Top 5 Blockbuster Trades That Could Still Happen This Offseason
By Edcel Panganiban July 08, 2025 21:12
The 2025 NBA offseason has already seen seismic shifts, including the historic seven-team trade that sent Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets. Yet, with the free agency frenzy settling down, whispers of potential blockbuster deals continue to swirl. As teams jockey for position ahead of the new season, here are the top five trades that could still reshape the league landscape.
1. Damian Lillard to the Boston Celtics
Following his buyout from the Milwaukee Bucks, Damian Lillard remains one of the most coveted unrestricted free agents. Reports indicate mutual interest between Lillard and the Celtics, fueled by his growing friendship with Jayson Tatum and the potential to form a lethal duo once both return fully healthy in 2026-27. While no immediate deal is expected, a sign-and-trade or direct acquisition could materialize if the Celtics decide to part with assets to accelerate their title window. As Gary Washburn of the Boston Globe notes, “This is something to watch, but it’s going to be a drawn-out process.”
2. Norman Powell to the Miami Heat
Miami’s recent three-team trade, which brought Norman Powell from the Clippers, has energized their bench scoring. Powell averaged 21.8 points per game last season, shooting 41.8% from three-point range, and his ability to play off the ball and defend multiple positions makes him a valuable asset. The Heat could leverage Powell in a future deal to add a complementary star or draft capital, especially as they balance salary cap constraints. His fit in Miami’s system makes him a potential centerpiece in a trade package targeting playoff-caliber upgrades.
3. John Collins to the Los Angeles Clippers
The Clippers’ acquisition of John Collins, who averaged 19 points and 8.2 rebounds per game last season, has bolstered their frontcourt with size and athleticism. Collins’ inside scoring and floor spacing (shooting nearly 40% from three) complement Kawhi Leonard and James Harden. However, with the Clippers still seeking to optimize their roster, Collins could be a trade chip to acquire a star wing or backcourt player. His versatility makes him attractive to contenders looking to balance offense and defense.
4. Potential Moves Involving Myles Turner
Myles Turner’s surprising signing with the Milwaukee Bucks on a four-year, $107 million deal has shifted the Bucks’ roster dynamics. Turner, a premier rim protector and stretch big, could become a valuable trade asset if the Bucks pivot their strategy or pursue additional backcourt help. Teams in need of interior defense and shooting, such as the Phoenix Suns or New York Knicks, might explore deals involving Turner, especially if the Bucks seek to clear cap space or acquire draft picks.
5. Expansion of the Kevin Durant Trade Fallout
The monumental seven-team trade that landed Kevin Durant in Houston involved numerous draft picks and players, including Clint Capela moving to the Rockets. While the deal is now official, its ripple effects could still spur additional trades. For example, the Rockets might flip Capela or other acquired assets to maximize their rebuild. Similarly, teams like the Golden State Warriors, Lakers, and Timberwolves, involved in the multi-team deal, could engage in follow-up trades to fine-tune their rosters before the season starts.
Why These Trades Matter
Each of these potential moves carries significant implications for playoff races and championship aspirations. Damian Lillard joining Boston would instantly elevate the Celtics’ ceiling, creating a formidable backcourt tandem. Miami’s bench scoring boost with Powell and the Clippers’ frontcourt depth with Collins provide flexibility for further roster adjustments. Meanwhile, Turner’s defensive prowess and the ongoing fallout from the Durant trade offer intriguing possibilities for teams to reshape their cores.
As NBA insider Shams Charania points out, “The Kevin Durant trade opened the door for a series of domino effects, and we’re likely to see more blockbuster moves before the season tip-off.” With the draft behind us and free agency winding down, the trade market remains a hotbed of activity.
While some of these trades may take months to finalize, the 2025 offseason is far from over. NBA fans should expect more blockbuster moves as teams sharpen their rosters for a highly competitive 2025-26 season.

