Hawks:

• AR is currently better than Trae: A better scorer, defender, and rebounder, and while Trae is a better playmaker, AR is an excellent PG as well, and would probably play the SG alongside Dyson. But most importantly, Reaves fits better; he gels well with everybody, and the team could stop being Trea-centric.

• KP is a better rim-protector than Sabonis. But other than that, Sabonis is superior in every way. scoring, rebounding, playmaking, He does all on another level. And his availability is much higher than injury-prone KP.

• Yes, they are giving up what would probably be a top 5 pick, but as we can see with their current No. 1 pick, it's too much of a risk for a team that is basically ready to make a push.

Lakers:

• The Lakers trade AR for 3 great shooters and defenders, one of them is a fringe All-Star.

Kings:

• Trade down from Sabonis to bring a real floor general that makes a difference - Trae restores offensive relevance and star power immediately.

Pelicans

• Rebuild unlocked: Regaining their 2026 first-round pick officially clears the deck and gives New Orleans full control of a long-overdue rebuild.