WINNERS & LOSERS OF THE TRADE DEADLINE

The NBA trade deadline delivered fewer blockbusters and more balance-sheet manoeuvres - but the consequences are massive. We break down every meaningful move and what it actually means on the court.

Cleveland emerges as the clear winner, upgrading fit, saving roughly $100M in luxury tax, and improving its Eastern Conference title odds. Indiana lands one of the league’s most underrated centres in Ivica Zubac and sets itself up for another deep playoff run. The Clippers tear down mid-season without owning their pick, Golden State doubles down on a failed two-timeline gamble, and multiple franchises choose tax avoidance over contention.

We cover the Zubac deal fallout, Harden’s impact, Porziņģis to Golden State, Boston’s margin moves, Chicago’s guard overload, Memphis hitting reset, Utah betting big on Jaren Jackson Jr., Washington absorbing stars to hit the floor, and why some teams were right to do nothing at all.

No hype. No rumours. Just what actually happened, and who it helps. 

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