The 2024–25 NBA season has delivered plenty of drama, and the offseason promises even more. Between injury setbacks, early playoff exits, and rising tension from stars and their franchises, a wave of big-name trades may be inevitable.
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s relationship with Milwaukee has frayed under playoff frustration. Kevin Durant just endured another disappointing end to the season and faces questions about his long-term fit with Phoenix. Meanwhile, a handful of young stars like LaMelo Ball and Jonathan Kuminga might be itching for a fresh start.
We’re breaking down the ideal destination for each marquee name who could be on the move this summer, and not just where they could go, but where they should be.
Giannis Antetokounmpo - San Antonio Spurs
Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) against the Phoenix Suns at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) against the Phoenix Suns at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Proposed Trade Details
San Antonio Spurs Receive: Giannis Antetokounmpo
Milwaukee Bucks Receive: Devin Vassell, Keldon Johnson, Jeremy Sochan, 2025 First-Round Pick (SAS), 2027 First-Round Pick (SAS), 2028 First-Round Pick (SAS)
Giannis Antetokounmpo's potential departure from Milwaukee has become a focal point of the offseason. Despite averaging 30.4 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game on an efficient 60.1% shooting, the Bucks faced their third consecutive first-round playoff exit. With limited draft capital until 2031, Milwaukee's ability to retool around Giannis is constrained.
The San Antonio Spurs, equipped with promising young talent and multiple first-round picks, present an ideal landing spot. Pairing Giannis with Victor Wembanyama could create a formidable frontcourt duo, blending experience with emerging talent. The Spurs' offer of Devin Vassell, Keldon Johnson, Jeremy Sochan, and three first-round picks provides Milwaukee with a balanced mix of immediate contributors and future assets for a rebuild.
Kevin Durant - Houston Rockets
Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (35) reacts against the Los Angeles Lakers in the second half at Crypto.com Arena.
Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (35) reacts against the Los Angeles Lakers in the second half at Crypto.com Arena.
Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Proposed Trade Details
Houston Rockets Receive: Kevin Durant
Phoenix Suns Receive: Dillon Brooks, Jabari Smith Jr., Reed Sheppard, Jock Landale, 2027 First Round Pick (BKN), 2029 First Round Pick (DAL/PHX)
At 36, Kevin Durant remains a top-tier scorer, averaging 26.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game with a 52.7% field goal percentage. However, the Phoenix Suns' missing the playoffs entirely raises questions about their championship window around Durant. The Houston Rockets, boasting a young core and ample draft assets, emerge as a compelling destination.
In exchange for Durant, the Rockets could offer Dillon Brooks, Jabari Smith Jr., Reed Sheppard, Jock Landale, and two first-round picks. This package provides Phoenix with a blend of defensive prowess, youthful potential, and future flexibility. For Houston, Durant's veteran leadership and scoring ability could accelerate their ascent in the Western Conference.
Ja Morant - Miami Heat
Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12) reacts during the second half against the Miami Heat at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12) reacts during the second half against the Miami Heat at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
Proposed Trade Details
Miami Heat Receive: Ja Morant, Brandon Clarke, John Konchar
Memphis Grizzlies Receive: Andrew Wiggins, Terry Rozier, Kel'el Ware, Pelle Larsson, 2025 First-Round Pick (GSW), 2029 First-Round Pick (MIA)
Ja Morant's dynamic playmaking, reflected in his averages of 23.2 points, 7.3 assists, and 4.1 rebounds per game, makes him a coveted asset who might be on the way out in Memphis. The Miami Heat, seeking to bolster their backcourt, could benefit from Morant's explosive athleticism and offensive creativity.
A trade sending Morant, Brandon Clarke, and John Konchar to Miami in exchange for Andrew Wiggins, Terry Rozier, Kel'el Ware, Pelle Larsson, and two first-round picks offers Memphis a mix of veteran experience and promising talent. For the Heat, integrating Morant alongside Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo could rejuvenate their offense and championship aspirations.
Zion Williamson - Detroit Pistons
New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson (1) brings the ball up court against the Indiana Pacers during the first half at Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson (1) brings the ball up court against the Indiana Pacers during the first half at Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
Proposed Trade Details
Detroit Pistons Receive: Zion Williamson
New Orleans Pelicans Receive: Jaden Ivey, Tobias Harris, 2027 First-Round Pick (top-5 protected), 2027 Second-Round Pick, 2027 Second-Round Pick (via Milwaukee Bucks)
Zion Williamson's robust performance, averaging 24.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game on 56.7% shooting, underscores his impact when healthy. The Detroit Pistons, aiming to elevate their competitiveness, could view Williamson as a transformative addition alongside Cade Cunningham.
