The time of year has arrived when National Basketball Association athletes seek new contracts and franchises aim to bolster their rosters.
Let’s analyze the premier shooting guards poised to enter the free-agent pool this season.
(Note: Player positions are assigned based on Basketball-Reference’s statistical classifications, meaning an athlete is listed at the position where they logged the most minutes on court.)
Free-agency player rankings: Point guards
Contract status: Athlete’s choice
Option valuation: $14.8 million
The emergence of Austin Reaves is now evident. This 6-foot-5 expert in orchestrating pick-and-roll plays will undoubtedly decline his current modest option, opting instead for unrestricted free agency to secure a significant payday — a goal he is highly likely to achieve.
Reaves possesses a highly appealing skill set that is sure to attract extensive attention. He demonstrates scoring prowess at three different levels, has significantly enhanced his playmaking abilities, and holds the potential to elevate both the baseline performance and peak capabilities of multiple teams as a probable future All-Star who is entering the prime phase of his career.
Proposed contract terms: A four-year agreement in the range of $150-160 million would appear appropriate for Reaves, regardless of whether he remains with the Los Angeles organization or moves to a new team.
Contract status: Athlete’s choice
Option valuation: $48.9 million
LaVine experienced a less productive year with the Kings and stands as a strong candidate for a trade should he exercise his option, thereby transitioning into an expiring contract.
The 31-year-old is capable of remarkably efficient scoring, frequently achieving a true shooting percentage in the mid-60s. This efficiency is expected to improve once he is integrated into a suitable role alongside an elite primary ball-handler who can consistently set him up, enabling him to focus more on an off-ball offensive role.
Proposed contract terms: If the Kings manage to convince LaVine to forgo his option, allowing them to offer an extension at a reduced financial commitment, this avenue might be worth exploring. Naturally, he would require substantial compensation for declining nearly $49 million. Could a three-year deal worth $100 million accomplish this?
Contract status: Fully unrestricted agent
Powell is an extraordinarily efficient scorer, boasting a 60.9 TS%, who integrates seamlessly into established offensive schemes and fully embraces his role as a non-creator. He can readily operate alongside a primary ball-handler while still undertaking a substantial volume of shooting duties.
There is considerable worth in an athlete of such caliber who comprehends his own limitations yet can still excel in specific facets of the game. Consequently, Powell is anticipated to draw significant interest on the open market.
Proposed contract terms: At 33 years old, Powell’s current performance level is well-defined, and a lengthy contract might not be feasible. A substantial two-year agreement for $55 million or a slightly more moderate three-year deal for $70 million would likely be considered reasonable.
Contract status: Fully unrestricted agent
Dosunmu, who was regarded as one of the standout acquisitions at the trade deadline, validated that assessment as a Wolf, delivering impressive performances in the postseason (including a 43-point outburst) and ultimately appearing every bit the long-term backcourt partner for Anthony Edwards.
With his versatility to contribute both on and off the ball, Dosunmu will attract considerable interest from teams across the league looking to acquire a dependable two-way player who can occasionally direct the offense.
Proposed contract terms: Remaining in Minnesota appears to be the most logical choice, as it would provide him with extensive playing time, significant responsibilities, and an opportunity to establish himself as one of the league’s premier guards. Any annual salary under $20 million would be considered a major bargain.
Contract status: Fully unrestricted agent
This past season proved unusual for Grimes, who exercised his qualifying offer last summer, deciding to wager on his own capabilities following an exceptionally strong conclusion to the 2024-2025 season.
The 6-foot-4 off-guard exhibited stretches where he seemed destined to be a full-time starter and other periods where he appeared barely effective due to his lack of aggression. However, Grimes also navigated a shifting role, increased competition in the backcourt, and adaptations to multiple injuries among his teammates. Therefore, while he undoubtedly lost earning potential this season, his promise remains.
Proposed contract terms: Grimes’ inconsistent performance this season presented a challenge, prompting consideration of whether signing a short-term deal is actually the optimal strategy moving forward to revitalize his value. Nevertheless, if he receives an offer for the full non-taxpayer mid-level exception, he should likely accept it.
Other notable prospects
6. Luke Kennard, Los Angeles Lakers
Contract status: Fully unrestricted agent
Kennard consistently ranks among the NBA’s most elite 3-point shooters, a vital talent to have firmly in place alongside Luka Dončić. This attribute alone makes it sensible for the Los Angeles Lakers to show interest in re-signing him.
7. Kevin Porter Jr., Milwaukee Bucks
Contract status: Athlete’s choice
Option valuation: $5.4 million
Porter has consistently produced respectable statistics, but lingering questions persist regarding his true impact. Should he opt out, teams will scrutinize his suitability for a winning squad and his capacity to integrate effectively.
8. Keon Ellis, Cleveland Cavaliers
Contract status: Fully unrestricted agent
Ellis is an easily deployable player, thanks to his blend of off-ball threat and defensive prowess. While his potential earnings on the open market are uncertain, multiple teams are expected to express interest.
