The NBA Western Conference saw major roster shifts in the offseason, with Klay Thompson heading to the Dallas Mavericks and Russell Westbrook joining the Denver Nuggets, two moves that has the potential to reshape the conference’s power dynamics. Dallas, already a formidable team, now ranks as a top contender in the West following Thompson’s addition. “Adding a shooter and defender of Klay’s caliber is a game-changer for Dallas,” said NBA analyst Tim MacMahon. “He brings championship experience that could take them deep into the playoffs.” Currently, the Mavericks sit at +600 odds, tied for second to win the Western Conference, trailing only the Oklahoma City Thunder, whose young core has continued to develop.

The 7 Biggest Moves in the West

The Western Conference saw major roster changes this NBA offseason, with key moves like Klay Thompson joining the Dallas Mavericks to form an offensive powerhouse and the Oklahoma City Thunder bolstering their defense with Isaiah Hartenstein and Alex Caruso. Teams such as the Golden State Warriors, Denver Nuggets, New Orleans Pelicans, and Sacramento Kings also added critical depth. Let’s see which signings will make the biggest splashes.

Klay Thompson to the Dallas Mavericks 

Klay Thompson’s move to the Dallas Mavericks is set to shake up the Western Conference, as the four-time NBA champion brings both championship experience and elite shooting to a Dallas team with high aspirations. Signing on a three-year, $50 million deal, Thompson reportedly turned down offers with higher total value to team up with Kyrie Irving and Luka Dončić, in the hopes of forming one of the league’s most dynamic offensive trios.

With his impressive track record, including five All-Star appearances and two All-NBA selections, Thompson’s shooting prowess will add a new dimension to the Mavericks’ offense, spacing the floor and opening up driving lanes for Irving and Dončić. As one of the best perimeter defenders in the league before his injuries, his defensive instincts will also bring stability to Dallas’ perimeter defense, an area where they’ve often struggled. For Thompson, the decision to join Dallas isn’t just about the financials; it’s a chance to compete deep into the playoffs once again and potentially bring the Mavericks back to championship contention.

Alex Caruso, Isaiah Hartenstein to Oklahoma City Thunder 

The Oklahoma City Thunder are poised for a more competitive season with the additions of ultimate role players Isaiah Hartenstein and Alex Caruso, both of whom bring specific skills the roster needs. Despite Hartenstein’s recent left-hand injury, the Thunder are hopeful for a speedy recovery, as he is expected to be a central figure in the team’s frontcourt. Known for his high energy, rebounding, and defensive hustle, Hartenstein averaged 5.8 rebounds and nearly a block per game with the New York Knicks last season. His absence would be felt if the injury lingers, as Oklahoma City’s depth at the center position has been impacted by other injuries as well.

Meanwhile, Caruso’s arrival adds a defensive anchor to the Thunder’s backcourt. A two-time All-Defensive Team selection, Caruso brings elite on-ball defense and versatility that Oklahoma City has been missing. His career-high stats with Chicago last season (10.1 points, 3.8 rebounds, 1.69 steals, and 1.00 block per game) highlight his growth as a player. Caruso’s ability to guard multiple positions and disrupt opposing offenses will be essential in a young Thunder roster looking to establish a defensive identity. His presence alongside rising stars like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren could make the Thunder the favorites in the Western Conference.

Russell Westbrook to the Denver Nuggets 

On the Denver side, Westbrook’s arrival infuses the Nuggets with proven leadership and experience. His veteran presence, combined with his drive and intensity, will likely benefit a Nuggets team with title aspirations. Denver’s odds also sit at +600, reflecting the belief that Westbrook’s addition could make them a dark horse for a deep playoff run.

Russell Westbrook’s move to the Denver Nuggets brings energy and a former MVP to the 2023 NBA champions,. The nine-time All-Star is joining Denver as a valuable asset off the bench, adding speed, rebounding, playmaking, and energy to a team already brimming with talent. Westbrook averaged 11.1 points, 4.5 assists, and 5.0 rebounds per game with the Los Angeles Clippers last season, showing his adaptability in a more limited role.

