David Thorpe grades the trades

In reviewing this week’s NBA trades, David Thorpe didn’t hand out a lot of ‘A’ grades. But Caris LeVert in Cleveland strikes him as a move with big potential. JASON MILLER/GETTY IMAGES

We learned a lot on Thursday. To David Thorpe’s eyes:

• The Spurs appear to have big plans for 2025, likely built around a big man they hope to get high in the 2022 draft. 

• CJ McCollum might change how Zion Williamson sees the Pelicans.

• The Celtics’ new starting lineup will play incredible defense. 

• The Blazers are paying dearly for the giant mistake not trading Damian Lillard last summer.

• Caris LeVert might be perfect for the Cavaliers.

• The Nets and 76ers improved, but so did almost every East playoff team. 

You know his views on the Ben Simmons/James Harden trade. Now here’s David Thorpe on everything that mattered at the trade deadline, broken down by money, wins, and process–the three-headed beast we can use to grade each major move.