The 2024 NBA off-season has been full of some big moves in the Eastern Conference with Paul George and Mikal Bridges among some most eye-catching transfers.
Biggest Moves of the Off-Season: NBA Eastern Conference
The question waiting to be answered is whether some of these huge additions will work out. But it is safe to say, that Philadelphia is certainly in the conversation to go all the way in the Eastern Conference this season after George crossed to the club from the Los Angeles Clippers in a huge move as a free agent.
But there is a simmering cloud over the 76ers as George and star Joel Embiid remain in recovery mode from left knee injuries set to keep them out for the start of the NBA season.
The 76ers enter the campaign as the third favorite at +6.00 behind the New York Knicks (+4.50) who have signed Bridges and favorites Boston Celtics (+2.40).
There could certainly be some other teams rising to glory in 2024-25 with some big names coming onto rosters. See the big additions at the clubs ahead of the start of the season.
Paul George to Philadelphia 76ers
The nine-time All-Star forward will join former MVP Embiid and the league’s most improved player Tyrese Maxey at the 76ers in a massive coup for the club. George has reportedly signed a four-year $212 million contract in July.
Mikal Bridges to the New York Knicks
The former Brooklyn guard-forward’s move to the Knicks meant the first trade between the New York rivals since 1983. A raft of picks were swapped as part of the trade for the Defensive Player of the Year in 2022.
Tobias Harris to Detroit Pistons
After six seasons at Philadelphia, Tobias Harris arrives at the Pistons on a two-year, $52 million deal. The 31-year-old averages 6.3 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 2.4 assists over his 13-year career.
James Wiseman to Indiana Pacers
The pick No.2 from the 2020 draft will be suiting up for the Pacers this season where he has signed a two-year, $4.8 million contract. Arriving at his third NBA team, big man James Wiseman will look to bring some continuity to his game in his fifth season.
Tim Hardaway Jr. to Detroit Pistons
After some solid success at Dallas where he made the playoffs in four of six seasons, Tim Hardaway Jr. arrives at the Pistons. The 11-year NBA veteran has appeared in 736 games across New York, Atlanta and Dallas.
Josh Giddey to Chicago Bulls
The pick No.7 from the 2021 draft is heading to the Chicago Bulls after three seasons at Oklahoma City Thunder. The Australian 22-year-old Josh Giddey was traded in exchange for guard Alex Caruso.
The Last Word
As the 2024-25 NBA season approaches, these trades set the stage for an exciting season. Will the newly acquired stars deliver the success their teams are aiming for? Nonetheless, fans can expect a thrilling race to the playoffs.