The Damian Lillard trade saga finally ended when he was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks in a three-team deal. This trade pairs Lillard with Giannis Antetokounmpo to form one of the league’s best duos. In the same deal, the Phoenix Suns acquired Jusuf Nurkic and Grayson Allen while parting ways with Deandre Ayton. Meanwhile, the Boston Celtics acquired Jrue Holiday, making a move to stay competitive in the Eastern Conference.
These deals have certainly changed the NBA landscape and resolved one of the biggest storylines of the offseason. However, another unresolved storyline revolves around James Harden and his trade request.
With all this in mind, let’s assess the offseason of each NBA team and give them grades based on their draft picks, trades, free agency, and contract extensions. Here are the offseason grades for every NBA team entering the 2023-24 season.
Atlanta Hawks: The Hawks traded John Collins and made some other minor moves, but overall, their offseason was solid. Grade: B
Boston Celtics: The Celtics made a significant move by acquiring Jrue Holiday. This addition, along with other signings, improves their offseason. Grade: A-
Brooklyn Nets: The Nets made some signings, but it remains to be seen how they will operate in the coming seasons. Grade: B
Charlotte Hornets: The Hornets made some roster changes, but their offseason wasn’t overwhelming. Grade: B
Chicago Bulls: The Bulls decided to keep their roster mostly intact, which isn’t particularly exciting. Grade: C
Cleveland Cavaliers: The Cavaliers added shooters to their roster to strengthen their playoff prospects. Grade: A
Dallas Mavericks: The Mavericks made significant moves, including signing Kyrie Irving. Their offseason looks promising. Grade: A-
Denver Nuggets: The Nuggets made some changes, but the loss of certain players hurts their overall grade. Grade: C+
Detroit Pistons: The Pistons made some additions that will help their young core. Grade: A-
Golden State Warriors: The Warriors made an unexpected trade for Chris Paul, which could have a significant impact. Grade: B
Houston Rockets: The Rockets brought in new leadership and added young, talented players. Their offseason was promising. Grade: A-
Indiana Pacers: The Pacers made some solid moves, including signing Caris LeVert and Obi Toppin. Grade: A
LA Clippers: The Clippers made just one significant move this offseason. Grade: C
Los Angeles Lakers: The Lakers kept most of their roster intact, which is good for their championship chances. Grade: A
Memphis Grizzlies: The Grizzlies made some productive moves, but also had some significant losses. Grade: B
Miami Heat: The Heat missed out on some key free agents and lost some players. Their offseason wasn’t ideal. Grade: C-
Milwaukee Bucks: The Bucks made the biggest move of the offseason by acquiring Damian Lillard. This significantly improves their roster. Grade: A+
Minnesota Timberwolves: The Timberwolves locked up Anthony Edwards, but didn’t make any major moves otherwise. Grade: B-
New Orleans Pelicans: The Pelicans made some minor moves, but didn’t have an eventful offseason. Grade: A-
New York Knicks: The Knicks made some solid moves, particularly signing Donte DiVincenzo and Josh Hart. Grade: B
Oklahoma City Thunder: The Thunder made some moves to acquire assets and young talent. Grade: A-
Orlando Magic: The Magic made some solid draft picks and signings. Grade: B+
Philadelphia 76ers: The 76ers’ offseason grade is incomplete because the outcome of the James Harden situation is still uncertain. Grade: Incomplete
Phoenix Suns: The Suns made significant moves, including parting ways with Deandre Ayton. Their offseason grade looks promising. Grade: B+
Portland Trail Blazers: The Trail Blazers made some significant moves, including acquiring Jrue Holiday. Their offseason grade is impressive. Grade: A
Sacramento Kings: The Kings retained most of their roster, which is a good move for their stability. Grade: B+
San Antonio Spurs: The Spurs made a significant move by signing Victor Wembanyama. Grade: A+
Toronto Raptors: The Raptors lost key players and didn’t make any significant moves. Grade: C
Utah Jazz: The Jazz made some valuable acquisitions and had a successful offseason. Grade: A-
Washington Wizards: The Wizards made significant moves, including acquiring Jordan Poole. Their offseason shows promise. Grade: B
