Could there still be a significant shake-up in the NBA offseason? Last year, the New York Knicks and Minnesota Timberwolves made a splash by trading Karl-Anthony Towns for Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo, just before Media Day. Similarly, Damian Lillard joined the Milwaukee Bucks right around the same time the previous year. So, while it’s possible another unexpected trade could happen before the end of the NBA summer, for now, it seems it’s mostly a wait-and-see situation, with many players just sitting tight as restricted free agents.
Even though it feels a bit early, it’s never too soon to start thinking about the power rankings for the 2026 Championship race. The Oklahoma City Thunder, who are the defending champions, step into the season as title favorites, but they do have some stiff competition this summer.
Here’s a look at six of the standout moves from the NBA offseason that could impact both the present and the future.
6. Clippers’ Depth Enhancements
Initially, I thought the Clippers might struggle after Paul George’s free agency situation, but, boy, was I mistaken. They pulled off a solid season, winning 50 games and pushing the Nuggets to a Game 7 in the playoffs. This summer, they welcomed Brooke Lopez, Bradley Beal, Chris Paul, and John Collins to the roster, though they did lose Norman Powell. Their defense is solidly anchored by Kawhi Leonard, and the chemistry with James Harden looks promising, especially with Ivica Zubac as a big man. Nowadays, depth is crucial; the Clippers now boast a roster that could be ten or eleven players deep, featuring a mix of savvy veterans. While Kawhi’s health remains a concern, if he stays fresh, they could be a serious title contender this year. The best part? They made these additions without straining their long-term payroll, giving them flexibility to be even more proactive in the future. It’s a turnaround for the Clippers, a franchise that’s faced its share of missteps before.
5. Chet Holmgren’s Contract Extension with the Thunder
This summer, the Thunder committed huge money with an $822 million extension to keep their championship core together. Stars like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren all signed substantial deals aiming for long-term success in OKC. Rivals might be groaning, knowing the Thunder will avoid the luxury tax for the next few years. SGA and Williams got solid deals, but Holmgren negotiated to ensure he delivers strong value back to the team. His extension is notable—it’s structured with considerations for future salary cap impacts if he achieves All-NBA status or wins the Player of the Year award. Having displayed All-NBA potential before his injury, if he stays healthy, I think he might make that jump this year.
4. Kevin Durant’s Move to the Rockets
Kevin Durant has had an illustrious NBA career, but this summer’s move to the Houston Rockets was quite a steal for them. They swapped a reasonable package with the Phoenix Suns for him. Houston needed the scoring boost, and Durant could elevate their chances after finishing second in the West last season, relying on a strong defense and promising young talent. With key players like Amen Thompson and Alperen Sengun, plus Fred VanVleet set to help facilitate scoring, this pairing seems tailor-made. If that young group can further grow, they could challenge the Thunder for the title.
3. Nuggets Acquire Cam Johnson
Following a painful playoff exit, the Nuggets sought to refresh their roster. They traded a first-round pick and Michael Porter Jr. to the Brooklyn Nets for Cam Johnson. Johnson’s addition brings a height and shooting ability that could complement Nikola Jokic nicely, especially since he’s less injury-prone than Porter Jr. They also picked up Jonas Valanciunas to back Jokic and signed sharpshooter Tim Hardaway Jr. This trade could genuinely change the dynamics for the Nuggets. Johnson’s efficiency last year suggests he could thrive under Jokic’s playmaking, though the Nuggets will need him to consistently stay healthy.
2. Desmond Bain Trade to the Magic
I have a hunch that the Magic are closer to competing than their typical performance might suggest. Despite key player injuries last season, they ranked high in defensive efficiency but struggled with three-point shooting. This makes Desmond Bain, a top-notch shooter who also defends well, an ideal fit. Orlando traded four first-round picks for him, including a highly coveted one from 2026. That’s a lot of capital, especially since Bain hasn’t been an All-Star yet, but if he can elevate the team’s shooting, it might balance their earlier issues. Though they’ve got rising stars, I wonder if adding Bain will really be enough to turn things around.
1. Hawks’ Strategic Trade with the Pelicans
The Hawks pulled off some impressive moves, acquiring significant assets that could transform their competitiveness in the Eastern Conference. They got players like Kristaps Porzingis and Nickeil Alexander-Walker, among others, while also landing the Pelicans’ unprotected 2026 first-round pick, even though they dropped ten spots in this year’s draft. New Orleans, likely to struggle this season, may gift Atlanta a high draft pick. Having covered the draft extensively, I suspect 2026 could be a standout year with top prospects like Darryn Peterson and Cameron Boozer. The Hawks are positioned well for playoff contention, and should those Pelican picks end up in the lottery, they could shape the franchise’s future for years.
