When I got laid off earlier this year, I quickly realized that I had to look at the positives. I had lots of newly found free time, I had moved back in with my parents, and had just received a fat severance payout. I was burnt out emotionally and felt that this was an opportunity to reset and really think hard about the future. What did long term success look like to me? I came up with a bunch of healthy new habits for me to follow, telling myself that if I could just do these things every day, I would get to where I wanted to be. Then came reality. The reality that bad habits die hard, and that putting that much pressure on myself was actually making things worse. I had a week where I was “locked in,” but ultimately fell back into even worse habits. I started eating out every day, same with drinking and smoking, and got absorbed into my mattress. After seeing the highest weight I have ever seen for myself in the scale, I knew that I had to change my approach so I didn’t crash out every week worse than Bruno Mars on the blackjack table (allegedly). My new mindset was simple: just get a little bit better every day, don’t beat myself up too much for any daily failures, and eventually, I would get to the goals I had set for myself. I bring this all up to say that Rome wasn’t built in one day, and neither is a championship contender. More often than not, a single offseason does not make a champion. Instead, most title teams are built by slowly improving day by day, month by month, year after year. And while your team might make a big splash this offseason, whether it’s trading up in the draft, signing a max player, or mortgaging the future for a proven superstar, it more than likely won’t lead to your team winning the Larry O’Brien. Being patient through failure and focusing on small improvements tends to lead to better results long term.

Just look at the Boston Celtics. I’m a Lakers fan, so as much as I want to throw up seeing it, the 2024 champions were a result of being patient and taking the long-term view, as they had multiple moments where the now finals MVP and highest paid player in league history, Jaylen Brown, had his name thrown around in trade talks. Paul George, Kawhi Leonard, Kevin Durant, and probably others we will never know about, were available for Boston to acquire. All they had to do was part with some salary filler, draft picks… and Brown. These moves would have most definitely improved their shots at the title the following seasons, but Boston never budged. They instead built the roster around Brown and Tatum, the Celtics 1st round pick the year after Brown. They built the roster with the philosophy that these players would slowly improve their games as they got older, wiser, and more used to the NBA game. There were some bumps in the road, as they cycled through point guards and head coaches multiple times. There was a lot of outside pressure to separate the two all-pro forwards, as some said they would never win a title with those two together. But the Celtics stayed true to the team and philosophy that got them there, kept focusing on marginal improvements around the edges, and focused on the long-term goal that had been the goal of the franchise since 2009: Get banner 18. From the end of the Doc Rivers era to IT, to Kyrie and Heyward, to Kemba, to Al Horford leaving and coming back, to Brad Stevens taking the baton from Danny Ainge, to the Ime scandal, all the way to losing to the 8 seed Miami Heat, the goal never changed. They kept the faith in the way they were operating, the process that led to the 17 beforehand, and finally, after last off-season’s roster tweaks, accomplished their goal. You can ask any Celtics fan and they would tell you that this championship meant more because they kept Brown and Tatum together, through all the times coming up short of their main goal. We can all look at this Celtics team and admit that they have a great chance at future championships as well, with most of the roster in their mid to late 20s. What I’m hoping you can take away from all of this is that, while it is fun to look at the offseason and fantasize about moves that can win our teams a title, for 29 out of the 30 teams, they will fall short. Instead, the better approach is to live in reality, whether that is being satisfied with little improvements your team makes to inch closer, or your team admitting that they aren’t currently on the right path and starting over. That’s what I’m focused on in my life right now and trust me when I say I’m not close to championship level yet. I’m sure you can tell I am in the rebuild phase by the quality of this writing. But I’m satisfied in knowing that I am starting somewhere, applying those same philosophies Boston did and knowing that I will eventually get to where I want, even if there is turbulence along the way. With that being said, welcome to the 2024 NBA offseason preview.

Atlanta Hawks

Free agents: Saddiq Bey, Wesley Matthews, Garrison Matthews, Trent Forrest

Team Needs: Atlanta ranked 27th in the league with a defensive rating of 118.4 in large part due to their lack of depth at forward. It also doesn’t help that De’Andre Hunter only played in 57 games last season.  Expect the Hawks to pursue three and D wings who can play well off the ball, as they have two elite ball handlers… for now.

Draft Picks: 1st

Draft fits: Matas Buzelis, Stephon Castle, Ron Holland, Zaccharie Risacher, Cody Williams

Cap Situation: The Hawks are currently above the first apron and close to 2nd, but are likely to shed salary this offseason.

Biggest Question: What is the starting backcourt going into next season?

Free Agent Fits: TJ Warren, Kelly Oubre, Jordan Nwora, Gordon Hayward, Jae Crowder, Robert Convington, Alec Burks, Reggie Bullock, Nicholas Batum

Mock Trade: Clean slate.

