The February 6th trade deadline for the 2024-25 NBA season is fast approaching, and there is already midseason drama and trade rumors. Every team, regardless of their current standing, has a dream trade target – a player who could transform their fortunes this season. From blockbuster deals to under-the-radar acquisitions, these trades reflect both ambition and necessity.
- Atlanta Hawks – Zach LaVine
- Boston Celtics – Walker Kessler
- Brooklyn Nets – Jonathan Kuminga
- Charlotte Hornets – Zion Williamson
- Chicago Bulls – Deandre Ayton
- Cleveland Cavaliers – Jerami Grant
- Dallas Mavericks – Kelly Olynyk
- Denver Nuggets – Jimmy Butler
- Detroit Pistons – Jimmy Butler
- Golden State Warriors – Kevin Durant
- Houston Rockets – De’Aaron Fox
- Indiana Pacers – Brandon Ingram
- Los Angeles Clippers – LaMelo Ball
- Los Angeles Lakers – Trae Young
- Memphis Grizzlies – Jimmy Butler
- Miami Heat – De’Aaron Fox
- Milwaukee Bucks – Jerami Grant
- Minnesota Timberwolves – De’Aaron Fox
- New Orleans Pelicans – Jonathan Kuminga
- New York Knicks – Walker Kessler
- Oklahoma City Thunder – Cam Johnson
- Orlando Magic – De’Aaron Fox
- Philadelphia 76ers – Benedict Mathurin
- Phoenix Suns – Jimmy Butler
- Portland Trail Blazers – Rui Hachimura
- Sacramento Kings – Brandon Ingram
- San Antonio Spurs – LaMelo Ball
- Toronto Raptors – Zach LaVine
- Utah Jazz – Jonathan Kuminga
- Washington Wizards – Rui Hachimura
Let’s dive into the dream target for each NBA team, breaking down not just who they should chase but why these moves make sense. Let’s provide the dream target for every NBA team ahead of the trade deadline.
Atlanta Hawks – Zach LaVine
Atlanta Hawks Receive: Zach LaVine
Chicago Bulls Receive: De’Andre Hunter, Bogdan Bogdanovic, 2029 First-Round Pick (ATL)
The Atlanta Hawks are in desperate need of a consistent secondary scoring option to complement Trae Young, and Zach LaVine fits the bill perfectly. The two-time All-Star brings elite shot-making, averaging 24.0 points per game on 51.5% shooting this season, including 45.5% from beyond the arc. His ability to create his own shot would relieve pressure on Young and give Atlanta a potent one-two punch on offense.
While De’Andre Hunter and Bogdan Bogdanovic are valuable, they lack Zach LaVine’s offensive ceiling. Adding LaVine’s explosiveness and athleticism could catapult the Hawks into a serious chance of holding a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. The 2029 first-round pick sweetens the deal for Chicago, signaling Atlanta’s willingness to go all-in on their star duo.
Boston Celtics – Walker Kessler
Boston Celtics Receive: Walker Kessler
Utah Jazz Receive: Jaden Springer, 2030 First-Round Pick (BOS)
The Boston Celtics have been elite defensively (6th in OPPG, 108.7) and are the favorite to win it all again but could still benefit from an upgrade at the center position to solidify their interior presence. Walker Kessler, one of the league’s most promising rim protectors, is averaging 10.8 points, 11.4 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks per game this season.
His ability to anchor a defense and excel in pick-and-roll situations makes him an ideal fit alongside Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. Utah’s acquisition of Springer and a future first-rounder provides additional flexibility in their ongoing rebuild, but this deal is all about the Celtics, who need coverage for 38-year-old Al Horford.
Brooklyn Nets – Jonathan Kuminga
Brooklyn Nets Receive: Jonathan Kuminga, Gary Payton II, Kevon Looney, Gui Santos, 2027 Top-3 Protected First-Round Pick (GSW)
Golden State Warriors Receive: Cameron Johnson, Day’Ron Sharpe
The Brooklyn Nets are trying to build a foundation but lack the athleticism and versatility that Jonathan Kuminga brings. The former lottery pick has shown flashes of brilliance with his defensive prowess and ability to score in transition, averaging 16.8 points and 5.0 rebounds this season.
Golden State, on the other hand, lands a sharpshooter in Cameron Johnson, who is hitting 40.3% of his threes this year, and Sharpe, a young big with untapped potential. The trade gives the Nets a high-upside forward to continue their rebuild because they will be very hungry to cash in on Cameron Johnson as soon as possible.