In return, the New Orleans Pelicans, who are almost certainly shopping Zion Williamson right now, would receive Jaden Ivey, Tobias Harris, a top-5 protected 2027 first-round pick, and two second-round picks. This trade provides New Orleans with a blend of youthful potential and veteran presence, while Detroit acquires a high-upside player to anchor their frontcourt.
Domantas Sabonis - Toronto Raptors
Sacramento Kings center Domantas Sabonis (10) drives for the basket against Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) in the fourth quarter at Fiserv Forum.
Sacramento Kings center Domantas Sabonis (10) drives for the basket against Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) in the fourth quarter at Fiserv Forum.
Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images
Proposed Trade Details
Toronto Raptors Receive: Domantas Sabonis
Sacramento Kings Receive: Immanuel Quickley, Jakob Poeltl, 2026 First-Round Pick (TOR)
Domantas Sabonis led the league with 13.9 rebounds per game, complemented by 19.1 points and 6.0 assists, showcasing his all-around capabilities. The Toronto Raptors, seeking to reinforce their interior presence around Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram, could benefit from Sabonis' inside presence and playmaking.
A trade involving Immanuel Quickley, Jakob Poeltl, and a 2026 first-round pick offers the Sacramento Kings a combination of backcourt depth and future assets. For Toronto, Sabonis's addition could enhance their offensive fluidity and rebounding prowess, aligning with their competitive objectives.
Trae Young - Orlando Magic
Chuck’s Global Stars guard Trae Young (11) of the Atlanta Hawks controls the ball against Kenny’s Young Stars guard Cade Cunningham (2) of the Detroit Pistons during the 2025 NBA All Star Game at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
Chuck’s Global Stars guard Trae Young (11) of the Atlanta Hawks controls the ball against Kenny’s Young Stars guard Cade Cunningham (2) of the Detroit Pistons during the 2025 NBA All Star Game at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
Proposed Trade Details
Orlando Magic Receive: Trae Young
Atlanta Hawks Receive: Jalen Suggs, Jonathan Isaac, 2025 First-Round Pick (DEN), 2027 First-Round Pick (ORL), 2027 Second-Round Pick (BOS), 2030 Second-Round Pick (MIL)
Trae Young's league-leading 11.6 assists per game, along with 24.2 points, highlight his offensive orchestration. The Orlando Magic, possessing a young and athletic roster, could leverage Young's playmaking to elevate their offensive efficiency because Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner need help to take the team past the first round of the playoffs.
In exchange, the Atlanta Hawks would receive Jalen Suggs, Jonathan Isaac, a 2025 first-round pick via Denver, a 2027 first-round pick, and two second-round picks. This package provides Atlanta with defensive versatility and future draft capital, facilitating a potential retooling phase around Dyson Daniels and Jalen Johnson.
LaMelo Ball - Los Angeles Clippers
Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball (1) reacts during the fourth quarter against the New Orleans Pelicans at Spectrum Center.
Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball (1) reacts during the fourth quarter against the New Orleans Pelicans at Spectrum Center.
Mandatory Credit: Scott Kinser-Imagn Images
Proposed Trade Details
Los Angeles Clippers Receive: LaMelo Ball
Charlotte Hornets Receive: Norman Powell, Bogdan Bogdanovic, Kris Dunn, 2031 First-Round Pick
LaMelo Ball's averages of 25.2 points, 7.4 assists, and 4.9 rebounds per game underscore his dynamic guard play. The Los Angeles Clippers, aiming to rejuvenate their backcourt, could view Ball as a cornerstone for their future.
James Harden and Kawhi Leonard needed a true focal point on offense as they showed some fatigue in the playoffs, and Ball is their answer. Even Lonzo Ball sees this as a perfect fit, and it won't be too difficult to put a package together.
A trade sending Norman Powell, Bogdan Bogdanovic, Kris Dunn, and a 2031 first-round pick to the Charlotte Hornets offers a mix of scoring, defense, and future assets. For the Clippers, Ball's addition could invigorate their offensive tempo and long-term competitiveness.
