Three weeks into the NBA’s 2025 free agency, many top-tier players have already been signed. Still, several experienced veterans with diverse skills remain available, offering teams valuable but often understated contributions for the upcoming season.
(Note: This overview covers only unrestricted free agents. For updates on restricted free agents, check out Josh Giddie, Jonathan Kminga, Quenting Rimes, and Cam Thomas.)
Let’s begin with the big men who are available, followed by ball handlers and wings, highlighting some of the best unsigned talent and potential new team fits.
Bigs
Al Horford: At 39, Horford is likely not to remain long on the market. He’s been leaning toward signing with the Golden State Warriors, though no deal has been finalized. He remains the top big man available. Following Jason Tatum’s Achilles injury and the Celtics’ playoff exit, downtime has shifted their roster strategy. Despite a drop in shooting efficiency from last season, Horford still averages 9 points, 6.2 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.5 blocks in 27.7 minutes per game. He’s a crucial veteran presence, contributing on both offense and defense while facilitating plays and spacing the floor.
Chris Boucher: Once a fringe player, Boucher became a key frontcourt reserve with the Raptors. Although injuries and inconsistency have limited his recent minutes, he remains a strong two-way player known for blocks, steals, and shooting over 36% from three-point range. His versatility could make him an attractive low-cost option.
Trey Lyles: Now 30, Lyles is aiming to rebound from a tough season marked by injuries. A Kentucky alumnus, he’s a versatile role player who can fill gaps in the frontcourt and create opportunities. If he rediscovers his shooting touch, he’s a valuable rotation piece.
Thomas Bryant: Bryant has supported stars like Anthony Davis and Nikola Jokic while shining during key moments, especially in the Pacers’ playoff run. Known for pick-and-roll skills, rebounding, and energy, he’s praised by coaches for his competitive spirit and readiness.
- Precious Achiuwa: After a challenging season with injuries and reduced playing time, Achiuwa is an energetic, versatile defender and rebounder. Though his offensive efficiency is below average, he offers significant value as a mobile, defensive-minded big man.
Other available bigs include Tristan Thompson, DeAndre Jordan, Taj Gibson, Alex Len, Bismack Biyombo, and Charles Bassie.
Ball Handlers
Russell Westbrook: Last season, Westbrook was among a select group of NBA players logging over 2,000 minutes and averaging solid stats. Though aging and less efficient, he still energizes offenses with aggressive transition play and pick-and-roll effectiveness. His shooting struggles and injuries temper expectations, but his impact could still be meaningful.
Malcolm Brogdon: A two-time NBA award winner, Brogdon has been less consistent recently due to injuries. When healthy, he’s a smart ball-handler, reliable shooter, and proven playoff contributor. He could be a cost-effective backcourt asset for teams needing secondary playmaking.
Ben Simmons: Simmons has faced multiple seasons with injuries and performance setbacks that have limited his scoring and shooting ability. Nonetheless, his defensive versatility and playmaking remain rare commodities. He might fit a specialized role in the right system.
Monte Morris: Once a top backup point guard, Morris showed strong efficiency early in his career. Recent years have been marked by team changes and fluctuating production, but his reliable ball-handling and low turnover rate could benefit squads needing steady playmakers.
- Cameron Payne: A journeyman backup guard known for playoff contributions, Payne has shown flashes of offensive spark. Though inconsistent at times, he offers solid assist-to-turnover numbers and experience for teams seeking depth.
Other ball handlers on the market include Deron Wright, Cory Joseph, Patty Mills, Jared Butler, Marquel Frouz, and Elfrid Payton.
Wings
Malik Beasley: After a standout shooting season that helped the Pistons reach the playoffs, Beasley’s future is complicated by a federal gambling investigation. If cleared, he could attract interest as a sharp shooter and scoring wing.
Gary Payton II: While his value varies by team context, Payton stands out as a premier perimeter defender and veteran contributor. He offers strong defense, hustle, and solid shooting from the corners.
Amir Coffey: An undrafted player turned solid rotation piece, Coffey shoots well from three but struggles with overall impact. His chances may improve on a new team seeking versatile wings.
Alec Burks: Entering his 15th season, Burks has proven scoring ability, especially from three-point range. He can serve as an experienced complementary scorer and secondary defender.
- Seth Curry: Despite limited minutes and some injury issues, Curry remains an elite three-point shooter with a professional attitude. Teams looking for reliable floor spacing and veteran leadership might find Curry a valuable addition.
Other wings available include Landry Shamet, Brandon Boston Jr., and possibly Lonnie Walker IV, who may return to Europe.
Fan Take: This roundup of available NBA veterans highlights how even seasoned players outside the spotlight can significantly impact team success. Their diverse skills and experience provide crucial depth and stability, making them essential pieces in the relentless pursuit of championship contention and roster balance. Basketball fans should keep an eye on these players, as their signings could shift the landscape in subtle but meaningful ways.