Boston Celtics

Free agents: Xavier Tillman,  Svi Mykhaliuk, Luke Kornet, Oshae Brissett, Sam Hauser, Jaden Springer, Neemias Queta

Team Needs: It’s truly hard to say that a team that just won the title has a team “need”. But backup center should be a priority for Boston, with Al Horford being closer to the end of his career then the beginning.

Draft Picks: 30th, 54th

Draft Fits: Daron Holmes II, Kel’el Ware, Kyle Flipowski, Quinten Post

Cap Situation:  The Celtics will most certainly be a 2nd apron team, which is fine when you are wearing the crown.

Free Agent fits: Daniel Theis, Mo Bamba, Bol Bol, Dario Saric, James Wiseman

Biggest Question: Who is the Al Horford replacement?

Mock Trade: The Celtics genuinely shouldn’t do a trade. Run this thing back with a few vet min additions and they’ll be fine.

Brooklyn Nets

Free agents: Nic Claxton, Cam Thomas, Day’ron Sharpe, Trendon Watford, Lonnie Walker, Dennis Smith Jr

Team Needs: The Brooklyn Nets need to find a long term direction, something they have not had since moving there. Twice now they have gone all in on aging all stars and completely crashed and burned both times. I hope they trade Bridges this offseason and finally embrace a rebuild,

Draft Picks: NONE

Cap Situation: Over the cap, 38 million below the tax with multiple trade exceptions

Free Agent fits: Brooklyn more than likely won’t be worth a damn next season. They should just sign any players on a 1 year deal that can fill out roster and call it a day.

Biggest Question: What the fuck are they doing in Brooklyn?

Mock Trades: Freedom!

Charlotte Hornets

Free Agents: Miles Bridges, Mark Williams, Tre Mann, JT Thor

Team Needs: DEFENSIVE MINDED PLAYERS!! Teams were able to share the wealth against the Hornets last season, as they allowed the third most assists per game at 28.7. They need to bring in some hungry players who are willing to get after it on defense, or else they will continue to have the longest active playoff drought in the NBA.

Draft Picks: 6th, 42nd

Draft Fits:Stephon Castle, Jared McCain, Devin Carter, Ron Holland, Cody Williams, Ryan Dunn, Jalen Bridges, Jonathan Mogbo

Cap Situation: The Hornets can potentially create up to 30 million in cap space.

Free Agent fits: Makelle Fultz, Alec Burks, Cam Reddish, Robert Convington, Spencer Dinwiddie, Jae Crowder, Tobias Harris, THT, Derrick Jones Jr, Tyus Jones, Kira Lewis Jr, Wes Matthews, De’Anthony Melton, Shake Milton, Monte Morris, Morris brothers, Royce O’Neale, Isaac Okoro, Cedi Osman, Taurean Prince, Klay Thompson, Gary Trent Jr, Lonnie Walker, TJ Warren, Patrick Williams, Delon Wright, Jordan Nwora, Reggie Bullock

Biggest Question: Can Charlotte establish a winning culture with Lamelo as their best player?

Mock Trade: Last 2 teams to trade Grant Williams made the finals, per Cooper stats and info.

Chicago Bulls

Free Agents: Demar Derozan, Patrick Williams, Andre Drummond, Torrey Craig, Javonte Green

Team Needs: I would love to see a healthy Lonzo Ball next year, but I’m assuming we don’t based off the decision to take back Josh Giddey in the Alex Caruso trade. Outside off the court, Giddey shows the team may be finally moving into a rebuild phase, which is a good thing. The Bulls are desperately needing direction and I hope that Lavine ,Derozan, and Vucevic are off this roster next season.

Draft Picks: 11th

Draft Fits: Best Player Available, lots of great role player options at 11.

Cap Situation: The bulls could have 10 million in cap space, if they let Derozan and Willaims both walk. They will likely resign 1 of the 2, if not both, which would potentially push them over the 1st apron.

Free Agent fits: No free agent should want to go to the Bulls until they see what happens with the “big 3”.

Biggest Question: What on earth are they trying to accomplish?

Mock Trade: Philly gets desperate.

Cleveland Cavaliers

Free Agents: Isaac Okoro, Damian Jones, Tristan Thompson, Marcus Morris

Draft Picks: 20th

Draft Fits: Ron Holland, Bobi Klintman, Jalen Bridges,

Team Needs: Assuming the Cavs run it back with the other 4 members of the starting lineup, they need a three and D wing who can swing the ball (otherwise Caris Levert would be perfect).

