The NBA offseason is always a hotbed of speculation, rumors, and blockbuster trades. As we head into the 2024 offseason, several teams are looking to make moves that not only improve their rosters but also create win-win situations for all parties involved. Whether it’s a contending team seeking that final piece to complete their championship puzzle or a rebuilding squad looking to stockpile assets for the future, the trade market offers plenty of opportunities.
In this article, we’ll dive into three potential trade scenarios that could make a splash this summer. These trades aren’t just about landing the biggest names but also about strategic moves that make sense for both teams involved. So, let’s get into it and explore some deals that could shake up the league and set the stage for an exciting 2024-25 NBA season.
1. Zach LaVine As The Bucks’ Third Star
Trade Details
Bucks receive: Zach LaVine
Bulls receive: Khris Middleton, MarJon Beauchamp, 2026 first-round pick (their own or from the Pelicans)
The Milwaukee Bucks had a solid regular season, finishing with a 49-33 record, which placed them third in the Eastern Conference. Despite their strong performance, they faced significant challenges in the playoffs and were eliminated in the first round by the Indiana Pacers. Injuries played a notable role, with key players like Khris Middleton struggling with health issues throughout the season.
Khris Middleton, now 32, averaged 15.1 points, 5.3 assists, and 4.7 rebounds over 55 games this season. However, his age, injury history, and hefty contract reduce his trade value. Swapping him for a younger, dynamic scorer like Zach LaVine could rejuvenate Milwaukee’s offense. LaVine, who averaged 19.5 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.9 assists in 25 games this season, would be an ideal backcourt partner for Damian Lillard. This trade addresses the Bucks’ need for another offensive star who can create his own shot and alleviate some pressure off Giannis Antetokounmpo and Lillard.
Moreover, LaVine’s presence would allow the Bucks to focus on adding more defensive-minded role players to balance the lineup. Given the team’s recent struggles with injuries, acquiring a younger star like LaVine could help them maintain their competitive edge throughout the season and playoffs.
For the Chicago Bulls, the 2023-24 season was a disappointment, ending with a 39-43 record and failing to make a significant playoff run. Zach LaVine’s massive contract, which runs through 2026-27, has become a burden for a team that is not in immediate contention for a title. Trading LaVine for Khris Middleton offers a shorter and more manageable contract while also bringing in a veteran presence to guide their young core.
Additionally, acquiring MarJon Beauchamp and a future pick adds a promising young talent to the Bulls’ roster. Beauchamp, with his potential to develop into a solid rotational player, fits better with Chicago’s long-term plans. This trade not only provides the Bulls with financial flexibility but also helps them build a more balanced team moving forward.
This trade scenario presents a win-win situation for both teams. For the Bucks, acquiring LaVine brings in a younger, explosive scorer who can enhance their offensive firepower and provide a reliable option alongside Lillard and Antetokounmpo. This move positions Milwaukee as a stronger contender for the championship, addressing their need for a third star who can stay healthy and deliver in crucial moments.
For the Bulls, this trade offers a chance to reset and rebuild more strategically. Middleton’s shorter contract and veteran leadership can help guide the young roster while maintaining cap flexibility. Beauchamp’s potential development adds future value, making the Bulls better equipped for a more sustainable rebuild. Trading away LaVine’s large contract also allows them to explore other roster moves without being hampered financially.
2. The Magic Get Lauri Markkanen In The Frontcourt
Trade Details
Magic receive: Lauri Markkanen
Jazz receive: Cole Anthony, Mo Wagner, 2027 first-round pick, 2029 first-round pick
The Orlando Magic had an impressive 2023-24 season, finishing with a 47-35 record, securing the fifth seed in the Eastern Conference. However, their playoff run was cut short as they were eliminated in the first round by the Cleveland Cavaliers. To take the next step, the Magic need a player who can elevate their frontcourt alongside Paolo Banchero. Enter Lauri Markkanen.
Markkanen, who averaged 23.2 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 2.0 assists this season, is a versatile forward who can stretch the floor with his shooting and complement Banchero’s inside-out game. His ability to score from multiple areas on the court would provide the Magic with a much-needed offensive boost. Moreover, this trade fits perfectly with Orlando’s timeline, as Markkanen is entering the final year of his contract. The Magic can evaluate his fit with the team before committing to a long-term deal.
