The NBA's Spooky Season is Here

The new NBA campaign is in full swing, and while teams are brimming with optimism, it's time to reflect on some past blunders that continue to haunt franchises. As teams embark on an 82-game marathon, we take a look back at trades that not only hurt in the moment but have left scars that persist today.

Hawks' Regret of the Murray Trade

The Atlanta Hawks made a significant move by trading for Dejounte Murray, parting ways with Danilo Gallinari and three future first-round picks. While the goal was to build an All-Star backcourt alongside Trae Young, the result has been underwhelming. After failing to reach the playoffs in recent seasons, the Hawks are now struggling to balance win-now aspirations with the development of young talents like Jalen Johnson and Dyson Daniels.

Celtics and the Bane Misstep

Boston Celtics fans rue the day they traded away Desmond Bane, who has blossomed into an elite player, all for second-round picks. As the Celtics aim to build a championship roster, missing out on Bane's remarkable skill set feels like a haunting regret, especially as they prepare for a future without sufficient two-way support around their stars.

Nets’ Trade Skeletons

Looking back, the Brooklyn Nets face their own trade graveyard. The infamous deal that sent Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce to Brooklyn yielded only a single playoff series win. Meanwhile, these trades provided Boston with the assets that formed the backbone of its championship contender.

Hornets’ Gilgeous-Alexander Blunder

The Charlotte Hornets traded Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the player who has since become an All-Star, for Miles Bridges in a decision that continues to sting. As Gilgeous-Alexander thrives, the Hornets are left regretting their choice in a young player who has yet to make a significant impact.

The Bulls' Trade Nightmare

The Chicago Bulls faced backlash for acquiring Nikola Vučević, a miscalculation that cost them valuable draft picks now populated by stars like Franz Wagner. As Chicago wrestles with its identity, the ramifications of this deal loom large.

A Series of Haunting Trades

From the disastrous Chris Paul trade by the Rockets that sent Houston into a spiral, to the Pacers' regret over acquiring Markelle Fultz instead of allowing Tyrese Maxey to flourish, numerous teams have made decisions that haunt them to this day. The Knicks' trade for Andrea Bargnani remains a glaring example of misjudgment.

As the NBA season progresses, teams not only compete on the court but also grapple with their past decisions. These trades remind us that every player transaction can shape a franchise's future, often with spooky consequences.