Cap Situation: The Cavaliers are over the cap and are a potential first apron team if Okoro is resigning for 17 million or more.

Free Agent Fits: Taurean Prince, Jordan Nwora, Gordon Hayward, Robert Convington, Alec Burks, Reggie Bullock, Nicholas Batum

Biggest Question: What do they end up doing to the core of 2 small guards and 2 bigs?

Mock Trade: Cleveland gets Mitchell to sign the extension and goes all in.

Dallas Mavericks

Free Agents: Derrick Jones Jr, Markieff Morris

Team Needs: Dallas is coming off and impressive finals run with a simple formula: Luka + secondary scorer + 2 active centers + X(three and d wings) = championship. They tried to solve X with PJ Washington and Derrick Jones Jr, which was pretty close but could be better. Expect them to lose Derrick Jones Jr this offseason and look to the trade market for a replacement.

Draft Picks: 58th

Draft Fits: It’s Mr. Irrelevant, I won’t be harsh on this pick if it misses.

Cap Situation: The Mavericks are above the cap, 3.5 million below the first apron, and should end up over first apron after free agency.

Free Agent fits: All Dallas needs to do is resign DJJ, though they may be priced out. Expect Tim Hardaway Jr to be the key to improving this roster.

Biggest Question: Can you turn THJ and filler salary into a forward who can create his own shot?

Mock Trade: Maybe 1 of these guys can help us?

Denver Nuggets

Free Agents: Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Reggie Jackson, Deandre Jordan, Justin Holiday

Team Needs: The number one priority for the Denver Nuggets this offseason should be to resign KCP. Other than that, they could use a shot creating guard off the bench, as well as a bench Big. They also need to have an impact veteran on this bench, as the young guys showed they weren’t capable last season. 

Draft Picks: 28th, 56th

Draft Fits: Yves Missi, Daron Holmes, Adem Bona for bigs, Ajay Mitchell, Terrence Shannon Jr, Zyob Pullin, Jamal Shead, AJ Johnson, Bronny James for guards.

Cap Situation: 1st apron team if they let KCP and Jackson walk, so more than likely 2nd apron.

Free Agent fits: Nicholas Batum, Kyle Lowry, Robert Convington, Alec Burks, Jae Crowder, Danillo Gallinari, Gordon Hayward, Wesley Matthews, Morris Brothers,

Biggest Question: Will KCP be back on this roster?

Mock Trade: Calvin Booth bullies the Bulls.

Detroit Pistons

Free Agents: Evan Fournier, Troy Brown Jr, James Wiseman, Malachi Flynn, Simone Fontecchio, Quentin Grimes, Chimezie Metu

Team Needs: Shooting, shooting, and more shooting. The Pistons shot the 4th fewest 3PA per game and converted and the 5th lowest percentage. If Cade is to show his number 1 pick potential, they will need to surround him with better shooting. With a new front office and a recently vacant head coaching position, expect everyone outside of Cade to be available for trades.

Draft Picks: 5th, 53rd

Draft Fits: Jared McCain, Devin Carter, Zaccharie Risacher, Rob Dillingham, Dalton Knecht, Reed Sheppard, Jalen Bridges, Baylor Schierman, Pelle Larsson, Cam Spencer, Quinten Post

Cap Situation: The Pistons could have up to 66 million in cap space this summer.

Free Agent fits: Tobias Harris, Bol Bol, Demar Derozan, Buddy Hield, Doug Mcdermott, Malik Monk, Taurean Prince, Dario Saric, Klay Thompson, Gary Trent Jr, Patrick Willaims, Obi Toppin, Kelly Oubre, Patty Mills, Wes Matthews, Gordon Hayward, Gary Harris, Danillo Gallinari, Miles Bridges

Biggest Question: Can they space around Cade and develop their young guys at the same time?

Mock Trade: Let’s just start with 1 quality role player.

Golden State Warriors

Free Agents: Klay Thompson, Gary Payton II, Dario Saric, Usman Garuba

Draft Picks: 52nd pick

Team Needs: Golden State needs a secondary shot creator next to Steph if they want to continue this run. Is that Klay, an unrestricted free agent coming off his worst season in years? Is it Wiggins, who outside of the 2022 run has been inconsistent his whole career? Is it Kuminga, who is young and has shown flashes but has a hard time finding a role in Steve Kerr’s rotation. Is it Moody, who in his 3rd season found himself losing minutes to a rookie? Or is it someone who is off the roster, implying the Warriors part with key players from their title team and young prospects and/or picks? Either way, the Warriors must acquire one by any means necessary.

Draft Fits: Warriors should draft the best player available regardless of position, as they will likely be spending most of the season in the G-League developing.

