In one of the most surprising multi-team deals of the NBA offseason, Kristaps Porzingis finds himself on the move again. The Boston Celtics, Atlanta Hawks, and Brooklyn Nets pulled off a complicated but high-impact trade that could change the future of all three franchises. The big question: Who came out on top in the Kristaps Porzingis trade?
This article breaks down Kristaps Porzingis trade grades for each team involved, looks at the short- and long-term implications, and gives fans and analysts plenty to think about.
Trade Summary: What Went Down?
Before diving into the trade grades, let’s look at the details of the deal:
Three-Team Trade Breakdown
Boston Celtics Receive:
- Kristaps Porzingis (from Washington via previous deal)
- De’Andre Hunter (from Atlanta)
- Future 2nd-round pick (via Brooklyn)
Atlanta Hawks Receive:
- Malcolm Brogdon (from Boston)
- Day’Ron Sharpe (from Brooklyn)
- 2026 1st-round pick (via Boston)
Brooklyn Nets Receive:
- Clint Capela (from Atlanta)
- Sam Hauser (from Boston)
- 2028 2nd-round pick (via Boston)
Now let’s look at how each team fared in the trade and assign Kristaps Porzingis trade grades accordingly.
Boston Celtics Trade Grade: A-
What the Celtics Gained
The Celtics added two impact players: Kristaps Porzingis and De’Andre Hunter. While they gave up Malcolm Brogdon and Sam Hauser—both valuable rotational pieces—they significantly boosted their starting five and defensive presence.
Kristaps Porzingis brings scoring versatility, rim protection, and floor spacing to the Celtics’ frontcourt. He fits well alongside Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, giving Boston a more dynamic offensive system. His ability to hit threes, post up smaller defenders, and block shots makes him an ideal modern big.
De’Andre Hunter is a physical wing defender with shooting upside. While he’s been inconsistent at times in Atlanta, his potential is undeniable. Under a disciplined system like Boston’s, Hunter could flourish in a 3-and-D role, especially when guarding the East’s top wings.
Risks for Boston
- Injury Concerns: Porzingis has a history of injuries. If he’s not available in key playoff moments, this move could backfire.
- Depth Loss: Brogdon and Hauser were reliable off the bench. Losing them could hurt in a long postseason run.
Why It Still Works
Boston is clearly going all-in to win now. This trade improves their starting lineup and allows them to match up better against Eastern Conference heavyweights like Milwaukee and Philadelphia.
Celtics Trade Grade: A-
Atlanta Hawks Trade Grade: B+
What the Hawks Gained
The Hawks sent out Clint Capela and De’Andre Hunter, clearing salary and spacing issues in their rotation. In return, they received Malcolm Brogdon and Day’Ron Sharpe, along with a valuable 2026 first-round pick.
Malcolm Brogdon is a smart, veteran guard who can either start alongside Trae Young or lead the second unit. He adds ball security, outside shooting, and playoff experience. This move hints at the Hawks possibly shopping Dejounte Murray or Trae Young soon.
Day’Ron Sharpe is a young, energetic big who provides rebounding and physicality. While not as polished as Capela, Sharpe offers long-term upside at a lower cost.
Why Atlanta Wins
- Clears Logjam: The frontcourt was too crowded. Moving Capela and Hunter gives the Hawks more flexibility.
- Cap Space Management: Shedding Capela and Hunter’s contracts helps the Hawks in the long run.
- Draft Capital: A future 1st-rounder gives them a valuable asset.
Concerns
- Defense Drops Off: Losing Capela and Hunter weakens Atlanta’s defense in the short term.
- Health Risks: Brogdon has a history of injuries, and the Hawks will rely on his availability.
Hawks Trade Grade: B+
Brooklyn Nets Trade Grade: B
What the Nets Gained
Brooklyn received Clint Capela, Sam Hauser, and a 2028 second-round pick. This move signals a shift in priorities for the Nets, who seem to be focusing on becoming a strong defensive team while developing young talent.
Clint Capela is a dependable veteran center who can anchor a defense and grab boards. With Nic Claxton possibly moving on in free agency or trade, Capela is a solid replacement and short-term stabilizer.
Sam Hauser adds shooting depth to a team that sorely lacked spacing last season. He’s affordable and productive—a smart addition to any rotation.
Why This Is Smart for Brooklyn
- Interior Defense: Capela brings rim protection and rebounding.
- Cost-Effective Talent: Hauser is a bargain with big upside.
- Low-Risk Deal: Giving up Day’Ron Sharpe, who didn’t fit well into Brooklyn’s long-term plan, and a second-rounder is manageable.
What They Missed
- Lack of Star Power: The Nets are still without a true star to build around.
- Capela’s Fit: With the team possibly rebuilding, Capela’s timeline may not align with future goals.
Nets Trade Grade: B
Kristaps Porzingis: X-Factor for Boston’s Title Hopes
The centerpiece of this trade is undoubtedly Kristaps Porzingis, and his performance could determine how this move is judged a year from now.
Why He’s Valuable
- Spacing: Forces opposing bigs to leave the paint.
- Scoring: Can put up 20+ points without being ball-dominant.
- Defense: Blocks shots and alters drives, even if he’s not elite on the perimeter.
The Big “If”
Porzingis is a game-changer—when healthy. That’s the caveat. He had a fantastic season with Washington last year, but injuries have been the story of his career. Boston will need him available during the playoffs for this trade to be a real win.
How This Trade Affects Each Team’s Future
Boston Celtics Outlook
- Immediate Championship Contender
- Stronger Frontcourt
- Win-Now Mentality
If Porzingis and Hunter mesh well with Tatum and Brown, Boston could make the Finals again.
Atlanta Hawks Outlook
- Rebuild in Motion
- Cap Flexibility
- Possible Star Trade Coming
Atlanta might be setting the stage for a major move—possibly trading Trae Young or Dejounte Murray.
Brooklyn Nets Outlook
- Competitive While Rebuilding
- Veteran Stability
- Asset Collection
Brooklyn stays relevant while continuing to gather pieces for a future star-led rebuild.
Who Won the Kristaps Porzingis Trade?
While all three teams made moves that suit their current goals, Boston Celtics are the biggest winners on paper. They added elite talent while maintaining a solid core. If Porzingis stays healthy, this could be the move that finally gets them over the hump.
Final Trade Grades Recap:
- Boston Celtics: A- — Best player in the trade and strong lineup upgrade.
- Atlanta Hawks: B+ — Smart retooling and good asset management.
- Brooklyn Nets: B — Veteran presence and flexibility with minimal risk.
Conclusion
The Kristaps Porzingis trade grades reflect a smart, multi-layered deal that helped all three teams in different ways. While Boston improves its championship odds, Atlanta resets its roster for flexibility, and Brooklyn balances youth with experience.
Trades like this aren’t just about today—they’re about what comes next. And with the 2025 season approaching, fans should keep an eye on how Porzingis and the Celtics capitalize on this bold move.
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