Hollinger & Duncan NBA Show - NBA Basketball Podcast The Best and Worst of the 2025 Trade Deadline
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Feb 7, 2025 The discussion highlights the winners and losers of the 2025 trade deadline, including the Lakers' strategic moves and their quest for roster sustainability. The impact of significant trades on team dynamics is examined, particularly focusing on the ambitious pursuits by the Memphis Grizzlies. Further insights are offered into the trade strategies of teams like the Charlotte Hornets and the challenges of financial management within the league. Plus, there's a unique award for the most trivial changes that ironically matter!
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Apron Impacts
- Teams found ways to navigate the first apron of the salary cap, using it to participate in the buyout market.
- The second apron, however, heavily restricted teams like Phoenix, preventing big moves like a potential Jimmy Butler trade.
MLE Shift
- The mid-level exception (MLE) became a salary dump at the deadline more than a tool to sign good players.
- This trend may impact future free agency and potential negotiations by the players association.
Lakers Win Big
- The Lakers are the biggest winners, acquiring Luka Dončić and potentially becoming players in the 2026 free agent market.
- This move, however, leaves them with limited assets and questions about their long-term championship contention.