Team Needs: Secondary playmaker, off ball monsters

Cap Situation: Depends entirely on what they do with Thompson, Paul, and Looney, but in the best case scenario they are below the 1st apron.

Free Agent fits: Mo Bamba, Bol Bol, Taj Gibson, Luke Kornet, Alex Len, Javale McGee, Mason Plumlee, Daniel Theis, Tristan Thompson,

Biggest Question: Does Golden State keep the vets together or embrace the youth movement?

Mock Trade: Warriors get a Looney upgrade while keeping Klay and Draymond.

Houston Rockets

Free Agents: Boban Marjanovic, Aaron Holiday, Reggie Bullock

Team needs: Look for the rockets to draft a FVV replacement at 3 *cough Reed Sheppard*. I think there is a lot of pressure to go all in or decide between Sengun and Green, but I think the Rockets should give it one more year to see if they can make a postseason appearance.

Draft Picks: 3rd, 44th

Draft Fits: Stephon Castle, Reed Sheppard, Rob Dillingham, Devin Carter Jared McCain, Isaiah Collier, KJ Simpson, Jamal Shead, Tristen Newton, AJ Johnson, Juan Nunez, Reece Beekman, Zyon Pullin, Bronny James, Cameron Christie, Ajay Mitchell 

Cap Situation: The Rockets are over the cap, but below the 1st apron.

Free Agent Fits: Houston should Focus on adding a vet for the end of the bench, but otherwise run this team back after exceeding expectation last season.

Biggest Question: Can Jalen Green exist with Alperen Sengun long term?

Mock Trade: Rockets add a steady bench presence at point.

Indiana Pacers

Free Agents: Pascal extended, Doug McDermott, Obi Toppin, Jalen Smith, Isaiah Jackson, James Johnson

Team Needs: Coming off a season which saw the Pacers acquire Pascal Siakam and head to the ECF, there isn’t too much they need. I’d like to see them grab a backup big who is a lob threat for the non-Turner minutes.

Draft Picks: 36, 49, 50 (expect them to trade at least 1, if not 2 or 3.)

Draft Fits: Daron Holmes, Adem Bona, Ulrich Chomche, Oso Ighodaro

Cap Situation: Just below luxury tax, likely will be over tax but below 1st apron

Free Agent Fits: Precious Achiuwa, Bismack Biyombo, Moses Brown, Andre Drummond, Taj Gibson, Javale Mcgee, Morris brothers, Cody Zeller, James Wiseman

Biggest Question: Can Tyrese Haliburton develop a mid range game, a la CP3?

Mock Trade: NONE, This team has so many young players to develop and is coming off the best season in recent history. Keep this core for next year and see what they do.

Los Angeles Clippers

Free Agents: Paul George, James Harden, PJ Tucker, Mason Plumlee, Russell Westbrook, Bones Hyland, Brandon Boston Jr, Daniel Theis

Team Needs: The clippers need three and D wings and a backup big. Well, so does nearly every team in the league, so get in line.

Draft Picks: 46th

Draft Fits:Quinten Post,  Ryan Dunn, Jonathan Mogbo, Jalen Bridges, Justin Edwards

Cap Situation: Assuming they bring back George and Harden, they are a 2nd apron team.

Free Agent Fits: Mo Bamba, Bol Bol, James Wiseman, Dario Saric, Taurean Prince, Cedi Osman, Kelly Oubre, Jordan Nwora,Doug Mcdermott, Gordon Hayward, Luka Heyward, Kessler Edwards, Jae Crowder, Reggie Bullock, Alec Burks, Svi Mykhailiuck, TJ Warren

Biggest Question: Are you willing to go into the 2nd apron based off the results that you have had in the Kawhi PG13 era?

Mock Trade: Two three and D players.

Los Angeles Lakers

Free Agents: Lebron James, D’Angelo Russell, Taurean Prince, Christian Wood, Jaxson Hayes, Cam Reddish, Max Christie, Spencer Dinwiddie

Team Needs: The Lakers won the title in the bubble by playing elite defense. Get a backup big and add some perimeter defense to this roster. 

Draft Picks: 17, 55

Draft Fits: Zach Edey, Jared McCain,  Kel’el Ware, Isaiah Collier, Terrence Shannon Jr, Tyler Smith, Daron Holmes, Bronny James

Team Needs: Backup big, Perimeter Defense

Cap Situation: Currently in between 1st and 2nd apron, D Lo will ultimately determine where they end up

Free Agent Fits: Bol Bol, Daniel Theis, Kyle Anderson, Nicolas Batum, Robert Covington, Jae Crowder, Kris Dunn, Gary Harris, Buddy Hield, Tyus Jones, Derrick Jones Jr, Kira Lewis Jr, De’Anthony Melton, Monte Morris, Royce O’Neale, Kelly Oubre Jr, Dario Saric, Dennis Smith Jr, Klay Thompson, James Wiseman, Delon Wright

Biggest Question: Is it too little too late to build a championship contender around Lebron James and first time head coach JJ Redick?

