NBA Eastern Conference Offseason Grades: Evaluating Each Team’s Moves

The NBA offseason is a crucial period for every team, as they assess their current assets, team trajectory, and financial situation to make moves that will ideally set them up for future success. Some teams take bold actions, making substantial changes to improve, while others make smaller tweaks around the edges. In this article, we evaluate the Eastern Conference teams and assign grades based on how well they executed their offseason strategies.

Atlanta Hawks – Grade: C+

The Atlanta Hawks entered the offseason with a clear need for change. The pairing of Trae Young and Dejounte Murray had not delivered the results the team had hoped for. Their big move involved trading Murray for Larry Nance, Dyson Daniels, and two first-round picks. Although this trade added assets, it didn’t necessarily improve the team’s current roster. With Young still leading, the Hawks failed to make significant changes around him, leaving their offseason feeling somewhat lackluster. However, the addition of first-overall draft pick Zachary Reese provides a glimmer of hope if he can develop into a reliable contributor.

Boston Celtics – Grade: B

The reigning champions, the Boston Celtics, didn’t need to overhaul their roster. Instead, they focused on retaining their key players. They re-signed both Jason Tatum and Derrick White to long-term extensions, ensuring the continuation of their core lineup. Though no major new additions were made, their stability and commitment to their championship squad make this offseason a success. The Celtics have set themselves up well to defend their title without significant disruption.

Brooklyn Nets – Grade: B+

The Brooklyn Nets, recognizing their inability to contend immediately, opted for a longer-term strategy. By trading Mikal Bridges to the New York Knicks, they acquired five first-round picks, bolstering their future prospects. They also signed veteran Bojan Bogdanović to add some scoring punch, while maintaining a focus on defense with the re-signing of Nicholas Claxton. Additionally, the Nets took a chance on Ziaire Williams, a former lottery pick, providing them with a potential diamond in the rough for their rebuild.

Charlotte Hornets – Grade: C

The Charlotte Hornets didn’t make a splash this offseason, but they did add some new faces. The Hornets acquired Josh Green through a sign-and-trade involving Klay Thompson, and drafted Ta’Jon Salone with the sixth overall pick. While Salone has potential, he is considered a raw talent and may take time to develop. Charlotte also re-signed Miles Bridges, though this decision carried some controversy due to his off-court history. Overall, their moves suggest they may struggle to make significant strides in the upcoming season.

Chicago Bulls – Grade: B-

The Chicago Bulls face a challenging path forward, as they lost DeMar DeRozan in free agency but retained Zach LaVine. They traded for Josh Giddey, hoping his playmaking skills could fill the void left by the absence of Lonzo Ball. Despite these moves, the Bulls seem to be caught between competing and rebuilding, leaving their long-term strategy unclear. Giddey’s potential is exciting, but without a clear direction, the Bulls may find themselves mired in mediocrity.

Cleveland Cavaliers – Grade: B+

This was an important offseason for the Cleveland Cavaliers as they secured their future by signing Donovan Mitchell to a three-year extension. Additionally, they extended Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen, solidifying their core. While they could have pursued more external talent, retaining these key players puts them in a solid position to compete in the Eastern Conference.

Detroit Pistons – Grade: B+

The Detroit Pistons have been at the bottom of the standings, but they made moves to address their weaknesses. The acquisitions of Tim Hardaway Jr. and Malik Beasley add much-needed shooting, while signing veteran Tobias Harris brings leadership to the young roster. Extending Cade Cunningham on a max deal secures their future, and drafting Ron Holland provides them with a promising young athlete. While they have a long way to go, the Pistons are moving in the right direction.

Indiana Pacers – Grade: C+

After a surprising run to the Eastern Conference Finals, the Indiana Pacers had some momentum to build on but did not capitalize significantly. They retained key players like Pascal Siakam and Obi Toppin, but their other moves—like signing James Wiseman and drafting second-round picks—don’t suggest immediate improvement. Without more aggressive actions, the Pacers may find themselves treading water in a competitive conference.

Miami Heat – Grade: C

The Miami Heat, known for their playoff overachievements, had a quiet offseason. They re-signed Bam Adebayo but otherwise lost Caleb Martin and added Alec Burks, a marginal upgrade. While the Heat have often made deep playoff runs, relying on under-the-radar players, their strategy of doing little to bolster their roster may backfire in a highly competitive East.

Milwaukee Bucks – Grade: C+

The Milwaukee Bucks made only minor adjustments, bringing in Gary Trent Jr. and Torian Prince while parting ways with a few veterans. They also drafted AJ Johnson, who may need time to develop. The Bucks had a disappointing end to their season and were expected to make a big move, but they instead chose stability over bold changes. Their moves may help, but they fall short of what’s needed for a strong title run.

New York Knicks – Grade: A

The New York Knicks arguably had one of the best offseasons in the East. They traded for Mikal Bridges, a perfect fit for their roster, and managed to re-sign key players like OG Anunoby. Extending Jalen Brunson on a team-friendly deal was another savvy move, positioning the Knicks as a serious contender in the Eastern Conference.

Orlando Magic – Grade: B+

The Orlando Magic focused on depth, adding Kavius Caldwell-Pope and re-signing key contributors like Franz Wagner and Jonathan Isaac. They drafted Tristan Da Silva, who showed promise in the Summer League. While they didn’t make any headline-grabbing moves, the Magic bolstered their roster and should continue to improve.

Philadelphia 76ers – Grade: A-

The Philadelphia 76ers took an all-in approach, acquiring Paul George to pair with Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. They also signed Caleb Martin and added depth with Eric Gordon and Andre Drummond. By making significant moves, the 76ers now look primed for a strong title run.

Toronto Raptors – Grade: B-

In a transition phase, the Raptors extended Scottie Barnes and Immanuel Quickley. They also drafted Jacobe Walter, hoping he can become a reliable scorer. While they didn’t make many big moves, they’ve set a solid foundation for the future.

Washington Wizards – Grade: B

The Washington Wizards, in the midst of a rebuild, added three first-round picks, including second-overall pick Alex Saar. They also traded for Malcolm Brogdon and signed Saddiq Bey. While they have a long way to go, their offseason moves have set them on a path towards future competitiveness.

The offseason has laid a new groundwork for the Eastern Conference, and fans can look forward to seeing how these moves shape the upcoming season.