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It’s that time in the NBA when the financial stakes rise, unveiling once more that free agency isn’t truly “free.”
Numerous players now have the freedom to select their future destinations, provided there’s reciprocal interest from one or more teams. However, this free agency period lacks a marquee name that could significantly transform a franchise and leave other teams feeling despondent.
While LeBron James is officially a free agent, his unwavering connection to the Los Angeles Lakers will likely keep him in the fold, especially with his legacy and family’s future firmly rooted there. With a $52 million option on the table and the prospect of an extension for a player nearing 40, his free agency situation is anticipated to remain uneventful.
On the other hand, several contending teams are keen on making roster enhancements to boost their chances in the upcoming season, and there are certainly players available who can aid in that pursuit.
Notable names in the discussion include: Kyrie Irving (injured but reportedly set to secure an extension with Dallas), D’Angelo Russell (a versatile scorer), Josh Giddey (expected to re-sign with the Chicago Bulls), Nickeil Alexander-Walker (an evolving combo guard), Quentin Grimes (in a similar situation, yet the Philadelphia 76ers have bolstered their backcourt), Bobby Portis (is there still a discount available from Milwaukee?), and Brook Lopez (who might be exploring a move elsewhere).
And that’s not all.
Here are 10 of the most noteworthy potential free agents for 2025:
**Status: $36 million player option**
Entering his 17th season and turning 35 in August, he ranked fifth in assists at 8.7 last year; his playmaking was crucial for the Clippers. Although his scoring isn’t as prolific as before, he still managed nearly 23 points per game. Harden earned All-NBA Third Team honors and was an All-Star, showcasing his effectiveness even as he nears the end of his career. He’s likely to sign a new contract with the Clippers and continue in L.A., yet his pursuit of a championship could introduce other possibilities.
**Status: $15 million player option**
After being a consistent value for years, he’s ready to seek a payday. There’s debate over whether Reid can command starter-level pay following his award-winning stint as the Kia Sixth Man of the Year. Standing as an undersized center who isn’t dominant on the boards, he compensates with a respectable three-point shooting percentage (37.9% in 2024-25) and an average of 14.2 points per game along with scoring capability off the dribble. The Timberwolves are interested in retaining him, but can they afford both him and Rudy Gobert? Is it wise to allocate that much money to a single position, especially after selecting another center in the first round?
**Status: $30.9 million player option**
Having a standout season with the Timberwolves, Randle excelled during the first two playoff rounds but faced challenges against Oklahoma City’s defense in the Western Conference Finals. This situation raises questions about leverage. Should Randle depart, it leaves Minnesota with little to show for the Karl-Anthony Towns trade. He could opt for an extension in Minnesota or decline it to explore free agency, though finding a suitable winning team could be challenging.
**Status: Unrestricted free agent**
Being the longest-serving player with the Pacers at a decade, Turner contributed to Indiana’s journey to the 2025 NBA Finals. The Pacers will surely factor this in while determining his contract length and value. As a stretch-center with solid defensive skills at the rim, his poor performance in the Finals may impact his market appeal or his value to the Pacers. Currently, Indiana lacks a strong replacement, which benefits Turner’s bargaining position.
Myles Turner reflects on a decade of growth leading to his first NBA Finals appearance with the Pacers.
**Status: Restricted free agent**
Kuminga’s season with the Warriors was intriguing; despite Coach Steve Kerr reducing his playing time, he showed promise (averaging 15.3 ppg on 48.4% shooting in 23.4 minutes) during the playoffs. At just 22, his talent is apparent and other teams are likely to take notice. The key question is whether a rival team will extend an enticing offer to lure him away from the Warriors or whether a mutual understanding can be reached with Golden State, which is unlikely to let him go without compensation.
**Status: Restricted free agent**
It would be surprising if he and the Nets don’t come to terms; both parties seem eager to make it work, and Brooklyn has sufficient cap space available for the scoring guard entering his fourth season. The potential for growth is significant, and unless a competitive offer emerges from another team, it appears Thomas will return to a team ready to utilize his talents.
**Status: Unrestricted free agent**
Schröder has had a nomadic career, playing for nine teams in 11 seasons, and last season alone saw him with three different teams. Still, he had notable stretches with the Pistons, making it likely for that partnership to continue. In the playoffs, he averaged 12.5 ppg with 49.1% shooting and could once again serve as a valuable backup for Detroit or other teams.
**Status: Unrestricted free agent**
Last season marked the pinnacle of his career, as Beasley emerged as a lethal three-point shooter and a key asset for the rising Pistons. With 319 three-pointers made—just ahead of Stephen Curry—he shot an impressive 41.6% from beyond the arc. Beasley, now at 28, was one of the best deals in the league last season at $6 million, but he’s sure to command a higher salary as he moves forward.
**Status: Unrestricted free agent**
Having stepped up from the bench last season to help the Cavs claim the top seed in the East, he averaged 12.5 ppg and shot 51% in just under 20 minutes per game, establishing himself as one of the league’s top sixth men. His decision may hinge between pursuing the best financial opportunity or staying with Cleveland in pursuit of a championship. This presents a significant choice for a player on the lookout for his first major NBA contract.
**Status: Unrestricted free agent**
At age 40, opinions about Paul vary—he could be seen as a less attractive free agent or an essential asset for certain teams. Both viewpoints might hold water. While his return to the Spurs seems unlikely, serving as a mentor for their young core would be a fitting end for a soon-to-be Hall of Famer who has yet to capture a title. Will he attempt one last run with a contender, perhaps even the Mavericks, or wait for an opportunity closer to home in Los Angeles?
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Shaun Powell has provided coverage of the NBA for over 25 years. You can reach him via email, explore his archives, or follow him on Twitter.
The opinions expressed on this page may not reflect those of the NBA, its teams, or Warner Bros. Discovery Sports.
