NBA Offseason Overview
With only a few moves left to finalize, including restricted free-agent extensions and completion of roster spots, the shape of the 2025-26 NBA season is coming into view. The Houston Rockets, LA Clippers, Dallas Mavericks, and Denver Nuggets made significant changes through high-profile trades and smart draft choices. Meanwhile, teams like the Orlando Magic, Atlanta Hawks, and Milwaukee Bucks made bold decisions to elevate their competitiveness in what has turned out to be an unpredictable Eastern Conference. However, teams such as the Chicago Bulls and New Orleans Pelicans left fans puzzled with their offseason strategies.
Contents
Below are evaluations and grades for the offseason actions of all 30 NBA teams.
Atlantic Division
- Brooklyn Nets – Grade: C The Nets had one of the most promising offseason outlooks but have yet to capitalize significantly. After dismantling what appeared to be a Play-In Tournament team, they managed to acquire an important 2032 first-round draft pick from the Denver Nuggets. Although the addition of Michael Porter Jr. and the salary swap involving Terance Mann showed potential, their use of five first-round picks did not yield the expected talent. The future of restricted free agent Cam Thomas remains uncertain. — Jared Weiss
- Boston Celtics – Grade: C- The Celtics have worked to lessen their salary commitments, successfully avoiding the collective bargaining agreement’s second apron, albeit with a lackluster start. Losses of key players like Kristaps Porziņģis and Jrue Holiday have left the frontcourt struggling. General manager Brad Stevens faces the challenge of filling significant roster gaps while staying over the luxury tax threshold. It seems the upcoming season will be a transition year for the Celtics. — Jay King
- New York Knicks – Grade: B+ In a summer characterized by tight finances, the Knicks added valuable role players with Jordan Clarkson and Guerschon Yabusele. These additions enhance depth for a team that reached the Eastern Conference finals but struggled with bench consistency. They also secured a four-year, $150 million extension for Mikal Bridges, further solidifying their core. — James L. Edwards III
- Philadelphia 76ers – Grade: B The health of Joel Embiid and Paul George is crucial for the 76ers’ success this season. Daryl Morey’s draft selections look promising with VJ Edgecombe and Johni Broome, while Trendon Watford adds versatility. Despite a need for a starting power forward, the 76ers’ depth and athleticism have improved, yet the health of their stars remains a wildcard. — Tony Jones
- Toronto Raptors – Grade: B- By extending Brandon Ingram, the Raptors essentially stepped back from free agency this offseason. Their draft pick Collin Murray-Boyles doesn’t fulfill a specific need but aligns with their defensive strategy. While Jakob Poeltl’s contract was pricey, his presence is vital. Overall, the Raptors’ moves this offseason were overshadowed by previous decisions affecting their roster. — Eric Koreen
Central Division
- Chicago Bulls – Grade: D+ The Bulls have refrained from embracing a rebuild, leading to frustration among fans seeking change. The extension of coach Billy Donovan and the trade of Lonzo Ball without gaining draft capital have raised eyebrows. While new players like Noa Essengue could develop, the focus remains on internal growth rather than external acquisitions. — Joel Lorenzi
- Cleveland Cavaliers – Grade: B The Cavaliers missed out on a big trade to improve their top-seed roster, with salary cap constraints limiting their options. They managed to secure Lonzo Ball and prioritize their existing roster commitments, maintaining stability while looking to build on past successes. — Joe Vardon
- Detroit Pistons – Grade: B- Pistons president Trajan Langdon has taken a patient approach since last season. The offseason reflected this with the addition of Chaz Lanier and returning Jaden Ivey to the starting lineup. The front office’s flexible response to ongoing issues, notably the Malik Beasley situation, showcases their commitment to growth. — Hunter Patterson
- Indiana Pacers – Grade: C- The Pacers face uncertainty at the center position post-Myles Turner’s departure. With star Tyrese Haliburton sidelined for the season, the team faces significant challenges in maintaining a competitive edge. Much remains to be decided if they hope to contend. — Shakeia Taylor
- Milwaukee Bucks – Grade: B The Bucks’ offseason was limited by the unfortunate injury to Damian Lillard. General manager Jon Horst’s major waiver decision tied up funds for several seasons but left the team better equipped than it was post-playoffs. The addition of Myles Turner enhances their lineup significantly. — Eric Nehm
Southeast Division
- Atlanta Hawks – Grade: A The Hawks turned heads this offseason by acquiring a coveted unprotected lottery pick while managing key roster additions like Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Kristaps Porziņģis. While their offseason looks promising, they need additional depth to solidify their position. — John Hollinger
