Grading The Last 10 Blockbuster Trades To See If They Paid Off Or Not

The NBA landscape is constantly evolving, with teams making bold moves in hopes of securing a championship or rebuilding for the future. Over the past few years, we’ve witnessed some blockbuster trades that have significantly impacted the league. From superstars switching teams to franchises stockpiling draft picks, these trades have reshaped the competitive balance. In this article, we dive deep into the last 10 major trades, grading each one and analyzing whether they paid off for the teams involved.

The Clippers Rolled The Dice With Paul George In 2019

Clippers Receive: Paul George

Thunder Receive: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Danilo Gallinari, 5 future first-round picks (2022, 2024, 2026, 2021 via Miami, 2023 via Miami), 2023 and 2025 pick-swaps

Clippers Grade: B+

Thunder Grade: A+

In 2019, the Los Angeles Clippers made a high-stakes move by trading for Paul George, a superstar who was key to also bringing in Kawhi Leonard. The expectation was clear: win an NBA Championship. George’s time with the Clippers has been marked by brilliant individual performances and some deep playoff runs, but injuries have repeatedly derailed their title hopes. George’s ability to elevate the team is unquestioned, but the ultimate goal—a championship—remains elusive.

George’s tenure with the Clippers has seen both highs and lows. In the 2023-24 season, George averaged 22.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game, while shooting 47.1% from the field and 41.3% from beyond the arc.

George’s performance has been stellar, marked by his scoring ability, defensive prowess, and leadership on the court. However, the Clippers’ playoff runs have been marred by injuries and inconsistency. Despite reaching the Western Conference Finals in 2021, they have not been able to break through to the NBA Finals. The 2023-24 season ended in disappointment with another early playoff exit, emphasizing the urgency for the team to capitalize on their current roster’s potential.

Off the court, the trade also strained the Clippers’ future flexibility. The multiple first-round picks and pick swaps sent to OKC have limited their ability to rebuild or add significant talent through the draft. With George and Leonard both in their 30s, the pressure is mounting to deliver a championship soon. The Clippers’ gamble has kept them competitive, but the ultimate goal remains unfulfilled.

Did this trade pay off for the Clippers: Not yet, but the potential remains.

For the Oklahoma City Thunder, the trade has been a monumental success. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the centerpiece of the package they received, has blossomed into one of the league’s brightest stars. In the 2023-24 season, SGA averaged 30.1 points, 6.2 assists, and 5.5 rebounds per game. His performance earned him a runner-up finish in the MVP voting and led the Thunder to the best record in the Western Conference.

SGA’s development into a top-tier player has exceeded all expectations. He has become the cornerstone of the Thunder’s rebuild, providing leadership, scoring, and playmaking. Alongside him, the Thunder have utilized the draft picks acquired in the trade to build a talented young core. This strategic approach has positioned OKC as a team with both a bright present and a promising future.

Danilo Gallinari, another key piece of the trade, provided valuable veteran leadership and scoring during his tenure with the Thunder. The numerous draft picks have allowed the Thunder to add depth and talent across multiple positions. The flexibility provided by these assets has enabled the Thunder to remain competitive while planning for sustained success.

Did this trade pay off for the Thunder: Absolutely yes.

The Lakers Went All-In For Anthony Davis

Lakers Receive: Anthony Davis

Pelicans Receive: Lonzo Ball, Brandon Ingram, Josh Hart, 3 first-round picks (2019 No. 4 pick, 2021, 2024), and pick swaps in 2023 and 2025

Lakers Grade: A

Pelicans Grade: B+

The Los Angeles Lakers‘ acquisition of Anthony Davis in 2019 was a blockbuster move aimed at restoring the franchise’s glory alongside LeBron James. This trade immediately paid dividends, as Davis and James led the Lakers to an NBA Championship in 2020, marking the franchise’s 17th title. During the championship run, Davis was exceptional, particularly in the playoffs, where he averaged 27.7 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game, demonstrating his prowess on both ends of the court.

In the 2023-24 season, Davis continued to be a dominant force for the Lakers. He averaged 24.7 points, 12.6 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game while shooting 55.6% from the field. His presence in the paint and defensive capabilities have been crucial for the Lakers, even as the team has struggled with injuries and roster consistency.

