LeBron's Impact: Top 5 NBA Offseason Moves Since Philly Signing
LeBron James' decision to team up with Tyrese Maxey, Joel Embiid, and Jaylen Brown in Philadelphia has sent shockwaves throughout the NBA. The 38-year-old's signing has propelled the 76ers into championship contention, and it's not the only major move of the offseason.
LeBron to Philadelphia
LeBron's move to Philadelphia is arguably the most significant signing of the offseason. The four-time NBA champion averaged 21 points, 6 rebounds, and 7 assists this past season and is still one of the best playmakers in the league. This move was the cherry on top for a team that already looked like one of the top contenders in the NBA.
LaMelo Ball to Minnesota
The Minnesota Timberwolves have been searching for a guard, and they finally got one in LaMelo Ball. The 22-year-old guard now teams up with Anthony Edwards, and the two are poised to become one of the deadliest backcourts in the NBA. By trading Naz Reid, the Timberwolves showed their trust in Jaden McDaniels, and this team is scary and could end up being one of the best in the league.
Jaylen Brown to Philadelphia
The Philadelphia 76ers acquiring Jaylen Brown has to be the top move of the offseason. Boston traded Brown to Philadelphia in a blockbuster deal, and the 76ers got younger and improved at the small forward position. On top of that, Philadelphia was able to keep V.J. Edgecombe and Tyrese Maxey in the trade.
The Worst Moves
Miami acquires Giannis Antetokounmpo
Miami's attempt to sign LeBron James fell flat, and they're now paying the price for it. The Heat gave up their supporting cast and future for Giannis Antetokounmpo, and now they have no significant players outside of the superstar and Bam. This move has left Miami in shambles, going from a play-in team to… a play-in team.
Hornets trade LaMelo Ball
The Charlotte Hornets traded LaMelo Ball, their only bright spot, for Naz Reid. They re-signed Coby White to take his place, but White provides scoring but is a far worse playmaker than Ball. This trade has taken the Hornets a clear step back.
Grizzlies trade Ja Morant
The Memphis Grizzlies finally traded Ja Morant this offseason for older players, leaving top-three pick Cameron Boozer with a poor supporting cast. This move feels like it's setting their rookie up for failure.
The offseason moves have set the stage for an exciting new season. With LeBron James joining the Philadelphia 76ers and LaMelo Ball teaming up with Anthony Edwards in Minnesota, the competition is heating up. The 76ers are now the championship favorites, but the Heat, Hornets, and Grizzlies are far from being eliminated. The season is just around the corner, and it's anyone's game.
Source: Yahoo Sports