: Dario Saric, 2017 first-round pick (Anzejs Pasecniks), 2015 second-round pick (Willy Hernangomez)

Magic receive: Elfrid Payton

On Draft Night 2014, the Philadelphia 76ers made a strategic move by trading Elfrid Payton, their 10th overall pick, to the Orlando Magic in exchange for Dario Saric, the 12th overall pick, a future first-round pick (2017 top-11 protected), and a 2015 second-round pick. This deal turned out to be a key part of the 76ers’ rebuild process.

Saric didn’t join the 76ers immediately, as he continued to play in Europe for two more years. He finally made his NBA debut in the 2016-17 season and quickly proved his worth. In his rookie season, Saric averaged 12.8 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game, earning a spot on the NBA All-Rookie First Team and finishing second in the Rookie of the Year voting.

Saric played a crucial role in the 76ers’ resurgence, helping them reach the playoffs in the 2017-18 season. He continued to be a reliable scorer and playmaker, with his versatility making him a valuable asset. However, in November 2018, Saric was traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves as part of the deal that brought Jimmy Butler to Philadelphia.

In subsequent years, Saric played for the Phoenix Suns, where he contributed significantly off the bench, and later joined the Golden State Warriors. During the 2023-24 season with the Warriors, Saric averaged 8.0 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game, providing veteran presence and depth to the team’s frontcourt.

14. Nuggets’ Double Deal: Jusuf Nurkic And Gary Harris To Denver

Nuggets receive: Jusuf Nurkic, Gary Harris, 2015 second-round pick (Nikola Radicevic)

Bulls receive: Doug McDermott, Anthony Randolph

So, let’s talk about the Nuggets’ big Draft Night in 2014. They swung a deal with the Chicago Bulls to land Jusuf Nurkic and Gary Harris. The Nuggets sent Doug McDermott and Anthony Randolph to Chicago, and in return, they got Nurkic, picked 16th, and Harris, picked 19th. This trade turned out to be a win for Denver in more ways than one.

Nurkic started his career in Denver and showed some serious potential as a dominant center. During his rookie season, he averaged 6.9 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game. However, things got a bit rocky with injuries and the rise of Nikola Jokic, which led to Nurkic seeking a bigger role elsewhere. In February 2017, he was traded to the Portland Trail Blazers. There, he found his groove, especially in the 2018-19 season, averaging 15.0 points, 10.4 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game. Fast forward to the 2023-24 season, Nurkic is now with the Phoenix Suns, putting up solid numbers with 10.9 points, 11.0 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game.

Gary Harris quickly became a key piece for the Nuggets, known for his defense and sharpshooting. By his second season, he was averaging 12.3 points and shooting over 40% from three. Harris was a staple in the Nuggets’ backcourt, contributing to their playoff pushes, though injuries did slow him down at times. In March 2021, he was traded to the Orlando Magic in the Aaron Gordon deal. By the 2023-24 season, Harris was a reliable veteran presence for the Magic, averaging 6.9 points, 1.7 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game.

This trade is a great example of how the Nuggets managed to grab some serious talent on Draft Night, setting them up for both immediate impact and future flexibility. Nurkic and Harris both went on to have solid careers, proving the value of those strategic draft-day decisions.

15. Cam Johnson And Dario Saric Landed In Phoenix

Suns receive: Cameron Johnson, Dario Saric

Timberwolves receive: Jarrett Culver

Back on Draft Night 2019, the Suns made a move that had people talking. They traded the No. 6 pick, Jarrett Culver, to the Timberwolves and got the No. 11 pick, Cameron Johnson, and forward Dario Saric in return. At first, some folks were scratching their heads, but this trade turned out to be a gem for Phoenix.

Cameron Johnson quickly proved why the Suns were smart to grab him. Known for his deadly shooting, Johnson became a key player for Phoenix. He averaged 10.5 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game in Phoenix. Johnson’s shooting has been his calling card, with an impressive 40.4% from three-point range. His ability to space the floor and play solid defense was crucial, especially during the Suns’ run to the NBA Finals in 2021.

By the 2023-24 season, Johnson had moved to the Brooklyn Nets as part of the Kevin Durant trade. With the Nets, he’s continued to shine, averaging 13.4 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game. Johnson signed a four-year, $108 million contract with Brooklyn, securing his place as a key piece of their future plans.