Despite some injury concerns, Davis has maintained his status as one of the league’s top big men. His ability to score, defend, and rebound at an elite level makes him indispensable to the Lakers. The trade for Davis, combined with the Lakers’ ability to surround him and LeBron with solid role players, has kept them competitive in the Western Conference, although they have faced early playoff exits in subsequent seasons.

Did this trade pay off for the Lakers: Absolutely yes.

The Pelicans, on the other hand, secured a treasure trove of assets in the trade. Brandon Ingram has developed into an All-Star and one of the key players for the team. In the 2023-24 season, Ingram averaged 20.8 points, 5.7 assists, and 5.1 rebounds per game in 64 games. His growth into a star player has been a significant positive for the Pelicans.

Lonzo Ball provided strong playmaking and defense during his time with the Pelicans before being traded to the Chicago Bulls. Josh Hart was a reliable contributor, known for his hustle and versatility off the bench. The draft picks acquired in the trade have also been valuable. The Pelicans used these picks to draft players like Jaxson Hayes and Dyson Daniels, adding depth and future potential to their roster.

The flexibility provided by the draft assets has allowed the Pelicans to build a young and dynamic team around Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram. This strategic approach has positioned New Orleans for long-term success, making the trade a clear win for the franchise.

Did this trade pay off for the Pelicans: Yes.

The Rockets Bet Big On Russell Westbrook But Failed

Rockets Receive: Russell Westbrook

Thunder Receive: Chris Paul, 2 first-round picks (2024 and 2026), 2 pick swaps (2021 and 2025)

Rockets Grade: C

Thunder Grade: A

The Rockets made a bold move in 2019 by trading for Russell Westbrook, reuniting him with his former Thunder teammate James Harden. The trade aimed to boost their championship hopes by pairing two MVP-caliber players. Westbrook’s addition was expected to bring dynamic playmaking and relentless energy to the Rockets.

During his stint with the Rockets, Westbrook averaged 27.2 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 7.0 assists per game in the 2019-20 season. His explosive athleticism and ability to create opportunities for himself and others were evident. However, his shooting inconsistencies, particularly from beyond the arc, posed challenges for Houston’s three-point-heavy offense. Westbrook shot just 25.8% from three-point range during his season with the Rockets, which was a significant drawback for the team’s spacing and offensive flow.

The partnership between Westbrook and Harden showed flashes of brilliance, but also raised questions about their on-court chemistry, as both players are most effective with the ball in their hands. Despite their individual talents, the Rockets faced a second-round playoff exit, and the fit between the two stars was never fully optimized under head coach Mike D’Antoni’s system.

Did this trade pay off for the Rockets: Not really.

For the Oklahoma City Thunder, the trade marked the beginning of a strategic rebuild. By acquiring Chris Paul, along with valuable draft picks, the Thunder positioned themselves for long-term success. Paul’s veteran leadership and elite playmaking were pivotal for the Thunder, leading them to an unexpected playoff berth in the 2019-20 season.

The real value for the Thunder came in the form of the draft picks. The 2024 and 2026 first-round picks, along with the 2021 and 2025 pick swaps, provided OKC with significant assets to rebuild their roster. These picks have the potential to yield high-value players or be used in future trades to acquire established talent.

Paul’s influence helped accelerate the development of younger players like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who has since emerged as a star for the Thunder. The trade has allowed OKC to rebuild effectively while remaining competitive, making this move a clear win for the franchise.

Did this trade pay off for the Thunder: Absolutely yes.

Nets’ Horrible Gamble On James Harden To Build A Superteam

Nets Receive: James Harden

Rockets Receive: Victor Oladipo, Dante Exum, Rodions Kurucs, 4 first-round picks (2022 via Bucks, 2022, 2024, 2026), 4 first-round pick swaps (2021, 2023, 2025, 2027)

Cavaliers Receive: Jarrett Allen, Taurean Prince

Pacers Receive: Caris LeVert, 2023 second-round pick

Nets Grade: C-

Rockets Grade: A

Cavaliers Grade: B+

Pacers Grade: B

In January 2021, the Brooklyn Nets made a blockbuster move to acquire James Harden from the Houston Rockets, forming a superteam with Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving. The trade was designed to make the Nets immediate championship contenders. Harden, a former MVP and three-time scoring champion, was expected to bring elite scoring and playmaking to Brooklyn.

