NBA Trade Deadline Recap

The trade deadline has come and gone and the NBA landscape looks a little different because of it. Here’s a look at some of the biggest deals and which teams came out on top.

The Kings Trade Demarcus Cousins to the Pelicans

In what was by far the biggest move of the deadline free-for-all, the Kings sent their franchise player to New Orleans for Buddy Hield, Tyreke Evans, Langston Galloway, and a sprinkling of draft picks.

This move seems like grand larceny on the part of the Pelicans. Pairing Cousins with Anthony Davis in the frontcourt gives them strength, versatility, and the foundation they need to contend long term.

The Sixers’ Nerlens Noel Goes to The Mavs

Trading their defensive ace loosens up the Sixers’ frontcourt logjam and gives them some flexibility going forward. The centerpiece of the package they got in return is Andrew Bogut, although they also received a conditional first round pick.

The Mavericks seem to be the clear winner here. With Dallas looking to buy out Bogut’s contract anyway, they didn’t really lose much and Noel gives them a Tyson Chandler like rim protector who can also free up a ton of space for Dirk Nowitzki.

The Bulls Send Taj Gibson and Kyle McDermott for OKC trio

Although they’ve given up some young talent, the Thunder seem to have come out on top in this trade. Gibson gives them a strong rebounder inside and the calm leadership OKC lacks with Russell Westbrook in charge. McDermott is no slouch either and gives the Thunder a long range touch off the bench.

This move is puzzling on the Bulls’ end. They lose a reliable and very popular player in Gibson and McDermott has made solid contributions as well. Point guard prospect Cameron Payne does have some upside, but this is still a head scratcher for Chicago.

No more dance moves for Russ and Cameron.

The Big Move That Didn’t Happen

The rumored trade of the Pacers’ Paul George might have made as a big a splash as Boogie going to the Pelicans. If it had happened, that is. Instead, Pacers GM Larry Bird decided to retain the two-way superstar and keep his wobbly team intact.

After a flurry of speculation had George going to the Celtics, Nuggets, or Lakers, this is the biggest non-move of the deadline season. Whether or not Bird regrets not pulling the trigger depends on how George’s contract situation plays out.