Pau Gasol (2008): The video extensively details the Lakers' acquisition of Pau Gasol from the Grizzlies in 2008. The trade was deemed a significant robbery due to the relatively meagre return given for Gasol, a superstar player. Kwame Brown, a massive bust, was among the traded players.
Dennis Rodman (1995): The video highlights the controversial trade of Dennis Rodman to the Chicago Bulls. This trade, surprising given Rodman's off-court issues and relatively small return for the Bulls, eventually proved beneficial, contributing to the Bulls' three championships.
Jason Kidd for Stephon Marbury (2001): The trade of Jason Kidd for Stephon Marbury is examined. The video questions the Phoenix Suns' decision to trade a player of Kidd's caliber, highlighting the trade as shocking.
Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett, and Jason Terry (2013/14): The video analyses the notorious Nets-Celtics trade that sent veteran stars Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett, and Jason Terry to the Nets, ultimately benefitting the Celtics due to acquiring future draft picks. The deal was criticized for trades involving players past their prime.
Wilt Chamberlain (1965 & 1968), Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (1975), Shaquille O'Neal (1996): Other significant trades are highlighted with legendary players, showing how trades can create a shift in talent and power balance throughout the NBA. These examples show how players can sometimes effectively be their own agents and initiate their trade.
Kyrie Irving (2017): The video discusses the trade of Kyrie Irving, emphasizing the unexpected circumstances behind the move and its impact on both teams. The trade was a significant event but also failed to yield significant results.
James Harden (2012): The trade of James Harden from the Thunder to the Rockets is examined. The video highlights the significant financial aspects and how the trade was a devastating blow to the Thunder, impacting their dynasty.
Kawhi Leonard and Paul George (2019): The blockbuster trade for Kawhi Leonard and Paul George is analysed, noting the surprising nature of the Clippers landing two Superstars and the enormous amount of draft capital expended. The video argues that the deal was a strategic masterstroke.
Luka Dončić (2025): The recent shocking trade of Luka Dončić is placed as the most astonishing event covered in the video. The surprising nature and minimal compensation are highlighted, solidifying the trade as the most surprising amongst this group.
