NOTE: The Bucks also receive the Pacers pick protected 1-4/10-30 with the backup 2031 pick from the Clippers.

The Clippers traded Harden for financial reasons and then moved off Zubac for an incredibly high-upside move in acquiring Bennedict Mathurin and two first-round picks. Mathurin is among the most underrated players in the NBA and has All-Star level potential in LA as the second best player on this new team. What if, this offseason, the Clippers make a huge swing? They suddenly have the assets and team to make it reasonable. Let’s take a look at the justification for every team.

Why the Bucks do this:

This package consists of six unprotected first round picks (including two of partially their own), alongside a number of expiring contracts and younger players. This is one of the largest packages that any team could cash in for Giannis, and the Bucks decide to enter a rebuild with control over their future and that of some other teams as well.

Why the Heat do this:

Assuming Kel’El Ware and Bam Adebayo as untouchables, the Miami Heat simply do not have the assets to compete as one of the largest Giannis offers. So they get the next best thing, a Kawhi Leonard off an amazing comeback season in 2026. Alongside Powell, Adebayo, and Ware, Miami is an instant contender in the East and a championship is FAR from out of the question.

Why the Hawks do this:

Atlanta gets the opportunity to easily replace Trae Young’s scoring with a more capable off-ball player in Tyler Herro. This is an incredibly clean fit that shouldn’t interrupt what the Hawks are building around Daniels and Johnson. Worst case scenario, Herro and Risacher are an incredibly enticing trade package for a superstar.

Why the Clippers do this:

I’m not convinced this Clippers team is going to be bad this year. Darius Garland returning to a lead guard role and Bennedict Mathurin getting more opportunity will both improve. Besides, there’s no reason to tank since the Clips don’t own their pick bWhat if the Zubac trade was because Zu didn’t fit well next to Giannis? The Clippers certainly have the assets, and they have the market to sign free agents to be the role players alongside this big 3.

What do you think of this deal? Who accepts, who passes, and why? Let me know your thoughts in the comments!