Five overlooked key signings that are quietly changing the league
2025-07-27 04:38
July 27th news: In the 2025 offseason, major moves such as Durant's seven-team trade, Bane's transfer to the Magic, and Cam Johnson's joining the Nuggets attracted all attention. However, in addition to these big news that made headlines, some low-key signings and trades may be the key reinforcements that truly affect the new season.
1. Tyus Jones signs with the Magic
The Magic made frequent moves during the offseason. After renewing the contract with Banchero and trading Bane, they signed a steady point guard Tyus Jones . Last season, he averaged 10.2 points and 5.3 assists per game for the Suns , with only 1.1 turnovers, a 3-point shooting percentage of 41.4% , and an assist-to-turnover ratio of 4.71 , second only to Haliburton. Faced with the Magic's last-place offensive and organizational performance in the league last season, Jones' joining will undoubtedly provide clearer and more efficient support for Banchero, Bane and Wagner.
2. Jack LaRavia joins the Lakers
The Lakers did not use a high price to make up for Finney - Smith's departure, but instead wisely brought in 23- year-old Jack LaRavia . The former Kings forward had a 3-point shooting percentage of 42.3% last season, a 45.5% open shooting percentage , and can cover multiple positions on the defensive end. Partnering with Doncic and James, he will get a lot of open opportunities in a more mature system and is expected to become an important supplement to the Lakers' perimeter.
3. Jay Huff traded to Pacers
After losing Myles Turner , the Pacers quickly traded two second-round picks to the Grizzlies for Jay Huff , completing a very cost-effective reinforcement. Huff only played 11.7 minutes last season and scored 6.9 points, 1.3 three-pointers and 0.9 blocks. He has the characteristics of a stable space center. His three-point shooting percentage is 40.5% . If he increases his shooting volume, he is expected to be among the top in the league. He is also very clear on the defensive end, limiting the opponent's shooting percentage at the basket to only 54.5% . His joining not only fills Turner's vacancy, but also brings higher growth potential.
4. Luke Kornet signs with the Spurs
The Spurs quickly signed Luke Cornette after the free market opened to provide a strong inside partner for Wen Ban Yama. The 7- foot -1 center fits the " twin towers " system very well and has excellent finishing and rim protection capabilities. Last season, his shooting percentage was as high as 66.8% , and most of his points came from the basket; at the same time, he averaged 2.3 screen assists in 18.6 minutes per game , which is a blue-collar model in the pick-and-roll. On the defensive end, his limit hit rate at the basket is second only to Wen Ban Yama. The two have great potential in helping each other defend, which will support a solid wall for the Spurs' inside line.
5. Lonzo Ball traded to Cavaliers
After Ty Jerome left the team, the Cavaliers quickly traded Okoro for Bulls guard Lonzo Ball . Although Ball still has injury concerns, he returned to the team for 35 games last season and showed good organizational and defensive abilities, averaging 7.6 points, 3.3 assists, 1.3 steals and 1.9 three-pointers per game, with a playing time of only 22.2 minutes. Although he was sidelined again due to injury at the end of the season, he was able to quickly regain his form after being absent for more than 1,000 days, which shows his resilience and strength. If he returns to health, he will play a greater role in the Cavaliers system and reignite his career.
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