NBA Summer Recap: Bucks, Nuggets, Rockets Shine; Pelicans Struggle with Questionable Moves
August 14, 2025
The Milwaukee Bucks had an active summer, waiving Damian Lillard to sign Myles Turner and retaining key players, significantly improving their roster.
The Atlanta Hawks excelled by acquiring a valuable unprotected 2026 first-round pick, adding talent like Asa Newell and Kristaps Porziņģis, and improving their defense and shooting through free agency.
The Denver Nuggets enhanced their roster by trading Michael Porter Jr. for payroll flexibility and signing players like Tim Hardaway Jr. and Bruce Brown, earning top grades for their summer moves.
The Los Angeles Clippers made a significant impact with signings like Beal, Lopez, and Paul, addressing key needs despite limited cap space.
The Orlando Magic made a major trade for Tyus Jones, acquired Jalen Green, and extended Paolo Banchero, positioning themselves as Eastern contenders.
The New Orleans Pelicans made questionable moves, including trading a high pick for Derik Queen and overcrowding the interior with signings, earning an F.
The Houston Rockets had an outstanding summer, acquiring Kevin Durant and other key players, signaling a strong pursuit of a championship.
The Dallas Mavericks benefited from winning the draft lottery, selecting Cooper Flagg, and signing Kyrie Irving to a team-friendly deal, making strategic roster improvements.
The Portland Trail Blazers re-signed Damian Lillard, added Jrue Holiday, and focused on team vibes, though some roster fit concerns remain.
The Washington Wizards added first-round picks and created cap space, showing progress in their rebuilding efforts.
The Golden State Warriors' offseason remains incomplete due to unresolved contract negotiations with Jonathan Kuminga, making evaluation difficult.
The Cleveland Cavaliers maintained stability by not breaking apart their core, acquiring Lonzo Ball and other role players, positioning as East favorites.
Summary based on 1 source
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Bleacher Report • Aug 14, 2025
Grading Every NBA Team's Entire 2025 Offseason