Well, the biggest deal of the 2023 NBA Trade Deadline happened last night when I was asleep with Kevin Durant moving to Phoenix. My short form thoughts are that depth issues aside, the Suns rocket to the top tier of the West alongside the Nuggets – and out of the Clippers’ class.
As for what the Clippers do, I have no idea. I would have bet money on a point guard upgrade, but Conley and D’Lo are off the market, and the KD news makes me wonder if they try for an upgrade at the 4 instead, maybe targeting one of the new Nets like Cam Johnson or Dorian Finney-Smith. I once again thought the Clippers looked old and slow last night, and Kyle Lowry and even Fred VanVleet are not helping there.
Meanwhile, across the NBA, the trade deadline should be wide open. The Kyrie and KD dominos were huge, and now teams can pursue lower-level targets like OG Anunoby and Fred VanVleet without worrying about hoarding assets for a KD move this summer. Considering what’s already happened, I’d expect this deadline to be a lively one – though I doubt anyone close to KD or even Kyrie gets moved the rest of the day.
Feel free to leave your thoughts on the 2023 NBA Trade Deadline and the moves being made below, whether Clippers’ involved deals or no.
Update, 11:55 AM ET: The first deal of the 2023 nba trade deadline day itself is here, with the Celtics acquiring Thunder big man Mike Muscala for Justin Jackson and two 2nd round picks. Like this for the Celtics as a depth piece, and will help the Thunder tank.
Update, 12:02 PM ET: Somewhat bigger news here – Shams reports Bucks will get Jae Crowder from Nets for 5 second round picks. Further assets will need to be included to make the money work.
Update, 12:08 PM ET: Woj announces Lakers are trading Thomas Bryant to the Nuggets for Davon Reed and three second round picks. Like this for both teams as roster balancing moves. Nice asset replenisher for Lakers, Bryant is a solid backup big man for Nuggets.
Update: 12:14 PM ET: Shams has expanded on the Jae deal – Indiana is also involved, and is receiving Jordan Nwora and two 2nd round picks, which means Nets are probably only getting two. To clear the roster spot, the Pacers are waiving big man Goga Bitadze. Fine work for Pacers.