Charlotte Hornets – Zion Williamson
Charlotte Hornets Receive: Zion Williamson
New Orleans Pelicans Receive: Miles Bridges, Nick Richards, Tre Mann, 2026 First-Round Pick (CHA), 2027 First-Round Pick (DAL), 2028 First-Round Pick (CHA)
For the Charlotte Hornets, Zion Williamson represents a franchise-altering talent who is a perfect running mate for LaMelo Ball. Despite his injury history, Williamson’s production when healthy is undeniable, averaging 21.7 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 5.3 assists this season. His ability to dominate in the paint and elevate a team’s ceiling is exactly what Charlotte needs to maximize LaMelo Ball’s prime years.
The Pelicans, faced with uncertainty surrounding Zion’s durability, get a haul of assets, including a pair of promising players in Bridges and Mann and three future first-round picks. This trade balances the desire to remain competitive while acquiring long-term flexibility for Charlotte, which is why we recommended this deal earlier in the season.
Chicago Bulls – Deandre Ayton
Chicago Bulls Receive: Deandre Ayton
Portland Trail Blazers Receive: Patrick Williams, Lonzo Ball
The Chicago Bulls aim to strengthen their interior presence, and Deandre Ayton provides an immediate upgrade at center. Averaging 13.5 points and 10.0 rebounds this season, Ayton is a reliable scorer in the post and a strong rebounder who complements Chicago’s core.
His age and skill set align with the Bulls’ efforts to stay competitive while developing a long-term contender. The trade balances both teams’ short- and long-term goals, but the Bulls desperately need a new starting center with Nikola Vucevic at 34 years old and they might be able to get Ayton playing inspired basketball again.
Cleveland Cavaliers – Jerami Grant
Cleveland Cavaliers Receive: Jerami Grant
Portland Trail Blazers Receive: Caris LeVert, Dean Wade, Isaac Okoro, 2026 Second-Round Pick (CLE), 2027 Second-Round Pick (DEN)
Jerami Grant’s scoring and defensive versatility make him an ideal addition to the Cleveland Cavaliers. Grant averages 15.0 points and 3.6 rebounds this season and can guard multiple positions, providing a seamless fit alongside Darius Garland, Donovan Mitchell, and Evan Mobley. His presence elevates Cleveland’s status as a legitimate contender in the East.
Portland receives a package centered around LeVert, who adds playmaking and scoring, and Okoro, a young defensive specialist. The draft picks and Wade give Portland additional assets as they retool their roster, but the real winners are the 34-5 Cavaliers who can ensure their spot in the Eastern Conference Finals with this deal.
Dallas Mavericks – Kelly Olynyk
Dallas Mavericks Receive: Kelly Olynyk
Toronto Raptors Receive: Maxi Kleber, Olivier-Maxence Prosper, 2025 Second-Round Pick (DEN/PHI)
Dallas targets Kelly Olynyk to add frontcourt depth and floor spacing because they are quite limited with regards to their salary cap. Olynyk is averaging 6.0 points and 3.4 rebounds while shooting 42.3% from three-point range, offering Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving a pick-and-pop partner.
His veteran presence and basketball IQ are valuable assets for a team with championship aspirations. Dereck Lively II and Daniel Gafford are solid big men, but a third one in the rotation would make the Mavericks very difficult to contain once Doncic and Irving return to the court.
Denver Nuggets – Jimmy Butler
Denver Nuggets Receive: Jimmy Butler
Miami Heat Receive: Michael Porter Jr., Zeke Nnaji, Julian Strawther, DaRon Holmes, 2026 First-Round Pick Swap, 2031 First-Round Pick (DEN)
Denver takes a bold step by adding Jimmy Butler, a proven playoff performer known for his leadership and two-way ability. Butler’s 17.6 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 4.7 assists this season bring an edge to the Nuggets’ title defense, forming a formidable trio with Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray.
The Nuggets could be interested in moving Michael Porter Jr. for the right piece and we have explained how a trade could work, so this is a dream that might not be a reality by most accounts. Regardless, it doesn’t have to be ignored as a possibility by the time the trade deadline comes around because the situation in Miami is getting ugly.
Detroit Pistons – Jimmy Butler
Detroit Pistons Receive: Jimmy Butler
Miami Heat Receive: Tim Hardaway Jr., Tobias Harris, 2027 First-Round Pick (DET), 2029 Second-Round Pick (MIL)
The 21-19 Pistons make a statement by acquiring Jimmy Butler to accelerate their rebuild in a dream scenario. His veteran leadership and defensive intensity are invaluable for a young team led by Cade Cunningham. Butler’s experience could fast-track Detroit’s return to playoff contention because the Pistons are close enough as it is.
