As the NBA offseason approaches, speculation is mounting around potential trades, especially with a relatively light free agency market. Many teams coming off disappointing seasons may feel pressured to find alternative ways to improve their rosters, especially considering the league has recently seen significant player movements that have shifted expectations. Notably, high-caliber players once deemed 'untouchable' may now be more accessible than ever.

The Los Angeles Clippers are one team to watch as they contemplate their direction heading into the summer. Following an impressive performance where teammates James Harden and Kawhi Leonard demonstrated their potential with a stellar plus-15.3 net rating when playing together, the Clippers are expected to seek enhancements. However, they must first navigate Harden's $36.3 million player option for the upcoming season. Aligning his contract with Leonard's, which runs through the 2026-27 season, could be a strategic move for the franchise. The Clippers may prioritize acquiring role players who can support their stars while maintaining an eye on the long-term trajectory of the team.

Conversely, the Los Angeles Lakers have also shown interest in bolstering their roster by engaging with the Atlanta Hawks regarding young big man Onyeka Okongwu. Despite previously pursuing Mark Williams before retreating from that trade, the Lakers recognize their need to fill the void created by Anthony Davis's ineffective presence in the paint. While Okongwu holds promise as a valuable asset given his affordable contract and potential upside, acquiring him could prove challenging for the Lakers, as the Hawks likely view him as an essential member of their core.