Mock Trade: Marginal upgrades.

Memphis Grizzlies

Free Agents: Luke Kennard, Ziaire Williams, Yuta Watanabe, Santi Aldama, Lamar Stevens

Team Needs: The Grizzlies missed the most games from injuries in the NBA last season. With some better health luck and a center that can play next to JJJ, they should be right back towards the top of the west.

Draft Picks: 9, 39, 57 (expect 39 or 57 to be trade).

Draft Fits: Zach Edey, Donovan Clingan, Kel’el Ware, Daron Holmes, Quinten Post

Cap Situation: If Kennard option is accepted, they will be over the 1st apron. If they decline, they are over the cap but below the luxury tax.

Free Agent Fits: Cody Zeller, Thaddeus Young, James Wiseman, Daniel Theis, Mason Plumlee, Tristan Thompson, Morris Brothers, Javale Mcgee, DeAndre Jordan, Luke Kornet, Taj Gibson, Luka Garza, Usman Garuba, Andre Drummond, Moses Brown

Biggest Question: Do the Grizzlies go all in for another wing shot creator, or keep developing young guys like Vince Williams, Ziare Williams, and GG Jackson?

Mock Trade: Grizzlies add an experienced veteran forward.

Miami Heat

Free Agents: Caleb Martin, Kevin Love, Josh Richardson, Thomas Bryant, Haywood Highsmith, Delon Wright, Patty Mills

Team Needs: The Heat had the 5th worst offense in the NBA last season, in large part due to 62 combined missed games from Herro and Butler, who may both be on other rosters next season. The mid season acquisition of Rozier didn’t seem to work, so how can the Heat add more offense going into next season?

Draft Picks: 15, 43

Draft Fits: Ron Holland, Kel’el Ware, Daron Holmes, Tristan Da Silva, Jaylon Tyson, Ryan Dunn, Adem Bona, Kevin McCuller Jr, Pelle Larson, Jamal Shead, PJ Hall, Reece Beekman, Bronny James, Jonathan Mogba, Jalen Bridges, Zyon Pullin, Tristen Newton, Kyshawn George, Harrison Ingram, Ulrich Chomche, Kyle Flipowski, 

Cap Situation: The Heat are between the 1st and 2nd apron currently, but likely to end up on the 2nd apron.

Free Agent Fits: Kyle Anderson, Nicholas Batum, Kyle Lowry, Robert Convington, Alec Burks, Danillo Gallinari, Gordon Hayward, Wesley Matthews, Morris Brothers, Patrick Beverley, Bismack Biyombo, Reggie Bullock Jr, Alec Burks, Robert Covington, Andre Drummond, Spencer Dinwiddie, Danillo Gallinari, Taj Gibson, Gary Harris, Gordon Hayward, DeAndre Jordan, Alex Len, Wes Matthews,Javale McGee, Kelly Oubre, Mason Plumlee, Tristan Thompson, Jonas Valanciunas, TJ Warren

Biggest Question: Is the Heat title window closing, or is there a move that can extend the Jimmy Butler era?

Mock Trade: Miami gets their next star (Mitchell would have to demand this for Cleveland to do this).

Milwaukee Bucks

Free Agents: Malik Beasley, Patrick Beverley, Jae Crowder, Danillo Gallinari

Team Needs: The Bucks arecoming off a disappointing season for sure, but these things usually take longer than 1 season to mesh properly. They could use a point guard off the bench to help with the young, inexperienced forwards. They also need a Shooting guard in the starting lineup, whether that’s Connaughton, Beasley, a rookie draft pick, or another random vet minimum.

Draft Picks: 23, 33 (potential trade up team?)

Draft Fits: Bub Carrinton, Juan Nunez, Ajay Mitchell, Tristen Newton, Bronny James, AJ Johnson, Baylor Scheierman, Zyon Pullin, Tyler Kolek, Jamal Shead, Reece Beekman, KJ Simpson

Cap Situation: Looks like they are heading towards that 2nd apron.

Free Agent fits: Reggie Bullock, Spencer Dinwiddie, Gary Harris, Buddy Heild, THT, Tyus Jones, Kira Lewis Jr, Shake Milton, De’Anthony Melton, Monte Morris, Royce O’Neale, Dennis Smith Jr, Isaiah Thomas, Lonnie Walker IV, Delon Wright

Biggest Question:  Can the bucks develop the multiple young players they have to become real contributors to a championship contender?

