Impact of Recent Trades on the NBA Season
With the trade deadline gone and the NBA All-Star festivities concluded, focus turns to how newly acquired players can affect the remainder of the season. Here are five individuals who switched teams before the February 5 deadline, and who are worth monitoring as they adapt to their new environments. Note that players with uncertain future roles, such as Anthony Davis and Jaren Jackson Jr., have been excluded, as have Trae Young and Jonathan Kuminga due to similar uncertainties.
Key Players to Watch
Anfernee Simons, Chicago Bulls
The 6-foot-3 guard, recognized for his shooting prowess in Portland, is now with the Chicago Bulls after a trade that sent him to bolster their roster. His time spent with the Boston Celtics previously showcased his ability to fit into their system, but many observers felt he wasn’t utilized to his full potential there. Averaging 20.7 points per game over the last three seasons, Simons is a dynamic scorer and three-point threat who still has room to grow. In Chicago, he aims to establish himself while preparing for free agency this July, possibly becoming a key asset for a championship-contending team.
Nikola Vučević, Boston Celtics
Arriving in Boston as part of the trade that sent Simons to Chicago, Vučević has the potential to address a significant need for the Celtics—depth at the center position. Known for his ability to secure rebounds and facilitate plays, Vučević also has a valuable outside shooting touch, which could help the Celtics improve their spacing on the court. Currently coming off the bench, his role may shift as the playoffs approach, particularly if Jayson Tatum’s return happens. Vučević represents a strategic addition that could greatly enhance Boston’s chances in the postseason.
Ayo Dosunmu, Minnesota Timberwolves
Considered one of the most underrated trades of this deadline, Dosunmu joins the Timberwolves after a successful tenure with the Bulls. Despite not getting much national attention, he proved to be an impactful player for Chicago. This season, the 6-foot-4 guard has shown versatility on both ends of the court, excelling in scoring and defense. As a potential starter for Minnesota, he provides a complementary skill set alongside star guard Anthony Edwards, making his role crucial for the Timberwolves’ playoff aspirations.
Luke Kennard, Los Angeles Lakers
The addition of Kennard to the Lakers helps address their dire need for shooting, as they have struggled with perimeter accuracy this season. Kennard is hitting an impressive 49.4% of his three-point attempts, a statistic that should help the Lakers generate better spacing on offense. His shooting capabilities, combined with his ability to create plays in pick-and-roll situations, could significantly enhance the performance of the second unit as they head into the playoff season.
Ivica Zubac, Indiana Pacers
The Pacers made a substantial move to acquire Zubac, who aligns well with their style of play, especially when considering the eventual return of lead guard Tyrese Haliburton. Zubac is a strong rebounder and a solid defender in the post, providing a physical edge that the Pacers have needed. Though he does not stretch the floor, his inside presence can help facilitate drives from Haliburton and others, marking an essential evolution for Indiana’s offensive strategies moving forward.
