NBA Offseason Shuffles: Underrated Moves You Might Have Missed
Beyond the Blockbusters, Key Signings Quietly Reshape Contenders
The 2025 NBA offseason is already buzzing with seismic shifts, highlighted by Kevin Durant’s move to Houston in a historic seven-team blockbuster. However, as the dust settles on the league’s biggest trades, several under-the-radar acquisitions are poised to make a significant impact.
Point Guard Reinforcement for Orlando
The Orlando Magic, fresh off extending star **Paolo Banchero**, also bolstered their backcourt by signing **Tyus Jones** via free agency. After ranking 28th in scoring and 30th in assists last season, Orlando desperately needed a facilitator. Jones, a 10-year veteran, averaged 10.2 points and 5.3 assists with a stellar 4.71 assist-to-turnover ratio for Phoenix. His addition should unlock more scoring opportunities for **Banchero**, **Desmond Bane**, and **Franz Wagner**.
Versatility Arrives in Los Angeles
While the Lakers lost defensive stalwart **Dorian Finney-Smith**, they may have found a cost-effective replacement in **Jake LaRavia**. The young wing showcased significant improvement, particularly from beyond the arc, shooting 42.3% last season after struggling in his first two years. Playing alongside **Luka Dončić** and **LeBron James** should provide ample open looks for LaRavia, who hit 45.5% of his wide-open threes last season.
Stretch Big for Indiana’s Frontcourt
Following **Myles Turner’s** departure to the rival Bucks, the Pacers acquired **Jay Huff** from the Grizzlies for a modest price of two future second-round picks. Huff emerged as a promising stretch-five, averaging 6.9 points and knocking down 40.5% of his three-pointers in limited minutes. He also provides solid rim protection, allowing opponents just 54.5% shooting inside six feet.
San Antonio Secures Wembanyama’s Partner
The Spurs moved swiftly to address their center depth, agreeing to a four-year deal with **Luke Kornet**. The addition of the 7-foot-1 Kornet offers **Victor Wembanyama** a traditional center counterpart, potentially creating a formidable “Twin Towers” pairing. Kornet’s efficiency around the rim (66.8% FG) and his screening ability are expected to benefit the Spurs’ young backcourt.
Lonzo Ball’s Comeback Continues in Cleveland
After missing nearly two full seasons due to knee injuries, **Lonzo Ball** heads to Cleveland in a trade that sent **Isaac Okoro** to Chicago. Ball showed flashes of his playmaking and defensive prowess in 35 games last season, averaging 7.6 points and 3.3 assists. His return to the court after a significant layoff was a testament to his resilience, and he now has an opportunity to contribute to a championship contender. In 2024, NBA players shooting 40%+ from three saw their teams win 60% of their games, a testament to the value of perimeter shooting.