While this marks Westbrook’s fifth team change in the last eight seasons, his experience and intensity will provide a strong boost to Denver’s roster, particularly in relieving Jamal Murray and keeping the offense dynamic when star Nikola Jokić is off the court. For the Nuggets, the addition of Westbrook represents both an offensive spark and a veteran leader who has seen deep playoff action, potentially easing the physical and mental burden on their core players as they push for another title run. The question is can Westbrook bring more or less than Kentavious Caldwell-Pope?

DeMar DeRozan to Sacramento Kings 

DeMar DeRozan’s move to the Sacramento Kings on a three-year, $74 million sign-and-trade deal brings significant firepower and veteran leadership to a young, rising team. Coming off an impressive season with the Chicago Bulls, where he averaged 24 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 5.3 assists, DeRozan is expected to provide much-needed scoring depth and experience to the Kings’ lineup. Known for his late-game composure, DeRozan finished second to Stephen Curry in the NBA’s Kia Clutch Player of the Year voting, highlighting his reliability in high-pressure moments. At 35, his ability to create his own shot and facilitate for teammates makes him an invaluable asset for Sacramento as they aim to make a deep playoff push and compete with the Western Conference’s elite.

Kyle Anderson, Buddy Hield to Golden State Warriors 

The Golden State Warriors have also bolstered their lineup by signing versatile forward Kyle Anderson. Known for his defensive prowess and basketball IQ, Anderson could provide the Warriors with valuable depth. The Warriors picked up Anderson as a free agent on a three-year, $27 million contract—a solid move that gives Golden State a dependable playmaker and defender. Over the past two seasons with the Minnesota Timberwolves, Anderson averaged 6.4 points, 4.2 assists, and 3.5 rebounds, adding a balanced skill set to the Warriors’ rotation.

In the same six-team trade, the Warriors also brought in sharpshooter Buddy Hield, adding critical perimeter scoring. Known for his three-point accuracy, Hield’s ability to spread the floor alongside Stephen Curry could be instrumental in the Warriors’ offensive schemes. Last season, Hield averaged 16.8 points per game and hit 42.5% from beyond the arc with the Indiana Pacers, ranking among the NBA’s top shooters. Golden State, now seventh favorite at +1800 odds, is looking to keep its championship window open, and the combined impact of Anderson’s versatility and Hield’s scoring could make them a dangerous postseason threat.

Dejounte Murray to New Orleans Pelicans 

The 2022 NBA All-Star joins the Pelicans with some hot form from the Atlanta Hawks. He had averages of 22.5 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 6.4 assists last season from 78 games. Murray is set to join Brandon Ingram, Zion Williamson, and C.J. McCollum in one of the most talented rosters in the league. 

Deni Avdija to Portland Trail Blazers 

The 23-year-old forward heads to the Trail Blazers after four years at Washington Wizards where he finished sixth last season in the voting for the Most Improved Player.  While the addition of Avdija won’t make a huge difference in the win/loss column, it does add a piece next to Anfernee Simons, Jerami Grant and Shaedon Sharpe for the rebuilding Blazers.

Major offseason moves completely reshaped the Western Conference landscape, with players like Klay Thompson and Russell Westbrook poised to lift their new teams. The Mavericks and Nuggets are now among the top names, while teams like the Warriors and Kings have added key talent to stay competitive. With so much power in the West, fans are in for an uplifting season ahead.

These high-profile roster changes have not only intensified the Western Conference’s competition but have also shifted betting odds and championship expectations across the league. With perennial contenders such as the Nuggets, Mavericks, Warriors, and now the revitalized Thunder, Pelicans, and Kings, the Western Conference promises an intense battle throughout the season. As each team settles in with their new lineups, this season could bring a new balance of power, fueled by fresh talent, proven stars, and a high-stakes atmosphere.