Mock Trade: Bucks switch up the philosophy.

Minnesota Timberwolves

Free Agents: Monte Morris, Kyle Anderson, Jordan McLaughlin, Tj Warren, Luka Garza, 

Team Needs:Minnesota is coming off their best season since the KG days and is led by “young MJ” Anthony Edwards. While they do have a solid roster all around, they could use more of a scoring punch off the bench at guard and forward.

Draft Picks: 27, 37

Draft Fits: Tristan Da Silva, Nikola Djurisic, Pacome Dadiet, Tyler Smith, Trentyn Flowers, Johnny Furphy, Jaylon Tyson, Kyshawn George, Ryan Dunn, Cam Spencer, Jonathan Mogbo, Kevin McCullar Jr, Baylor Scheierman, Kj Simpson, Melvin Ajinca, Cameron Christie

Cap Situation: 2nd apron team

Free Agent Fits: Kelly Oubre, Jordan Nwora, Gordon Hayward, Alec Burks, Reggie Bullock, Nicholas Batum

Big Question: Is Towns good enough to be the number 2 option on a championship team?

Mock Trade:  Minnesota Trades up to grab a rookie point guard.

New Orleans Pelicans

Free Agents: Jonas Valanciunas, Cody Zeller, Naji Marshall, Jeremiah Robinson-Earl

Team Needs: Can we get Zion and Ingram healthy to the postseason, please! Other than that, they could use a big who can switch defensively.

Draft Picks: 21

Draft Fits: Kel’el Ware, Daron Holmes,  Adem Bona, Kyle Flipowski

Cap Situation: They are over the luxury tax but below the 1st apron.

Free Agent fits: Precious Achiuwa, Bismack Boyombo, Moses Brown, Usman Garuba, Morris brothers, Daniel Theis, Tristan Thompson, James Wsieman

Biggest Question: Can Zion and BI be your best two players while competing for a championship?

Mock Trade: Pelicans shake it up.

New York Knicks

Free Agents: OG Anunoby, Alec Burks, Isaiah Hartenstein, Precious Achiuwa, Jericho Sims, Daquan Jeffries

Team Needs: This feels like the Knicks time to go all in. The NBA has had a different champion every year since 2019, why not the Knicks next year?

Draft Picks: 24, 25, 38 (draft night trade incoming)

Draft Fits: Tristan Da Silva, Nikola Djurisic, Pacome Dadiet, Tyler Smith, Trentyn Flowers, Johnny Furphy, Jaylon Tyson, Kyshawn George, Ryan Dunn, Cam Spencer, Jonathan Mogbo, Kevin McCullar Jr, Baylor Scheierman

Cap Situation: Can vary anywhere from over tax to 2nd apron depending on what they do with OG and Hartenstein.

Free Agent Fits: Retaining current team, as injuries prevented them from a potential ECF appearance, not talent.

Biggest Question: Do you run it back and hope for better health, or go all in?

Mock Trade: 1A: Draft Trade Up:

1B: Nova Boys:

1C: Stunner:

Oklahoma City Thunder

Free Agents: Gordon Hayward, Aaron Wiggins, Lindy Waters III, Bismack Biyomo, Mike Muscala,Oliver Sarr

Team Needs: The Thunder kick started transaction season by trading *redacted* for Alex Caruso. The Thunder rarely turn over the ball and make other teams commit turnovers, so adding Caruso is the cherry on top of an already delicious sundae. Though they like to play fast, I do think it is important that OKC adds a big that can play along side Chet when needed.

Draft Picks: 12

Draft Fits: Alex Sarr, Zach Edey, Kel’el Ware

Cap Situation: The Thunder should have around 30 million in cap space.

Free Agent Fits: Mo Bamba, Bol Bol, Nic Claxton, Andre Drummond, Isaiah Hartenstein, Deandre Jordan, Luke Korent, Boban Marjanovic, Javale McGee, Morris brothers, Tristan Thompson, Daniel Theis, Obi Toppin, Jonas Valanciunas, Patrick Williams, James Wiseman, Jalen Smith

Biggest Question: Can OKC get the right 5 next to Chet?

Mock Trade:

1A: Overwhelm ATL for pick 1 for Sarr or Clingan (may not need to give up this many but who knows)

1B: Overwhelm the Jazz for Lauri

Orlando Magic

Free Agents: Markelle Fultz, Gary Harris, Joe Ingles, Mo Wagner,  Chuma Okeke, Goga Bitadze

Team Needs: The Magic were 3rd in defensive rating last season, putting opposing teams in hell every single night. They were horrific on the other end however, shooting the 2nd lowest amount of 3PA per game.  The Magic need to add shooting across multiple spots, but don’t be surprised if they go after a big name guard this offseason. I except them to draft a big man in the draft.

