Which NBA Teams Will Make the Biggest Trades This Offseason?

By Edcel Panganiban June 20, 2025 07:00

The 2025 NBA offseason is shaping up to be one of the most active and unpredictable in recent memory, with several teams poised to make significant trades that could reshape the league’s landscape. Early moves, like the blockbuster trade sending Desmond Bane from the Memphis Grizzlies to the Orlando Magic, have already set the tone for a wild summer of player movement. Here’s a look at the teams most likely to make the biggest trades this offseason and the storylines driving their urgency.

Memphis Grizzlies: Rebuilding Around Morant and Jackson

The Grizzlies kicked off the offseason with a major shakeup by trading away 26-year-old guard Desmond Bane to the Magic in exchange for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, and a haul of four first-round picks plus pick swaps. This move signals a clear rebuild or retool around Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr., especially after firing coach Taylor Jenkins late in the season and suffering a first-round playoff sweep. Memphis now possesses significant draft capital and flexibility, making them a prime candidate for further trades aimed at acquiring young talent or expiring contracts to clear cap space.

Orlando Magic: Betting Big on Immediate Improvement

Orlando’s acquisition of Bane, a proven sharpshooter and emerging star, underscores their commitment to accelerating their rebuild into a playoff contender. The Magic have been active in scouting and are rumored to be pursuing additional veteran talent to surround their young core. Their willingness to part with multiple first-round picks suggests they will be aggressive in trade talks, potentially targeting players who can contribute immediately and help them climb the Eastern Conference standings.

Brooklyn Nets: The Only Team with Significant Cap Space

According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the Brooklyn Nets remain the only team projected to have meaningful cap space this offseason, giving them a unique advantage in free agency and trade negotiations. While free agency is limited this year, Brooklyn’s financial flexibility makes them a likely player in trades, either to acquire star talent or to offload contracts and reset their roster. Their cap space could be a valuable asset in multi-team deals involving marquee players.

Teams Linked to Kevin Durant and Giannis Antetokounmpo

Trade rumors surrounding Kevin Durant continue to swirl, with multiple teams reportedly interested in acquiring the two-time NBA champion. Durant’s potential move could trigger a domino effect across the league, prompting further trades. Meanwhile, though Giannis Antetokounmpo’s trade talks have cooled recently, the Bucks are still considered active participants in the trade market, looking to add complementary pieces around their superstar or possibly entertain offers if a compelling package arises.

Golden State Warriors and Dallas Mavericks: Roster Adjustments Ahead

The Warriors are expected to explore sign-and-trade scenarios involving Jonathan Kuminga, who had a rollercoaster postseason performance. A fresh start for Kuminga could open up roster flexibility for Golden State. The Dallas Mavericks, having recently traded Luka Doncic, hold the No. 1 overall draft pick and are expected to select Duke’s Cooper Flagg. However, they remain open to trade possibilities involving the rookie’s rights, potentially making a splash in the trade market.

Other Teams to Watch

The Indiana Pacers made a minor trade to reacquire a future first-round pick, signaling a cautious approach but a willingness to engage. The Phoenix Suns, after trading Kevin Durant last season, are expected to continue reshaping their roster, possibly involving draft picks and young players. The New York Knicks, San Antonio Spurs, and Houston Rockets have all been mentioned in trade rumors involving star players like Trae Young, Jaylen Brown, and others.

The 2025 NBA offseason promises to be a whirlwind, with the Memphis Grizzlies’ bold move setting off a chain reaction of trades. Teams like Orlando, Brooklyn, and Golden State have clear motivations and assets to make significant moves, while the futures of superstars like Kevin Durant and Giannis Antetokounmpo remain key wildcards. With limited free agency cap space, trades will be the primary avenue for teams to improve, making this one of the most intriguing and dynamic offseasons in recent NBA history.