The 10 Biggest Traitors in NBA History

In the world of professional sports, loyalty is a cherished virtue. However, the NBA has seen its fair share of controversial moves and decisions that have left fans feeling betrayed. Whether it’s players jumping ship for rival teams or organizations making unexpected trades, these moments have sparked outrage and debate. Here’s a look at the ten biggest “traitors” in NBA history.

1. LeBron James Leaves Cleveland for Miami

In 2010, LeBron James made “The Decision” to leave the Cleveland Cavaliers for the Miami Heat, joining forces with Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh. The televised announcement was seen as a slap in the face to Cleveland fans, who had watched LeBron grow from a hometown hero to a global superstar. The move led to a backlash, with fans burning his jerseys and the owner writing an open letter condemning the decision. Despite winning two championships with Miami, the sting of his departure was deeply felt in Cleveland.

2. Kevin Durant Joins the Golden State Warriors

Kevin Durant’s decision to join the Golden State Warriors in 2016 after the Oklahoma City Thunder blew a 3-1 lead to them in the Western Conference Finals was seen as a betrayal. Many fans and analysts criticized Durant for joining a team that had just set the record for most wins in a regular season (73-9), calling it a weak move to chase rings rather than build a legacy as a leader. His move paid off in terms of championships, but it tarnished his reputation among some fans.

3. Shaquille O’Neal Leaves Orlando for Los Angeles

Shaquille O’Neal’s departure from the Orlando Magic in 1996 to sign with the Los Angeles Lakers was a major blow to the Magic franchise. Shaq was seen as the cornerstone of the young team, and his decision to leave for the bright lights of L.A. felt like a betrayal to Orlando fans. The move, however, led to multiple championships for O’Neal and the Lakers, while Orlando struggled to regain its footing.

4. Vince Carter Forces Trade from Toronto Raptors

Vince Carter, once dubbed “Air Canada,” was instrumental in putting the Toronto Raptors on the map. However, his relationship with the organization soured, leading to a contentious trade to the New Jersey Nets in 2004. Fans felt betrayed by Carter, believing he quit on the team and forced his way out. The trade left a bitter taste, and Carter was booed vehemently whenever he returned to Toronto.

5. Ray Allen Signs with Miami Heat

Ray Allen’s decision to leave the Boston Celtics in 2012 to sign with the Miami Heat was seen as a betrayal by many Celtics fans and his former teammates. Allen joined a direct rival, and his departure was marked by bad blood, particularly with Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce, who felt betrayed by his decision to join a team they had intense rivalries with.

6. Dwight Howard Leaves Los Angeles Lakers

After a tumultuous single season with the Los Angeles Lakers, Dwight Howard chose to sign with the Houston Rockets in 2013. Howard’s departure was seen as a betrayal to Lakers fans, who had high hopes for a partnership between him and Kobe Bryant. The decision added to the drama of Howard’s career, further damaging his reputation among NBA fanbases.

7. Kyrie Irving Demands Trade from Cleveland Cavaliers

In 2017, Kyrie Irving requested a trade from the Cleveland Cavaliers, despite having just won a championship with LeBron James. Irving’s desire to leave LeBron’s shadow was seen as a betrayal by Cavs fans who believed the team was on the cusp of more titles. His move to the Boston Celtics was controversial and marked a significant shift in the NBA landscape.

8. DeMarcus Cousins Joins Golden State Warriors

DeMarcus Cousins signing with the Golden State Warriors in 2018 for a mid-level exception was a shocking move. Cousins was coming off a significant injury, but the decision to join an already stacked Warriors team was viewed as a betrayal by fans who expected him to seek a more competitive balance in the league. The move was seen as chasing an easy ring rather than proving himself as a top player.

9. Carmelo Anthony Forces Trade from Denver Nuggets

Carmelo Anthony’s insistence on being traded from the Denver Nuggets to the New York Knicks in 2011 was seen as a selfish move, prioritizing market size and personal brand over team loyalty. The trade gutted the Knicks’ roster, and while Anthony enjoyed individual success, the Knicks struggled to find team success, leading to a complicated legacy.

10. Chris Paul Leaves Los Angeles Clippers for Houston Rockets

Chris Paul’s decision to orchestrate a trade from the Los Angeles Clippers to the Houston Rockets in 2017 was seen as a betrayal by Clippers fans. The team, once dubbed “Lob City” and filled with promise, was left to rebuild. Paul’s departure marked the end of an era and a significant shift in power in the Western Conference.

In the NBA, loyalty is often complicated by the business aspects of the sport. While some players and moves are labeled as betrayals, they are often driven by personal goals, career aspirations, and the pursuit of championships. These controversial decisions continue to spark debates among fans and shape the narratives of players’ careers, highlighting the complex dynamics of professional basketball.