The NBA offseason of 2025 has been a whirlwind of activity, with seismic shifts occurring even before the NBA Finals concluded. The catalyst was the blockbuster trade involving Kevin Durant, setting the stage for a series of trades and signings that reshaped the league landscape. High-profile players like James Harden and Kyrie Irving chose to stay with their teams, while LeBron James opted into his contract. The free agency frenzy saw the Milwaukee Bucks make a bold move by waiving Damian Lillard to create space for Myles Turner. As the dust begins to settle, the question remains: who emerged as the winners and losers of this offseason?
Winners of the NBA Offseason
Houston Rockets: A New Contender Rises
The Houston Rockets made headlines by acquiring Kevin Durant at a surprisingly affordable price, trading Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, and a first-round pick, along with five second-round picks. This acquisition addresses the Rockets’ need for a player who can bend defenses and score under pressure, a role Durant is renowned for.
Beyond Durant, the Rockets strengthened their roster by signing Dorian Finney-Smith, who offers defensive prowess and fewer technical fouls compared to Brooks. They also secured Clint Capela as a backup center and re-signed key players like Fred VanVleet, Jabari Smith Jr., and others. With these moves, the Rockets are poised to challenge the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference, marking a successful offseason.
Atlanta Hawks: Strategic Moves Pay Off
Under new general manager Onsi Saleh, the Atlanta Hawks executed a series of strategic moves that have positioned them as a formidable force in the Eastern Conference. The acquisition of Kristaps Porziņģis provides an elite rim protector, essential for a team built around an undersized point guard.
The Hawks also bolstered their defense by acquiring Nickeil Alexander-Walker and added shooting depth with Luke Kennard. A savvy draft night trade with New Orleans netted them a valuable 2026 unprotected first-round pick, enhancing their future prospects. With these additions, the Hawks are expected to rise to a top-four team in the East.
Denver Nuggets: Depth and Defense Addressed
After narrowly missing the NBA Finals, the Denver Nuggets focused on addressing their weaknesses. Trading Michael Porter Jr. for Cameron Johnson improved their defense and basketball IQ, while retaining Bruce Brown Jr. and adding Tim Hardaway Jr. enhanced their shooting capabilities.
Denver’s potential acquisition of Jonas Valanciunas, pending his decision to stay in the NBA, could provide the best backup center for Nikola Jokić. These moves aim to give Jokić the support needed to propel the Nuggets beyond their previous playoff hurdles.
Losers of the NBA Offseason
New Orleans Pelicans: A Puzzling Direction
The New Orleans Pelicans’ offseason strategy has left many questioning their direction. While retaining Zion Williamson and drafting promising players like Jeremiah Fears and Derik Queen, their decision to trade away a 2026 unprotected first-round pick has raised eyebrows.
This pick, likely to be a high lottery selection, was a significant asset given the team’s previous 21-61 record. The move appears to be a gamble on Queen’s potential, leaving many to wonder about the Pelicans’ long-term strategy.
Indiana Pacers: A Season of Setbacks
The Indiana Pacers faced a challenging offseason, starting with Tyrese Haliburton’s devastating Achilles injury. Compounding this was the decision to let Myles Turner walk, a move influenced by financial considerations following Haliburton’s injury.
While the Pacers have opportunities to rebuild, the loss of Turner without compensation and the potential for a gap year in performance marks a difficult period for the franchise.
Mixed Outcomes: Milwaukee Bucks
The Milwaukee Bucks’ offseason moves present a complex picture. The acquisition of Myles Turner could satisfy Giannis Antetokounmpo’s desire for a competitive team, potentially preventing a trade request. However, the financial implications of waiving Damian Lillard, resulting in $22.5 million in dead money, pose long-term challenges.
While the Bucks remain competitive in the short term, their lack of control over future first-round picks until 2031 and financial constraints could impact their ability to sustain success.
As the NBA offseason concludes, teams are left to ponder their moves and prepare for the upcoming season. The winners have positioned themselves for immediate success, while the losers face questions about their future direction. The Milwaukee Bucks, straddling both categories, exemplify the delicate balance between short-term gains and long-term stability in the ever-evolving NBA landscape.
