BREAKING: Grading Last 10 Blockbuster Trades To See If They Paid Off Or Not
The NBA is always changing as teams make risky decisions in an attempt to win a championship or start over in the future. There have been a few big trades in the last few years that have had a big impact on the league. Trades such as superstars transferring clubs or franchises hoarding draft picks have altered the competitive landscape. This piece delves into the last ten significant deals, evaluating each one and determining if the teams involved benefited from it.
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+
The Los Angeles Clippers executed a risky trade for superstar Paul George in 2019, which also resulted in the acquisition of Kawhi Leonard. Win an NBA Championship was the clear expectation. While George has had some incredible individual seasons and long playoff runs throughout his time with the Clippers, injuries have continuously thwarted their ambitions of winning a championship. There’s no denying George’s ability to improve the club, but winning a title is still out of reach.
There have been highs and lows during George’s time with the Clippers. During 2023–24, George shot 41.3% from beyond the arc and 47.1% from the field, averaging 22.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game.
George has played exceptionally well, demonstrating his leadership qualities on the floor, defensive prowess, and scoring prowess. On the other hand, inconsistent play and injuries have hampered the Clippers’ postseason runs. They have failed to go to the NBA Finals, even though they made it to the Western Conference Finals in 2021. The disappointing early playoff exit of the 2023–24 season highlights how urgent it is for the squad to realize the potential of their current lineup.
Did this trade pay off for the Clippers: Not yet, but the potential remains.
The deal has been a huge success for the Oklahoma City Thunder. The star of the package they obtained, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, has emerged as one of the league’s most promising players. SGA averaged 30.1 points, 6.2 assists, and 5.5 rebounds per game in 2023–2024. He finished second in the MVP voting as a result of his play, which also helped the Thunder have the best record in the Western Conference.
The way SGA has evolved into a premier player has beyond all predictions. He now serves as the Thunder’s main pillar, bringing playmaking, leadership, and scoring to the team. The Thunder have developed a strong young core around him by using the draft assets they received in the trade. OKC is now positioned as a team with a great present and a promising future thanks to this strategic approach.
Another important trade addition, Danilo Gallinari, gave the Thunder important experienced leadership and scoring during his time there. The Thunder have been able to acquire depth and talent at several spots thanks to the various draft selections. These assets’ flexibility has allowed the Thunder to prepare for long-term success while maintaining their competitiveness.
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 2019 splashy signing of Anthony Davis by the Los Angeles Lakers was an attempt to bring the team back to its former glory alongside LeBron James. The Lakers won their 17th NBA Championship in 2020 because to the leadership of Davis and James, proving that this move was immediately profitable. Davis was outstanding during the championship run, especially in the postseason when he showed his versatility by averaging 27.7 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game.
For the Lakers in the 2023–24 campaign, Davis remained a formidable force. He shot 55.6% from the floor and averaged 24.7 points, 12.6 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game. Even though the Lakers have suffered with injuries and roster consistency, his presence in the paint and defensive prowess have been invaluable.
Davis has remained one of the best big players in the league despite some injury concerns. He is vital to the Lakers because to his exceptional ability to rebound, defend, and score. The Lakers have remained competitive in the Western Conference despite early playoff exits in the following seasons, thanks to the deal for Davis and their ability to surround LeBron with reliable role players.
Did this trade pay off for the Lakers: Absolutely yes.
In the deal, however, the Pelicans acquired a wealth of valuables. One of the team’s most important players and an All-Star, Brandon Ingram has grown throughout the years. Throughout 64 games in the 2023–24 campaign, Ingram averaged 20.8 points, 5.7 assists, and 5.1 rebounds per contest. For the Pelicans, his development into a top player has been a huge plus.
Before being moved to the Chicago Bulls, Lonzo Ball was a productive playmaker and defensive player for the Pelicans. Josh Hart, who was renowned for his hustle and adaptability off the bench, was a dependable contributor. A major addition to the trade were the draft picks obtained. The Pelicans added depth and future potential to their squad by selecting guys like Dyson Daniels and Jaxson Hayes with these picks.
The Pelicans have assembled a youthful and talented squad around Brandon Ingram and Zion Williamson thanks to the freedom the draft assets have given them. With its long-term success secured by this calculated approach, New Orleans has clearly benefited from the exchange.
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
In 2019, the Rockets pulled off a daring trade to get Russell Westbrook, bringing him back to James Harden’s Thunder squad. Their hopes of winning a title were to be increased by teaming two players of MVP caliber. It was anticipated that Westbrook’s arrival would provide the Rockets with explosive playmaking and unwavering vigor.
In the 2019–20 season, Westbrook averaged 27.2 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 7.0 assists per game while playing for the Rockets. It was clear that he had the explosive athleticism and capacity to make things happen for both himself and others. But his inconsistent shooting, especially from beyond the arc, presented problems for Houston’s offense that relies heavily on three points. During his Rockets career, Westbrook’s three-point shooting percentage of just 25.8% was a major setback for the team’s offensive flow and space.
