Five most impactful moves of the NBA offseason so far

The NBA offseason has already been jam-packed full of entertainment. We've seen some historic trades, shock moves and teams swinging for the fences to build a contender.

The best part about the offseason is seeing how teams look to round out their rosters. Sure, the superstar trades or free agency additions are fun, but oftentimes it's the more subtle mid-tier moves that end up making a major difference. 

With that in mind, here are five offseason moves that could prove to be the most impactful for the 2025-26 season. 

5. Myles Turner | Milwaukee Bucks

Bucks waived Damian Lillard, signed Myles Turner to a four-year $107 million contract

Measuring impact can take one of two forms: it can be either positive or negative. Turner is in the unenviable position of being linked with Damian Lillard's departure from the Milwaukee Bucks. They waived and stretched the veteran guard to make room for Turner, adding approximately $25 million in dead cap space for the next four or five years.

However, if Turner can develop chemistry with Giannis Antetokounmpo, they could form a dangerous front-court duo. Turner can space the floor, anchor the paint and control the glass. Giannis will pressure the rim, create for others, and provide point-of-attack defense. Between the two, the Bucks could emerge as a threat in the East. 

4. Lonzo Ball | Cleveland Cavaliers 

Cavaliers sent Isaac Okoro to the Chicago Bulls in return for Lonzo Ball

The Cavaliers were always going to struggle in retaining Ty Jerome. The veteran guard finished third in Sixth Man of the Year voting and earned himself a payday. Unfortunately for Cleveland, the luxury penalties associated with re-signing him made his position untenable.

If Ball can stay healthy, the Cavaliers may have found an upgrade in terms of how he fits with their system. At his best, Ball is an elite perimeter defender and playmaker. His off-the-dribble and off-the-catch shooting also provides Cleveland with a genuine scoring threat off the bench. If healthy, Ball could prove to be a swing factor. 

3. John Collins | LA Clippers 

LA Clippers receive John Collins. Miami Heat receive Norman Powell. Utah Jazz receive Kevin Love, Kyle Anderson and a 2027 second-round pick

The Clippers acquired Collins as part of a three-team trade on Monday. Giving up Norman Powell, who is now heading to the Miami Heat, was a hefty price. However, Collins provides a much-needed injection of athleticism into Ty Lue's roster.

Furthermore, Collins can operate on the perimeter as part of a five-out offense, and he can provide some assistance on the glass. Watching him run pick-and-rolls with James Harden will be fun, as he is a genuine lob threat when rolling to the rim. 

2. Desmond Bane | Orlando Magic 

Memphis Grizzlies receive Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony and five future first-round picks. Magic receives Desmond Bane

The Orlando Magic finished last season as the worst three-point shooting team by percentage. The front office made it a focus point this summer, quickly moving to add Desmond Bane to the rotation. Bane shot the rock at a 39.2% clip from deep this past season, averaging 6.1 attempts per game. 

Bane will provide the floor spacing the Magic desperately need. Furthermore, he has a multi-level scoring skill to ensure he can't be run off the three-point line. If given the green light, he could drastically improve Orlando's offensive approach moving forward. 

1. Kevin Durant | Houston Rockets 

Seven-team trade. Clint Capela also joins the Rockets as part of the deal.

When it comes to impact, adding a future Hall of Famer and two-time NBA champion is ideal. Durant may not be in his prime, but he's still one of the best scorers in the league. This past season, he averaged 26.6 points, 6 rebounds and 4.2 assists. He shot 52.7% from the field and 43% from deep.

Ime Udoka has been keen to create a contending roster in Houston. Durant has now ensured the Rockets are viewed as genuine championship contenders next season, if not the favorites. However, by adding the 36-year-old, the Rockets have accepted that their window is finite, which will put pressure on the team moving forward.