Major player trades such as the Miami Heat’s exchange of Jimmy Butler to the Golden State Warriors or the Dallas Mavericks’ deal involving Luka Doncic moving to the Los Angeles Lakers created significant ripples across the NBA in February.
As we reach the midpoint between the end of the season and the NBA trade deadline, numerous high-profile trades have unfolded, yielding immediate results on the court. Since February 6 — the trade deadline date — teams have approximately 15 games left in the regular season, having played about 18 games thus far.
This article examines the performance of teams involved in significant trades as they prepare for the playoffs:
Los Angeles Lakers Struggle After LeBron James’ Injury
The Lakers were on a winning streak leading up to the trade deadline, especially after acquiring Luka Doncic. From January 15 to March 6, they boasted a record of 20-4. The combination of Doncic and LeBron James was effective, but after a groin injury sidelined James for around two weeks, the Lakers lost four consecutive matches. They did bounce back with wins against Phoenix and San Antonio, currently sitting fourth in the West, one game behind Denver and Houston.
Difficult Times for the Dallas Mavericks
Following their surprising decision to trade Luka Doncic to the Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a first-round draft pick, the Mavericks are struggling. Many criticized this move, questioning who would trade an All-NBA player in their prime. Davis got injured in his debut with Dallas, and Kyrie Irving later sustained a season-ending knee injury on March 3. Since the trade, the Mavericks have struggled, posting a 7-13 record, currently holding a precarious 10th place in the Western Conference.
Golden State Warriors Benefit from Jimmy Butler’s Arrival
The Golden State Warriors have experienced great success since acquiring Jimmy Butler, with a record of 14-2 in games featuring him. Butler averages 16.8 points, 5.9 assists, and 5.8 rebounds per game while significantly contributing to the team’s overall performance. The Warriors’ points per game have surged, and their defensive metrics have also improved since his addition, allowing them to climb from 10th to a tie for sixth place in the Western Conference.
San Antonio’s Hopes Dim with Injuries
The Spurs aimed to close out the season with Victor Wembanyama and De’Aaron Fox, acquired at the trade deadline. However, Wembanyama was sidelined for the season due to a blood clot, and Fox is undergoing season-ending surgery on his finger. The duo only played five games together, but Fox recorded impressive stats in his 17 games with San Antonio, making their future alignment crucial for the team’s success next year.
Miami Heat’s Struggles Post-Butler Trade
The Miami Heat’s trade involving Jimmy Butler has proven detrimental. Since trading him, they’ve managed just a 4-15 record, including eight consecutive losses, dropping from sixth to a tie for ninth in the Eastern Conference. Despite acquiring Andrew Wiggins, Davion Mitchell, and Kyle Anderson, the Heat’s offensive stats have worsened, raising concerns about their competitiveness moving forward.
Cleveland Cavaliers and Milwaukee Bucks Adjust to New Players
The Cavaliers fortified their roster by trading for De’Andre Hunter, improving an already strong team that is positioning itself as a contender against the Boston Celtics. The Cavs have gone 13-1 with Hunter, who has been a solid contributor. Meanwhile, the Bucks have adapted to the addition of Kyle Kuzma, although they face challenges due to Bobby Portis’ suspension. They sit tied with Indiana for fourth place in the East, emphasizing the importance of maximizing performance as they move closer to playoff season.
