As the 2025 NBA offseason progresses, teams are solidifying their rosters following a dynamic period of free agency. With the 2025-26 season on the horizon, several high-profile player movements have reshaped the league landscape. Key transactions include Kevin Durant`s trade to the Houston Rockets, Damian Lillard`s return to the Portland Trail Blazers, and Chris Paul`s reunion with the LA Clippers. These moves prompt questions about team chemistry and impact, such as Bradley Beal`s fit with the Clippers or Lonzo Ball`s influence on the Cleveland Cavaliers. This power ranking, compiled by a panel of NBA insiders, assesses how all 30 teams currently stand after these significant offseason developments.
1. Oklahoma City Thunder
- Previous ranking: 1 (No Change)
- Notable additions: None
- Notable departures: Dillon Jones (via trade)
The reigning champions, Oklahoma City Thunder, opted for continuity this offseason, making no significant external additions beyond rookies Thomas Sorber and Brooks Barnhizer. Their primary focus was securing long-term extensions for their core players: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren, ensuring their championship-contending roster remains intact for years to come.
2. Houston Rockets
- Previous ranking: 5 (Moved Up)
- Notable additions: Clint Capela (via free agency), Kevin Durant (via trade), Dorian Finney-Smith (via free agency), JD Davison (via free agency)
- Notable departures: Dillon Brooks (via trade), Jalen Green (via trade), Cam Whitmore (via trade)
Disappointed with a first-round postseason exit, Houston swiftly addressed its offensive needs by acquiring 15-time NBA All-Star Kevin Durant. They also bolstered their depth and perimeter defense with Dorian Finney-Smith. These experienced veterans now join Fred VanVleet and a young, promising core including Alperen Sengun and Amen Thompson. The Rockets also anticipate significant defensive improvement from sharpshooter Reed Sheppard, who impressed in summer league. Frontcourt depth is expected to be a hidden strength.
3. Denver Nuggets
- Previous ranking: 3 (No Change)
- Notable additions: Bruce Brown Jr. (via free agency), Cam Johnson (via trade), Tim Hardaway Jr. (via free agency), Jonas Valančiūnas (via trade)
- Notable departures: Michael Porter Jr. (via trade), Dario Šarić (via trade)
The Nuggets initiated significant changes, including coaching and front office personnel shifts, aimed at maximizing Nikola Jokic`s championship window. Their offseason concluded with impressive moves, retooling around Jokic by trading Michael Porter Jr. for Cameron Johnson. They successfully brought back Bruce Brown, a key contributor to their 2023 title, and signed Tim Hardaway Jr. in free agency. Crucially, they acquired Jonas Valanciunas to provide much-needed backup for Jokic. While Jokic postponed his extension talks, the team`s strategic additions of versatility, defense, experience, and depth are designed to fortify their championship aspirations.
4. Cleveland Cavaliers
- Previous ranking: 4 (No Change)
- Notable additions: Lonzo Ball (via trade), Larry Nance Jr. (via free agency)
- Notable departures: Ty Jerome (via free agency), Isaac Okoro (via trade)
A significant development for Cleveland this summer was Darius Garland undergoing surgery on his left big toe, an injury that hampered him during the playoffs. The Cavaliers also made changes at point guard, allowing Ty Jerome to depart and trading Isaac Okoro to the Chicago Bulls for Lonzo Ball, signaling a shift in their backcourt strategy.
5. New York Knicks
- Previous ranking: 7 (Moved Up)
- Notable additions: Jordan Clarkson (via free agency), Guerschon Yabusele (via free agency)
- Notable departures: None
Despite limited cap space, New York executed a successful offseason, signing former Sixth Man of the Year Jordan Clarkson and forward Guerschon Yabusele. These additions are expected to significantly bolster a roster that lacked depth last season. All attention now turns to new coach Mike Brown and his ability to elevate a team that came close to the NBA Finals, especially within a seemingly weakened Eastern Conference.
