Projected Depth Charts After Trades: https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GhhCOdGXsAATtju?format=png&name=900x900

WHY IT WORKS FOR EACH TEAM

PELICANS: With the playoffs looking like a pipe dream for this injury riddled team, New Orleans decide to do a massive re-boot. The Pels bring in a boatload of young talent in Sheppard, Ayton, Anyhony & Howard, a few tradeable vets, 2 2005 1st round picks, and 4 future seconds.

ROCKETS: Fred Van Vleet has been struggling with his shot and dealing with injuries so the Rockets bring in Murray to take over as the starting PG. Theis replace Landale and Javonte Green replace's Tate as C/F depth.

MAGIC: The Magic make a huge move to upgrade the starting lineup with the addition of McCollum. Suggs will move back to his natural shooting guard spot, with KCP shifting into a 6th man role. Landale takes over for the injured Mo Wagner to provide C depth.

PISTONS: Detroit is pushing for a playoff spot for the first time since 2018-19 decide to roll the dice that Ingram will like playing with Cade and the rest of their young cote and will sign a reasonable extension ($30-35M/year) with them. Walker should get a chance to earn some minutes with the Pistons as a backup wing and Banton provides PG depth.

BLAZERS: Find a taker for Ayton and gladly dump his bloated contract for a couple 2nd rd picks, and injured Mo Wagner and two other vets. All 3 players have either expiring contracts or team options, which will clear $36M off the Blazers cap sheet next year. Clingan can now take over as the e starting C, and Williams will have a regular rotation spot. Portland may look to flip Harris & Tate before the deadline.