The Most Realistic And Unrealistic Trade Target For Every NBA Team In 2024 Offseason

With the 2023-24 NBA season coming to an end with the NBA Finals already here, every NBA team is preparing for a busy summer intending to improve their roster. Title-contenders such as the Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors could be making big moves while rebuilding teams such as the Washington Wizards and Detroit Pistons will aim to be massive sellers. Here is every NBA team’s most realistic and unrealistic trade target in the 2024 offseason.

Atlanta Hawks

Most Realistic Target: Zach LaVine

Zach LaVine would be a realistic target for the Atlanta Hawks, providing them with an explosive scoring guard to pair with Trae Young. LaVine’s ability to score at all three levels and his athleticism would complement Young’s playmaking, creating a dynamic backcourt while expected No. 1 overall pick Alexandre Sarr completes an exciting trio going forward.

Most Unrealistic Target: Donovan Mitchell

Donovan Mitchell is a cornerstone player for the Cleveland Cavaliers, making it highly unrealistic for the Hawks to acquire him despite the rumors linking them. The Cavaliers are building their future around Mitchell and other young talents, and trading him would require an enormous package that the Hawks are unlikely to be able to provide without severely depleting their own roster. Even if Mitchell wants to leave Cleveland, the Hawks might not have the most juicy offer on the market even if they offer the No. 1 overall pick and perhaps Trae Young or Dejounte Murray.

Boston Celtics

Most Realistic Target: Nick Richards

Acquiring Nick Richards as a backup center behind Kristaps Porzingis would be a practical move for the Boston Celtics. With Al Horford nearing 38 years old, the Celtics need to plan for the future of their frontcourt. Richards, at 26 years old, brings energy and athleticism, which would complement Porzingis’ skill set. Including Jordan Walsh and future picks in the trade package could make this deal possible, especially if the Celtics are looking to strengthen their bench.

Most Unrealistic Target: Kelly Olynyk

Kelly Olynyk would be an ideal big man for the Boston Celtics due to his ability to space the floor, defend, and pass effectively. However, making a trade for Olynyk would likely require including Al Horford in the deal, which the Toronto Raptors may not be interested in due to Horford’s age and contract. The Raptors are likely focused on their younger players and rebuilding efforts, making this trade scenario highly unrealistic for the Celtics.

Brooklyn Nets

Most Realistic Target: Darius Garland

Darius Garland would provide the Nets with a dynamic young point guard to build around alongside Mikal Bridges. Garland’s playmaking and scoring ability would help elevate Brooklyn’s offense, and he fits the timeline of their current core alongside the likes of Cam Thomas and Nic Claxton. Trading for Garland could also expedite their improvement process because the team wants to win games and not tank for picks.

Most Unrealistic Target: Donovan Mitchell

While Donovan Mitchell would be a game-changer for the Nets, the chances of acquiring him are slim. Mitchell is a key piece for the Cleveland Cavaliers, and the Nets would need to offer a substantial package that likely includes multiple first-round picks and key players, making this scenario highly unlikely because Mikal Bridges and Cam Thomas might not be enough to get the deal done.

Charlotte Hornets

Most Realistic Target: Keldon Johnson

Keldon Johnson would be a solid addition to the Hornets, providing scoring and defensive versatility. His ability to play both forward positions would complement LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller, helping Charlotte build a more competitive team. Johnson’s youth and potential make him an attainable target because the Spurs won’t value him as an untouchable.

Most Unrealistic Target: Cam Thomas

Cam Thomas has shown promise as a young scorer for the Brooklyn Nets, making him a highly valuable piece for their rebuild. The Nets are unlikely to part with Thomas, given his potential and the role he can play in their future plans. As such, acquiring Thomas would be a difficult and unrealistic goal for the Hornets even if he would slot in perfectly alongside LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller.

Chicago Bulls

Most Realistic Target: D’Angelo Russell

The Chicago Bulls could do much worse than engaging the Los Angeles Lakers for a trade for Zach LaVine. D’Angelo Russell and Austin Reaves’ youth and offensive presence would be beneficial for a potentially rebuilding side, or perhaps a nice duo to pair with DeMar DeRozan who could sign a two-year deal to remain in Chicago.

Most Unrealistic Target: Tyler Herro

Tyler Herro is a key player for the Miami Heat, and prying him away would require a significant offer that a package including Zach LaVine does not provide. The Heat value Herro’s scoring and potential, making it unlikely that they would entertain trade offers for him, especially from a conference rival like the Bulls for a player who is five years older.

