Kawhi Leonard to the Raptors, Anthony Davis to the Lakers, and Kevin Durant to the Suns are part of the 15 biggest blockbuster NBA trades since 2000.
Over the past two decades, the landscape of professional sports has been defined not only by incredible plays on the court but also by monumental blockbuster trades that shook the foundations of the sporting world. From franchise-altering moves to superstar acquisitions, the NBA has witnessed its fair share of jaw-dropping trades since the turn of the millennium.
In this riveting retrospective, we delve into the annals of basketball history to unveil the most significant and game-changing blockbuster trades that have taken place since the year 2000. From iconic player swaps that shifted the balance of power in the league to bold moves that propelled underdog teams to championship glory, these trades have left an indelible mark on the sport and captivated fans worldwide.
Join us on this thrilling journey as we relive the moments that sent shockwaves through the NBA, analyzing the strategic genius behind these trades and the lasting impact they had on teams, players, and the league’s landscape. From the era-defining trades that ignited dynasties to the surprising moves that changed the fortunes of franchises, this article celebrates the biggest blockbuster trades that have forever shaped the course of NBA history. Get ready to witness the drama, excitement, and legacy that these trades have bestowed upon the world of basketball.
Honorable MentionsBradley Beal To The Phoenix Suns (2023)
Credit: Fadeaway World
Trade Details
Phoenix Suns Receive: Bradley Beal, Jordan Goodwin, Isaiah Todd
Washington Wizards Receive: Chris Paul, Landry Shamet, Six Second-Round Picks (2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028 and 2030), Four First-Round Pick Swaps (2024, 2026, 2028 and 2030)
The Bradley Beal trade to the Phoenix Suns was done not too long ago, and it makes the Suns a significant favorite in the Eastern Conference. Beal was taken No. 3 overall in the 2012 NBA Draft and stuck with the Washington Wizards for 11 seasons, making him one of the longest-tenured players in the league. However, since Washington was not able to achieve any success, Beal was moved.
Phoenix let go of their starting point guard Chris Paul and sharpshooter Landry Shamet along with six second-round picks and four pick-swaps to get rid of Beal and his max contract. In a way, the Wizards did not get much in return at first although Paul was later shipped to the Golden State Warriors and that brought back Jordan Poole, a 24-year-old budding star.
Donovan Mitchell To The Cleveland Cavaliers (2022)
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Trade Details
Cleveland Cavaliers Receive: Donovan Mitchell
Utah Jazz Receive: Lauri Markkanen, Ochai Agbaji, Collin Sexton, 2025 First-Round Pick, 2027 First-Round Pick, 2029 First-Round Pick, Two Pick Swaps (2026, 2028)
Before the 2022-23 season started, the Cleveland Cavaliers decided to shake up the Eastern Conference and make a blockbuster move for All-Star Donovan Mitchell. Mitchell was fresh off averaging 25.9 PPG with the Utah Jazz and the deal meant that the new core in Cleveland was going to be Darius Garland, Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen. That was a team filled with potential.
Even if the Cavaliers suffered a first-round exit in the playoffs, it was still a massive deal that sent Lauri Markkanen (who would become a 2023 All-Star), Collin Sexton, and three first-round picks, which were the core of the deal. Mitchell had a strong first season with the Cavs, averaging 28.3 PPG and having a franchise-record 71-point performance against the Chicago Bulls during the regular season.
15. Kyrie Irving To The Dallas Mavericks (2023)
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Trade Details
Dallas Mavericks Receive: Kyrie Irving, Markieff Morris
Brooklyn Nets Receive: Spencer Dinwiddie, Dorian Finney-Smith, 2029 First-Round Pick, 2027 Second-Round Pick, 2029 Second-Round Pick
The Dallas Mavericks looked stuck without a chance to acquire a bonafide All-Star player to pair with All-NBA player and MVP candidate Luka Doncic. After making the Western Conference Finals in the 2021-22 season, the Mavericks looked to build on a fantastic season. Before the trade deadline, Dallas made one of the biggest moves in their franchise’s history by acquiring All-Star Kyrie Irving. There was no other deal on the table that could have netted the Mavericks a player of Irving’s talents so this trade was absolutely a shocking and blockbuster deal at the time.
Unfortunately, just like other deals on this list that have been considered somewhat of a success, this trade did not work out during the end of the 2023 season. Dallas did not make the playoffs and had to accept entering the lottery, one year removed after making the Western Conference Finals. Luckily, going forward, there is potential for this duo to be strong as Doncic is only 24 years old and Irving is still only 31 years old. If all works out, this deal could be the best in Mavericks’ history.