Draft Picks: 18, 47

Draft Fits: Kel’el Ware, Daron Holmes Quinton Post

Cap Situation:The Magic could potentially have up to 30 million in cap space.

Free Agent Fits: James Harden, D’Angelo Russell, KCP, Klay Thompson, Gary Trent Jr, Immanuel Quickley, Buddy Hield

Biggest Question: Can Suggs and Wagner develop into number 2 and 3 options, respectively>

Mock Trade: The more likely Mitchell to Florida trade.

Philidelphia 76ers

Free Agents: All except Embiid, Reed, and Council, Maxey only RFA

Team Needs: If the 76ers leave this offseason without a 3rd star, I expect next year to be Embiid’s last one in Philly.

Draft Picks: 16, 41

Draft Fits: BPA among wings and guards

Cap Situation: The 76ers could have up to 65 million in cap space

Free Agent fits: Paul George(!), D’Angelo Russell, KCP, Klay Thompson, Gary Trent Jr, Immanuel Quickley

Biggest Question: How much time is left in the Embiid window?

Mock Trade: Any trade that lands them either BI, Zach Lavine,  Lauri Markkanen, Anfernee Simons, Lamelo Ball, or Trae Young. This will likely be the pathway for a star as I think Paul George remains a Clipper.

Phoenix Suns

Free Agents: Royce O’Neale, Eric Gordan, Josh Okogie, Damion Lee, Drew Eubanks, Bol Bol, Thad Young, Isaiah Thomas,

Team Needs: A time machine to never have traded for Kevin Durant?  I guess if I had to stay out of sci-fi then three and D wings, backup PG, rim protecting and/or floor spacing center (because the center they have is neither somehow). The Suns are screwed.

Draft Picks: 22

Draft Fits: Tristan Da Silva, Pacome Dadiet, Tyler Smith, Kyshwan George, Ryan Dunn, Nikola Djurisic, Bobi Klintman

Cap Situation: The Suns are a  2nd apron team and have the largest payroll in the league.

Free Agent Fits: Taurean Prince, Jordan Nwora, Gordon Hayward,  Robert Convington, Alec Burks, Reggie Bullock, Nicholas Batum

Big Question: With the team being in the 2nd apron, how do you surround Beal, Booker, and Durant with championship level role players?

Mock Trade: Now if they trade Grant Williams mid-season they will play the Hornets in the Finals!

Portland Trail Blazers

Free Agents: Moses Brown, 

Team Needs:  The 1st year of the post Damian Lillard Trail Blazers was ugly, but did offer the occasional bright spots. This rebuild is going to take time, and Portland has no reason to rush into contending. I want to see them trade up for Buzelis in this year’s draft, as I think he would be a great complement to the young core they already have. 

Draft Picks: 7,14, 34, 40 (trade up candidate)

Draft Fits: Matas Buzelis, Tidjane Salaun, Zaccharie Risacher, Bobi Klintman, Tristan Da Silva, Pacome Dadiet, Tyler Smith, Ryan Dunn, Kyshawn George, Kel’el Ware, Daron Holmes, Kyle Filipowski,Adem Bona,Oso Ighodaro, Jonathan Mogbo, 

Cap Situation: The Trail Blazers are a 1st apron team

Free Agent fits: Nicolas Batum, Danillo Gallinari, Gordon Hayward, Doug Mcdermott, Morris brothers, Lamar Stevens, Daniel Theis, TJ Warren,

Biggest Question: Can a core of Scoot, Ant, and Shaedon co-exist and win games? What do you do with vets on the roster?

Mock Trade : 1A: Draft.

1B: Dump Ant for more picks

Sacramento Kings

 Free Agents:Malik Monk (Extended), Chris Duarte, Alex Len, Javale Mcgee, Kessler Edwards, 

Team Needs: The Kings won two less games then the year prior and went from the 3rd season to out of the playoffs. The West is tough, and a team as flawed as the Kings defensively will have a hard time advancing in the postseason. They need a floor spacing, shot blocking 5 that can switch on defense, easy right? They also could use some depth at forward.

Draft Picks: 13, 45

Draft Fits: Kel’el Ware, Cody Williams, Ron Holland, Tristan Da Silva, Bobi Klintman, Jalen Bridges, PJ Hall

Cap Situation: The Kings will be luxury tax team, with a chance that they get into 1st apron.

