3 Financially Smart Trades That Might Happen Next In This NBA Offseason
Here are three financially smart trade ideas that several contenders could still explore before the 2026-27 season kickstarts.
1. Timberwolves Create More Playing Time for Jonathan Kuminga
Minnesota Timberwolves Receive: D'Angelo Russell, Kris Murray
Jonathan Kuminga's decision to join the Timberwolves was a welcome addition, but they still needed to address their salary situation. Josh Green is an expiring contract making around $14.7 million, but his limited production makes him a difficult fit. D'Angelo Russell's salary is roughly $6.0 million, while Kris Murray is around $5.3 million.
By trading Green, the Timberwolves would eliminate a significant portion of their salary and acquire Green's expiring deal. In return, they receive Kris Murray, who provides valuable size and defense. This trade allows Minnesota to create more room for Kuminga while saving money and addressing roster concerns.
2. Lakers Reduce Roster Overload with Saddiq Bey
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Saddiq Bey
New Orleans Pelicans Receive: Jaden Hardy, Dalton Knecht
The Lakers currently have 16 guaranteed contracts, exceeding the 15-player limit. Saddiq Bey offers a viable solution to this issue, as he is on an expiring deal with a salary of around $6.4 million. Bey's scoring ability and versatility make him a strong fit alongside Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. By trading away two roster problems, the Lakers would save around $3.8 million and reduce their roster to 15 players.
Jaden Hardy and Dalton Knecht, while not guaranteed starters, still possess offensive talent that could be useful elsewhere. For the Pelicans, retaining Bey provides an opportunity to acquire younger scoring options at a lower cost, as their roster already includes multiple wing players.
3. Nuggets Save Money by Trading Zeke Nnaji
Denver Nuggets Receive: Cam Christie, Baba Miller, 2031 second-round pick
LA Clippers Receive: Zeke Nnaji, 2032 second-round pick
Denver's offseason strategy has focused on reducing costs and improving roster flexibility. Zeke Nnaji, while an important piece around Niko, represents a significant salary commitment that could be mitigated. The Nuggets receive Cam Christie and Baba Miller, both valuable assets that can contribute to the team's future success.
Additionally, they acquire a second-round pick for 2031 and a potentially more valuable 2032 pick, depending on the Kings' selection. This trade allows Denver to save money, reduce roster count, and acquire assets that can aid in building a more competitive roster in the near future.
Written by urgent.news from Yahoo Sports's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