Adding Markkanen to the lineup would significantly bolster Orlando’s frontcourt, making them a more formidable contender in the Eastern Conference. His shooting and scoring ability would open up the floor for Banchero and the rest of the team, creating a more dynamic and efficient offense.
For the Utah Jazz, trading Lauri Markkanen makes sense given their current rebuilding phase. The Jazz finished the 2023-24 season with a 35-47 record, missing the playoffs and indicating a need to retool their roster. By acquiring Cole Anthony and Mo Wagner, along with a 2027 and 2029 first-round pick, Utah gets a mix of immediate and future assets.
Cole Anthony, who averaged 11.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.9 assists this season, can step in as a starting point guard, addressing a critical need for the Jazz. His playmaking and scoring ability would help fill the void left by Markkanen, while also providing a young, developing talent to build around. Mo Wagner, who averaged 10.9 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.2 assists, adds depth to their frontcourt and brings energy and hustle.
The addition of two future first-round picks further aligns with Utah’s rebuilding strategy, giving them flexibility and potential to add other young talents in a few years. This trade allows the Jazz to continue their rebuild with promising young players and valuable future assets.
This trade scenario benefits both teams significantly. For the Magic, acquiring Markkanen provides them with a proven scorer and a versatile forward who can pair well with their young core, pushing them closer to serious contention in the East. For the Jazz, this deal fits their rebuilding timeline perfectly, adding a young playmaker in Anthony, a useful big man in Wagner, and valuable future draft picks. Both teams address their respective needs, making this a win-win trade that sets each franchise on a path to achieving their goals.
3. The Knicks Complete The Villanova Squad With Mikal Bridges
Trade Details
Knicks receive: Mikal Bridges
Nets receive: Bogdan Bogdanovic, Jericho Sims, Miles McBride, No. 24 pick, 2025 first-round pick (Lottery Protected via Pistons), 2026 first-round pick
The New York Knicks are eyeing a reunion of their former Villanova teammates Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart, and Donte DiVincenzo by adding Mikal Bridges to the mix. This potential trade has been a hot topic among Knicks fans and media alike, especially with Josh Hart openly recruiting Bridges on social media. Bridges, who averaged 19.6 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game this season, would bring a mix of defense, scoring, and versatility to the Knicks.
Reuniting these former college teammates would not only create a strong camaraderie but also bring a cohesive playing style that can elevate the Knicks’ performance. Under Tom Thibodeau’s system, Bridges could return to his elite defensive form, which has slightly dipped due to his increased offensive responsibilities in Brooklyn. Playing alongside Brunson, Hart, and DiVincenzo, Bridges would have the freedom to focus more on his defensive prowess while still contributing offensively.
Adding Bridges to a lineup that already includes key players like Julius Randle and the recently acquired O.G. Anunoby would make the Knicks a formidable team in the Eastern Conference. The trade for Bridges is seen as a realistic move that fits the Knicks’ strategy of building a robust, defensive-minded team capable of making deep playoff runs.
For the Brooklyn Nets, the trade would involve parting ways with their standout player, Mikal Bridges. Despite his solid performance and reasonable contract (earning $23.3 million in 2024-25 and $24.9 million in 2025-26), the Nets are in a rebuilding phase and might benefit from acquiring valuable assets in return.
The package the Nets would receive includes Bojan Bogdanovic, a reliable veteran who can provide scoring and leadership, and Jericho Sims, a young and athletic center who can develop into a key rotational player. Additionally, a rotational piece like Miles McBride and the three first-round picks (including a 2025 lottery-protected pick via the Pistons) offer significant future value and flexibility. This draft capital can either be used to acquire young talent or as trade assets to pursue a star player in the future.
While trading Bridges might not be the preferred move for the Nets, given their current struggles and lack of competitive edge in the loaded Eastern Conference, this trade offers a balanced approach to rebuilding. The combination of immediate talent and future assets could set the Nets on a more stable path towards contention.
This trade scenario is a win-win for both teams. The Knicks get to complete their Villanova reunion, adding a versatile and talented player in Bridges who fits perfectly with their core and system. His defensive skills and scoring ability would significantly enhance the Knicks’ chances in the playoffs.
For the Nets, acquiring Bogdanovic, Sims, and valuable draft picks aligns with their rebuilding strategy. It provides them with both experienced talent and future flexibility, which are crucial for constructing a competitive team in the coming years. This deal addresses the immediate needs of both franchises while setting them up for future success.
