The NBA’s period for teams to acquire free agents is in full swing, and even though the majority of prominent players have made their commitments, several decisions are still pending, with the future destinations of Chris Paul, Jonathan Kuminga, Quentin Grimes, and others yet to be determined for the upcoming season. (You can find Yahoo Sports’ comprehensive NBA free agent rankings here.)
Damian Lillard made a notable decision on Thursday, opting to return to the Portland Trail Blazers with a three-year, $42 million agreement as he continues to recover from an Achilles injury. On the preceding day, Bradley Beal finalized a buyout arrangement with the Suns, concluding his two-season tenure with the franchise. Beal is now anticipated to sign a two-year, $11 million contract with the Los Angeles Clippers.
Last week, it was reported that the Oklahoma City Thunder reached a maximum extension agreement with Jalen Williams, potentially amounting to $287 million. This decision solidifies the team’s intention to maintain its young core following its championship victory. Aside from Williams, the Thunder have also secured Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holgrem with substantial new contracts during this offseason.
When the free agency window opened on June 30, the NBA officially established the salary cap at $154.647 million for the 2025-26 season. This figure represents a 10% increase compared to the previous season, aligning with expectations.
Jaren Jackson Jr. and the Grizzlies reached an agreement on a five-year maximum extension worth $240 million, while the Nuggets traded Michael Porter Jr. to the Nets in exchange for Cam Johnson. Dorian Finney-Smith agreed to terms with the Rockets, Ty Jerome and the Grizzlies finalized a three-year contract, and the Mavericks secured a two-year deal with point guard D’Angelo Russell.
In other developments, LeBron James exercised his $52.6 million option for the 2025-26 season, expressing his ambition to contend for a championship as the Lakers strategize for the future. James Harden will also remain in Los Angeles, signing a new agreement with the Clippers. Julius Randle will also continue his tenure in Minnesota.
These developments followed the Phoenix Suns’ trade of superstar Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets in exchange for Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, and the 10th overall pick (Khaman Maluach) in the 2025 NBA Draft. Additionally, the Boston Celtics initiated a restructuring process by trading Jrue Holiday to the Portland Trailblazers and Kristaps Porziņģis to the Atlanta Hawks.
Find all of this year’s free agency deals here.
Free-agent position rankings: Point guards | Shooting guards | Small Forwards | Power forwards | Centers
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