Cleveland Cavaliers

Most Realistic Target: Kyle Kuzma

Kyle Kuzma would fit well with the Cavaliers, offering scoring and rebounding from the forward position. His versatility and ability to stretch the floor would complement Cleveland’s young core, including Darius Garland and Evan Mobley. Perhaps utilizing Jarrett Allen and the No. 20 overall pick and cap fillers could work.

Most Unrealistic Target: Brandon Ingram

Brandon Ingram is a cornerstone for the New Orleans Pelicans, and they are unlikely to part with him for a package that won’t include Darius Garland at least. The Cavaliers would need to offer a substantial package that could disrupt their young core, making the acquisition of Ingram highly unrealistic.

Dallas Mavericks

Most Realistic Target: Norman Powell

Norman Powell would provide the Mavericks with a reliable scoring option and defensive presence on the wing. His experience and ability to contribute both as a starter and off the bench would bolster Dallas’ depth and support Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. A package including Dereck Lively II, Josh Green, and even the No. 58 overall pick could be a start for a trade.

Most Unrealistic Target: Lauri Markkanen

Lauri Markkanen has established himself as a key player for the Utah Jazz, making it highly unlikely that they would trade him. The Mavericks would need to offer significant assets to acquire Markkanen, which is not a realistic scenario given their current roster construction and asset pool because Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving will both be untouchable.

Denver Nuggets

Most Realistic Target: Jerami Grant

Jerami Grant would be a strong addition to the Nuggets, providing them with defensive versatility and scoring. Grant’s familiarity with Denver’s system and his ability to play multiple positions makes him a realistic target to bolster the Nuggets’ championship aspirations if the franchise wants to make major moves by looking at either Michael Porter Jr or Aaron Gordon as expendable starters.

Most Unrealistic Target: Brandon Ingram

The New Orleans Pelicans will want much more than Michael Porter Jr to trade Brandon Ingram, meaning the Nuggets’ hopes of creating an exciting Big Three are likely out the window. Luckily, Denver’s team is built to win for the long term considering Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray are leading the way which means star-hunting might not be in the cards for them.

Detroit Pistons

Most Realistic Target: Zach LaVine

Zach LaVine would provide the Pistons with a proven scorer and athletic guard to pair with their young core. LaVine’s ability to create his own shot and his experience would help accelerate Detroit’s rebuilding process and add excitement to their lineup alongside Cade Cunningham. Detroit needs to be better than their 14-win season in 2023-24 and LaVine is a great acquisition in that sense. 

Most Unrealistic Target: Lauri Markkanen

Lauri Markkanen’s value to the Utah Jazz makes him an unrealistic target for the Pistons. Detroit would need to offer a significant package to acquire Markkanen, which could be detrimental to their rebuilding strategy and future plans. The Pistons might have the picks, including the No. 5 overall pick, but there isn’t enough talent to convince the Jazz to accept a trade.

Golden State Warriors

Most Realistic Target: Jimmy Butler

Jimmy Butler’s toughness, leadership, and two-way play would fit perfectly with the Warriors’ culture and championship aspirations. Acquiring Butler would give Golden State a formidable lineup, enhancing their chances of competing for another title. The Warriors need to go all-in with Stephen Curry in his final years, and going all-in for Jimmy Butler is both possible and realistic.

Most Unrealistic Target: LeBron James

While pairing LeBron James with Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson is an enticing idea, it remains highly unrealistic. The Lakers are unlikely to trade LeBron in any sign-and-trade scenario, and the Warriors would need to part with significant assets, disrupting their roster and future flexibility. Draymond Green can imagine having The King by his side, but it simply isn’t going to happen.

Houston Rockets

Most Realistic Target: Mikal Bridges

Mikal Bridges would be a valuable addition to the Rockets, providing defensive prowess and a reliable scoring option. His experience and work ethic would be beneficial for Houston’s young roster, helping them develop into a more competitive team. A deal including Dillon Brooks and the No. 3 overall pick could be one that the Nets could find interesting if they decide to rebuild.

Most Unrealistic Target: LaMelo Ball

LaMelo Ball is a cornerstone for the Charlotte Hornets, and acquiring him would require an unrealistic trade package. The Rockets would need to offer significant assets that could hinder their rebuilding efforts, making this scenario highly improbable because Ball isn’t the level of star to part ways with a player like Jalen Green.

Indiana Pacers

Most Realistic Target: Paul George

Paul George returning to the Pacers in a sign-and-trade scenario would provide veteran leadership and elite two-way play. His experience and scoring ability would elevate Indiana’s roster, helping them become a more competitive team in the Eastern Conference. Tyrese Haliburton, Paul George, and Pascal Siakam would create arguably the best Big Three in the NBA.