- Charlotte Hornets – Grade: B The Hornets made strides in their rebuilding efforts, particularly with the No. 4 draft pick. Their strategic moves indicate a focus on long-term development, with hope hinging on the growth of young talents like Kon Knueppel. — Mike Vorkunov
- Miami Heat – Grade: B- The Heat have made smart adjustments to their roster, notably by acquiring veteran players and drafting promising talent. While they may not yet be title contenders, they are positioning themselves for future competitiveness. — William Guillory
- Orlando Magic – Grade: A- The Magic’s significant trade for Desmond Bane marks a new era for the franchise, bolstered by a maximum extension for Paolo Banchero. The high cost of picks for Bane raises questions, but the team is clearly aiming for success. — Josh Robbins
- Washington Wizards – Grade: B The Wizards showed ingenuity this offseason, shedding impactful salaries while enhancing their future with smart draft picks. However, their failure to land someone star-level during the draft highlights some limitations. — Josh Robbins
Northwest Division
- Denver Nuggets – Grade: A+ The Nuggets had the best offseason in many eyes, enhancing their depth and skill level significantly. Upgrading from Michael Porter Jr. to Cam Johnson in addition to acquiring a top-notch backup center puts them in prime championship contention. — Tony Jones
- Minnesota Timberwolves – Grade: B The Timberwolves retained crucial pieces of their roster while lacking the financial flexibility for major offseason moves. However, their trust in young talent and continued growth may allow them to remain competitive in a challenging Western Conference. — Jon Krawczynski
- Oklahoma City Thunder – Grade: A The Thunder prioritized continuity and rewarded their star players with long-term contracts. Young prospects show promise, establishing Oklahoma City as a formidable team moving forward. — Joel Lorenzi
- Portland Trail Blazers – Grade: C The Blazers made a puzzling array of moves, combining nostalgia with uncertain outcomes. Addressing injury issues with Damian Lillard and pursuing junior players leads to significant questions about their strategy and direction. — Jason Quick
- Utah Jazz – Grade: B The Jazz opted for a strategy focused on positioning to secure their draft pick for next season. Although their recent moves opened the door for further struggles, there’s a clear long-term vision in place. — Tony Jones
Pacific Division
- Golden State Warriors – Grade: Incomplete With the Jonathan Kuminga situation still unresolved, the Warriors have yet to exercise clarity in their offseason. Their potential aspirations for future trades hinge on this outcome, making it premature to grade their performance. — Sam Amick
- LA Clippers – Grade: A- The Clippers addressed key problems from last season by enhancing their lineup through trades while solidifying their core. They have addressed past weaknesses effectively, setting them up for a promising season. — Law Murray
- Los Angeles Lakers – Grade: B- Evaluating the Lakers hinges on their strategic objectives versus the broader league context. Although they made solid improvements, they appeared to lag behind top contenders in the West. Overall growth and future potential remain positive. — Dan Woike
- Phoenix Suns – Grade: C+ The Suns made several significant changes, including roster overhauls while shedding undesirable contracts. They still face key questions regarding player combinations and depth, indicating some growing pains ahead. — Doug Haller
- Sacramento Kings – Grade: C The Kings made calculated moves focused on filling the point guard void. However, they remain engaged in other possible trades, leaving their offseason challenge incomplete for the moment. — Sam Amick
Southwest Division
- Dallas Mavericks – Grade: A Excitement is back for Mavericks fans after securing the No. 1 draft pick and committing to impactful player re-signings. The inclusion of D’Angelo Russell enhances their roster, suggesting a solid future ahead. — Christian Clark
- Houston Rockets – Grade: A The Rockets had a landmark offseason by acquiring Kevin Durant while maintaining important depth. Their strategic acquisitions indicate a paradigm shift towards championship contention. — Kelly Iko
- Memphis Grizzlies – Grade: B Though the Grizzlies’ offseason suggests careful planning for the future, finding a starting center remains a challenge. The offseason moves reflect a focus on balance and opportunity for forthcoming growth. — John Hollinger
- New Orleans Pelicans – Grade: D The Pelicans’ bold trade involving a key draft pick left many speculating about the team’s commitment to winning amidst adverse conditions. Recent injuries have only compounded their challenges. — William Guillory
- San Antonio Spurs – Grade: B+ The Spurs showed patience by focusing on developing their top draft pick without making hasty trades. Their strategic drafting points towards a more measured future. — Jared Weiss
