As the NBA offseason comes to a close, several teams made significant moves that could shape the upcoming season. Analyzing these transactions reveals which teams improved their rosters and which may have made questionable decisions.
Winning Moves
A few teams made exceptional additions that could elevate their performance.
- Los Angeles Lakers: The Lakers bolstered their roster by acquiring veteran guard Russell Westbrook. The addition provides the team with a much-needed playmaker and adds depth alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Westbrook averaged 22.2 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 11.7 assists per game last season.
- Brooklyn Nets: The Nets secured Patty Mills, whose three-point shooting and veteran savvy will complement their superstar trio of Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, and James Harden. Mills shot 37.5% from beyond the arc last season.
- Miami Heat: The Heat landed Kyle Lowry in a sign-and-trade deal with Toronto. Lowry's leadership and championship experience may be crucial in Miami's quest for another Finals appearance. Last season, Lowry averaged 17.2 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 7.3 assists per game.
Questionable Decisions
Some teams made moves that raise concerns about their strategies.
- Chicago Bulls: The Bulls added DeMar DeRozan and Lonzo Ball. Both are talented players, but DeRozan's fit with Zach LaVine's ball-dominant style remains uncertain. DeRozan averaged 21.6 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 6.9 assists per game last season, while Ball added 14.6 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 5.7 assists.
- Boston Celtics: The Celtics' decision to trade Kemba Walker for Al Horford raised eyebrows. Although Horford offers defensive stability, his age and declining performance could hinder Boston's progress. Last season, Horford posted averages of 14.2 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 3.4 assists in limited play.
- New Orleans Pelicans: The Pelicans lost both Lonzo Ball and Steven Adams while adding Jonas Valančiūnas. Valančiūnas brings solid inside scoring and rebounding, but the team lost perimeter defense and playmaking. Valančiūnas averaged 17.1 points and 12.5 rebounds per game last season.
Evaluating these moves gives insight into how teams may perform in the new season. Visit the ArenaPlus website for more analysis and updates on the NBA.