Harden’s impact on the Nets was significant but ultimately disappointing. In the 2020-21 season, he averaged 24.6 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 10.9 assists per game, showcasing his versatility and ability to adapt to a new role alongside other stars. However, injuries and chemistry issues, particularly with Kyrie Irving’s availability, prevented the team from reaching its full potential, culminating in a second-round playoff exit. The following seasons saw further instability, and Harden was eventually traded to the Philadelphia 76ers for Ben Simmons.

Simmons, who was expected to be a significant addition, played only 15 games in the 2023-24 season, averaging 7.9 rebounds, 6.1 points, and 5.7 assists per game. The trade also cost the Nets key players like Jarrett Allen, who has become a vital part of the Cavaliers. The loss of Allen and the limited contributions from Simmons have made this trade look like a catastrophe for Brooklyn.

Did this trade pay off for the Nets: Not at all.

For the Houston Rockets, trading away James Harden marked the end of an era and the beginning of a rebuild. The package they received included Victor Oladipo, who provided immediate scoring and leadership, as well as Dante Exum, Rodions Kurucs, and a treasure trove of draft assets. The four first-round picks and four pick swaps offer the Rockets tremendous flexibility and potential to build for the future.

Oladipo, although later traded, provided a short-term boost and was part of Houston’s strategy to acquire more assets. The real value for the Rockets lies in the draft picks. These picks give the Rockets a chance to acquire top-tier talent through the draft or use them as trade assets to bring in established players.

The trade allowed the Rockets to transition smoothly into a rebuilding phase while still maintaining competitive flexibility. The haul of picks and young players positions Houston well for the future, making this trade a clear win for the franchise.

Did this trade pay off for the Rockets: Yes.

A Lakers Risky Move For Russell Westbrook Ended In Disappointment

Lakers Receive: Russell Westbrook, 2024 second-round pick, 2028 second-round pick

Wizards Receive: Kyle Kuzma, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Montrezl Harrell, 2021 first-round pick (No. 22 overall)

Lakers Grade: D

Wizards Grade: B+

In a high-profile trade during the 2021 offseason, the Los Angeles Lakers acquired Russell Westbrook from the Washington Wizards, forming a “Big Three” with LeBron James and Anthony Davis. The move was intended to enhance the Lakers’ chances of winning another championship by adding the triple-double king to their roster. However, the trade did not yield the expected results and ultimately became a significant disappointment.

During his tenure with the Lakers, Westbrook struggled to fit into the team’s system. In the 2021-22 season, he averaged 18.5 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 7.1 assists per game, but his performance was marred by inefficient shooting and turnovers. Westbrook shot only 29.8% from three-point range and had numerous high-turnover games, which disrupted the team’s offensive flow.

The Lakers faced significant chemistry issues and injuries throughout the season, resulting in a failure to make the playoffs. The experiment of pairing Westbrook with James and Davis did not produce the desired synergy, leading to frequent criticism from fans and analysts alike. In the following season, Westbrook was eventually traded to the Utah Jazz, and the Lakers continued to struggle with consistency and performance.

Did this trade pay off for the Lakers: Absolutely not.

From the Wizards’ standpoint, the trade of Russell Westbrook to the Lakers was a strategic move that paid off. Kyle Kuzma emerged as a key player for the Wizards, averaging 17.1 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game in the 2023-24 season. His versatility and scoring ability have been valuable assets for the team. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Montrezl Harrell also contributed effectively, adding depth and experience to the squad.

However, following their playoff appearance in 2021 with Westbrook, the Wizards shifted focus towards rebuilding. In the 2022 offseason, they traded Westbrook and subsequently moved Bradley Beal to the Suns in the following offseason. This year, they have the potential to acquire more future draft picks by moving Kuzma, which could further enhance their rebuilding efforts.

Did this trade pay off for the Wizards: Yes.

