Ranking the NBA's Most Questionable Offseason Moves of 2026

The NBA's offseason has seen a flurry of activity, with teams eager to position themselves for a shot at the championship. However, not all moves have been wise, and some could haunt franchises for years to come. This article highlights the most questionable decisions made during the 2026 offseason.

One of the most controversial moves involved the Los Angeles Lakers, who traded two unprotected first-round picks and two swaps to acquire center Walker Kessler from the Utah Jazz. While Kessler is viewed as a solid starting center, the hefty price tag raises concerns about the Lakers' future flexibility. With no first-round picks available for the next seven years, the Lakers risked their ability to improve their roster further, especially given Kessler's lack of All-Star accolades thus far.

The New York Knicks also faced criticism for their decision to let Mitchell Robinson sign with the Boston Celtics. Despite his injury history and poor free-throw shooting, Robinson's defensive prowess and rebounding skills were instrumental in the Knicks' success, including their recent championship victory. The Knicks opted for a cheaper alternative in Andre Drummond, which may not meet the expectations of a team aiming to defend its title.

Meanwhile, the Chicago Bulls made headlines by acquiring Nic Claxton from the Brooklyn Nets in a three-team trade. While they didn't give up assets to land him, Claxton's recent decline in performance raises questions. With a significant contract and poor rebounding statistics, Claxton could become a financial burden for the Bulls as they look to rebuild.

As the season approaches, these offseason moves will be closely scrutinized, with teams hoping their gambles pay off, while others may regret their choices as the campaign unfolds.