In the NBA, success stories often begin with high expectations, top draft picks, and carefully structured development plans. But some players defy that conventional narrative. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Tyrese Haliburton, and Jalen Brunson are three such examples—players who not only overcame early transitions but also transformed their careers after their original teams moved on.
These three guards share one remarkable commonality: they each began their NBA journeys with different franchises and were ultimately cast aside—either through trade or by being allowed to walk in free agency. But rather than fade, they flourished, becoming cornerstones of their new teams and reshaping their destinies.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: From Potential to Powerhouse
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s entrance into the league came with quiet promise. Drafted by the Charlotte Hornets in 2018 and immediately traded to the Los Angeles Clippers, Shai showed glimpses of elite-level talent during his rookie year. His poise, length, and shot-making ability caught the eye of many around the league.
Yet, in pursuit of championship contention, the Clippers packaged him in a blockbuster deal for Paul George—sending Shai to the Oklahoma City Thunder. What seemed like a secondary move at the time turned into a franchise-defining shift for OKC. Shai didn’t just adjust to his new environment—he thrived, gradually evolving into an All-Star and eventually ascending to MVP-caliber play. Under his leadership, the Thunder have returned to playoff relevance, and he’s now widely regarded as one of the most dynamic guards in the NBA.
Tyrese Haliburton: A New Vision in Indiana
Haliburton’s story begins with the Sacramento Kings, where he was drafted in 2020. His rookie season quickly made it clear that he was special—an intelligent floor general with elite court vision and a high basketball IQ. However, Sacramento already had a franchise cornerstone in De’Aaron Fox, and the backcourt fit between the two guards never fully clicked.
In a bold move, the Kings traded Haliburton to the Indiana Pacers—a decision that shocked many, including Haliburton himself. But it turned out to be a blessing in disguise. In Indiana, Haliburton was given the keys to the offense. His creativity, pace, and leadership allowed him to blossom into one of the most inventive playmakers in the league, averaging double-digit assists and becoming an All-Star. What Sacramento saw as expendable, Indiana embraced—and Haliburton has never looked back.
Jalen Brunson: From Role Player to Franchise Star
Then there’s Jalen Brunson, a steady and skilled guard who made his way into the league through hard work and consistency. Drafted by the Dallas Mavericks, Brunson steadily developed into a reliable contributor alongside Luka Dončić. Despite his growth, the Mavericks hesitated when it came time to extend his contract, allowing him to enter free agency in 2022.
That decision proved costly.
The New York Knicks made their move, handing Brunson a significant contract and a bigger role. Since arriving in New York, he’s elevated his game to an entirely new level, becoming the heart and soul of the team. His leadership, clutch performances, and relentless drive have made him a fan favorite—and earned him the title of the “King of New York.”
From Overlooked to Unstoppable
These three guards were once viewed as secondary pieces or expendable assets by the teams that drafted them. But each has since carved out a new identity—becoming franchise cornerstones, All-Stars, and in Shai’s case, an MVP candidate. Their journeys serve as powerful reminders that sometimes, the path to greatness begins when someone else closes the door.
Each started in one jersey.
Each became something greater—somewhere else.
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