The Cavaliers Landed Donovan Mitchell In A Blockbuster Trade

Cavaliers Receive: Donovan Mitchell

Jazz Receive: Lauri Markkanen, Collin Sexton, Ochai Agbaji, 3 first-round picks (2025, 2027, 2029), 2 pick swaps (2026, 2028)

Cavaliers Grade: A-

Jazz Grade: A

In September 2022, the Cleveland Cavaliers made a significant move by acquiring Donovan Mitchell from the Utah Jazz. This trade aimed to elevate the Cavaliers into serious contention in the Eastern Conference by adding one of the league’s most dynamic scorers to their roster. Mitchell joined a promising young core that includes Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen, forming a balanced and potent lineup.

Mitchell’s impact on the Cavaliers has been profound. In the 2023-24 season, he averaged 26.6 points, 6.1 assists, and 5.1 rebounds per game, while shooting 46.2% from the field and 36.8% from three-point range. His scoring prowess and ability to create plays have significantly boosted Cleveland’s offense, making them a formidable team in the competitive Eastern Conference.

The Cavaliers finished the regular season with a 48-34 record, placing 4th in the Eastern Conference and 2nd in the Central Division. Their performance earned them a playoff spot where they advanced to the Eastern Conference Semifinals but were ultimately defeated by the Boston Celtics in five games.

Did this trade pay off for the Cavaliers: Absolutely yes.

The Utah Jazz saw the Donovan Mitchell trade as an opportunity to kickstart a new era. They received a haul including Lauri Markkanen, Collin Sexton, Ochai Agbaji, and several valuable draft picks. This trade was all about rebuilding and planning for the future.

Lauri Markkanen had a standout season, averaging 23.2 points and 8.2 rebounds per game across 55 games. He also earned an All-Star selection, proving to be a critical piece for the Jazz. His ability to stretch the floor and score efficiently made him a valuable asset. Collin Sexton also made a significant impact, averaging 18.7 points, 4.9 assists, and 2.6 rebounds per game over 78 games. Sexton’s dynamic scoring and playmaking abilities have added a new dimension to Utah’s backcourt.

Despite these impressive individual performances, the Jazz struggled as a team, finishing the season with a 35-47 record and missing the playoffs. However, the future looks bright with the draft picks they acquired. These picks give the Jazz flexibility to either draft top-tier talent or use them as assets in future trades.

Utah’s decision to trade Mitchell was part of a broader strategy to rebuild and accumulate assets. The inclusion of young talents like Agbaji and multiple first-round picks positions them well for the future. The Jazz have set a solid foundation for a promising rebuild, and the potential for future success is high.

Did this trade pay off for the Jazz: Absolutely yes.

The Timberwolves Took A Big Swing With Rudy Gobert

Timberwolves Receive: Rudy Gobert

Jazz Receive: Malik Beasley, Patrick Beverley, Walker Kessler, Jarred Vanderbilt, Leandro Bolmaro, 2023 first-round pick (unprotected), 2025 first-round pick (unprotected), 2027 first-round pick (unprotected), 2029 first-round pick (top-five protected)

Timberwolves Grade: B

Jazz Grade: A

The Timberwolves made headlines in 2022 by trading for Rudy Gobert, aiming to bolster their defense and elevate their playoff prospects. The first season with Gobert (2022-23) was rocky; they finished 42-40 and lost to the Denver Nuggets in the first round of the playoffs. Gobert’s integration into the team faced challenges, but his defensive prowess remained evident.

In the 2023-24 season, everything clicked. Gobert averaged 14.0 points, 12.9 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game while shooting 66.1% from the field, earning his fourth Defensive Player of the Year award. Minnesota finished with a 56-26 record, securing the 3rd seed in the Western Conference. Gobert’s impact on defense was monumental, leading the Timberwolves to the best defensive rating in the league.

In the playoffs, the Timberwolves made an impressive run to the Western Conference Finals. They swept the Phoenix Suns in the first round of the playoffs, showcasing Gobert’s defensive dominance. In the second round, they faced the defending champion Denver Nuggets and managed to win the series in a thrilling seven-game battle. However, their run ended in the Western Conference Finals, where they lost to the Dallas Mavericks in five games. Gobert’s defensive presence was critical throughout the playoffs, but the team struggled against the offensive firepower of Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving.

