The association has witnessed so many trades that people never expected to happen. Many such transactions entail changes in the composition and structure of the teams—outcomes that alter the career path of the players. Below are the five most shocking and stunning transfers in NBA history that should still be on the hottest topic of discussion among basketball lovers.
1. Wilt Chamberlain to the Los Angeles Lakers (1968)
Perhaps the most memorable trade was when the Philadelphia 76ers traded Wilt Chamberlain to the Los Angeles Lakers for cash and two players. Said at the time, Chamberlain was a three-time MVP and the reigning champion. It shocked fans when he decided to swap for a guy who went on to enjoy a legendary career, leading the Lakers to the NBA title in 1972.
2. Charles Barkley to the Phoenix Suns (1992)
The trade of Charles Barkley from the Philadelphia 76ers to the Phoenix Suns was not what was expected by many, as he was a Philadelphia man throughout his career. That’s how he landed this rather lucky switch, became a franchise player in Phoenix, and took them to the NBA Finals in 1993. What is left for Barkley in this trade?
3. Kyrie Irving to the Boston Celtics (2017)
One such move that took many people by surprise was when Kyrie Irving demanded a trade from the Cleveland Cavaliers to the Boston Celtics, a direct rival. The fans were expecting Irving to stay loyal and stick with the LeBron James-anchored team after they won a championship, only for him to move to another team that competes with his former team. The Cavaliers acquired Isaiah Thomas and others in exchange, but that trade altered the course of both of these franchises, according to Givemesport.
4. Kyrie Irving to the Boston Celtics (2017)
The trade of Kawhi Leonard from the San Antonio Spurs to the Toronto Raptors came as a shock as he was a risky buy owing to his injuries and contract issues. The Raptors traded for him, fully aware that he only had one year remaining on his contract. This proved to be a big risk as Toronto, with Leonard at the helm, was able to clinch its first NBA title making this one of the biggest trades in the history of the league.
5. Dwight Howard to the Houston Rockets (2013)
Star-crossed, the Brooklyn Nets bet their future on acquiring veterans Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce in exchange for multiple first-round draft picks to the Boston Celtics. This trade was shocking because it made Brooklyn look like a team that was trying to win today with disgruntled players who were over the hill. In the end, it blew up in their faces as both players jumped ship within three seasons, and Brooklyn was left scratching their heads.
These trades have not only reallocated players and consequently transformed teams but also impacted player careers and fans in an entire league. Of these trades, which one do you think affected the teams most? While pondering these decisions, there is one thing we can all be clear on: the NBA is very unpredictable.