6. Minnesota Timberwolves
- Previous ranking: 2 (Moved Down)
- Notable additions: None
- Notable departures: Nickeil Alexander-Walker (via free agency)
After an unsuccessful pursuit of Kevin Durant, Minnesota committed to a homegrown strategy, relying on the continued development of young talents like Anthony Edwards, Jaden McDaniels, and Naz Reid. Coach Chris Finch is also expected to integrate Rob Dillingham and Terrence Shannon Jr. more into the rotation. Following two consecutive conference finals appearances, the team`s core remains largely unchanged, with Julius Randle`s contract extension being a priority, which led to Nickeil Alexander-Walker`s departure.
7. LA Clippers
- Previous ranking: 10 (Moved Up)
- Notable additions: Bradley Beal (via free agency), John Collins (via trade), Brook Lopez (via free agency), Chris Paul (via free agency)
- Notable departures: Norman Powell (via trade)
The Clippers are strategically clearing cap space for future star acquisitions while simultaneously improving their current roster. They re-signed James Harden to a flexible two-year deal, traded Norman Powell to Miami, and acquired power forward John Collins. Additionally, they secured Brook Lopez in free agency and signed Bradley Beal after his buyout from the Suns. Completing their busy summer, Chris Paul returned to the team. The Clippers now boast a potentially elite starting five when healthy, with added shooting, depth, and a strong frontcourt featuring Ivica Zubac and Lopez. Collins provides an above-the-rim target for Harden, allowing Kawhi Leonard to shift to small forward. While older, the Clippers are built for a deep playoff run if Leonard can maintain his health.
8. Orlando Magic
- Previous ranking: 13 (Moved Up)
- Notable additions: Desmond Bane (via trade), Tyus Jones (via free agency)
- Notable departures: Cole Anthony (via trade), Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (via trade)
Orlando made an early and impactful move, sending four first-round picks to Memphis for Desmond Bane. Adding Bane`s shooting and scoring immediately elevates the Magic into the East contender conversation, contingent on the continued development of Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner. They also strengthened their guard rotation by signing veteran Tyus Jones as a backup for Jalen Suggs, who is progressing well in his rehabilitation from knee surgery.
9. Golden State Warriors
- Previous ranking: 8 (Moved Down)
- Notable additions: None
- Notable departures: Kevon Looney (via free agency)
With only nine players currently on their roster, the Warriors are expected to add veterans like Al Horford, De`Anthony Melton, and Seth Curry once Jonathan Kuminga`s restricted free agency is resolved. Kuminga`s situation remains a question mark, but the team`s fate largely hinges on Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler III, and Draymond Green defying the aging process. These three stars, all in their mid-thirties, command significant salaries set to expire in 2027, indicating a focus on immediate contention.
10. Los Angeles Lakers
- Previous ranking: 9 (Moved Down)
- Notable additions: Deandre Ayton (via free agency), Marcus Smart (via free agency)
- Notable departures: Jordan Goodwin (waived), Trey Jamison III (waived), Shake Milton (waived), Dorian Finney-Smith (via free agency)
Following a disappointing first-round exit, the Lakers prioritized using their midlevel exception over re-signing Dorian Finney-Smith. This decision allowed them to acquire center Deandre Ayton and wing Jake LaRavia. They further utilized cap space by waiving Jordan Goodwin to sign Marcus Smart. These moves aim to optimize Luka Doncic and LeBron James` second season together, improving their chances of success.
11. Detroit Pistons
- Previous ranking: 11 (No Change)
- Notable additions: Caris LeVert (via free agency), Duncan Robinson (via sign-and-trade)
- Notable departures: Tim Hardaway Jr. (via free agency), Dennis Schröder (via free agency), Lindy Waters III (via free agency)
The Pistons were forced to adjust their offseason plans after Malik Beasley, a key unrestricted free agent, came under federal investigation. Instead of re-signing Beasley, they acquired sharpshooter Duncan Robinson via sign-and-trade and Caris LeVert in free agency, replacing Beasley and Tim Hardaway Jr. While these additions are solid, matching Beasley`s significant three-point production from last season will be a challenge.