Did this trade pay off for the Timberwolves: Yes, this season showed its potential.

The Jazz decided to part ways with Rudy Gobert to kickstart a rebuild. They received Malik Beasley, Patrick Beverley, Walker Kessler, Jarred Vanderbilt, Leandro Bolmaro, and a slew of first-round picks. This trade was a strategic move to accumulate assets for the future.

Walker Kessler stepped in as a promising replacement for Gobert. In the 2023-24 season, Kessler averaged 8.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game, showing great potential as a defensive anchor for the Jazz. While Utah finished with a 35-47 record and missed the playoffs, the focus was on developing young talent and positioning themselves for future success.

The Jazz’s rebuild looks promising, with multiple draft picks providing flexibility for future trades or drafting top-tier talent. Replacing Gobert with Kessler and focusing on long-term growth has set the stage for a successful rebuild.

Did this trade pay off for the Jazz: Absolutely yes.

The Suns Risked It All And Landed Kevin Durant

Suns Receive: Kevin Durant

Nets Receive: Mikal Bridges, Cam Johnson, Jae Crowder, 4 future first-round picks (2023, 2025, 2027, 2029), 2028 pick-swap

Suns Grade: B

Nets Grade: C

The Suns made a bold move by trading for Kevin Durant, adding a superstar to their roster in hopes of winning their first NBA championship last year. This trade was driven by new team owner Mat Ishbia’s desire to make an immediate impact. Durant, despite his MCL sprain at the time of the trade, was seen as a game-changer who could seamlessly integrate with the Suns’ core of Devin Booker, Chris Paul, and Deandre Ayton.

Durant’s ability to perform at an elite level in high-stakes situations was expected to elevate the Suns to the upper echelon of the Western Conference. The excitement in Phoenix was palpable, as fans and analysts alike anticipated a deep playoff run. In Durant’s first season, the Suns were knocked out in the second round of the playoffs. In the 2024 season, the Suns decided to go all-in and trade Chris Paul and Deandre Ayton for Bradley Beal and Jusuf Nurkic. Yet, despite a strong regular season where they went 49-33, they were unexpectedly swept in the first round by the Minnesota Timberwolves. The series highlighted several issues, including a lack of depth and defensive shortcomings against Minnesota’s aggressive play. Durant performed admirably, averaging 26.8 points per game in the series, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Timberwolves’ dominance.

The trade for Durant was a high-risk, high-reward move. While the immediate results have been disappointing, with back-to-back early playoff exits, the Suns still believe in the potential long-term benefits. Durant, Booker, and Beal form a powerful trio, and the front office is focused on addressing roster weaknesses and improving team chemistry.

Did this trade pay off for the Suns: Yes, but they need results soon.

On the other hand, the Brooklyn Nets saw this trade as an opportunity to rebuild after their tumultuous season. They received valuable assets in Mikal Bridges, Cam Johnson, Jae Crowder, and multiple first-round picks. Bridges has become a standout player for the Nets, showcasing his potential as a key piece for the franchise’s future.

The Nets’ immediate post-trade performance was overshadowed by the success of the assets they received. Bridges and Johnson contributed significantly, and the future picks offer considerable potential depending on the Suns’ trajectory. If Phoenix continues to struggle or decides to rebuild, those picks could become highly valuable.

From Brooklyn’s perspective, while losing Durant meant sacrificing immediate star power, the trade was about positioning themselves for long-term success. The full impact of this trade will only be seen in the coming years, as the value of the draft picks becomes clearer.

Did this trade pay off for the Nets: Not yet.

The Mavericks Big Turnaround With Kyrie Irving

Mavericks Receive: Kyrie Irving, Markieff Morris

Nets Receive: Spencer Dinwiddie, Dorian Finney-Smith, an unprotected 2029 first-round pick, 2027 and 2029 second-round picks

Mavericks Grade: A

Nets Grade: C+

The Dallas Mavericks made a significant move in February 2023 by trading for Kyrie Irving, hoping to create a powerful duo with Luka Doncic. Initially, the 2022-23 season ended in disappointment as the Mavericks missed the playoffs, failing to find their rhythm after the trade.

