Rockets do this because they move on from a surplus veteran center in Steven Adams and bring in Isaiah Joe, adding a young, proven shooter who fits perfectly with their developing core, improves off-ball spacing, and helps maximize team shooting—especially important with Fred VanVleet sidelined, as Joe can keep the offense flowing without needing the ball.

Hornets do this because they add a reliable veteran big man in Steven Adams to stabilize their young center rotation of Kalkbrenner and Diabate, giving them elite rebounding, physicality, screening, and leadership while allowing their young bigs to develop without being overexposed.

Thunder do this because they address their frontcourt issues by bringing in young upside with Tidjane Salaun, add short-term depth with Mason Plumlee, and continue their asset-driven approach, balancing immediate roster needs with long-term development without touching their core.