This NBA offseason has already delivered headline-shaking moves, with some major stars finding new homes. Kevin Durant’s blockbuster move to the Houston Rockets set the tone, simultaneously sending Jalen Green to the Phoenix Suns in a deal that was somewhat expected and, at the same time, shocking.
Even Norman Powell’s move to the Miami Heat, though not on the same tier as Durant or Green, underscored the aggressive nature of front offices determined to push their rosters closer to championship contention. But we think the action isn’t done yet.
We expect four more stars to move teams this offseason, and depending on how things play out, it might be sooner rather than later. Let’s jump into it.
1. Giannis Antetokounmpo
When a name like Giannis Antetokounmpo enters the rumor market, the entire NBA takes notice. Considering that Giannis is coming off a bronze-medal win with the Greek national team and his future in Milwaukee is clearly up in the air, it might be time for the two-time MVP to move away from the Bucks.
A potential trade package could come from the Golden State Warriors with a package centered around Jonathan Kuminga, Brandin Podziemski, and picks in a major three-team trade. That is, unless, of course, the Warriors don’t instead wait on the 2027 free agency period to try to snag Giannis. Both ideas reflect the growing sentiment that Milwaukee could be tempted if it senses its title window has truly closed.
Even the Spurs, looking to build a superteam around Victor Wembanyama, could go all-in this summer. They could be able to acquire the two-time MVP without losing key pieces such as De’Aaron Fox or Stephon Castle, instead losing Keldon Johnson, Devin Vassell, and Jeremy Sochan along with picks.
The Knicks, in another major proposed package, could be looking for an immediate jump into championship contention. Losing Karl-Anthony Towns and other assets is a major haul, but we definitely see the Greek Freak being the final piece to their championship goal.
Out of all the trade packages, the Knicks’ one is the best for both teams. The Knicks need Giannis more than any other team if they want to win a championship right now, because the rest of the roster is built for success. The Warriors and Spurs would be the next-best destinations, considering they want an elite two-way superstar to help their aging and youthful rosters, respectively.
2. Lauri Markkanen
We have consistently linked Lauri Markkanen to teams ready to leap into contention, with the San Antonio Spurs emerging as one of the most intriguing destinations. In that scenario, the Spurs package their young talent and draft capital to pair Markkanen with Victor Wembanyama, a pairing we would love to see.
Obviously, for Utah, moving Markkanen would represent a firm pivot into a full-scale rebuild. Other teams, such as the Brooklyn Nets and Detroit Pistons, could also be interested. The Nets need a franchise star, while the Pistons need help for Cade Cunningham, so a deal does make perfect sense.
Finally, we also see a blockbuster three-team trade coming into place, involving the recently traded Jalen Green once he becomes available. However, this would all come down to Utah. If the Jazz commit to reshaping their future, Markkanen could be one of the most sought-after names this summer.
3. Zion Williamson
Few stars generate more intrigue on the trade market than Zion Williamson, and we have laid out multiple destinations where the former No. 1 pick could land. The Charlotte Hornets scenario is one of the boldest, sending Zion for a package headlined by Miles Bridges, Grant Williams, and Nick Smith Jr.
Another possibility? A blockbuster with the Golden State Warriors that delivers Jonathan Kuminga and other assets to New Orleans. That would be a win-win with the Warriors finally getting rid of Kuminga and the Pelicans ending the Zion era in style.
We have also floated broader lists of landing spots, including the Brooklyn Nets, who are still looking for a new franchise player. Wherever he goes, Zion’s trade value hinges on whether a franchise believes it can unlock the superstar potential and reshape the player’s damaged image of being constantly unhealthy or unavailable.
4. DeMar DeRozan
DeMar DeRozan’s name has surfaced in several trade scenarios, particularly as the Sacramento Kings weigh their options after another below-average season. The Boston Celtics or Detroit Pistons could put together a trade package with the hopes that the 6-time All-Star and veteran could be a perfect player for their plans.
DeRozan may not carry the franchise-shifting weight of a Giannis or Zion deal, but his trade market is quietly impactful. We point out his value as a solid offensive presence, even if he is 36 years old, which is why the Miami Heat are a great destination for him for a budget package that makes sense.
For the right team, adding DeRozan could be the difference between playoff survival and a deeper run. With the Kings exploring ways to reshape their roster, moving DeRozan could bring back young pieces or picks, and he could be one player who could be on the move again.