Miami receives valuable assets, including Hardaway and Harris, who can contribute immediately, and a first-round pick that strengthens their draft flexibility. The Pistons have been rebuilding long enough and could wish to create a dynamic duo in the Eastern Conference.
Golden State Warriors – Kevin Durant
Golden State Warriors Receive: Kevin Durant
Phoenix Suns Receive: Andrew Wiggins, Jonathan Kuminga, Buddy Hield, Kevon Looney, Lindy Waters III, 2025 First-Round Pick, 2029 First-Round Pick
Kevin Durant fits the Warriors’ championship-or-bust mentality perfectly. We floated this dream scenario earlier this week and even if it is unlikely, it doesn’t make it any less interesting for Warriors fans around the world. What better way for Durant to put a stamp on his legacy than delivering a third title for the Warriors?
Pairing him with Steph Curry and Draymond Green creates a trio of high-IQ, battle-tested veterans capable of thriving in the postseason’s pressure cooker. Durant is not winning with the Suns this season, and he might be looking for a new challenge. The question is, can the Warriors pull off a deal of this magnitude? Probably not because they don’t want to mortgage their future if it means going all-in with heavy risk.
Houston Rockets – De’Aaron Fox
Houston Rockets Receive: De’Aaron Fox, Keon Ellis
Sacramento Kings Receive: Reed Sheppard, Dillon Brooks, Cam Whitmore, 2025 First-Round Pick (OKC/PHX), 2027 First-Round Pick (PHX), 2028 First-Round Pick (HOU), 2029 First-Round Pick (DAL/PHX)
De’Aaron Fox would supercharge Houston’s dynamic core, offering veteran poise to complement their budding stars. Fox’s ability to push the pace and attack in transition is elite, as shown by his 26.5 points and 6.1 assists per game on 48.5% shooting this season. After all, the 27-12 Rockets might be one piece away from being a true title contender.
His clutch scoring and speed give the Rockets the go-to star they’ve been missing. Pairing Fox with Jalen Green and Alperen Sengun forms an explosive offensive trio, making Houston a contender right now and in the future. With four first-round picks spread through 2025–2029, Sacramento bolsters its draft capital, so this deal is feasible as it is a dream for Rockets fans.
Indiana Pacers – Brandon Ingram
Indiana Pacers Receive: Brandon Ingram
New Orleans Pelicans Receive: Myles Turner, Aaron Nesmith
The Pacers adding Brandon Ingram would be a seismic move for a franchise looking to contend around Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam. Ingram’s ability to create his own shot, combined with his average of 22.2 points per game this season, makes him a perfect fit as the offensive closer Indiana has been searching for.
His length and improved three-point shooting (37.4% this season) add much-needed versatility to Indiana’s wing rotation, bolstering a young, talented roster that could immediately contend in the East. The Pelicans are trying to move on from their core pieces as soon as possible, and the Pacers are a team desperate for improvement (22-19) after making the Eastern Conference Finals last year.
Los Angeles Clippers – LaMelo Ball
Los Angeles Clippers Receive: LaMelo Ball
Charlotte Hornets Receive: Norman Powell, Bones Hyland, Terance Mann, Kevin Porter Jr, 2031 First-Round Pick
LaMelo Ball brings star power and youth to a Clippers squad desperate for a floor general to complement Kawhi Leonard and James Harden. With a career-high average of 29.7 points per game this season to go along with 7.4 assists, Ball would immediately elevate the Clippers’ offensive fluidity while energizing a roster often criticized for inconsistency.
Ball’s ability to push the tempo and facilitate open shots for Leonard and Harden and fills a glaring hole in Los Angeles’ championship blueprint. The Clippers have performed better than expected with Leonard only appearing in three games, but Ball could elevate the team’s chances in the West going forward. Not to mention, Ball is the definition of box office and fits the LA scene perfectly which is why he is on the shortlist of dream targets.
Los Angeles Lakers – Trae Young
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Trae Young
Atlanta Hawks Receive: Rui Hachimura, Jarred Vanderbilt, Gabe Vincent, Dalton Knecht, 2029 First-Round Pick
The Los Angeles Lakers landing Trae Young would immediately transform their offense, adding a dynamic playmaker alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Young’s 23.1 points and league-leading 11.9 assists per game this season demonstrate his ability to take control of games when it matters since the Lakers have been atrocious in the fourth quarter this season.
