Top Off Season Player Movements in the NBA

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By: staff Posted: September 1, 2009

Top Off Season Player Movements in the NBA

The off season is one of the favorite moments of NBA owners and managers to shuffle their roster once again. By trading and acquiring players during the off season, they can “test” their roster and make some improvements just in time for opening tip.

Along with the change of the team roster is the change of team’s chances of winning an NBA title or at least improving their winning percentage. Each trade and acquisition actually brings in small improvements or degradation to the team. Whatever the movement would be, fantasy players will always be affected.

Some trades actually contribute to the significant improvement of the team which should also affect your player selection when the season starts. The following are player movements that should make you think twice about your current team roster:

• Shaquille O’Neal

Shaquille O'Neil of the Cleveland Cavaliers

Suns to Cavaliers – although he’s not as dominant as he used to be, his presence in Cavaliers should make a lot of difference. He can boost the performance of Lebron James and the rest of the team as his “can do” attitude will always be there. He might not be as strong as he used to be but can certainly help in boards because of his size.

• Shawn Marion

Shawn Marion - Toronto Raptors

Raptors to Mavericks – since his trade to Raptors, Marion didn’t really have a lot to prove except to help Chris Bosch. A trade to Mavericks places him in better position to win a title and even have a significant impact. He should become one of the impact players in Mavericks as the team is also shedding some key players.

• Ron Artest

Houston to Lakers – if there’s any player Kobe wishes could be part of his team, it would be Artest. As the player who can practically clip Kobe’s wings, his presence should clear Kobe of any future trouble and help in defense. The best part of the deal is that Ron Artest is already a key player in the West with his improved character.

• Vince Carter

Nets to Magic – you have to admit that Vince Carter is still a dominant player, if he just push himself to do more. By trading him to Magic, he might be motivated to play better as the Magic’s current roster can actually win games not just in regular season but also during the play-offs.

Honorable Mentions:

• Ben Gordon

Moving from Bulls to Pistons should be great training for Ben Gordon. A very physical player, he provides the intensity Pistons needed to get back into title contention.

• Zach Randolph

While moving from Clippers to Grizzlies is not exactly an NBA title move, this can be a significant move for Randolph and the team. His stats should improve as he can have the ball more.

These are the players that should make some significant impact not only for themselves but also for their team as stats will rise and fall for some players. Take note that their effect is not only in numbers but also in boosting the team’s morale.