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The NBA offseason is about to commence, and many business operations throughout the league are nearing a halt. What implications does this hold for the free agent market, which is currently sparse but not entirely depleted?
In this context, a select few restricted and unrestricted free agents are expected to secure contracts in the coming days, just before many head off to enjoy golf or relax at the beach. Others may finalize agreements just ahead of fall training camps. After training camps commence, those remaining in the market may find their best opportunities abroad.
Generally speaking, the available free agents are not particularly promising. The top players tend to sign contracts within a week of the free agency period opening in early July. What remains is mainly a mix of seasoned veterans, past stars, restricted free agents whose salary requests may currently be too high, and role players likely willing to accept minimum deals.
Nonetheless, there are free agents still unsigned who could contribute next season and assume significant roles. Their value will largely depend on the salary cap space and positional needs of teams that have limited roster openings.
Here are ten notable remaining free agents, organized alphabetically by last name:
At 32 years old, he is nearing the end of his career yet can still serve effectively as a solid backup point guard or an emergency starter for certain teams. Contenders with a need in the backcourt should definitely consider Brogdon, who is consistent and methodical. He had a respectable season with the rebuilding Wizards, averaging 12.7 points and four assists, where his leadership was particularly appreciated. It would be surprising if he remains available when training camp begins.
There’s often concern when a restricted free agent hasn’t struck a deal with their current organization or received a noteworthy offer from another team. Either Giddey’s asking price is prohibitive for Chicago, or potential bidders are hesitant, knowing the Bulls can simply match any offer to retain him. Giddey showed promise in his first season with the Bulls, tallying averages of 14 points, 8 rebounds, and 7 assists. The challenge is determining whether his value is around $30 million per season or so. Eventually, a deal will likely materialize, since either the Bulls or Giddey will have to make a concession.
Last season’s attention was primarily on Luka Dončić’s rumored exit from the Mavericks, but another noteworthy transfer was Grimes moving from Dallas to Philadelphia. Upon his arrival, Grimes excelled, averaging 21.9 points and raising eyebrows about the Mavericks’ decision to part ways with him, particularly given their backcourt deficiencies. Philadelphia benefited from this move. However, Grimes’ current asking price as a restricted free agent has also significantly increased, despite his limited track record.
Horford is at a juncture in his career where familial ties and comfort take precedence over monetary gain, having already earned a substantial amount. After the Celtics deemed him too costly and moved on, Horford found himself in a position to evaluate which team and city will best suit his personal circumstances. Any team seeking a stretch big man would likely welcome him, particularly since he can still deliver quality performance in limited minutes while presumably coming at a low cost. The Warriors have expressed interest, but San Francisco is quite a distance from his residences in Boston and Miami.
The restricted free agent may desire a fresh environment, especially given his uncertain role and playing time under Steve Kerr. However, no other teams have yet presented significant offers. Kuminga is certainly an up-and-coming forward with potential still ahead of him. This situation hinges on his asking price, as well as whether the Warriors would consider a sign-and-trade, or if Kuminga opts to remain in Golden State for one more year and explore the market again next summer.
He won’t be playing next season while rehabilitating from Achilles surgery and will be 36 when he returns to action. Additionally, Dame will prioritize his next team based on proximity to family rather than financial considerations; at this stage, that is far more significant. He may take a leisurely approach to choosing his next destination, perhaps waiting until next spring. Since he has not yet secured a championship, he has the luxury of assessing potential opportunities at his own pace. The team that eventually acquires Dame will earn a rejuvenated star at a reasonable cost.
At 40, he is better suited as a secondary option. The good news is Paul played all 82 games last season for the Spurs, appears fit, and maintains a flexible mindset. As another seasoned veteran who has amassed considerable wealth, he likely prefers to be close to family in the city of his choosing. The indications point toward Paul playing in Los Angeles next season; which team remains uncertain. A sentimental choice might be the Clippers, where he could finish his career with the franchise that elevated him.
Teams interested in bolstering their defense will consider the “Son of Glove,” who is not expected to return to the Warriors next season. Payton, who is older than one might think at 32, still possesses athleticism. He’s among a handful of free agents facing a financial squeeze as summer progresses, leading teams to seek budget-friendly options. Payton earned $9 million last season and is likely to remain within that financial range. He will certainly find a place on someone’s roster this upcoming fall; the timing and location, however, are still to be determined.
The prolific scorer, who averaged 24.0 points last season, is a restricted free agent for the Nets and is vying for his first significant contract. Clearly, he and Brooklyn are far apart in negotiations, as he would have signed by now otherwise. He and Kuminga could be viewed as comparable cases, suggesting that once one signs, the other might quickly follow suit. Ultimately, it boils down to price and value—nothing more, nothing less—for Thomas.
He remains an enigma in the free agency landscape. Some teams believe he can still make an impact, while others are convinced his time has come to an end. His most recent three destinations—the Lakers, Clippers, and Nuggets—all of which were playoff contenders—chose not to retain him, which isn’t a promising indication. His jump shot, which has never been his strength, has become a significant liability; defenders now give him space and encourage him to shoot. Plus, he tends to be turnover-prone. Still, Russ maintains his competitive drive, even in a career downturn. This could earn him another opportunity.
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Shaun Powell has been reporting on the NBA for over 25 years. Reach out to him via email, explore his archive, and follow him on Twitter.
The opinions expressed on this page do not necessarily represent the views of the NBA, its teams, or Warner Bros. Discovery Sports.