His elite pick-and-roll play would thrive with Davis, while his deep shooting range spreads the floor for LeBron’s drives. Young also provides a long-term cornerstone for the Lakers’ post-LeBron era. Lakers fans want more than Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton, the team’s two major pickups this season, and Young would be exactly what the franchise needs now and in the future.
Memphis Grizzlies – Jimmy Butler
Memphis Grizzlies Receive: Jimmy Butler
Miami Heat Receive: Marcus Smart, Brandon Clarke, John Kochar, Luke Kennard, 2027 Second-Round Pick (ATL)
Adding Jimmy Butler to Memphis provides the Grizzlies with a proven playoff performer who fits their gritty culture. Butler’s ability to take over late-game situations and his leadership would complement Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr., forming a dangerous Big Three.
With Butler hungry to prove his worth this season, Memphis secures the go-to presence they’ve lacked in high-pressure moments. The only issue is that it seems Butler’s camp has made it clear the player won’t re-sign for the long term with any franchise he doesn’t want to play for, so this dream situation could be just that for Grizzlies fans.
Miami Heat – De’Aaron Fox
Miami Heat Receive: De’Aaron Fox
Sacramento Kings Receive: Terry Rozier, Nikola Jovic, Jaime Jaquez Jr., Kel’el Ware, 2028 First-Round Pick, 2030 First-Round Pick, 2026 Second-Round Pick from the Los Angeles Lakers
De’Aaron Fox gives the Miami Heat the dynamic guard they’ve been missing since Goran Dragic’s peak and possibly since Tim Hardaway. Fox’s ability to score (26.5 points per game), create for others, and excel in clutch moments fits perfectly with Miami’s culture of toughness and precision.
Fox’s speed and explosiveness would be devastating alongside Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo, pushing the Heat into serious title contention. Obviously, the Heat will move Jimmy Butler by most accounts, and Fox could be the piece to take the franchise into the future since he is only 27 years old.
Milwaukee Bucks – Jerami Grant
Milwaukee Bucks Receive: Jerami Grant
Portland Trail Blazers Receive: Khris Middleton, 2031 First-Round Pick
The Bucks acquiring Jerami Grant would give them a versatile two-way forward to pair with Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard. Grant’s scoring and ability to guard multiple positions address Milwaukee’s need for a secondary scorer and defensive wing presence.
His ability to create his own shot and knock down threes (38.2% from deep) enhances their championship outlook. Middleton’s time in Milwaukee is likely up because the Bucks need to make sure Giannis is happy and bringing a player of Grant’s caliber could make the Bucks a legitimate contender again behind the Celtics and Cavaliers.
Minnesota Timberwolves – De’Aaron Fox
Minnesota Timberwolves Receive: De’Aaron Fox
Sacramento Kings Receive: Julius Randle, 2025 Second-Round Pick (UTA), 2026 Second-Round Pick (UTA), 2029 Second-Round Pick (MIN)
Fox’s arrival in Minnesota would provide a lightning-fast guard to complement the core pieces of Anthony Edwards and Rudy Gobert. His ability to drive, score at the rim, and facilitate (6.1 assists per game) would elevate the Timberwolves’ offense while allowing Anthony Edwards to focus on scoring.
Fox’s leadership and experience would also help stabilize a team looking to take the next step in the playoffs. It is clear that the Timberwolves’ experiment with Julius Randle has not worked, and moving him for Fox means Naz Reid is inserted into the lineup and the team can play very fast on both ends of the court as a result.
New Orleans Pelicans – Jonathan Kuminga
New Orleans Pelicans Receive: Jonathan Kuminga, Andrew Wiggins, Moses Moody
Golden State Warriors Receive: Zion Williamson
The Pelicans acquiring Jonathan Kuminga represents a potential high-upside move, but the key here is that the franchise finally moves on from Zion Williamson who was recently suspended for poor conduct. Kuminga, averaging 16.8 points and 5.0 rebounds this season, provides a versatile, athletic forward who thrives in transition and shows promise as a defender.
Andrew Wiggins adds championship experience and consistent scoring, while Moses Moody brings sharp shooting and energy off the bench. This deal gives New Orleans the depth and youth they need for long-term contention someday, possibly around youngsters Trey Murphy III, Herb Jones, and Yves Missi.