14. Allen Iverson To The Denver Nuggets (2007)
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Trade Details
Denver Nuggets Receive: Allen Iverson, Ivan McFarlin
Philadelphia 76ers Receive: Andre Miller, Joe Smith, 2007 First-Round Pick, 2007 First-Round Pick
The Denver Nuggets acquiring Allen Iverson in 2006 was undeniably a blockbuster trade that sent shockwaves through the NBA. At the time, Iverson was not only one of the league’s most electrifying and iconic players but also a beloved figure in Philadelphia, where he had spent the majority of his career. The trade involved Denver sending Andre Miller, Joe Smith, and two first-round draft picks to the Philadelphia 76ers in exchange for “The Answer.”
His presence on the Nuggets’ roster increased the team’s visibility on a national and international scale, drawing attention to a franchise that had not been in the limelight for quite some time. With Iverson joining up with Carmelo Anthony, the time to compete was now. During the 2007-08 season, the team won 50 games and secured a playoff berth. Even if the furthest Iverson and Anthony went was the 2008 Western Conference Finals, this deal was massive for the Nuggets franchise as it brought a top-tier star to the team and certainly caused a ton of excitement.
13. Kevin Love To The Cleveland Cavaliers (2015)
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Trade Details
Cleveland Cavaliers Receive: Kevin Love
Minnesota Timberwolves Receive: Andrew Wiggins, Anthony Bennett, Thaddeus Young, $6.3M Trade Exception
Philadelphia 76ers Receive: 2015 First-Round Pick, Alexey Shved, Luc Richard Mbah a Moute
The Cleveland Cavaliers had to make a decision once LeBron James returned to Cleveland. The time to win was now, and by moving No. 1 overall pick Andrew Wiggins, the Cavaliers were able to bring back All-Star power forward Kevin Love to pair with LeBron James and Kyrie Irving. For the second time in his career, James had a superteam with exceptionally talented players to win a championship with.
The impact of the trade on the Cavaliers’ success was profound. With Love as an integral part of the team, the Cavaliers reached the NBA Finals in four consecutive seasons, from 2015 to 2018, and won their first NBA championship in franchise history in 2016. Love’s contributions on both ends of the floor, coupled with his ability to stretch the defense with his shooting, were instrumental in the team’s playoff success.
12. Dwight Howard To The Los Angeles Lakers (2013)
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Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Dwight Howard, Chris Duhon, Earl Clark
Orlando Magic Receive: Nikola Vucevic, Aaron Afflalo, Al Harrington, Maurice Harkless, Josh McRoberts, Christian Eyenga, 2014 First-Round Pick, 2015 First-Round Pick, 2017 First-Round Pick, 2013 Second-Round Pick, 2015 Second-Round Pick
Philadelphia 76ers Receive: Andrew Bynum, Jason Richardson
Denver Nuggets Receive: Andre Iguodala
The Los Angeles Lakers wanted to make a blockbuster deal to give Kobe Bryant a new running partner, and they found a way to acquire the best center in the world Dwight Howard. There were doubts about Howard coming to Los Angeles due to his back issues, but based on his success in Orlando, including a 2009 Finals appearance, this was a complex four-team deal, with the Lakers sending Andrew Bynum to the Philadelphia 76ers and other players and draft picks changing hands.
The impact of the trade on the Lakers’ success was highly anticipated, but it faced challenges as Howard struggled with injuries during his time in Los Angeles. Not to mention, Bryant and Howard did not get along with the latter having a relaxed demeanor when it came to competing for championships. Despite the hurdles, the acquisition of Howard epitomized the Lakers’ commitment to building a powerhouse team capable of competing at the highest level. Howard was an All-Star in 2013 but Los Angeles lost in the first round of the playoffs. The following year, Howard moved to Houston, which made this deal relatively disappointing.
11. Paul George To The Los Angeles Clippers (2020)
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Trade Details
Los Angeles Clippers: Paul George
Oklahoma City Thunder: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Danilo Gallinari, 2021 First-Round Pick, 2022 First-Round Pick, 2023 First-Round Pick, 2024 First-Round Pick, 2026 First-Round Pick
The summer of 2019 was simply incredible because we saw the Los Angeles Lakers acquire Anthony Davis and the rival Los Angeles Clippers sign Kawhi Leonard in free agency. To make matters even more interesting, the Clippers signed All-Star swingman Paul George to form one of the best dynamic duos in the NBA. The trade involved a significant haul of players (including eventual 2023 All-NBA Team member Shai Gilgeous-Alexander) and draft picks going to the Thunder in exchange for George, showcasing the Clippers’ determination to build a championship-caliber team.