12. Atlanta Hawks
- Previous ranking: 19 (Moved Up)
- Notable additions: Nickeil Alexander-Walker (via sign-and-trade), Kristaps Porzingis (via trade), Luke Kennard (via free agency)
- Notable departures: Clint Capela (via free agency), Caris LeVert (via free agency), Terance Mann (via trade), Georges Niang (via trade)
Atlanta had a remarkably strong offseason on paper, adding skilled big man Kristaps Porzingis, versatile wing Nickeil Alexander-Walker, and sharpshooter Luke Kennard. The new front office also shrewdly acquired an unprotected first-round pick from the Pelicans while only sliding back 10 spots in this year`s draft. These moves provide four-time All-Star Trae Young with the most balanced roster he`s had since reaching the conference finals in 2021.
13. Dallas Mavericks
- Previous ranking: 14 (Moved Up)
- Notable additions: D`Angelo Russell (via free agency)
- Notable departures: Spencer Dinwiddie (via free agency)
The uncertainty surrounding Kyrie Irving`s extended absence due to injury raises concerns about proven ball handlers. However, if Dallas can navigate this, the roster possesses enough talent and veteran leadership to build chemistry and contend in the West. Their frontcourt is deep and skilled, featuring the physicality of Dereck Lively II and Anthony Davis. No. 1 pick Cooper Flagg showed immense promise in summer league, and his playmaking could be vital for the Mavericks until Irving`s return.
14. Milwaukee Bucks
- Previous ranking: 16 (Moved Up)
- Notable additions: Cole Anthony (via free agency), Myles Turner (via free agency), Gary Harris (via free agency)
- Notable departures: Pat Connaughton (via trade), Vasilije Micić (waived), Damian Lillard (waived), Brook Lopez (via free agency)
The Bucks made one of the offseason`s boldest moves by waiving Damian Lillard and stretching his remaining $113 million contract over five years to sign free agent center Myles Turner. This unprecedented decision was justified by the opportunity to pair an elite free agent with Giannis Antetokounmpo, aiming to maximize their superstar`s prime and extend their championship window.
15. Memphis Grizzlies
- Previous ranking: 15 (No Change)
- Notable additions: Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (via trade), Ty Jerome (via free agency)
- Notable departures: Cole Anthony (waived), Desmond Bane (via trade), Luke Kennard (via free agency), Jay Huff (via trade)
GM Zach Kleiman initiated a retooling phase for Memphis, centered around Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr., who signed a lucrative five-year contract despite a turf toe injury that is expected to sideline him minimally. The club aimed to increase physicality by drafting Cedric Coward and acquiring veteran Kentavious Caldwell-Pope to play alongside Morant. Sharpshooting guard Ty Jerome was also added. The team`s performance under new coach Tuomas Iisalo, who is expected to modify their system, remains to be seen.
16. San Antonio Spurs
- Previous ranking: 17 (Moved Up)
- Notable additions: Luke Kornet (via free agency), Kelly Olynyk (via trade), Lindy Waters III (via free agency)
- Notable departures: Sandro Mamukelashvili (via free agency), Chris Paul (via free agency), Blake Wesley (via free agency)
Despite a seeming redundancy in ball handlers with the addition of No. 2 pick Dylan Harper, San Antonio envisions increased matchup advantages, amplified by Victor Wembanyama`s inside presence, now fully recovered from a blood clot. The Spurs are keen to continue their streak of Rookie of the Year winners with Harper, following Wembanyama and Stephon Castle. No. 14 pick Carter Bryant shows promise as a lockdown defender, and the team bolstered frontcourt depth, providing more lineup flexibility.
17. Boston Celtics
- Previous ranking: 12 (Moved Down)
- Notable additions: Georges Niang (via trade), Anfernee Simons (via trade)
- Notable departures: Jrue Holiday (via trade), Luke Kornet (via free agency), Kristaps Porzingis (via trade)
Boston`s offseason was largely driven by cost-cutting measures, especially with Jayson Tatum likely sidelined for the entire season due to a torn Achilles. The Celtics have actively worked to avoid the second apron of the luxury tax by trading Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday. The primary question now is whether they will successfully duck the tax this season to reset their repeater tax clock, or remain within it.
18. Philadelphia 76ers
- Previous ranking: 21 (Moved Up)
- Notable additions: Trendon Watford (via free agency)
- Notable departures: Guerschon Yabusele (via free agency), Jared Butler (via free agency)
The 76ers have made some shrewd minor moves, including signing Jabari Walker to a two-way deal and drafting VJ Edgecombe and Johni Broome. However, the most significant news of their offseason revolved around injuries: Paul George underwent a knee procedure with an unclear return timeline, and Joel Embiid`s return also lacks a definitive schedule.
