Uncovering the NBA’s Historic 7-Team Trade This Summer: The How and Why Behind This Game-Changing Move

How does a massive seven-team trade happen? It’s a bit like building a Lego masterpiece—one piece at a time.

Having worked as the vice president of basketball operations for the Memphis Grizzlies from 2012 to 2019, I’ve seen firsthand how these complex trades come together. A blockbuster trade, like a seven-team deal, often starts with smaller transactions.

Why opt for a multi-team trade? It can offer considerable advantages. Trades done simultaneously create a larger trade exception under the collective bargaining agreement, compared to doing them one after another. For example, when the Grizzlies traded Courtney Lee to the Charlotte Hornets in 2016, we initially aimed for a straightforward swap. But by pulling in the Miami Heat, we maximized what we could gain through trade exceptions, significantly increasing the financial flexibility for all teams involved.

The recent trade involving Kevin Durant illustrates how multi-team deals can escalate. That deal stemmed from five different agreements made around the draft, with only the Atlanta Hawks joining due to free agency. Instead of a long sequence of trades, tying them together made the process smoother for everyone.

But multi-team trades are not just limited to the draft. Take Klay Thompson’s trade to the Dallas Mavericks, which involved six teams. Each move built off the last one, leveraging trade exceptions to benefit everyone involved. Often, these massive trades occur at specific points: around July 6, when teams are negotiating free-agent contracts, or at the trade deadline when time is of the essence.

In 2024, the Houston Rockets negotiated a deal with the Phoenix Suns that evolved before the deadline. By waiting until the right moment, they added another team—the Atlanta Hawks—leading to a more favorable setup. This flexibility illustrates how interconnected roster strategies can be.

When looking at past events versus the current landscape, it’s worth noting that the rules surrounding trade exceptions have become more flexible recently. According to a 2023 report from the NBA, these evolving regulations have made it easier for teams to maneuver within the salary cap, leading to a rise in complex trades.

The engagement of fans also plays a role. Social media buzz often reflects excitement or concern over big trades, creating a fascinating dialogue among supporters. Reactions range from celebration for new signings to apprehension about team chemistry.

In summary, while it may seem chaotic, multi-team trades are a natural evolution of basketball business. Increasing trade exceptions and strategic thinking create a new era of complex trades. Expect to see even more of these as teams leverage the evolving rules for their benefit.



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Atlanta Hawks, Brooklyn Nets, Minnesota Timberwolves, Houston Rockets, Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Lakers, Phoenix Suns, NBA