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NBA Trade Deadline: Grading all 30 teams on their trades

By Josh Cornelissen

SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 09: Ben Simmons #25 of the Philadelphia 76ers dribbles the ball against the Sacramento Kings during the first half of an NBA basketball game at Golden 1 Center on February 09, 2021 in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 09: Ben Simmons #25 of the Philadelphia 76ers dribbles the ball against the Sacramento Kings during the first half of an NBA basketball game at Golden 1 Center on February 09, 2021 in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /
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NBA Trade Deadline: Grading all 30 teams on their trades
ATLANTA, GEORGIA – OCTOBER 25: John Collins #20 of the Atlanta Hawks reacts after hitting a three-point basket against the Detroit Pistons during the first half at State Farm Arena on October 25, 2021 in Atlanta, Georgia, NBA Trade Deadline: Grading all 30 teams on their trades. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /

NBA Trade Deadline Grades: Silent Types

Golden State Warriors

The Golden State Warriors lead this group of teams who did nothing at the deadline and can make a reasonable case that they didn’t need to. The Warriors go 14-deep on their roster, and the 15th guy is former No. 2 pick James Wiseman, who is rehabbing from knee surgery.

They didn’t need to make any minor moves, and given how well they are playing this season sending out their young prospects seems like a poor asset play. They were likely right to stand pat.

Grade: B+

Chicago Bulls

The Bulls were hyperactive in making trades at last year’s trade deadline and over the offseason, bringing in much of their rotation via trade.

With Patrick Williams out for an extended period of time, they could have made a move for a veteran power forward, but it doesn’t seem they were willing to pour all of their remaining resources into such a move. That could mean Williams is expected back before the end of the season.

Grade: B

Memphis Grizzlies

The Memphis Grizzlies are one of the league’s hottest teams, leaping up the standings to sit at third in the Western Conference as the All-Star Break approaches. Teams that make such a leap shouldn’t rush things, so Memphis standing pat is fine.

That being said, with three picks in this June’s draft and multiple expiring contracts, they had an opportunity to make a big swing. Perhaps one never materialized, but the Grizzlies aren’t a serious title contender right now; adding a significant piece could have helped bring that reality closer.

Grade: C+

Minnesota Timberwolves

The Minnesota Timberwolves are having their best season since Jimmy Butler left and look to have hit on a future offensive star in Anthony Edwards. They have had a number of young role players step up into roles that fit them well. They didn’t need to rush anything, and giving their core the rest of the year to gel makes sense.

Grade: B

Atlanta Hawks

This is puzzling. The Atlanta Hawks were in the Conference Finals last season, and this year sit at just 26-28. They have a deep roster but have struggled to find a winning mix of a rotation.

It seems like they would be a prime candidate to make a move or two at the deadline, but instead, they appear to be hoping to make another late-season blitz like they did last year.

Grade: C+