The 2025 NBA Offseason: Key Moves You Might Have Missed
During the 2025 NBA offseason, significant transactions have taken place, highlighted by Kevin Durant’s move to Houston through a historic seven-team trade, alongside notable acquisitions like Desmond Bane to Orlando and Cam Johnson to Denver. In addition to these headline trades, several quieter transactions could have a substantial impact.
1. Tyus Jones Joins Magic (via Free Agency)
The Magic made headlines not only by extending their star Paolo Banchero and bringing in Desmond Bane, but also by signing veteran point guard Tyus Jones. Jones will help improve an Orlando offense that struggled last season, ranking 28th in points and 30th in assists. With an impressive assist-to-turnover ratio, Jones averaged 10.2 points and 5.3 assists while shooting 41.4% from beyond the arc last season. His experience should create easier scoring chances for Banchero, Bane, Franz Wagner, and the rest of the squad.
2. Jake LaRavia Joins Lakers (via Free Agency)
Following the departure of Dorian Finney-Smith to Houston, the Lakers added Jake LaRavia to regain some of that production. LaRavia, a versatile defender with a proven ability to shoot from long range, had a breakout season, converting 42.3% of his three-point attempts. Playing alongside stars like Luka Dončić and LeBron James should provide him with many opportunities to excel, especially after he shot 45.5% on open three-pointers last year.
3. Jay Huff Joins Pacers (via Trade with Grizzlies)
After losing Myles Turner to the Bucks in free agency, the Pacers traded for Jay Huff to bolster their roster. Huff, acquired for future second-round picks, has shown promise as a stretch five, averaging 6.9 points and almost one block per game. His shooting from beyond the arc at 40.5% last season was nearly enough to place him among the league’s top shooters. Defensively, he stands out as a rim protector, holding opponents to 54.5% on shots within six feet.
4. Luke Kornet Joins Spurs (via Free Agency)
The Spurs quickly secured Luke Kornet with a four-year contract, making him a backup center for Victor Wembanyama. The duo brings the potential for a formidable “Twin Towers” lineup. Kornet shot an impressive 66.8% from the field last season, primarily operating inside the paint, and excels as a screener, aiding the backcourt of De’Aaron Fox and Stephon Castle. With solid defensive stats, he ranked fifth in field goal percentage allowed within six feet.
5. Lonzo Ball Joins Cavaliers (via Trade with Bulls)
After losing Ty Jerome in free agency, the Cavaliers addressed their backcourt needs by trading for Lonzo Ball from the Bulls. Ball made his return last season after a long hiatus due to knee injuries. He showed glimpses of his potential, averaging 7.6 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 3.3 assists in just 35 games. Now, with a chance to further his development on a contending team, Ball aims to fully reintegrate himself into the league after missing significant time.
