The main rush of NBA free agency is over, but the market is not empty. A number of talented players are still available, including former stars, developing young players, and useful role players. As the summer winds down, teams with open roster spots are looking carefully at these remaining free agents to find the right fit before training camp begins. For these players, the next few weeks will decide whether they land a new NBA contract or have to consider opportunities overseas.
Here is a look at 10 of the most interesting free agents still on the market.
🏀 Veteran Guards Seeking New Opportunities
Several experienced guards, many of whom were once big stars, are looking for their next team. For them, factors like family, location, and the chance to win a championship are now as important as money.
- Malcolm Brogdon (32): He is a steady and reliable point guard. Though in the later stage of his career, he can be a quality backup or even a starter for some teams. His leadership was valuable for the Wizards last season, and he is not a reckless player. It would be a surprise if he is still unsigned when training camp starts.
- Damian Lillard (36): After surgery on his Achilles tendon, Lillard will not play next season. When he returns, he will be a 36-year-old star looking for a team that can compete for a title. Money is less of a concern, so he can take his time to choose the best situation. The team that signs him will get a refreshed star at a good price.
- Chris Paul (40): Despite his age, Paul proved his durability by playing in all 82 games for the Spurs last season. He is now looking for a team close to his family, likely in Los Angeles. A return to the Clippers, the team he once led to success, would be a fitting end to his career.
- Russell Westbrook (36): Westbrook remains a big question mark. Some teams value his energy and drive, while others worry about his inconsistent shooting and turnovers. His last three teams (Lakers, Clippers, Nuggets) chose not to bring him back. However, his powerful motor might earn him one more chance in the league.
⭐ Young Stars and Their Contract Talks
A group of talented young players are restricted free agents, which means their current teams can match any offer they receive from another team. Their futures depend on difficult contract negotiations.
- Josh Giddey (22): The fact that Giddey hasn’t signed a deal with the Bulls or received a big offer from another team suggests there is a disagreement over his value. After a solid season averaging nearly 14 points, 8 rebounds, and 7 assists, his asking price may be too high. A deal will likely be made once either he or the Bulls adjusts their expectations.
- Quentin Grimes (25): After moving from Dallas to Philadelphia, Grimes played tremendously, averaging 21.9 points. His performance has significantly increased his value as a restricted free agent, and now the 76ers must decide how much they are willing to pay to keep him.
- Jonathan Kuminga (22): This athletic forward seems to want a bigger role, which he might not get with the Warriors. However, no other team has made a significant offer yet. The situation is about his contract demands and whether the Warriors will match an offer, arrange a sign-and-trade, or if Kuminga will stay for one more year before testing the market again.
- Cam Thomas (23): A proven scorer who averaged 24.0 points for the Nets last season, Thomas is looking for his first major contract. He and the Nets seem to be far apart on the price, which is why he remains unsigned. His situation is similar to Kuminga’s, where it’s all about finding an agreement on his value.
🧩 Key Role Players Looking for a Fit
Finally, there are valuable role players who bring specific skills that could help a team win. These players are often looking for the right opportunity as teams have less money to spend late in the offseason.
- Al Horford (39): An experienced big man who can still shoot and contribute in limited minutes. After the Celtics decided he was too expensive, Horford is now looking for a team and city that suits his family. He has already earned a lot of money in his career, so he may sign for a lower price with a contender like the Warriors.
- Gary Payton II (32): Known for his excellent defense, Payton is a player many teams would consider. He is caught in a situation where most teams have already spent their budget. He made $9 million last season and will likely look for a similar contract. It’s just a matter of which team signs him and when.
