Why would each team do this?

New York Knicks:

The Knicks do this because they add a true glue guy who is a perfect fit for their core. Derrick White brings elite perimeter defense, high IQ, and winning habits, and he fits seamlessly next to Jalen Brunson without needing the ball. He strengthens their playoff defense and raises the floor of every lineup. On top of that, New York adds draft picks, keeps future flexibility, and fully hands Tyler Kolek the backup point guard role, speeding up his development while maintaining ball movement and energy off the bench.

Milwaukee Bucks

The Bucks make this move to keep Giannis fully committed to the core by improving depth, toughness, and leadership. Josh Hart becomes a mentor for the young guards like Rollins and KPJ, while still playing heavy minutes and contributing with defense, rebounding, and effort every night. Sam Hauser adds reliable shooting off the bench to keep the floor spaced around Giannis, and Jay Huff brings elite shot-blocking and defensive presence as a low-cost big who can protect the rim and complement Giannis defensively. This is a win-now culture and depth move.

Boston Celtics:

Despite people calling the season “trash,” the Celtics prove they can compete even without Jayson Tatum, and this move is about pushing that level higher. Adding Myles Turner gives Boston a real two-way center who fits perfectly into their system with rim protection, spacing, and mobility, helping them push for a strong playoff run. Guerschon Yabusele fills Tatum’s role short term by providing physicality and versatility — not replacing him, but stabilizing minutes until Tatum is back. The Celtics also get out of the luxury tax, keeping financial flexibility while staying firmly in contender status.

Indiana Pacers:

The Pacers do this to add a short-term Tyrese Haliburton replacement who fits their development timeline. Miles McBride brings elite point-of-attack defense, high effort, and improving shooting, making him a strong fit in Indiana’s fast-paced system. Their player development staff gives him room to grow into a reliable rotation guard, while the added draft capital maintains flexibility. This move keeps the Pacers competitive now without sacrificing their long-term vision.