The NBA witnessed several significant transactions in 2021 that reshaped the league's landscape. One of the most talked-about moves involved Russell Westbrook. The Los Angeles Lakers acquired Westbrook from the Washington Wizards in exchange for Kyle Kuzma, Montrezl Harrell, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, and the 22nd pick in the 2021 NBA Draft. Westbrook's contract, which was left with over $44 million for the 2021-22 season, became a focal point for discussions about the Lakers' salary cap space and their quest for another championship.
Several trades also highlighted the year, such as the blockbuster deal that sent James Harden to the Brooklyn Nets. This trade included significant assets and players being exchanged among four teams: the Houston Rockets, Brooklyn Nets, Cleveland Cavaliers, and the Indiana Pacers. The Nets gave up Caris LeVert, Jarrett Allen, Taurean Prince, Rodions Kurucs, four first-round draft picks, and four pick swaps. In return, they received James Harden, who averaged 24.6 points per game during the 2020-21 season, boosting Brooklyn's title aspirations exponentially.
Fans and analysts were amazed when the Chicago Bulls took a bold step and signed DeMar DeRozan. They secured DeRozan via a sign-and-trade deal with the San Antonio Spurs, giving up Thaddeus Young, Al-Farouq Aminu, and a future first-round pick, along with two second-round picks. DeRozan, who averaged 21.6 points and 6.9 assists in the previous season, added significant firepower to the Bulls' roster. This move also raised their payroll to around $128 million, pushing them closer to the luxury tax threshold.
One transaction that brought mixed reactions was the Miami Heat acquiring Kyle Lowry. The trade saw Miami sending Goran Dragic and Precious Achiuwa to the Toronto Raptors. Lowry, a six-time All-Star, brought invaluable playoff experience to a Miami team that reached the NBA Finals just two seasons ago. Lowry's acquisition came with a three-year contract worth approximately $85 million, making him a pivotal part of Miami's future plans.
As for free agency, the New York Knicks made headlines by signing Kemba Walker. After a buyout agreement with the Oklahoma City Thunder, Kemba Walker signed a two-year, $18 million deal with the Knicks. This move aimed to bolster New York's backcourt depth and provide a veteran presence. Walker, despite his struggles with injuries, remained a productive player, averaging 19.3 points per game in the previous season with the Boston Celtics.
One cannot overlook the Portland Trail Blazers' decision to sign Norman Powell to a five-year, $90 million contract. Powell had been a mid-season acquisition, coming from the Toronto Raptors in exchange for Gary Trent Jr. and Rodney Hood. His contributions, averaging 18.6 points for Portland, made him an essential part of their rotation moving forward.
The Phoenix Suns, fresh off an NBA Finals appearance, retained key player Chris Paul. Paul re-signed with the Suns on a four-year deal worth up to $120 million, ensuring the team's competitive window remained open. At 36 years old, Paul continued to defy age, showcasing his elite playmaking and leadership skills throughout the season. His presence and performance were vital in Phoenix's remarkable 51-21 record, which translated to a top seed in the Western Conference.
Another noteworthy move involved the Golden State Warriors, who signed veteran forward Otto Porter Jr. to a minimum contract. Otto Porter Jr., known for his defensive prowess and ability to knock down three-pointers, added value to a Warriors team looking to get back into title contention with the return of Klay Thompson.
The offseason wouldn't be complete without mentioning the Atlanta Hawks extending Trae Young's contract. The young star received a five-year, $207 million rookie maximum extension after leading the Hawks to the Eastern Conference Finals. Young's average of 25.3 points and 9.4 assists per game highlighted his importance to the team, securing the Hawks' faith in their franchise player.
Mention the link by clicking on nba transactions 2021, the landscape for many teams shifted dramatically through these key moves. Whether it was teams trading to balance their rosters, signing significant free agents, or extending contracts of cornerstone players, every decision had long-term implications. As the 2021-22 season unfolded, it became evident these transactions would influence the league’s competitive balance for seasons to come.