While Westbrook and Harden are both best with the ball is in their hands, their pairing prompted concerns about their on-court chemistry even as it shown moments of brilliance. The Rockets were headed for a second-round playoff elimination despite the individual talents of their players, and head coach Mike D’Antoni’s system never quite allowed the two studs to play to their best.
Did this trade pay off for the Rockets: Not really.
The deal signaled the start of the Oklahoma City Thunder’s planned reconstruction. Chris Paul and some very prized draft picks were acquired by the Thunder, setting them up for long-term success. For the Thunder, Paul’s seasoned leadership and superb playmaking were essential in helping them secure an unexpected postseason berth in 2019–20.
The Thunder’s actual value was found in the draft selections. In addition to the 2021 and 2025 selection exchanges, OKC received valuable assets in the form of first-round picks in 2024 and 2026 to help them rebuild their roster. These picks could be used to acquire existing talent in future trades, or they could produce high-value players.
Paul’s impact hastened the growth of younger players such as Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who has since become a Thunder star. The transaction was a clear victory for OKC because it allowed them to rebuild successfully and maintain their competitiveness.
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
The Brooklyn Nets completed a sensational trade with the Houston Rockets in January 2021 to obtain James Harden, who along with Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving formed a formidable combination. The goal of the transaction was to immediately position the Nets as title contenders. It was anticipated that Harden, a three-time scoring champion and past MVP, would provide exceptional playmaking and scoring to Brooklyn.
Harden had a big but ultimately ineffective impact on the Nets. His averages of 24.6 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 10.9 assists per game in the 2020–21 campaign demonstrated his adaptability and capacity to step into a new role with other elite players. But the team’s inability to fulfill its maximum potential due to injuries and chemistry problems—especially with Kyrie Irving’s availability—led to a second-round playoff loss. More unrest marred the ensuing seasons, and in exchange for Ben Simmons, Harden was eventually traded to the Philadelphia 76ers.
In just 15 games during the 2023–24 season, Simmons—who was anticipated to be a huge addition—averaged 7.9 rebounds, 6.1 points, and 5.7 assists. Important Nets players like Jarrett Allen—who has grown to be an indispensable member of the Cavaliers—were also lost in the transaction. With Allen’s departure and Simmons’s meager contributions, this transaction appears to be a disaster for Brooklyn.
Did this trade pay off for the Nets: Not at all.
James Harden’s trade to the Houston Rockets signaled the end of an era and the start of a reconstruction. Victor Oladipo, who led and scored right away, Dante Exum, Rodions Kurucs, and a wealth of draft picks were all part of the package they were given. The Rockets have a ton of options to build for the future with the four first-round picks and four pick exchanges.
Even though he was eventually transferred, Oladipo gave Houston a temporary lift and was a component of their plan to add more players. The draft picks are where the Rockets really make their money. With these selections, the Rockets have the opportunity to either choose elite players or use them as trade chips to acquire more experienced players.
The move gave the Rockets the competitive flexibility they needed to go comfortably into a rebuilding phase. This move is obviously beneficial to Houston as it puts the team in a strong position for the future with the bounty of picks and young players.
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+
Russell Westbrook was acquired by the Los Angeles Lakers from the Washington Wizards in a highly publicized trade during the 2021 offseason, completing the “Big Three” alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis. The goal of adding the triple-double king to the Lakers’ lineup was to increase their chances of winning another title. Nevertheless, the transaction fell short of expectations and turned out to be a big letdown.
Westbrook had trouble adjusting to the Lakers’ system during his time there. He finished the 2021–22 season with an average of 18.5 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 7.1 assists per game, although turnovers and poor shooting hindered his success. Westbrook’s poor three-point shooting percentage of only 29.8% and multiple high turnover games hampered the team’s ability to score points.
Throughout the season, the Lakers struggled with chemistry problems and injuries, which prevented them from qualifying for the playoffs. Fans and experts alike have criticized Westbrook for not creating the ideal synergy when he was paired with James and Davis. After Westbrook was eventually traded to the Utah Jazz in the next season, the Lakers’ performance and consistency issues persisted.
Did this trade pay off for the Lakers: Absolutely not.
Russell Westbrook was a wise strategic choice for the Wizards when he was traded to the Lakers. With an average of 17.1 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game in 2023–24, Kyle Kuzma became a vital member of the Wizards. His adaptability and ability to score have been a great benefit to the group. Montrezl Harrell and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope both made significant contributions that gave the team depth and experience.
But after Westbrook helped the Wizards make the playoffs in 2021, they turned their attention to rebuilding. They traded Westbrook in the 2022 offseason, and the next offseason, they traded Bradley Beal to the Suns. By trading Kuzma this year, they may be able to obtain additional draft selections in the future, which would help their rebuilding efforts even more.