Free Agent fits: Mo Bamba, Bol Bol, James Wiseman, Nicolas Batum, Danillo Gallinari, Gordon Hayward, Doug Mcdermott, Morris brothers, Lamar Stevens, Daniel Theis, TJ Warren,

Biggest Question: Do the kings make a big move, or are they satisfied with being solid after so many years of poor play?

Mock Trade: I just want to see Bobby Portis light the beam.

San Antonio Spurs

Free Agents: Cedi Osman, Sandro Mamukelashcilli

Team Needs: So that Wemby guy is pretty good, huh? If they can surround him with a point guard who can create a shot for himself and others, the Spurs could be a playoff team next year, with Wemby in the running for youngest MVP ever.

Draft Picks: 4, 8, 35. 48

Draft Fits: Stephon Castle, Matas Buzelis, Reed Sheppard, Devin Carter, Zaccharie Risacher, Dalton Knecht, Rob Dillingham, Nikola Topic, Cody Williams, Ron Holland, Jared McCain, Kyshawn George, Ryan Dunn,  Jalen Bridges, Juston Edwards, Keshad Johnson,  PJ Hall

Cap Situation:The spurs can max out at 20 million in cap space.

Free Agent Fits: Delon Wright, Patrick Williams, Obi Toppin, Klay Thompson, Dennis Smith Jr, Kelly Oubre, Monte Morris, Jordan McLaughlin, Kyle Lowry, Derrick Jones Jr, Gordon Hayward, Markelle Fultz, Malachi Flynn, Kessler Edwards, Spencer Dinvwiddie, Jae Crowder, Robert Covington, Alec Burks, Patrick Beverley, Kyle Anderson

Biggest Question: Are you patient with Vic still being in year 2, or is he so talented you start making win now moves?

Mock Trade: The funnest team in the NBA next season.

Toronto Raptors

Free Agents: Gary Trent Jr, Bruce Brown, Immanuel Quickley, Jordan Nwora, Garrett Temple

Team Needs: The Raptors could use another guard and a big man who space the floor for Barnes, Barrett, and Quickley.

Draft Picks: 19, 31

Draft Fits: Daron Holmes, Isaiah Collier, Bub Carrington, Tyler Kolek, KJ Simpson, Terrence Shannon Jr, Cameron Christie

Cap Situation: Could have 28 million in cap if they decline Bruce Brown option, otherwise will have around 4-5 million

Free Agent Fits: Mo Bamba, Bol Bol, James Wiseman, Delon Wright, Dennis Smith Jr, Monte Morris, Jordan McLaughlin, Kyle Lowry, Spencer Dinwiddie, Patrick Beverley

Biggest Question: Can Toronto be a play in team next season?

Mock Trade: Raptors acquire more dart throws.

Utah Jazz

Free Agents: THT, Kira Lewis Jr, Kris Dunn, Luka Samanic

Team Needs: Assuming that they don’t get rid of Lauri, they could use a  2nd star next to him., preferably a point guard. They could also use a backup for Walker Kessler, who seemed to regress last season.

Draft Picks: 10, 29, 32 (trade up candidate)

Draft Fits: BPA, preferably with high upside.

Team Needs:  2nd star next to Lauri Markennen, Backup center, true point guard

Cap Situation: The Jazz can have up to 34 million in cap space.

Free Agent Fits: Swing for the fences on Paul George and Harden, otherwise Nicholas Batum, Kyle Lowry, Robert Convington, Jae Crowder, Danillo Gallinari, Gordon Hayward, Wesley Matthews, Morris Brothers, Deandre Jordan, Cody Zeller, Mason Plumlee, Dennis Smith Jr, Kyle Lowry, Spencer Dinwiddie

Biggest Question: Do you acquire a 2nd star and speed up the timeline, or do you trade Lauri and embrace the youth movement?

Mock Trade: Why not both?

Washington Wizards

Tyus Jones, Richaun Holmes, Tristan Vukcevic, Anthony Gill

Team Needs:The Wizards finally are embracing a rebuild! Expect them to spend their first round picks on a POA defending 2 guard and a starting center. I’m very interested to see where they go at pick 2, as this will be the player the next era of Wizards basketball is centered around.

Draft Picks: 2, 26, 51

Draft Fits: Clingan, Alex Sarr, Stephon Castle, Devin Carter, Daron Holmes, Yves Missi, Kyle Flipowski, Quinten Post, Terrence Shannon Jr, Zyon Pullin, Tristen Newton

Team Needs: POA defending 2 guard, starting center

Cap Situation: Over the cap but below the luxury tax

Free Agents: LOL, ain’t nobody worth a shit signing here

Biggest Question: Can you show improvement under new coach Brian Keefe?

Mock Trade: I’ll admit this is more about getting Gabe Vincent off my team. But hey, a 2nd round pick next year!