While the NBA playoffs are still unfolding on the court, front offices around the league are already deep in planning mode for what promises to be a frenetic offseason. From star players seeking new homes to teams sitting on mountains of draft capital, here are 12 players and a few key picks at the center of what could be a historic summer of deals.
Hawks and Pelicans pick set the tone
The Atlanta Hawks enter the offseason with more than just roster questions. The team holds New Orleans Pelicans 2026 first round pick, which carries a 29.3% chance of landing in the top four. That kind of asset could serve as the centerpiece of a trade for a legitimate star, making it one of the most watched chips in the entire league. Meanwhile, Dyson Daniels and Zaccharie Risacher have emerged as potential trade pieces as Atlanta looks to build a winning cast around franchise cornerstone Trae Young.
Boston faces a defining moment
Few teams enter the offseason with more at stake than the Boston Celtics. Jaylen Brown, who turned in one of his finest professional seasons, could attract serious trade interest if Boston’s postseason run falls short of expectations. On the flip side, Derrick White has had a difficult year, and with Payton Pritchard stepping up as a reliable starter, White’s role and his future in Boston is worth monitoring closely.
Brooklyn’s pick empire
The Brooklyn Nets don’t have a marquee star, but what they do have might be even more valuable right now: 14 first round picks over the next seven drafts, including unprotected selections from the New York Knicks. That kind of leverage makes them a player in virtually every major trade conversation. Nic Claxton and several young ball handlers are names to watch as the Nets look to turn that draft wealth into something more tangible.
Charlotte’s LaMelo dilemma
The Charlotte Hornets find themselves at a crossroads. LaMelo Ball had a solid season, and the team must weigh whether to move him now while his value is at a peak, or commit to building around him long term. Adding intrigue is a 2027 first round pick coming from the Dallas Mavericks, which could be a key piece in any potential blockbuster.
Cleveland’s star studded decisions
The Cleveland Cavaliers could face two of the offseason’s most consequential conversations. Donovan Mitchell’s future depends heavily on whether he agrees to a contract extension if he doesn’t, he instantly becomes one of the most coveted players available. Meanwhile, Evan Mobley, despite his elite defensive abilities, could be dangled in trade talks if the Cavaliers believe moving him could accelerate a championship timeline.
Dallas and Golden State weigh their options
In Dallas, Kyrie Irving and Klay Thompson could both be available as the Mavericks reckon with whether to continue their current path or shift toward a rebuild. In Golden State, the Warriors have signaled openness to moving almost anyone outside of Stephen Curry including Jimmy Butler as they look to retool around their all time great before his window closes.
Giannis and the Bucks pressure cooker
Perhaps no situation in the league carries more weight than what’s unfolding in Milwaukee. Giannis Antetokounmpo has not publicly demanded a trade, but the Bucks face mounting pressure to convince their franchise player that they can build a legitimate contender around him. If they fail to make the right moves this summer, the possibility of the two time MVP seeking a fresh start elsewhere becomes very real and that would reshape the entire league overnight.
The NBA offseason officially begins when the playoffs end, but in many ways, it’s already underway. These 12 players will define the direction of their franchises and potentially the balance of power across the league.