The NBA training camps are firing on all cylinders as the 2026 offseason officially draws to a close. The summer has seen an array of blockbuster trades, featuring top-tier talents like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Jaylen Brown, Kawhi Leonard, Ja Morant, LaMelo Ball, Paul George, and Brandon Ingram. However, despite these significant moves, the offseason has left fans and analysts alike wondering about a few glaring missed opportunities. As teams like the San Antonio Spurs, Golden State Warriors, and Dallas Mavericks sit at crossroads, let's explore five trades that not only should have happened but could still make waves in the current NBA landscape.
San Antonio Spurs: Time to Address the De'Aaron Fox Situation
The San Antonio Spurs are faced with a De'Aaron Fox dilemma following the emergence of guard Dylan Harper. When the Spurs initially traded for Fox, they likely didn't foresee the impact Harper would have on their future. At just 20 years old, Harper has impressed by showing flashes of brilliance alongside Victor Wembanyama, suggesting he could be a cornerstone for the franchise.
Fox, who shone as an All-Star last year with averages of 18.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 6.2 assists, may not fit into their long-term plans now that Harper is set to take the reins. The Spurs could benefit from a trade to the Houston Rockets, where Fox would step in as an upgrade at the guard position over Fred VanVleet, who is coming off a significant injury. A deal sending VanVleet and Jabari Smith Jr. to San Antonio in exchange for Fox could be mutually beneficial. A move like this not only clears the path for Harper but also brings in experienced veterans for San Antonio’s young roster.
Los Angeles Clippers: Fixing the Center Situation
The Los Angeles Clippers are among the teams in dire need of an upgrade, particularly at the center position. With 38-year-old Brook Lopez and the recovering Yanic Konan Niederhäuser, Los Angeles must act quickly. The Milwaukee Bucks, looking to create space for the promising Kel'el Ware, could part with Myles Turner — a player who can shoot from the perimeter and offer defensive prowess.
A trade involving Turner could serve both teams well. For the Clippers, acquiring Turner would fortify their roster as they vie for a playoff spot, while the Bucks can further develop Ware by giving him a starting role. With Turner’s ability to stretch the floor and protect the rim, both franchises could find themselves in far better positions come playoff time.
Kyrie Irving: A Move to Orlando Could Spark Magic
The Dallas Mavericks find themselves at a delicate juncture with Kyrie Irving on their roster. After a season marred by injuries and inconsistency, the Mavs would benefit from moving the 34-year-old guard for younger assets. Enter the Orlando Magic — a team in desperate need of offensive firepower to complement their young core of Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner, and Jalen Suggs.
Sending Suggs and a few additional picks to Dallas in exchange for Irving could set both teams up for success. The Magic aim to bolster their offensive capabilities following subpar performances, while the Mavericks can bring in a younger playmaker, establishing a new era centered around phenomenal prospects like Cooper Flagg. With new head coach Sean Sweeney leading the way for Orlando, this deal could transform their season and breathe new life into their playoff aspirations.
Golden State Warriors: A Plan for the Future Amidst Stability Concerns
The Golden State Warriors have seen little movement in their offseason strategy, a decision that brings both promise and concern. Given their recent struggles, it might be time to shake things up. Utilizing Jimmy Butler’s expiring contract as trade bait could prove beneficial. Meanwhile, trading for talents like Trey Murphy III and Dejounte Murray would enhance their roster and cultivate roster depth.
Murphy’s breakout potential and Murray’s reliable playmaking can create new dynamics on both ends of the court. As the Warriors aim to contend once more, a potential trade crafted to retain playoff viability and perhaps even title hopes could serve as a crucial step forward.
Detroit Pistons: Searching for Offensive Help
The Detroil Pistons are in search of a reliable second offensive option to pair with Cade Cunningham. The team’s recent addition of Tobias Harris doesn’t quite cut it for a franchise seeking the utmost success. Ideally, Detroit should target a wing capable of self-creation. Names like Tyler Herro or RJ Barrett stand out as potential fits, providing the Pistons with the offensive versatility they desperately need.
With all their first-round picks intact, any trade could signify a bold move towards contention. The Pistons must ensure they don’t remain predictable within the league. By trading for a prolific scorer, they can keep defenses on their toes and elevate their status as serious playoff contenders over the next few years.
As the offseason winds down, the NBA landscape remains ever-changing. Whether it’s the Spurs trying to reconfigure their backcourt, the Clippers addressing their front line, the Mavericks and Magic reshaping their identities or the Pistons enhancing their playmakers, the potential for impactful trades is palpable. Now, all eyes are on teams as they strategize to reclaim their footing before the 2026 season tips off.
