Golden State Warriors
Trade Grade: A- Why They Do the Trade:
Offload Jonathan Kuminga’s large and long-term contract extension demands, freeing cap space. Add young, controllable assets like Devin Carter and Haywood Highsmith who fit their timeline better and complement their core (Curry, Butler, Green). Gain a future first-round pick (2027 Top-8 protected) for flexibility in drafting or future trades. Maintain competitive window without sacrificing cap health or roster balance. Risks:
Lose a high-upside player in Kuminga who could still develop into a star. Incoming players have less upside but are safer, more role-playing fits.
Sacramento Kings
Trade Grade: B+ Why They Do the Trade:
Acquire Kuminga to bolster their young core of LaVine, Sabonis, and Murray with a versatile, athletic wing. Kuminga provides versatility and scoring upside needed for the future and possible playoff runs. Maintain veteran depth with Schröder and Westbrook while adding youth for the future. Cap space supports absorbing Kuminga’s contract. Trade a First round pick and upgrade package from it rumored to be lottery protected from their last offer to now top 8 because they get off DeRozan’s deal.
Risks: Contract length and cost may be a burden if development stalls.
Miami Heat
Trade Grade: A Why They Do the Trade:
Add DeMar DeRozan, a proven scorer and veteran leader, to compete immediately. KJ Martin adds athleticism and wing depth on a cheap, short deal. Fits perfectly with Heat’s win-now philosophy under a competitive timeline with Herro/Bam and other vets.
Risks:
Taking on DeRozan’s contract may limit future flexibility. Less upside, more short-term focus.
Utah Jazz
Trade Grade: B Why They Do the Trade:
Acquire Terry Rozier (an old favorite of Danny Ainge’s time in Boston as GM) to provide scoring and veteran playmaking on a one-year deal. Or simply waive him after this trade is completed. Gain additional draft assets (2nd-round picks and 2029 first-round swap rights) for future rebuilding or flexibility. Fit within cap rules despite hard cap status using exceptions.
Risks:
Hard cap limits long-term roster construction flexibility. Rozier’s fit and impact on defense and team culture need monitoring.