New York Knicks – Walker Kessler
New York Knicks Receive: Walker Kessler
Utah Jazz Receive: Tyler Kolek, 2026 First-Round Pick Swap (NYK), 2025 Second-Round Pick (BOS/MEM), 2026 Second-Round Pick (GSW), 2027 Second-Round Pick (MIN), 2028 Second-Round Pick (IND/PHX)
Adding Walker Kessler to the Knicks solidifies their frontcourt with a defensive anchor. Kessler, averaging 2.7 blocks per game and shooting 60% from the field, gives New York an elite rim protector and lob threat to pair with Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns.
His presence would bolster the Knicks’ already strong defensive identity and unlock additional spacing on offense by allowing Towns to play even more freely. The Knicks have seemingly given up on Mitchell Robinson, a center who has yet to play a game this season and there needs to be depth at center for a team with title expectations.
Oklahoma City Thunder – Cam Johnson
Oklahoma City Thunder Receive: Cam Johnson
Brooklyn Nets Receive: Kenrich Williams, Ousmane Dieng, 2025 First-Round Pick (MIA), 2027 First-Round Pick (DEN)
Cam Johnson’s sharpshooting and length make him an ideal fit for the Thunder’s young core. Johnson, hitting 42.8% of his threes (with a career-high 19.6 PPG), provides the spacing Shai Gilgeous-Alexander needs to operate effectively.
His defensive versatility and playoff experience also align with OKC’s upward trajectory as they push toward consistent playoff contention. The Thunder do not need to make many moves considering they are first in the Western Conference with a 33-6 record but acquiring Cam Johnson could guarantee a Finals spot.
Orlando Magic – De’Aaron Fox
Orlando Magic Receive: De’Aaron Fox, Colby Jones
Sacramento Kings Receive: Jonathan Isaac, Anthony Black, Jett Howard, 2025 First-Round Pick (DEN), 2026 First-Round Pick (ORL), 2028 First-Round Pick (ORL), 2030 First-Round Pick (ORL), 2027 Second-Round Pick (ORL), 2027 Second-Round Pick (BOS)
De’Aaron Fox would turbocharge the 23-19 Orlando Magic’s offense, giving them a lead guard who can push the pace, attack the rim, and close games. Fox’s 26.5 points per game and ability to get downhill would elevate Orlando’s exceptional roster featuring Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner.
Fox’s presence would also provide much-needed veteran leadership for a team on the cusp of being legitimate title contenders. Without disrespect to Cole Anthony or Jalen Suggs, De’Aaron Fox would immediately upgrade the Magic and create a new Big Three in the East.
Philadelphia 76ers – Benedict Mathurin
Philadelphia 76ers Receive: Bennedict Mathurin
Indiana Pacers Receive: Kelly Oubre Jr., Ricky Council IV, 2026 First-Round Pick (OKC/HOU/LAC), 2027 Second-Round Pick, 2031 Second-Round Pick (Mavericks)
Mathurin’s scoring and upside make him a dream target for the Sixers. Averaging 16.5 points per game, the 22-year-old wing offers elite three-level scoring and the versatility to play alongside Joel Embiid, Paul George, and Tyrese Maxey in a best-case scenario.
Obviously, the 76ers are not getting production from Embiid or Goerge due to their injuries, so Mathurin’s athleticism and competitive edge fit perfectly with Philly’s win-now mentality while the two stars try to recover. Sixers fans need hope right now and Mathurin could give them a little bit of that.
Phoenix Suns – Jimmy Butler
Phoenix Suns Receive: Jimmy Butler, Richaun Holmes, Josh Richardson
Miami Heat Receive: Bradley Beal, Ryan Dunn, 2031 First-Round Pick Swap (PHX)
Washington Wizards Receive: Duncan Robinson
No question, adding Jimmy Butler to the Phoenix Suns creates a formidable trio alongside Kevin Durant and Devin Booker. The Suns are trying very hard to bring Butler on board but it would mean moving Bradley Beal which seems nearly impossible considering his contract situation and the presence of a no-trade clause.
If the Suns can somehow get their dream target, especially since they added Nick Richards at center, they could elevate their championship probability in the West. Only the OKC Thunder seem to be a true dominant force in the conference so the Suns could be one trade for Jimmy Butler away from boosting themselves to the Western Conference Finals.
Portland Trail Blazers – Rui Hachimura
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Jerami Grant
Portland Trail Blazers Receive: Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, Jalen Hood-Schifino, 2029 first-round pick
Rui Hachimura’s scoring versatility and size make him a strong fit for Portland’s forward rotation, adding depth and potential to a young roster. Gabe Vincent provides veteran stability at guard, while Jalen Hood-Schifino brings future upside. The 2029 first-round pick positions the Blazers for sustainable development.