Most Unrealistic Target: Donovan Mitchell

Donovan Mitchell is a vital part of the Cleveland Cavaliers’ plans, making it highly unlikely that the Pacers could acquire him. The assets required to trade for Mitchell would be substantial, making this scenario unrealistic for Indiana. The Pacers won’t trade Haliburton and that essentially means the Cavaliers won’t find any deal interesting.

Los Angeles Clippers

Most Realistic Target: Nikola Vucevic

Nikola Vucevic would address the Clippers’ need for a skilled big man who can score and rebound. His ability to stretch the floor and play inside would complement their star-studded roster, providing balance and depth to their lineup. Utilizing Ivica Zubac and the No. 46 pick along with other players could give the Clippers a new Big Three with Vucevic joining Kawhi Leonard and James Harden.

Most Unrealistic Target: DeMar DeRozan

DeMar DeRozan is a key player for the Chicago Bulls even at 35 years old, and acquiring him would be highly unrealistic for the Clippers. The Bulls are unlikely to part with their star player without a significant return, making this sign-and-trade scenario improbable because the Bulls won’t move their star player without significant first-round picks.

Los Angeles Lakers

Most Realistic Target: Zach LaVine

Zach LaVine would bring athleticism and scoring to the Lakers, fitting well alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis. LaVine’s ability to create his own shot and stretch the floor would enhance the Lakers’ offensive firepower. A trade package including D’Angelo Russell (sign-and-trade) could be more than realistic for the Lakers this summer.

Most Unrealistic Target: Donovan Mitchell

Cleveland won’t trade Mitchell to Los Angeles (because Dan Gilbert won’t help LeBron James), making it highly unrealistic for the Lakers to acquire him. The Lakers would need to offer a massive package, likely including key players and draft picks, which is not feasible given their current roster and asset situation.

Memphis Grizzlies

Most Realistic Target: Jerami Grant

Jerami Grant would be a valuable addition to the Grizzlies, providing defensive versatility and scoring. His ability to play multiple positions and contribute on both ends of the floor would complement Ja Morant, Desmond Bane, and Jaren Jackson Jr., enhancing Memphis’ competitive edge. Memphis needs more professionals on the team to make them better, and packages including Marcus Smart and the No. 9 overall pick could be a great start.

Most Unrealistic Target: Lauri Markkanen

Lauri Markkanen’s importance to the Utah Jazz makes him an unrealistic target for the Grizzlies. Acquiring Markkanen would require a substantial trade package that Memphis might not be willing to part with, given their focus on developing their young core without sacrificing Desmond Bane or Jaren Jackson Jr.

Miami Heat

Most Realistic Target: Lauri Markkanen

Lauri Markkanen would provide the Heat with a versatile forward who can score and stretch the floor. His ability to play both inside and outside would complement Miami’s roster, adding another dimension to their offensive and defensive schemes. A package including Tyler Herro could be enough for the Jazz to pull the trigger since Herro is only 24 years old.

Most Unrealistic Target: Donovan Mitchell

The assets required to trade for Mitchell would be substantial, and the Cavaliers are unlikely to part with their star player to a rival in the Eastern Conference, making this scenario improbable. Cleveland will want more than Tyler Herro and the No. 15 overall pick because trading a superstar to a rival in the same conference doesn’t seem like something Dan Gilbert will sign off on.

Milwaukee Bucks

Most Realistic Target: Andrew Wiggins

Andrew Wiggins would bring athleticism, defense, and scoring to the Bucks, fitting well alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard. Wiggins’ ability to play multiple positions and contribute on both ends of the floor would enhance Milwaukee’s depth and versatility, and a package including Khris Middleton could make the team younger and more athletic.

Most Unrealistic Target: DeMar DeRozan

DeMar DeRozan is a crucial player for the Bulls, making it highly unrealistic for the Bucks to acquire him. The Bulls are unlikely to trade their star without receiving a significant return, and the Bucks might not have the necessary assets to make this deal feasible since a package revolving around Khris Middleton won’t make Chicago budge in a sign-and-trade scenario.

Minnesota Timberwolves

Most Realistic Target: Andrew Wiggins

Andrew Wiggins returning to the Timberwolves would provide them with a familiar face, one that has grown as a player. Wiggins’ improved defense and scoring ability would complement Anthony Edwards and Karl-Anthony Towns, helping Minnesota become more competitive while the team moves on from Rudy Gobert. Could it be possible that the Warriors want the Frenchman?