19. Miami Heat
- Previous ranking: 18 (Moved Down)
- Notable additions: Norman Powell (via trade)
- Notable departures: Kyle Anderson (via trade), Kevin Love (via trade), Duncan Robinson (via sign-and-trade)
Miami`s most significant offseason move was an opportunistic one, acquiring Norman Powell from the Clippers in a three-team trade. Given their struggles in clutch situations last year, Powell is expected to be a valuable addition to Miami`s backcourt alongside All-Star Tyler Herro.
20. Indiana Pacers
- Previous ranking: 6 (Moved Down)
- Notable additions: Jay Huff (via trade)
- Notable departures: Myles Turner (via free agency)
The excitement from Indiana`s thrilling and unexpected Finals run quickly dissipated. Tyrese Haliburton`s torn right Achilles will sideline him for the entire upcoming season, compounded by the loss of Myles Turner to the rival Bucks in free agency. These departures position Indiana for a transitional year, but also provide an opportunity to evaluate long-term replacements at center with four prospects (Jay Huff, Isaiah Jackson, James Wiseman, and Tony Bradley) at training camp.
21. Portland Trail Blazers
- Previous ranking: 22 (Moved Up)
- Notable additions: Jrue Holiday (via trade), Damian Lillard (via free agency), Blake Wesley (via free agency)
- Notable departures: Anfernee Simons (via trade), Deandre Ayton (via free agency)
Portland`s two most exciting offseason moves may not yield immediate results next season, as Damian Lillard`s return from an Achilles tear isn`t expected until 2026-27, and No. 16 pick Yang Hansen will need time to adjust. Nevertheless, bringing Lillard back and drafting Yang has energized fans after a 36-46 finish. For immediate impact, the trade for veteran guard Jrue Holiday to complement Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe will be crucial.
22. Sacramento Kings
- Previous ranking: 20 (Moved Down)
- Notable additions: Dennis Schroder (via free agency), Dario Saric (via trade)
- Notable departures: Jonas Valanciunas (via trade)
With Zach LaVine, Domantas Sabonis, and DeMar DeRozan commanding significant salaries, Sacramento faces challenges due to their difficult-to-trade contracts, defensive issues, and limited offensive fit, suggesting a proven play-in ceiling. While Nique Clifford and Maxime Raynaud show draft promise, and Keegan Murray and Keon Ellis are solid young players, the Kings possess ample draft capital (including a 2031 Minnesota unprotected first). Given their difficult conference, the Kings appear to be in a prime position for a step-back and rebuild, though ownership has historically lacked the patience for such a move. New general manager Scott Perry is reportedly still exploring summer trades, including with restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga.
23. Chicago Bulls
- Previous ranking: 23 (No Change)
- Notable additions: Isaac Okoro (via trade)
- Notable departures: Lonzo Ball (via trade)
Despite two consecutive 39-43 seasons, the Bulls are set to return a largely similar roster next season. They traded Lonzo Ball to Cleveland for Isaac Okoro, aiming to build a defensive identity despite Okoro`s offensive limitations, according to VP Arturas Karnisovas. The final task is resolving the contract stalemate with restricted free agent Josh Giddey for a long-term deal.
24. Toronto Raptors
- Previous ranking: 26 (Moved Up)
- Notable additions: Sandro Mamukelashvili (via free agency)
- Notable departures: None
Toronto`s offseason will be defined by the departure of Masai Ujiri, who stepped down after more than a decade at the helm, including leading the Raptors to their sole championship in 2019. The succession plan remains uncertain, though longtime general manager Bobby Webster is a strong candidate for the lead executive role long term.
