As the 2025 NBA free agency period began, teams have begun making significant roster changes. Here are the key analysis points:

Loser: Milwaukee Bucks

• Key additions: Myles Turner, Gary Harris, Vasilije Micić
• Key losses: Damian Lillard, Brook Lopez, Pat Connaughton
• Re-signed: Kevin Porter Jr., Bobby Portis, Gary Trent Jr.

The Bucks seem to have made desperate moves by waiving Lillard and allocating $113 million of his contract to pay Turner $107 million over four years. Many question whether this strategy truly benefits superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo.

Winner: New York Knicks

• Key additions: Jordan Clarkson, Guerschon Yabusele

The Knicks have turned a new leaf by hiring Mike Brown, a well-respected coach known for his successful history. The additions of Clarkson and Yabusele are expected to bolster the team’s bench significantly.

Winner: Houston Rockets

• Key additions: Kevin Durant, Dorian Finney-Smith, Clint Capela

The Rockets made pivotal improvements by adding both Durant and Finney-Smith, establishing themselves as strong contenders in the West.

Loser: Los Angeles Lakers

• Key additions: Jake LaRavia, Deandre Ayton

While the Lakers acquired Ayton, the move is seen as a marginal upgrade, failing to address significant weaknesses ahead of the upcoming season. They are now viewed as potentially lingering behind rivals like the Nuggets.

Winner: Atlanta Hawks

• Key additions: Kristaps Porzingis, Nickeil Alexander-Walker

Atlanta is taking bold steps with additions that will give star player Trae Young added support, significantly improving their roster.

As the free agency progresses, teams like the Bucks and Lakers appear to be trending in the wrong direction while others like the Rockets and Hawks capitalize on bold moves.