Most Unrealistic Target: Jarrett Allen

Jarrett Allen is a key piece for the Cavaliers, making it unrealistic for the Timberwolves to acquire him. The Cavs are building around their young core, and Allen is an essential part of their plans, making this trade scenario highly improbable. A swap deal including Gobert for Allen is not realistic because the Cavaliers won’t want to move on from their 26-year-old athletic center for a nearly 32-year-old.

New Orleans Pelicans

Most Realistic Target: Julius Randle

If the Pelicans want to cash in on Zion Williamson, they can re-tool quickly without having to rebuild by bringing Julius Randle and other assets back. Deciding to keep Ingram means they can use him with Randle and finally move on from the never-ending Zion Williamson injury list that continues to hamper their seasons.

Most Unrealistic Target: Darius Garland

The Pelicans will dream of acquiring Darius Garland but it might not be possible considering the Cavaliers will first wait to see what happens with Donovan Mitchell. If Mitchell leaves, the Cavaliers won’t trade their other guard. If he stays, they might not see a package around Brandon Ingram suitable for a major roster overhaul.

New York Knicks

Most Realistic Target: Zion Williamson

Zion Williamson would be an exciting addition to the Knicks, providing a dominant inside presence and star power. If the Pelicans decide to move on from Williamson due to his injury concerns, the Knicks could realistically put together a compelling package including Julius Randle to acquire him. A pick-and-roll with Jalen Brunson running the point would make the Knicks more than dominant offensively.

Most Unrealistic Target: Donovan Mitchell

While the Knicks have been linked to Donovan Mitchell in the past, acquiring him remains highly unrealistic. The Cavaliers are committed to Mitchell as a core piece of their team, and the Knicks would need to offer a substantial package that might not be feasible. It is also unlikely Dan Gilbert will want to improve the Knicks on the court while losing his best player, so Mitchell to the Knicks would be a hard situation to imagine.

Oklahoma City Thunder

Most Realistic Target: Mikal Bridges

Mikal Bridges would fit well with the Thunder’s young and developing roster, providing defensive prowess and a reliable scoring option. His experience and versatility would help accelerate Oklahoma City’s rebuild and add a veteran presence to their lineup. A package including Josh Giddey will be offered, but it still won’t be easy to get this deal over the line.

Most Unrealistic Target: Julius Randle

Julius Randle is a key player for the Knicks, making it unrealistic for the Thunder to acquire him for a package centered around Luguentz Dort and Jaylin Williams. The Knicks value Randle’s contributions, and the Thunder would need to offer significant assets to make this trade possible, which is unlikely given their expected refusal to trade Jalen Williams.

Orlando Magic

Most Realistic Target: Brandon Ingram

Brandon Ingram would be a great fit for the Magic, providing scoring and versatility on the wing. Ingram’s ability to create his own shot and play multiple positions would complement Orlando’s star Paolo Banchero, helping them become more competitive in the Eastern Conference. Orlando needed a little more offensive help to get past the first round this season and Ingram fits that mold.

Most Unrealistic Target: Trae Young

Trae Young is the franchise player for the Atlanta Hawks and even if the Magic need a star point guard, this deal might not be possible. The Hawks could be building around Young since they have the No. 1 overall pick, and the assets required to trade for him would be substantial, making this scenario improbable.

Philadelphia 76ers

Most Realistic Target: Paul George

Paul George is a free agent but he could be acquired in a sign-and-trade scenario. George would bring veteran leadership and elite two-way play to the 76ers, complementing Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. His experience and scoring ability would elevate Philadelphia’s roster, helping them make a deeper playoff push because the team desperately wants to bring George on board despite his injury history.

Most Unrealistic Target: LeBron James

LeBron James is unlikely to leave the Lakers even if he rejected his $51.4M player option, making it highly unrealistic for the 76ers to acquire him even if they are interested in The King. The Lakers are committed to LeBron, and simply letting him walk won’t happen, disrupting the 76ers’ current roster and future plans.

Phoenix Suns

Most Realistic Target: Collin Sexton

The Suns will want to move on from Bradley Beal, and Collin Sexton would provide the Suns with a dynamic scoring guard who can play both on and off the ball. His ability to create his own shot and contribute as a secondary playmaker would complement Devin Booker and Kevin Durant, enhancing Phoenix’s offensive options since he is only 25 years old and right in his prime.