So far, the Clippers have faced constant disappointment with Leonard and George having constant injuries and not being able to keep healthy enough for championship success. The furthest the duo got was the second round of the playoffs in the 2020 Playoffs before failing to close a 3-1 lead against the Denver Nuggets. The Clippers did make the Western Conference Finals in 2021, but Leonard was injured and it was a one-man show with George leading the way. Considering the Clippers gave up five first-round picks, and Gilgeous-Alexander has become an All-Star, many wonders if this was the right trade.
10. Carmelo Anthony To The New York Knicks (2011)
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Trade Details
New York Knicks Receive: Carmelo Anthony, Chauncey Billups, Shelden Williams, Anthony Carter, Renaldo Balkman
Denver Nuggets Receive: Wilson Chandler, Raymond Felton, Danilo Gallinari, Timofey Mozgov, 2014 First-Round Pick, 2012 Second-Round Pick, 2013 Second-Round Pick, $3M Cash
Bringing Carmelo Anthony to the Big Apple was a game-changing move for the Knicks. His scoring ability, offensive versatility, and clutch performances made him an immediate fan favorite and injected new life into the team and its passionate fan base. Paired with Amar’e Stoudemire, the Knicks had a formidable duo that was capable of putting up points in bunches and competing against the best teams in the league. Most importantly, the Knicks finally had an elite superstar for the first time since Patrick Ewing.
The impact of the trade on the Knicks’ success was evident as they experienced an upswing in performance and returned to the playoffs after a prolonged absence. Anthony’s scoring prowess and ability to create his shot brought excitement and hope to a franchise that had been struggling for years. He became the centerpiece of the team’s offense and provided a much-needed injection of star power and talent. Over his stint with the Knicks, Anthony made seven straight All-Star Teams and won a scoring title in 2013 by averaging 28.7 PPG.
While the trade didn’t result in an NBA championship for the Knicks due to inner turmoil and injuries, it was undoubtedly a blockbuster move that revitalized the team and brought newfound excitement and relevance to the storied franchise. Anthony was a legend with the Denver Nuggets, so acquiring him from New York started changing the image of the Knicks franchise.
9. Tracy McGrady To The Houston Rockets (2005)
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Trade Details
Houston Rockets Receive: Tracy McGrady, Juwan Howard, Tyronn Lue, Reece Gaines
Orlando Magic Receive: Steve Francis, Cuttino Mobley, Kelvin Cato
The Houston Rockets pulled off one of the biggest trades in their history, if not their largest, by acquiring Tracy McGrady in his prime. His ability to score from anywhere on the court, coupled with his playmaking s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s and defensive prowess, made him a dynamic force and a matchup nightmare for opponents. Paired with Yao Ming, the Rockets now had a potent duo that had the potential to dominate the league.
The impact of the trade on the Rockets was critical in terms of changing the outlook of the team. McGrady’s scoring ability and leadership elevated the team to new heights, leading them to several successful seasons. However, McGrady only made three playoff appearances with the Rockets and his stint was relatively disappointing due to back injuries that would eventually spell the end of his career. Even if the Rockets did not win with McGrady, having a player with the ability to take over games and deliver clutch performances made him a beloved figure in Houston.
8. James Harden To The Brooklyn Nets (2021)
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Trade Details
Houston Rockets Receive: Victor Oladipo, Dante Exum, Rodions Kurucs (from Nets), 2022 First-Round Pick, 2024 First-Round Pick, 2026 First-Round Pick, 2027 First-Round Pick, Pick Swaps (2021, 2023, 2025, 2027)
Brooklyn Nets Receive: James Harden, 2024 Second-Round Pick
Indiana Pacers Receive: Caris LeVert, 2023 Second-Round Pick
Cleveland Cavaliers Receive: Jarrett Allen, Taurean Prince
The acquisition of James Harden by the Brooklyn Nets in 2021 was an undeniable blockbuster trade that sent shockwaves throughout the NBA. Harden, a former MVP and one of the league’s most prolific scorers had already cemented his status as one of the best players in the game during his time with the Houston Rockets. The trade involved a massive four-team deal that saw multiple players, draft picks, and swaps changing hands, showcasing the Nets’ determination to form a Big Three and become legitimate championship contenders.
With Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving already on the roster, adding Harden created an unprecedented trio of offensive firepower. The impact of the trade on the Nets’ success was immediately evident as they emerged as one of the most formidable teams in the NBA. Unfortunately, Harden’s stint with the Nets ended in relative disaster as The Beard only played 80 games over his two seasons and forced his way out of Brooklyn. Considering the Nets only managed to go to the second round of the playoffs in 2021 and the first round in 2022, this blockbuster deal was essentially massive without results.
