Luka Doncic (Photo by Jason Parkhurst/Imagn Images) and Kevin Garnett (Photo by Kim Klement/Imagn Images)
NBA teams build their rosters through three main methods: the draft, free agency, and trades. Blockbuster trades, in particular, can transform a struggling team into a title contender overnight.
Throughout history, several NBA trades have reshaped the league, with some moves leaving fans and analysts completely shocked.

Here Are Five Shocking Trades

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Luka Dončić To Los Angeles Lakers

Luka Dončić is undeniably one of the top players in the world, with many ranking him just behind Nikola Jokić. Fresh off a scoring title and an NBA Finals run, he seemed untouchable—until Dallas shocked everyone by trading him to the Lakers for Anthony Davis.

The move came with no prior speculation, as Lakers management kept talks completely under wraps. Dallas GM Nico Harrison had quietly reached out weeks earlier, but even the players involved were unaware.

Speculation swirls around the Mavericks’ motives, with Dončić’s upcoming $345 million extension possibly playing a role. Now, he joins a long list of NBA legends to wear the purple and gold.

Wilt Chamberlain To Los Angeles Lakers

In 1968, Wilt Chamberlain, fresh off three consecutive MVPs and an NBA title, was unexpectedly traded to the Lakers. In exchange, the 76ers received cash and a few role players.

The move immediately transformed Los Angeles into a contender, and Chamberlain became a franchise icon. It also marked the first time a reigning MVP was traded the year after winning the award.

Kevin Garnett To Boston Celtics

Three years after his MVP season, Kevin Garnett and the Timberwolves agreed to part ways. The Lakers and Suns pursued him, but Boston’s acquisition of Ray Allen swayed him. The Celtics traded Al Jefferson, four others, and two picks in the biggest one-player deal ever.

This move ignited the superteam era. Garnett, Allen, and Paul Pierce won 66 games and the 2008 title, beating the Lakers. Boston remained a contender, while Minnesota missed the playoffs for a decade.

Charles Barkley To Phoenix Suns

Charles Barkley needed a fresh start after controversies in Philadelphia, making the Phoenix Suns the ideal destination. Traded during the 1992-93 season, he immediately turned them into contenders for most of the decade.

While he never secured a championship, Barkley became a franchise legend and cemented his place among the greatest players ever.

James Harden To Houston Rockets

The 2011 trade that broke up a future Big Three saw James Harden, who was just beginning to break out, sent from Oklahoma City to the Houston Rockets in exchange for pennies on the dollar.

This move cost Oklahoma City a chance at multiple championships, while Houston became a title contender for nearly a decade.