The 2021 NBA free-agent signing period is winding down, but deals are still getting done.
Among the most impactful early moves: Kyle Lowry joining the Miami Heat on a three-year deal via a sign-and-trade with the Toronto Raptors, Chris Paul re-signing with the Western Conference champion Phoenix Suns on a four-year deal, Lonzo Ball heading to the Chicago Bulls and Mike Conley returning to the Utah Jazz.
Other significant deals included Carmelo Anthony joining LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers, DeMar DeRozan heading to the Chicago Bulls on a sign-and-trade, Stephen Curry agreeing to a four-year extension with the Golden State Warriors and Kawhi Leonard returning to the LA Clippers with a new four-year deal.
What deals are getting done, and how are they shifting the balance of power around the league? Let's evaluate all the significant free-agent signings and trades to determine which moves make sense, which are bargains and which are head-scratchers.