Los Angeles Lakers Why they do it:

Deni Avdija is a defensive-minded forward with secondary playmaking, perfect next to LeBron, Luka, and Reaves.

The Lakers shed salary while addressing their need for size, defense, and passing on the wing.

Avdija is under contract for 3 more years at a team-friendly number — ideal as LeBron ages out.

Concerns:

Losing Dalton Knecht and all those picks limits future flexibility.

Betting on Deni’s offense improving is a risk.

Grade: B+

A smart, win-now move for a balanced 6'9" forward who can thrive in a connector role — but they pay a steep draft cost.

Portland Trail Blazers Why they do it:

Vassell gives them an elite 3&D wing who complements Scoot, Sharpe, and Clingan better than Deni does with current forwards and players on roster bringing well needed scoring and shooting.

Dalton Knecht is a controllable scoring wing with movement shooting — good developmental piece.

They load up with 8 draft picks, preserving flexibility for future trades or rebuild depth.

Concerns:

Giving up Deni, Thybulle, and future cap space.

Vassell is expensive at $27M/year — could limit long-term cap if he underperforms.

Grade: A-

San Antonio Spurs Why they do it:

Rui gives them a scoring PF to balance Sochan and Castle’s defense-first roles.

Thybulle brings elite POA defense, which fits their identity with Wembanyama and Castle.

They move off Vassell’s large contract and retool the wing rotation with cheaper, short-term options.

Concerns:

Rui is a risky long-term piece if re-signed at high cost.

They don’t get a young player or pick in this version.

Grade: B

Solid value for a team still in evaluation mode. Defensive upgrade + frontcourt versatility at minimal long-term cost.