The NBA Draft isn’t just about welcoming top prospects—it’s also a prime opportunity for teams to shake up their rosters via trades.
A lot of fans had their fingers crossed for a draft night deal that would let the Jazz move up and grab Ace Bailey, who was highly regarded but ultimately remained with his team.
Nonetheless, there were several significant trades, all while Commissioner Adam Silver made the announcements for each pick.
Spurs trade second-round pick to Pacers
The first deal of the evening was relatively small, with San Antonio sending their 38th overall pick to Indiana in exchange for future second-round picks and some cash.
Hornets send Williams to Suns for two first-round picks
After attempting to trade Williams to the Lakers earlier in the season, the Hornets successfully dealt him this time around.
He is heading to Phoenix, along with the 29th pick and a first-round pick for 2029, which includes top-five protections according to ESPN.
With this trade, Williams becomes the second center for the Suns following a previous deal.
They traded Kevin Durant to the Rockets recently, receiving Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, and the 10th pick in return.
Additionally, Charlotte obtained Vasilier Mike as part of the deal.
Cedric Coward goes from Washington State to Memphis, Jan Hansen to Portland
Washington State’s Cedric Coward was selected as the 11th pick, originally belonging to Portland. Memphis got this pick by trading a first-round selection from 2028 to Orlando.
Meanwhile, the Blazers moved down to 16th and made a surprising choice by selecting Jan Hansen from China.
Derrick Queen is off to New Orleans
The Hawks traded their 13th overall pick to the Pelicans in exchange for the 23rd pick and unprotected first-round picks in 2026, which appear to be quite valuable.
New Orleans chose Maryland’s Derrick Queen, joining forces with Jeremiah, the No. 7 pick. Atlanta opted for Georgia’s ASA Newell at 23.
Walter Clayton Jr. joins Utah, Ace Bailey
The Wizards decided to trade their 18th pick to the Jazz for picks No. 21, No. 43 and some second-round selections for 2031 and 2032.
This past April, national champion Clayton teamed up with Utah’s Bailey, while the Wizards gained an Illinois wing player and Riley with their 21st pick.
Clearly, there’s a flurry of activity happening during the draft!