Most Unrealistic Target: Jalen Williams

Jalen Williams is a promising young player and budding star for the Oklahoma City Thunder, making it unrealistic for the Suns to acquire him. The Thunder are unlikely to part with Williams, given his potential and fit within their rebuilding plans unless Devin Booker is included. Because of that, the Suns might be stuck with their current Big Three unless they can find a way to acquire Collin Sexton.

Portland Trail Blazers

Most Realistic Target: Jabari Smith Jr.

Jabari Smith Jr. would be a valuable addition to the Trail Blazers, providing length, defense, and shooting alongside Deandre Ayton. His ability to stretch the floor and contribute on both ends of the court would complement the young core and help Portland build a more competitive roster. The Rockets could be interested in a package that could include Shaedon Sharpe or even Anfernee Simons.

Most Unrealistic Target: Julius Randle

Julius Randle is a crucial player for the Knicks, making it unrealistic for the Trail Blazers to acquire him. The Knicks are unlikely to trade Randle without receiving a significant return, and Portland might not have the assets needed to make this trade feasible regardless of how talented Anfernee Simons is.

Sacramento Kings

Most Realistic Target: CJ McCollum

CJ McCollum would bring veteran leadership and scoring to the Kings, helping them in their push to become a more consistent playoff team. His ability to create his own shot and mentor younger players would be valuable for Sacramento’s roster and he fits perfectly alongside De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis. The trade package would likely include Harrison Barnes, Davion Mitchell, and Kevin Huerter.

Most Unrealistic Target: Nikola Vucevic

The Bulls value Nikola Vucevic’s contributions, and Sacramento would need to offer a substantial package to make this trade possible, which is unlikely given their current roster dynamics. A twin-towers pairing with Sabonis and Vucevic alongside Fox and Murray seems strong, but the Bulls won’t want to bring on Barnes or Huerter in all likelihood.

San Antonio Spurs

Most Realistic Target: Trae Young

Trae Young would be a transformative addition to the Spurs, providing elite playmaking and scoring. His ability to run an offense and create opportunities for teammates would be invaluable for San Antonio’s young roster, making him a realistic target if the Hawks consider rebuilding. Not to mention, the All-Star might want a chance to run the show alongside superstar center Victor Wembanyama.

Most Unrealistic Target: Donovan Mitchell

The assets required to trade for Mitchell would be significant, and Cleveland is unlikely to part with their star player for any package that doesn’t include Victor Wembanyama obviously, making this scenario improbable. Devin Vassell, Keldon Johnson, and Jeremy Sochan are good but not good enough to bring Mitchell on board.

Toronto Raptors

Most Realistic Target: Kyle Kuzma

Kyle Kuzma would be a solid addition to the Raptors, offering scoring and rebounding from the forward position. His versatility and ability to stretch the floor would complement Toronto’s current roster, providing depth and enhancing their competitiveness. The Raptors might want to include any of their assets outside of Scottie Barnes to make this deal happen.

Most Unrealistic Target: Lauri Markkanen

Lauri Markkanen’s importance to the Utah Jazz makes him an unrealistic target for the Raptors. Acquiring Markkanen would require a substantial trade package, which Toronto might not be willing to offer given their focus on developing their current core. RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley aren’t quite on the level of Markkanen and that means the Jazz won’t trade him to Toronto.

Utah Jazz

Most Realistic Target: Jarrett Allen

Jarrett Allen would provide the Jazz with a strong defensive presence and rebounding at the center position. His ability to protect the rim and finish around the basket would complement Utah’s roster, helping them become more competitive in the Western Conference as Walker Kessler improves in the paint.

Most Unrealistic Target: Mikal Bridges

Mikal Bridges is a key player for the Brooklyn Nets, making it highly unrealistic for the Jazz to acquire him considering Lauri Markkanen won’t be used in this trade. The Nets value Bridges’ contributions and potential just enough, and the assets required to trade for him would be significant, making this scenario improbable.

Washington Wizards

Most Realistic Target: D’Angelo Russell

D’Angelo Russell would bring playmaking and scoring to the Wizards, providing a veteran presence in the backcourt. His ability to facilitate and create his own shot would complement Washington’s roster, helping them become more competitive. Acquiring Russell would mean he is part of the package that sends Kyle Kuzma back to the Lakers.

Most Unrealistic Target: Lauri Markkanen

Lauri Markkanen’s value to the Utah Jazz makes him an unrealistic target for the Wizards. Acquiring Markkanen would require a significant trade package, and the Wizards cannot do enough convincing with Kyle Kuzma or Jordan Poole even if they throw in the No. 2 overall pick. 

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