Why Hornets do it: Charlotte finally gets stability at the center position with Myles Turner. While he does have his shortcomings Myles Turner instantly improves the Hornets defense which cost them many games last year. They also get a reliable backup PG in T.J. McConnell who can facilitate when LaMelo Ball subs out. He can rack up a ton of steals on the defensive end. They also get a 2025 1st round pick and a 2023 2nd round pick. Justice Winslow was thrown in to make the salaries more even.

Why the Pacers do it: Indiana gets an expiring contract in Eric Bledsoe, a young PF in Nassir Little who finally some growth, and they get the 15th pick and 36th pick to help the rebuild. Jalen McDaniels and Didi Louzada are thrown in for salary balancing.

Why the Trailblazers do it: Portland clears all the clutter by getting rid of Eric Bledsoe, Justice Winslow, Didi Louzada, and Nassir Little. They gain a valuable player in the front court in Gordon Hayward who gives them a huge upgrade over the current front court players they have. The Trailblazers also retain almost all of the cap space they have to further improve the roster and keeping the 7th pick.