NBA trade talks were at their peak this past week as the NBA trade deadline was at 3 p.m. eastern Thursday. Now that all the suspense is behind us, let's look at the big winners of trade season.
Oklahoma City Thunder
The OKC Thunder made a last minute trade deal with the Chicago Bulls, shipping out prospect guard Adrian Payne, Anthony Morrow, and Joffrey Lauvergne for Taj Gibson, Doug McDermott and a second round-pick. This a great move for the Thunder, adding a shooter in Doug McDermott, who is remembered for his days at Creighton. He is a good size adding rebounding presence that Morrow couldn't always provide.
They also receive a grinder in Taj Gibson, who will join workhorse Steven Adams down low. Russell Westbrook should appreciate this move, as they get a good combination of size and scoring, something they desperately need.
New Orleans Pelicans
The Pelicans should be doing backflips, as they are huge winners post-trade season. If you've been under a rock the last week, the Pelicans acquired all-star Demarcus Cousins from the Kings for basically a couple donuts. In seriousness, they got Buddy Hield, Langston Galloway, Tyreke Evans, and a second-round pick. That's not a lot for shipping out one of the best big men in the NBA. Boogie joins Anthony Davis as they both averaging 20 points and 10 boards per game.
This puts the Pelicans in a position to run the table for that eighth spot in the west with their own version of twin towers. New Orleans, give yourself a round of applause.
Toronto Raptors
The Raptors didn't make a blockbuster deal like the Pelicans but they made moves that greatly improve their team. Last week they added big man Serge Ibaka from the Raptors for Terrence Ross and a first-round pick.
This is move that helps the Raptors spread the floor as Ibaka is a reliable three-point shooter. He also is shot-blocker which is what the Raptors could use on the defensive side. Thursday, they made a last minute deal with the Suns, acquiring P.J Tucker for Jared Sullinger and two second-round picks. Tucker adds veteran leadership and more scoring, as these moves help the Raptors try to take down the Cavs in the east.
These teams definitely helped out their chances of getting to the play off with these moves. Let's see if the pieces they added can make a difference in their season.
