The lead-up to the 2025 NBA Draft has been quite eventful. With Kevin Durant reportedly traded to the Rockets and swirling rumors about Giannis Antetokounmpo, uncertainty fills the league as draft night approaches. Historically, this event has played a crucial role in some of the NBA’s most significant trades.
With the 2025 NBA Draft imminent, let’s look back at 12 blockbuster trades made during previous draft nights that shaped league history.
(Note: List presented in chronological order)
Bill Russell traded from St. Louis Hawks to Boston Celtics (1956)
The Celtics transformed both the NBA and sports in North America by acquiring Bill Russell during the 1956 NBA Draft. Selected by the St. Louis Hawks with the second overall pick, Boston managed to trade Ed Macauley and Cliff Hagan for Russell, who became a 12-time All-Star and led the team to 11 championships in his 13-year career, earning five MVP awards in the process.
Scottie Pippen traded from Seattle SuperSonics to Chicago Bulls (1987)
Seattle’s trade of the fifth overall pick to Chicago helped the Bulls establish their 1990s dynasty. Following a trade that included Olden Polynice and the eighth pick, the Bulls selected Scottie Pippen, who would form an iconic duo with Michael Jordan. Pippen spent 11 years in Chicago, winning six championships and earning numerous accolades.
Chris Webber and Penny Hardaway swap between Orlando Magic and Golden State Warriors (1993)
The 1993 NBA Draft significantly impacted the careers of Chris Webber and Penny Hardaway. Orlando selected Webber with the top pick but soon traded his rights to the Warriors for Hardaway, who would become a key player for the Magic alongside Shaquille O’Neal. Webber became Rookie of the Year and went on to have a Hall of Fame career.
Kobe Bryant traded from the Charlotte Hornets to the Los Angeles Lakers (1996)
After being drafted straight out of high school, Kobe Bryant was traded from the Hornets to the Lakers for Vlade Divac. His 20-year tenure in Los Angeles solidified his status as one of the greatest basketball players ever, leading to five championships, two Finals MVPs, and 18 All-Star selections.
Ray Allen and Stephon Marbury swapped between the Minnesota Timberwolves and Milwaukee Bucks (1996)
Selected fifth overall, Ray Allen was quickly traded to the Bucks for fourth overall pick Stephon Marbury. Allen rapidly became a superstar and legendary shooter, amassing two championships and 10 All-Star nods. Marbury enjoyed a solid career, earning two All-Star selections and two All-NBA nods.
Pau Gasol traded to the Memphis Grizzlies from the Atlanta Hawks (2001)
Pau Gasol became a standout player in Vancouver, winning Rookie of the Year in 2002 and leading the Grizzlies to their first-ever playoff appearance in 2004. Later on, he won two championships with the Lakers and earned induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2023.
