Why You Need to Watch These 9 NBA Teams Following the 2026 Trade Deadline

The 2026 NBA trade deadline has officially passed, and while the “Greek Freak” stayed put in Milwaukee, several stars and impactful players found themselves in new homes.

I’m expanding on my recent Instagram Reel to break down the seismic shifts that could reshape the playoff race by ranking the nine NBA teams that I think became much more watchable due to their moves—or non-moves. From a massive backcourt swap in Cleveland to some moves on the margins, these are the squads you need to keep your eyes on.

9. Boston Celtics

The C’s picked up Nikola Vucević mainly for this 3-point shooting. Effectively, he’s a replacement for Al Horford, who joined the Golden State Warriors in the offseason. Boston bolsters its frontcourt with a veteran big man who can stretch the floor, making an already dangerous offense nearly impossible to guard. And if Jason Tatum actually returns this season? The Celtics can be the new favorites in the East.

8. Oklahoma City Thunder

The reigning NBA champions didn’t stand pat, trading for second-year guard Jared McCain to add to their bench depth. It wasn’t the splashiest move of the deadline, but just another example of how the Thunder continue to weaponize their treasure trove of draft picks to fine-tune a roster that’s already terrifyingly deep.

7. Minnesota Timberwolves

Minnesota is firmly in the playoff picture and was already fully capable of moving up the Western Conference standings. But the team strengthened its playoff push by acquiring Ayo Dosunmu, a gritty two-way guard who fits perfectly alongside Anthony Edwards. Dosunmu, with his top-10 3-point percentage and strong defensive skills, should give fans confidence that the Wolves are a legit threat to make the NBA Finals.

6. LA Clippers

The other team in Los Angeles got rid of James Harden and Ivica Zubac, two highly impactful players who’ve been there for years. After a dreadful start, the Clippers have been playing very well lately, so it was truly baffling to see this move go down. If Darius Garland gets healthy, and Kawhi Leonard keeps ballin’ the way he has, maybe the Clippers could be just fine … and maybe sneak into the playoffs?

5. Washington Wizards

The Wizards pulled off a deadline stunner by acquiring Anthony Davis in a blockbuster deal. And a month earlier, they nabbed mercurial point guard Trae Young. Here’s the rub: Both players are injured right now, and the team is one of the worst in the NBA. If Young and Davis actually play for Washington this season—GM Will Dawkins indicated that both should—it’ll be a fascinating look into how good the team can be next season.

4. Los Angeles Lakers

Shipping out the inconsistent Gabe Vincent for sharpshooter Luke Kennard was the exact move needed to maximize the LeBron James and Luka Doncić era. Now armed with an elite spacer, the Lakers have given two of history’s greatest playmakers a target who is about to feast on open looks. If you aren’t watching the LeBron–Luka pairing with actual spacing, you simply aren’t watching basketball.

3. Milwaukee Bucks

Somehow, the Bucks kept Giannis past the trade deadline despite endless rumors. And even though he’s all but requested a trade, now he seems all in on the team. That’s gonna be some drama waiting to unfold, especially if Milwaukee doesn’t get back into contention soon. What will Antetokounmpo’s attitude be once he returns from injury? We’re all waiting with bated breath.

2. New York Knicks

The Knicks picked up Brooklyn native Jose Alvarado, aka “Grand Theft Alvarado.” He should make their defense so much more fun to watch. And with Miles McBride injured, Alvarado becomes the main backup point guard behind Jalen Brunson. Crucially, though, he adds a level of grit and energy that’s a match made in heaven for the Madison Square Garden crowd.

1. Cleveland Cavaliers

Cleveland replaced Darius Garland with James Harden in a clear “win-now” pivot. Yes, Harden is 10 years older, but he’s much more reliable, and he bolsters their offense, especially in the clutch. “The Beard” is expected to facilitate at a high level as well, taking some pressure off Donovan Mitchell and elevating the Cavs’ younger core into true contenders in the East.

2026 NBA trade deadline FAQ