7. Chris Paul To The Houston Rockets (2018)
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Trade Details
Houston Rockets Receive: Chris Paul
Los Angeles Clippers Receive: Patrick Beverley, Lou Williams, Montrezl Harrell, DeAndre Liggins, Darrun Hilliard, Sam Dekker, Kyle Wiltjer, 2018 First-Round Pick, $661K Cash
The Houston Rockets managed to give James Harden a chance to become an MVP candidate and once he arrived, Daryl Morey and management tried to surround The Beard with All-Stars. They tried with Dwight Howard, but the big man was not able to be a second option anymore. By far the best move the Rockets made since acquiring Clyde Drexler was trading for future Hall of Famer Chris Paul, sending seven players and a first-round pick to the Los Angeles Clippers.
This move paid dividends as the Rockets pushed the Kevin Durant and Stephen Curry-led Golden State Warriors to Game 7 in the Western Conference Finals and came close to making the Finals for the first time since Hakeem Olajuwon was playing. Even if the Rockets did not win the championship, Harden and the team became one of the best offensive teams in NBA history under Mike D’Antonio’s coaching gameplans and this deal will remain in the hearts of Rockets fans.
6. Kevin Durant To The Phoenix Suns (2023)
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Trade Details
Phoenix Suns Receive: Kevin Durant, T.J. Warren
Brooklyn Nets Receive: Mikal Bridges, Cameron Johnson, Juan Pablo Vaulet, 2023 First-Round Pick, 2025 First-Round Pick, 2027 First-Round Pick, 2029 First-Round Pick, 2028 First-Round Pick Swap, 2028 Second-Round Pick, 2029 Second-Round Pick
Milwaukee Bucks Receive: Jae Crowder
Indiana Pacers Receive: George Hill, Serge Ibaka, Jordan Nwora, 3 Second-Round Picks, Cash
Yet another blockbuster deal happened in 2023, this time coming with Kevin Durant heading to Phoenix to form a dominant duo alongside Devin Booker. Durant and Booker were not only elite offensive players but fantastic talents when it came to leading a team in the playoffs. The Suns made the move right before the trade deadline, and that meant team chemistry was hardly built. Not to mention, the rest of the roster was filled with average but unspectacular role players who simply were not capable of performing for a championship team.
As a result, the Suns fell to the Denver Nuggets in the second round of the playoffs and were forced to re-tool in the summer of 2023. No surprise, the Suns did not rest on their laurels as they sent Chris Paul to Washington for All-Star shooting guard Bradley Beal. Regardless, Kevin Durant to Phoenix has to be one of the biggest deals in history, considering the magnitude of star power teaming up.
5. Pau Gasol To The Los Angeles Lakers (2008)
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Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Pau Gasol
Memphis Grizzlies Receive: Kwame Brown, Javaris Crittenton, Aaron McKie, Marc Gasol, 2008 First-Round Pick, 2010 First-Round Pick
The acquisition of Pau Gasol by the Los Angeles Lakers in 2008 was a blockbuster trade that reshaped the NBA landscape. Gasol, a s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁ed and versatile power forward, had been a key player for the Memphis Grizzlies, earning an All-Star selection during his time there. The trade involved the Lakers sending a package of players, including Kwame Brown, Javaris Crittenton, and draft picks, to the Grizzlies, which made this one of the biggest steals in NBA history.
Bringing Gasol to Los Angeles was a game-changing move for the Lakers. His exceptional basketball IQ, passing ability, and scoring in the post made him an ideal frontcourt partner for the Lakers’ superstar, Kobe Bryant. For the first time since Shaquille O’Neal was by his side, Bryant had an elite big man who could score, rebound, and facilitate the offense from the post. No surprise, Bryant and Gasol reached the NBA Finals in three consecutive seasons from 2008 to 2010, winning the championships in 2009 and 2010.
Even if Bryant and Gasol could not win their third title together, it was a franchise-changing move because adding two more titles to the iconic Lakers franchise proved to be essential in getting close to the Boston Celtics’ record of 17 titles.
4. Shaquille O’Neal To The Miami Heat (2005)
Credit: Fadeaway World
Trade Details
Miami Heat Receive: Shaquille O’Neal
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Caron Butler, Lamar Odom, Brian Grant, First-Round Pick
Shaquille O’Neal, widely regarded as one of the most dominant centers in basketball history, had already established himself as a force to be reckoned with during his tenure with the Los Angeles Lakers by winning three championships. Miami knew what they were doing when they consulted the Lakers for a trade for their disgruntled big man. The trade involved the Heat sending Lamar Odom, Caron Butler, Brian Grant, and a first-round draft pick to the Lakers in exchange for O’Neal.
