NBA Insiders Propose Six Trades Involving Multiple Teams

ESPN NBA insiders presented six trade ideas on May 25, 2026, that would involve several teams and multiple established players. The proposals address roster needs, salary constraints, and draft considerations for the upcoming offseason.

One scenario sends Daniel Gafford from the Dallas Mavericks to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for Jarred Vanderbilt, Dalton Knecht, and the Lakers' 2026 first-round pick at No. 25. The deal would give the Lakers a center who previously played alongside Luka Doncic while the Mavericks would receive a younger player and draft compensation.

The Mavericks would also clear future salary obligations under the arrangement. Gafford remains under contract through the 2028-29 season at a higher annual figure than Vanderbilt.

A second proposal has the Oklahoma City Thunder sending Jalen Williams to the Brooklyn Nets for Michael Porter Jr. and three future first-round picks. The move would reduce Oklahoma City's payroll commitments after extensions for two players pushed combined salaries for three core players from $58.6 million this season to $123.8 million next season.

The Nets would acquire a 25-year-old wing who has dealt with recurring hamstring issues. Additional trade frameworks discussed by the insiders involve other players and teams but contain fewer specific asset details in the initial reporting.