Another blockbuster trade changed the landscape of the NBA last week as the Utah Jazz parted ways with All-Star, Donovan Mitchell. Mitchell landed with the Cleveland Cavaliers in exchange for a package of Lauri Markkanen, Collin Sexton, Ochai Agbaji, three unprotected first-round picks and two pick swaps.
Mitchell was the third All-Star from the 2022 game traded this offseason as his former Jazz teammate, Rudy Gobert, was traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves earlier in the offseason. The third All-Star on the move was Dejounte Murray, who was traded by the San Antonio Spurs to the Atlanta Hawks.
Both up-and-coming teams are hoping to rise to the level of true contenders and make some noise in their respective conferences. But, contending teams aren’t just resting on their laurels. They know moves have to be made to remain near the top of the standings and a lot of them have made acquisitions this offseason.
The Philadelphia 76ers, Boston Celtics, Brooklyn Nets, and LA Clippers have all improved their rosters from last season and are among the favorites for the NBA title.
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Some teams, such as the Dallas Mavericks and Miami Heat, have worsened this offseason. Others, such as the Milwaukee Bucks and Phoenix Suns, haven’t made any real changes, which could also be troublesome.
Other winning teams will emerge during the season, which will cause contenders to make some moves to upgrade the roster. Who could those teams target in a trade? Here are three under-the-radar trade targets for contenders to consider.