However, the 2023-24 season was a different story. Kyrie Irving had a stellar season, averaging 25.6 points, 5.2 assists, and 5.0 rebounds per game while shooting 41.1% from three-point range. His performance helped the Mavericks secure a 50-32 record, earning the 5th seed in the Western Conference.

In the playoffs, the Mavericks made an impressive run. They defeated the Los Angeles Clippers in six games in the first round, showing off Irving’s scoring and clutch performances. In the second round, they faced the Oklahoma City Thunder and won the series in six hard-fought games. The Mavericks then advanced to the Western Conference Finals, where they defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves in five games, securing their first NBA Finals appearance since their 2011 championship run.

Irving was crucial throughout the playoffs, averaging 22.8 points, 5.2 assists, and 3.9 rebounds per game. His ability to perform in high-pressure situations was key to the Mavericks’ success, and his chemistry with Doncic, who had an MVP-caliber season, was evident.

Did this trade pay off for the Mavericks: Absolutely yes.

Brooklyn’s decision to trade Kyrie Irving aimed to stabilize their roster and build a cohesive team. They received Spencer Dinwiddie and Dorian Finney-Smith, who both made immediate contributions. Dinwiddie provided 17.4 points and 6.1 assists per game, while Finney-Smith added defensive versatility and reliable three-point shooting.

Following the Irving trade, the Nets also traded Kevin Durant to the Phoenix Suns, receiving Mikal Bridges, Cameron Johnson, Jae Crowder, and four unprotected first-round picks along with a 2028 pick swap. This massive haul of assets positioned the Nets for a major rebuild.

Despite these moves, the Nets’ overall performance was mixed. They finished the 2023-24 season with a 45-37 record, making the playoffs but losing in the first round. The immediate impact of the trades was not overwhelmingly positive, but the draft picks acquired offer significant potential for future transactions or building through the draft.

Did this trade pay off for the Nets: Not quite, but it laid the groundwork for future improvements.

The Suns’ Drastic Move For Bradley Beal

Suns Receive: Bradley Beal, Jordan Goodwin, Isaiah Todd

Wizards Receive: Chris Paul, Landry Shamet, 4 first-round pick swaps (2024, 2026, 2028, and 2030), 5 second-round picks (2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, and 2030)

Suns Grade: C

Wizards Grade: B+

The Phoenix Suns made a bold move in June 2023 by acquiring Bradley Beal from the Washington Wizards. The idea was to form a superstar trio with Kevin Durant and Devin Booker, aiming to push for a championship. Beal, a three-time All-Star, was expected to provide significant scoring and playmaking to an already potent offense.

However, the 2023-24 season didn’t go as planned. Beal struggled with injuries throughout the season, missing 29 games, and when he did play, he had trouble finding his fit alongside Durant and Booker. Beal averaged 18.2 points, 5.0 assists, and 4.4 rebounds per game during the regular season.

Despite their star power, the Suns finished with a 49-33 record, earning the 6th seed in the Western Conference. Their playoff run was short-lived as they were swept in the first round by the Minnesota Timberwolves. The Suns’ offense faltered against Minnesota’s top-ranked defense, and they failed to score more than 100 points in two of the four games. Devin Booker had a standout performance in Game 4 with 49 points, but it wasn’t enough to save the series. Beal struggled significantly in the series, averaging just 16.5 points per game.

Did this trade pay off for the Suns: Not really.

For the Wizards, trading away Bradley Beal marked the beginning of a major rebuild. They received Chris Paul, Landry Shamet, and a plethora of draft picks. Shortly after acquiring Paul, the Wizards traded him to the Golden State Warriors for a package centered around Jordan Poole, further adding to their asset collection.

The draft picks and pick swaps acquired in the trade provide Washington with significant flexibility for the future. They can use these assets to draft promising young players or as trade capital to acquire established stars. The 2023-24 season was tough for the Wizards, who finished with a 15-67 record and missed the playoffs. However, the focus was on development and future planning, with the hope that the assets acquired will pay off in the coming years.

Did this trade pay off for the Wizards: Not immediately, but it sets up a promising future.