Lauri Markkanen - Golden State Warriors
Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen dribbles the ball against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the third quarter at Delta Center. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-Imagn Images
Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen dribbles the ball against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the third quarter at Delta Center. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-Imagn Images
Credit: Rob Gray-Imagn Images
Proposed Trade Details
Golden State Warriors Receive: Lauri Markkanen
Utah Jazz Receive: Jonathan Kuminga (Sign-and-Trade), Moses Moody, Buddy Hield, 2031 First-Round Pick (GSW)
Lauri Markkanen's scoring ability, reflected in his 19.0 points per game, combined with his 5.9 rebounds, makes him a valuable stretch forward. The Golden State Warriors, seeking to complement their core with size and shooting, could benefit from Markkanen's skill set around Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green.
In return, the Utah Jazz would acquire Jonathan Kuminga (via sign-and-trade), Moses Moody, Buddy Hield, and a 2031 first-round pick. This trade provides Utah with young talent and future flexibility, while Golden State enhances its frontcourt versatility.
Jalen Green - Phoenix Suns
Jan 5, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Rockets guard Jalen Green (4) reacts after being called for his fifth personal foul against the Los Angeles Lakers in the third quarter at Toyota Center.
Jan 5, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Rockets guard Jalen Green (4) reacts after being called for his fifth personal foul against the Los Angeles Lakers in the third quarter at Toyota Center.
Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-Imagn Images
Proposed Trade Details
Phoenix Suns Receive: Jalen Green, Jabari Smith Jr., Reed Sheppard, 2027 First Round Pick (BKN), 2029 First Round Pick (DAL/PHX)
Houston Rockets Receive: Kevin Durant
Jalen Green's progression, averaging 21.0 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game, highlights his growing scoring prowess. The Phoenix Suns, aiming to infuse youth and athleticism in exchange for Kevin Durant, could view Green as their main focus this summer.
In other words, the Suns might be more interested in Jalen Green rather than Dillon Brooks as the headliner of a trade package sending Durant to Houston, but the Rockets won't go down without a fight.
Regardless, a duo of Green and Devin Booker would be very difficult to handle from an offensive point of view because the latter is only 23 years old.
The trade involving Kevin Durant heading to the Houston Rockets, with Phoenix receiving Green, Jabari Smith Jr., Reed Sheppard, and two first-round picks, offers the Suns a blend of immediate contributors and future assets. For Houston, Durant's veteran leadership could expedite their ascent in the Western Conference, but the Suns would love Green in any deal.
Michael Porter Jr. - Miami Heat
Mar 10, 2025; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Denver Nuggets forward Michael Porter Jr. (1) walks down the court after a play against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the second quarter at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
Mar 10, 2025; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Denver Nuggets forward Michael Porter Jr. (1) walks down the court after a play against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the second quarter at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
Proposed Trade Details
Miami Heat Receive: Michael Porter Jr.
Denver Nuggets Receive: Andrew Wiggins, Jaime Jaquez Jr.
Michael Porter Jr.'s efficient scoring, averaging 18.2 points and 7.0 rebounds per game with a 50.4% field goal percentage, makes him a valuable offensive asset. The Miami Heat, seeking to bolster their wing scoring, could integrate Porter Jr. into their system seamlessly. He could slot in next to Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo, and Miami would have three perfect pieces in the starting lineup.
In exchange, the Denver Nuggets would receive Andrew Wiggins and Jaime Jaquez Jr., providing them with defensive versatility and youthful potential. This trade aligns with Miami's pursuit of offensive firepower and Denver's aim to maintain competitive balance.
Austin Reaves - Sacramento Kings
Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves (15) moves the ball against Miami Heat guard Tyler Herro (14) during the second half at Crypto.com Arena.
Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves (15) moves the ball against Miami Heat guard Tyler Herro (14) during the second half at Crypto.com Arena.
Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
Proposed Trade Details
Sacramento Kings Receive: Austin Reaves, Jarred Vanderbilt, 2025 Second-Round Pick
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: DeMar DeRozan
Austin Reaves' emergence, with averages of 20.2 points, 5.8 assists, and 4.5 rebounds per game, underscores his all-around impact. The Sacramento Kings, aiming to enhance their backcourt depth by moving on from veterans, could benefit from Reaves's versatility.
A trade sending Reaves, Jarred Vanderbilt, and a 2025 second-round pick to Sacramento in exchange for DeMar DeRozan offers the Los Angeles Lakers a seasoned scorer. For the Kings, Reaves's addition could complement their existing guard rotation and offensive schemes, and he fits in the long-term plans alongside Keegan Murray.
