Best NBA Free Agency Moves
The Atlanta Hawks’ acquisition of KPIstaps Porzingis stands out as one of the smartest moves this NBA free agency. Porzingis, known for being one of the league’s best rim protectors when healthy, was obtained in a three-team trade involving the Boston Celtics and Brooklyn Nets. This move complements Trae Young’s offensive game by adding much-needed defense. Along with Dyson Daniels and Nickeil Alexander-Walker, the Hawks have bolstered their frontline and perimeter depth with players who provide both defensive impact and scoring versatility. Porzingis’ rim protection, combined with Atlanta’s young core, sets them up better for a deep playoff run in 2025-26.
Moves Impacting The Finals Race
Kevin Durant joining the Houston Rockets is a game-changing signing likely to impact the race to the NBA Finals. The Rockets addressed their biggest weakness and upgraded to a bona fide superstar for a surprisingly reasonable cost. Adding Durant instantly elevates Houston from a promising young team to a serious championship contender. Similarly, the New York Knicks’ signing of Jordan Clarkson after a buyout with Utah adds a skilled scorer to their thin rotation, reducing the ballhandling burden on Jalen Brunson, who led the league in usage last season. The LA Clippers also made a significant move by signing Brook Lopez as a backup center, addressing a major on/off court net rating gap when Ivica Zubac was off the floor. Lopez’s rim protection and floor spacing are vital for the Clippers’ hopes.
Potential Regrets By Christmas
Some offseason decisions could haunt teams by the end of the calendar year. The New Orleans Pelicans’ choice to give up an unprotected first-round pick to move up just 10 spots in the 2025 draft is questionable. With a loaded Western Conference and the Pelicans’ current roster, playoff contention looks unlikely unless they acquire more talent. Similarly, the Milwaukee Bucks’ decision to waive Damian Lillard to clear cap space for Myles Turner might backfire if the Bucks are not firmly in title contention by Christmas. Stretching Lillard’s $113 million contract limits future flexibility, and their perimeter talent remains weak despite a strong frontcourt. Houston’s crowded frontcourt with Clint Capela, Kevin Durant, and Finney-Smith also raises concerns, especially given Capela’s shooting percentage decline to 56% last season, a career low.
Underrated Moves Flying Under The Radar
Several smart moves have not received enough attention. The Cleveland Cavaliers’ swap of Isaac Okoro for Lonzo Ball is a low-risk, high-reward play. Ball’s $10 million contract for the final guaranteed year is modest compared to Okoro’s shooting struggles, especially in playoffs. If Ball stays healthy, this move could pay dividends. Charlotte Hornets acquiring Collin Sexton from Utah is another underrated move. Sexton averaged 24 points and six assists per 36 minutes over the past three seasons and comes with an expiring contract, making him a valuable short-term scorer and potential trade asset. The Detroit Pistons’ sign-and – trade for Duncan ROIinson and signing Caris LeVert also improves their shooting balance, with ROIinson and LeVert both shooting better than 37% from three-point range last season.
Teams Missing Bigger Opportunities
Some teams have not made the splashes expected in free agency. The Milwaukee Bucks still lack a clear solution at point guard after waiving Lillard. Kevin Porter Jr. alone is insufficient to convince Giannis Antetokounmpo and fans of a viable title run. Veteran Chris Paul would be an ideal fit but has yet to materialize. The Miami Heat have only added Simone Fontecchio, who is unlikely to change much after their humiliating 30.5-point average first-round playoff loss to Cleveland. Golden State Warriors have been mostly inactive, limited by salary cap concerns and the uncertain status of restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga. Signing Al Horford to over $5.7 million hard-caps their flexibility, leaving them $25 million below the apron but with few impactful moves. The Indiana Pacers missed a chance to retain Myles Turner, relying instead on 7-foot shooter Jay Huff, who would be stretched as a starter.
Summary of Key Free Agency Trends
This NBA free agency period has been marked by strategic moves focusing on defense, shooting, and playoff readiness. Teams like Atlanta, Houston, and New York made impactful signings that could shift the balance in their favor next season. Conversely, some franchises may regret their decisions due to questionable cap management and shallow rosters. Underrated trades and signings also show that smart asset management and role player acquisitions can quietly improve a team’s outlook. As the 2025-26 season approaches, the impact of these moves will become clearer, especially as teams jockey for position in a highly competitive league.
