The blockbuster Giannis Antetokounmpo trade to the Miami Heat and strict new financial aprons have frozen the market for high-priced NBA veterans. Following the first round of the NBA Draft, not a single established player was traded, shifting the league’s focus to impending roster crunches. The Oklahoma City Thunder selected 7-foot-3 center Aday Mara at No. 12 overall, adding a potential “Wemby stopper” to an already crowded frontcourt.
With Chet Holmgren, Isaiah Hartenstein, Jaylin Williams, and Thomas Sorber occupying space, Oklahoma City now has five big men on the roster. The Thunder sit more than $30 million above the second tax apron, raising immediate questions about potential cost-cutting moves involving players like Lu Dort or Kenrich Williams.
Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant’s trade prospects have rapidly dwindled. Morant requires a team with a true point guard opening to justify his max salary due to his struggles with 3-point shooting and defense. The draft saw a sudden run on point guards at picks No. 5, No. 6, No. 7, and No. 8, effectively eliminating several of Morant’s rumored landing spots.
Morant’s primary trade destinations have moved on to cheaper alternatives. The Sacramento Kings drafted point guard Darius Acuff. The Miami Heat shifted their assets to acquire Antetokounmpo, and the New Orleans Pelicans dropped their pursuit after drafting Jeremiah Fears last season.