NBA Offseason Transformations: Major Trades and Contracts Shape the 2023-24 Season
The NBA offseason has once again proved to be a period of drastic transformations and high-stakes movements, with several marquee players changing cities and notable signings defining the landscape for the upcoming season. Here’s a comprehensive look at the key transitions and signings that are poised to make an impact.
Philadelphia 76ers Load Up for Championship Run
The Philadelphia 76ers have been among the most active teams this offseason, making significant strides to bolster their roster. The headliner move was undoubtedly acquiring Paul George from the Los Angeles Clippers, a deal that could potentially elevate them into championship contention. The Clippers' reluctance to offer George a four-year max contract opened the door for Philadelphia.
In addition to George, the 76ers managed to secure the services of Eric Gordon and Andre Drummond, adding depth and experience to their squad. Moreover, Tyrese Maxey, one of the bright young stars in the league, inked a lucrative $204 million extension, ensuring his long-term presence. The Sixers also re-signed Kelly Oubre, further solidifying their wing positions.
Clippers Opt for Reconstruction
In the wake of parting with Paul George, the Los Angeles Clippers have opted for a reconstruction of sorts. Acquiring Derrick Jones Jr., Nic Batum, Kevin Porter, Kris Dunn, and Mo Bamba heralds a new chapter for the franchise. Perhaps most notably, the Clippers signed James Harden to a two-year, $70 million contract, adding another offensive dynamo to their ranks.
Knicks and Thunder Shake Things Up
The New York Knicks also made headlines by landing Mikal Bridges, a versatile and dynamic player expected to make an immediate impact. This move came with a cost, however, as Isaiah Hartenstein was traded to Oklahoma City Thunder. The Thunder, in turn, acquired both Hartenstein and Alex Caruso, but dealt away promising guard Josh Giddey to the Chicago Bulls.
Mavs Make Moves, Warriors Rebuff Klay
The Dallas Mavericks have made several noteworthy moves, most prominently signing Klay Thompson to a three-year, $50 million contract. This came after the Golden State Warriors reportedly offered Thompson a two-year, $48 million deal, an offer that left Thompson feeling "slighted," according to sources close to the player. Consequently, Thompson decided to take his talents to Dallas.
The Mavericks also traded Derrick Jones Jr. for Naji Marshall and executed another trade that saw Josh Green and Tim Hardaway Jr. head to Golden State in exchange for Thompson. Adding Marshall further beefs up an already intriguing Dallas roster.
Key Extensions and Signings
A slew of other key players committed to long-term deals with their respective teams. Donovan Mitchell agreed to a three-year, $150.3 million extension with the Cleveland Cavaliers, while Jayson Tatum inked a five-year, $315 million contract extension with the Boston Celtics. Cade Cunningham also secured a $226 million, five-year max rookie extension with the Detroit Pistons. Notably, Scottie Barnes signed a potential $270 million, five-year extension with the Toronto Raptors, who also brought in Immanuel Quickley on a five-year, $175 million deal.
Pelicans Acquire Dejounte Murray
The New Orleans Pelicans made waves by acquiring Dejounte Murray, in a trade that sent Larry Nance Jr., Dyson Daniels, and two first-round picks in 2025 and 2027 to the Atlanta Hawks. This move underscores the Pelicans’ ambition to be more competitive in the stacked Western Conference.
Nets Regain Draft Control, Spurs Add Veteran Leadership
In one of the most significant moves, the Brooklyn Nets received nine first-round picks in exchange for Kevin Durant, a bounty that allows them to regain control of their 2025 and 2026 first-round picks. Meanwhile, the San Antonio Spurs added veteran leadership by signing Chris Paul to an $11 million deal. The Spurs also acquired the rights to Stephon Castle and traded Rob Dillingham to the Minnesota Timberwolves in exchange for future draft capital.
Magic Retain and Reinforce
The Orlando Magic have also been proactive, securing Kentavious Caldwell-Pope to a three-year, $66 million deal and extending Jonathan Isaac on a five-year, $84 million contract. These moves underscore Orlando's effort to build a competitive team for the future.
The Atlanta Hawks, meanwhile, received a 2025 first-round pick from the Lakers and a 2027 pick from the Pelicans as part of the package for Murray, providing future assets for the team's development.
With teams making strategic moves and players finding new homes, the upcoming NBA season promises to be one of the most intriguing in recent memory.