The 2025 NBA free agency period isn’t completely over yet. There are still notable players available, including Russell Westbrook, Malcolm Brogdon, and Amir Coffey, alongside restricted free agents like Jonathan Kuminga and Josh Giddy who are seeking the best deals.
Looking ahead to 2026, the free agent class is not expected to be particularly deep, especially given the current trend where star players generally don’t switch teams frequently due to salary cap restrictions. The list of players potentially entering free agency next summer may still change, but here are some key figures to watch.
The Biggest Name
LeBron James
LeBron’s agent Rich Paul hinted at the star’s $52.6 million player option with the Lakers for this season, stirring trade rumors. However, it’s likely LeBron will remain with Los Angeles this year. The real intrigue is next summer—whether LeBron stays in LA for family reasons, considers a return to the Knicks or Cavaliers, and how his contract negotiations might unfold involving sign-and-trades or salary adjustments. His free agency situation will undoubtedly be a major storyline.
Players More Likely to Sign Extensions
These players might be free agents now but are expected to sign extensions before next summer:
- Kevin Durant: Durant is in the final year of his contract with the Houston Rockets but is anticipated to sign a two-year extension. The question lies in how much salary he’s willing to reduce to help the team while maintaining his market value as an aging elite scorer.
- Trae Young: The Atlanta Hawks desire a young extension deal with Young, possibly a short-term one. However, Young holds a player option and could become a free agent if he declines it.
- Dyson Daniels: If the Hawks don’t reach an extension with Daniels before the season begins, he’ll become a restricted free agent, likely sparking interest from other teams.
Likely Unrestricted Free Agents
- Kristaps Porzingis: His market interest and future with the Hawks depend heavily on his health and fit with Trae Young. He remains desirable as a 7-footer who can shoot 3s.
- Norman Powell: Traded to Miami in the final year of his contract, Powell showed strong scoring ability. His free agency next summer is a real possibility given the Clippers’ hesitation to offer a long-term extension.
- Anfernee Simons: Recently traded to the Celtics, Simons averaged 19.3 points and could become a free agent depending on Boston’s long-term plans.
- John Collins: Now with the Clippers, Collins has an option but could hit free agency, with teams valuing his stretch 4 skills.
- Coby White: After shoulder surgery and a modest contract, White is aiming for a significant salary boost in free agency.
- Khris Middleton: Approaching 35, Middleton’s future depends on whether the Wizards keep or trade him, but free agency looms.
- CJ McCollum: Similar situation to Middleton, with age and performance likely impacting his market in free agency.
Veterans with Player Options
- Austin Reaves: Expected to decline his player option, Reaves wants a significant raise. If he performs well, the Lakers will likely try to keep him.
- James Harden: Has a $42.3 million player option for the 2026-27 season, and depending on his market, may take the option or seek other opportunities.
- Draymond Green: Golden State’s defensive anchor with a $27.7 million option; unlikely to leave if he stays healthy.
- Zach LaVine: Depending on trade outcomes, LaVine may either opt for his player option or seek a longer extension.
- Bradley Beal: Has a $5.6 million player option but might enter free agency depending on his health and performance.
- Fred VanVleet: Signed a $50 million deal with Houston; likely to pick up his option but can become a free agent if desired.
Veterans with Team Options
- Lu Dort & Isaiah Hartenstein: Both in Oklahoma City with team options, their future depends on the Thunder’s financial moves and team direction.
- Brook Lopez: Clippers might pick up his $9.2 million option or decline, depending on performance.
- Bogdan Bogdanovic: Has a $16 million team option; likely to stay unless traded to create salary cap relief.
Fan Take: This upcoming free agency cycle offers a fascinating blend of veteran stars testing their value and young talents on the brink of major contract decisions. Basketball fans should pay attention, as these moves have the potential to reshape team dynamics and competitive balance in the league for years to come.