Jonathan Kuminga - Brooklyn Nets
Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga (00) drives to the basket against the Miami Heat during the second quarter at Kaseya Center. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga (00) drives to the basket against the Miami Heat during the second quarter at Kaseya Center. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
Proposed Trade Details
Brooklyn Nets Receive: Jonathan Kuminga (Sign-and-Trade)
Golden State Warriors Receive: Cameron Johnson, 2025 First-Round Pick (BKN)
Jonathan Kuminga's development, averaging 15.3 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game, highlights his potential as a two-way forward. The Brooklyn Nets, focusing on youth and athleticism, could view Kuminga as a foundational piece, and they could take advantage of the fact that Steve Kerr doesn't rate the talented swingman.
In return, the Golden State Warriors would receive Cameron Johnson and a 2025 first-round pick, providing them with shooting and future flexibility. This trade aligns with Brooklyn's rebuild and Golden State's pursuit of complementary talent.
CJ McCollum - Orlando Magic
Mar 15, 2025; San Antonio, Texas, USA; New Orleans Pelicans guard CJ McCollum (3) reacts after scoring a basket during the second half against the San Antonio Spurs at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images
Mar 15, 2025; San Antonio, Texas, USA; New Orleans Pelicans guard CJ McCollum (3) reacts after scoring a basket during the second half against the San Antonio Spurs at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images
Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images
Proposed Trade Details
Orlando Magic Receive: CJ McCollum
New Orleans Pelicans Receive: Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Anthony Black, 2025 First-Round Pick (DEN), 2027 First-Round Pick (ORL)
The Orlando Magic are ready to stop being the feel-good up-and-coming team and start making serious playoff noise, but they need guard play. If they can't get Trae Young, acquiring CJ McCollum gives them a veteran floor general and a proven scorer (21.1 PPG, 4.7 APG, 42.9% from three) who thrives off the ball and provides the late-game shot creation they sorely lacked next to Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner.
From the Pelicans’ point of view, this is a forward-thinking move. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope brings championship pedigree and elite perimeter defense (career 36.9% from three, 113.1 defensive rating), which fits well alongside Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram.
More importantly, Anthony Black, the No. 6 pick in 2023, has shown flashes of being a jumbo-sized playmaker with defensive upside and is still only 20 years old.
Myles Turner - Los Angeles Lakers
Mar 26, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indiana Pacers center Myles Turner (33) shoots the ball while Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) defends in the first half at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
Mar 26, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indiana Pacers center Myles Turner (33) shoots the ball while Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) defends in the first half at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
© Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
Proposed Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Myles Turner (Sign-and-Trade)
Indiana Pacers Receive: Rui Hachimura, Dalton Knecht
The Lakers desperately need a true two-way center to play alongside LeBron James and Luka Doncic, and they finally land their man in Myles Turner. In 2024–25, Turner averaged 17.1 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game while shooting a career-best 36.9% from three.
The Turner-LeBron-Luka trio gives the Lakers elite defensive versatility and offensive balance, helping to maximize whatever window remains in the LeBron era.
Indiana cashes in before potentially losing Turner for nothing in free agency. Rui Hachimura has remained an efficient scoring threat (13.6 PPG on 49.4% shooting), and his size allows him to play both forward spots. Dalton Knecht, the No. 17 pick in 2024, has upside as a sharpshooter and slasher, an archetype Indiana has historically developed well.
Paul George - Chicago Bulls
Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George (8) looks on against the Golden State Warriors during the second quarter at Wells Fargo Center.
Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George (8) looks on against the Golden State Warriors during the second quarter at Wells Fargo Center.
Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
Proposed Trade Details
Chicago Bulls Receive: Paul George, Ricky Council IV, 2029 First-Round Pick (LAC)
Philadelphia 76ers Receive: Patrick Williams, Zach Collins, Kevin Huerter
The Chicago Bulls make a win-now statement by adding Paul George, who had one of the worst seasons of his career last year, but still has undeniable skill. His size, defense, and elite shot-making instantly change the identity of a franchise that’s been stuck in neutral.
George gives Chicago a true go-to perimeter threat alongside Coby White, and adding Ricky Council IV, a high-energy, athletic wing, and a future Clippers first-rounder only sweetens the deal for Chicago.
For Philadelphia, this is a strong pivot because Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey will likely have next season to prove they can lead a franchise together. Patrick Williams is still just 23 and flashed significant two-way upside before injuries slowed him down; his 2024–25 defensive metrics remained strong, with a 108.7 defensive rating. Zach Collins gives them a stretch five or backup big who can pass and defend, and Kevin Huerter provides floor spacing and shooting to complement Tyrese Maxey.
Thank you for being a valued reader of Fadeaway World. If you liked this article, please consider following us onGoogle News. We appreciate your support.