Bringing Shaq to Miami was a game-changing move for the Heat. His imposing presence in the paint, scoring ability, and shot-blocking prowess made him a formidable force and a nightmare for opposing defenses. Paired with rising star Dwyane Wade, the Heat now had a potent duo that had the potential to take the league by storm and contend for an NBA championship.
Miami finished with a 59-23 record in the 2005 season, and they tried to make a push to the NBA Finals, although they fell in seven games to the defensive-minded Detroit Pistons in the Eastern Conference Finals. The following season, Miami finished with 52 wins and made it to the NBA Finals before defeating Dirk Nowitzki and the Dallas Mavericks to win the championship. Considering how quickly Miami became a title contender with the Shaq trade, this deal has to be one of the best over the past two decades.
3. Kevin Garnett To The Boston Celtics (2008)
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Trade Details
Boston Celtics Receive: Kevin Garnett
Minnesota Timberwolves: Al Jefferson, Ryan Gomes, Gerald Green, Theo Ratliff, Sebastian Telfair, 2009 First-Round Pick, 2009 First-Round Pick
No doubt, the Boston Celtics might have fleeced the Minnesota Timberwolves even if the trade involved five players and two first-round picks. Kevin Garnett’s defensive prowess, basketball IQ, and leadership qualities made him an ideal addition to a team that already featured Paul Pierce and the recently-acquired Ray Allen. The arrival of “The Big Ticket” formed a formidable Big Three that had the potential to dominate the league and bring the Celtics back into contention for an NBA championship.
The impact of the trade on the Celtics’ success was immediate and profound. With Garnett anchoring the defense and leading by example with a Defensive Player of the Year trophy, the Celtics experienced a dramatic turnaround. During the 2007-08 season, they became a defensive juggernaut and finished with the best record in the Eastern Conference. Garnett’s contributions were instrumental in leading the Celtics to their 17th NBA championship, ending a 22-year title drought for the storied franchise.
2. Anthony Davis To The Los Angeles Lakers (2020)
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Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Anthony Davis
New Orleans Pelicans Receive: Brandon Ingram, Lonzo Ball, Josh Hart, 2019 No. 4 Overall Pick, 2021 First-Round Pick, 2024 First-Round Pick, 2023 First-Round Pick Swap, 2025 First-Round Pick Swap, Cash From The Wizards
Washington Wizards Receive: Isaac Bonga, Jemerrio Jones, Moritz Wagner, 2022 Second-Round Pick
LeBron James coming to Los Angeles in the 2018-19 season was a game-changer because it placed the spotlight on Lakers management to build a superteam around The King. After all, LeBron was a three-time NBA champion who was still a top-5 player in the world when he arrived in Los Angeles. The King had to endure a difficult first season by missing the playoffs in 2019, but the following year, the Lakers had Anthony Davis on their team. No doubt, the duo of James and Davis could not be stopped in terms of size and s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁 set.
Los Angeles formed a solid team around them with role players such as Rajon Rondo, Kyle Kuzma, Alex Caruso, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, and Dwight Howard, and Los Angeles finished with 52 wins. To nobody’s surprise, even with a Covid-shortened season, the Lakers made it to the NBA Finals and defeated the Miami Heat in six games to give LeBron James his fourth NBA championship. Considering the Lakers managed to nab a 26-year-old MVP candidate in his prime, this deal was a blockbuster one of the highest order.
1. Kawhi Leonard To The Toronto Raptors (2019)
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Trade Details
Toronto Raptors Receive: Kawhi Leonard, Danny Green
San Antonio Spurs Receive: DeMar DeRozan, Jakob Poeltl, 2019 First-Round Pick
The acquisition of Kawhi Leonard by the Toronto Raptors in 2018 was undoubtedly a blockbuster trade that made headlines across the NBA. Leonard, a two-time NBA champion and Finals MVP had established himself as one of the league’s most dominant two-way players during his tenure with the San Antonio Spurs. The trade involved the Raptors sending a package that included DeMar DeRozan to the Spurs in exchange for Leonard, signaling Toronto’s determination to take a significant risk and go all-in for a championship.
The Raptors took a massive gamble by trading for Leonard because he made it clear that his future would be in Los Angeles. Toronto did not care about that and went all-in for Kawhi for a chance to win the 2018-19 NBA championship. Guess what? It worked. This gamble was life-changing for the Raptors because they will never get a chance to trade for a top-5 NBA player again. Considering the risks involved and how it worked out, the deal for Leonard has to be the most shocking and influential over the past two decades.