25. Phoenix Suns
- Previous ranking: 24 (Moved Down)
- Notable additions: Jared Butler (via free agency), Dillon Brooks (via trade), Jordan Goodwin (via waivers), Jalen Green (via trade), Mark Williams (via trade)
- Notable departures: Bradley Beal (via buyout), Kevin Durant (via trade), Tyus Jones (via free agency), Cody Martin (waived), Mason Plumlee (via free agency)
If saving money was the goal, the Suns` offseason was a resounding success. The Bradley Beal waive-and-stretch maneuver entirely bypassed the second apron and luxury tax, saving an estimated $210 million over two seasons. However, from a competitive standpoint, the future appears bleak. They traded Kevin Durant, carry $19.4 million of Beal`s dead salary for the next five years, and lack control over their next six drafts. Devin Booker remains the centerpiece, but the supporting situation around him is challenging.
26. New Orleans Pelicans
- Previous ranking: 25 (Moved Down)
- Notable additions: Saddiq Bey (via trade), Kevon Looney (via free agency), Jordan Poole (via trade)
- Notable departures: Bruce Brown (via free agency), CJ McCollum (via trade), Kelly Olynyk (via trade)
Since the playoffs, the Pelicans have made questionable moves: executing a poor trade for a 2026 unprotected pick, acquiring Jordan Poole and his substantial contract, and signing Kevon Looney, a non-shooting big man, to complement their existing non-shooting bigs. Furthermore, their two 2025 lottery picks have already faced setbacks with wrist surgery and high turnover rates in summer league. This series of decisions raises concerns about their immediate future.
27. Charlotte Hornets
- Previous ranking: 28 (Moved Up)
- Notable additions: Spencer Dinwiddie (via free agency), Mason Plumlee (via free agency), Collin Sexton (via trade)
- Notable departures: Jusuf Nurkic (via trade), Mark Williams (via trade)
Charlotte made some subtle but impactful improvements, notably acquiring Collin Sexton from Utah in exchange for center Jusuf Nurkic. Moving Mark Williams (for a 29th pick and a 2029 first-round selection) and Nurkic should create more opportunities for 23-year-old center Moussa Diabate, who performed well last season, and second-round pick Ryan Kalkbrenner. Re-signing Tre Mann on a reasonable deal was another positive step for the Hornets.
28. Brooklyn Nets
- Previous ranking: 27 (Moved Down)
- Notable additions: Terance Mann (via trade), Michael Porter Jr. (via trade)
- Notable departures: Cam Johnson (via trade), D`Angelo Russell (via free agency)
Brooklyn explicitly demonstrated its future priorities on draft night by making an NBA-record five first-round selections, focusing on point guards and wing players for development. Furthermore, they traded their most valuable asset, Cameron Johnson, to Denver for sharpshooter Michael Porter Jr. and a 2032 first-round pick. This offseason signals a clear emphasis on building for the long term.
29. Washington Wizards
- Previous ranking: 30 (Moved Up)
- Notable additions: CJ McCollum (via trade), Cam Whitmore (via trade)
- Notable departures: Saddiq Bey (via trade), Richaun Holmes (waived), Jordan Poole (via trade), Kelly Olynyk (via trade), Marcus Smart (waived)
Washington`s rebuild continues with strategic moves to add promising talent, veteran leadership, and financial flexibility. After drafting Tre Johnson and Will Riley, the Wizards traded Jordan Poole and his large contract to New Orleans for CJ McCollum`s expiring deal and Kelly Olynyk. This move is projected to create significant cap space in 2026. They further reshaped the roster by trading Olynyk for Malaki Branham and a second-round pick, buying out Marcus Smart, and adding young prospects like Cam Whitmore. With veterans McCollum and Khris Middleton providing mentorship, Washington`s young core can develop before the team gains substantial financial flexibility next summer.
30. Utah Jazz
- Previous ranking: 29 (Moved Down)
- Notable additions: Kyle Anderson (via trade), Kevin Love (via trade), Jusuf Nurkić (via trade)
- Notable departures: John Collins (via trade), Johnny Juzang (waived), Collin Sexton (via trade), Jordan Clarkson (via free agency)
Utah traded Collin Sexton and John Collins for minimal returns and waived Jordan Clarkson, meaning three of their top five scorers from the 2024-25 season will play elsewhere. This significant roster turnover creates ample opportunities for rookies Ace Bailey and Walter Clayton Jr., along with other young teammates. However, it also signals a period of substantial losses for the Jazz as they prioritize development.
