Last Thursday, the annual NBA trade deadline concluded. Throughout the weeks prior, many fans anticipated a highly entertaining day with several potential blockbuster deals. While no superstars were ultimately dealt, notable players like Pascal Siakam, OG Anunoby, and Terry Rozier got moved earlier last month. Each of those specific deals have massive implications on the league, but we’ll specifically a closer look at some of the more significant finalized trades from last week. (Read part one)
Mavs receive: Daniel Gafford
Wizards receive: Richaun Holmes, 2024 first-round pick (via Thunder)
The Mavericks walked away as the biggest winners from the deadline, and it all started with the move to acquire Gafford. It’s worth noting that Dereck Lively has certainly exceeded any expectations during his rookie campaign, but Gafford provides them with a veteran piece who isn’t necessarily learning on the job. His motor, toughness, and interior presence on both ends of the floor makes him a cohesive fit and perfect complement to their overall structure. Gafford is the type of player whose value is exponentially higher on a contender than for a bad team. He’s a true professional who can produce in several roles and knows how to contribute to winning. Netting him for salary fodder (Holmes) and a late pick in a bad draft should give Dallas a major boost.
Bucks receive: Patrick Beverley
76ers receive: Cam Payne, 2027 second-round pick
While this trade probably didn’t move most people, it could have meaningful implications for Milwaukee—clearly still one of the league’s top contenders. Without beating a dead horse, the Bucks have struggled all year defensively. It was a foregone conclusion that replacing one of the best defenders (Jrue Holiday) with one of the worst (Damian Lillard) would certainly make things difficult, but it’s arguably been even more challenging than anticipated. Adding Beverley doesn’t make this group the odds-on favorite, but his grit, defense, and sheer mentality are all much-needed qualities the Bucks could use.
Knicks receive: Alec Burks, Bojan Bogdanovic
Pistons receive: Evan Fournier, Malachi Flynn, Quentin Grimes, Ryan Archidiacono, two future second-round picks
After acquiring Burks and Bogdanovic, the Knicks have visibly dug their feet into the ground and are looking to capitalize under their current regime. They’ve been looking to rid themselves of Fournier for a long time, Grimes has started to dip after a strong sophomore campaign, and Flynn nor Archidiacono are major difference-makers in the bigger picture. That being said, Burks and Bogdanovic should both add offensive firepower to this Knicks roster. Given Thibodeau’s widely-known emphasis on defense, it’s difficult to envision either one of these guys closing a ton of games. However, the offensive surge they’ll each provide should make this a winning deal for New York.