The key to this deal is not that Hachimura is a superstar player, but he is a player that the franchise can use as a complementary piece to Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe because Jerami Grant’s value will start to decrease very soon. Out of all the possible trades, a deal for Hachimura and a first-round pick might be best for Portland.
Sacramento Kings – Brandon Ingram
Sacramento Kings Receive: Brandon Ingram, Herb Jones
New Orleans Pelicans Receive: DeMar DeRozan, Kevin Huerter, Trey Lyles, 2027 First-Round Pick (SAC), 2029 First-Round Pick (SAC)
Brandon Ingram’s scoring prowess and versatility make him an ideal fit alongside Domantas Sabonis and De’Aaron Fox, assuming the latter stays with the team. Adding Herb Jones also gives the Sacramento Kings a lockdown defender who can guard multiple positions, boosting their playoff chances.
It is no secret that the DeRozan acquisition has not worked out for the Kings and a swap for a better shooter and younger athlete means the Kings can continue their momentum under new head coach Doug Christie and actually have hope to make the playoffs again.
San Antonio Spurs – LaMelo Ball
San Antonio Spurs Receive: LaMelo Ball
Charlotte Hornets Receive: Keldon Johnson, Tre Jones, Malaki Branham, 2025 Lottery-Protected First-Round Pick (SAS), 2027 First-Round Pick (SAS), 2027 First-Round Pick (ATL)
LaMelo Ball’s elite playmaking and creativity elevate the Spurs’ rebuild alongside Victor Wembanyama. Ball’s ability to control the pace and create for teammates accelerates San Antonio’s timeline to contention and this is a dream that every Spurs fan has.
The Hornets receive Keldon Johnson, Tre Jones, and Malaki Branham, all young players who fit their developmental timeline. Multiple first-round picks, including a lottery-protected one in 2025, allow Charlotte to focus on the long-term future. Still, the major winners are the Spurs in this dream scenario. Can you just imagine a pick-and-roll between Ball and Wembanyama?
Toronto Raptors – Zach LaVine
Toronto Raptors Receive: Zach LaVine
Chicago Bulls Receive: Bruce Brown, Jakob Poeltl, Ochai Agbaji, 2025 First-Round Pick
Zach LaVine brings much-needed scoring (24.0 PPG) and offensive firepower (45.5% 3-PT FG) to the Raptors. His ability to create his own shot and stretch the floor enhances Toronto’s offensive dynamics alongside Scottie Barnes, a player who needs help going forward.
The Raptors won’t become playoff contenders with LaVine but it could create a better brand of basketball that is fun to watch. Raptors fans do not have much to cheer about but LaVine, Barnes, and RJ Barrett create an interesting core that could be one or two pieces away from taking them to a playoff spot going forward.
Utah Jazz – Jonathan Kuminga
Utah Jazz Receive: Jonathan Kuminga, Gary Payton II, Kevon Looney, Kyle Anderson, 2025 First-Round Pick, 2027 First-Round Pick
Golden State Warriors Receive: Walker Kessler, John Collins
Adding Jonathan Kuminga to the Jazz provides athleticism and defensive upside to pair with their young core that features Lauri Markkanen and Isaiah Collier. Gary Payton II and Kevon Looney bring championship experience, while Kyle Anderson adds playmaking versatility.
Two first-round picks round out a strong package for Utah’s rebuild because the Jazz will look to cash in on Kessler and Collins, two players who belong on a title contender more than a rebuilding side. Acquiring Kuminga will also soften the blow in case the Jazz miss out on Cooper Flagg in the 2025 Draft.
Washington Wizards – Rui Hachimura
Washington Wizards Receive: Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, Jalen Hood-Schifino, 2025 Second-Round Pick (LAC), 2027 Second-Round Pick (LAL), 2030 Second-Round Pick (LAL)
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Jonas Valanciunas, Malcolm Brogdon
Rui Hachimura’s return to Washington gives the Wizards a familiar face with scoring upside. Gabe Vincent provides guard depth, while Jalen Hood-Schifino brings long-term promise. The additional second-round picks bolster Washington’s asset base.
The Wizards won’t find better options to bring back by moving Jonas Valanciunas than a package around Hachimura and second-round picks. It isn’t looking great for the Wizards concerning their future, but Hachimura could be a nice piece as the franchise prepares to enter the Cooper Flagg sweepstakes.
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