The 2025 NBA offseason has been dynamic, with a flurry of free agency deals already concluded and teams still finalizing roster adjustments as summer concludes. With the 2025-26 NBA season fast approaching, many teams are integrating new superstar acquisitions. Notably, the Houston Rockets secured 15-time All-Star Kevin Durant from the Phoenix Suns in June, a move they hope will elevate them to dominant contender status next season.
Other prominent veterans also changed teams this offseason. Damian Lillard returned to the Portland Trail Blazers after two seasons with the Milwaukee Bucks, and Chris Paul rejoined the LA Clippers following a year with the San Antonio Spurs.
As our NBA insiders delve into these significant free agency developments, key questions emerge: How will Bradley Beal integrate with the Clippers? What impact will Lonzo Ball have on the Cleveland Cavaliers? Our panel, consisting of ESPN`s Tim Bontemps, Jamal Collier, Michael C. Wright, Dave McMenamin, Ohm Youngmisuk, Chris Herring, Kevin Pelton, Zach Kram, and Anthony Slater, has compiled these rankings based on the completed free agency moves and projected team strengths.
1. Oklahoma City Thunder
- Previous Ranking: 1 (Steady)
- Notable Additions: None
- Notable Departures: Dillon Jones (trade)
The defending champions have maintained their core, adding only rookies Thomas Sorber and Brooks Barnhizer, who showed strong defensive skills in summer league. Oklahoma City`s primary focus was securing long-term extensions for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren, ensuring their championship window remains open through the decade without any hitches.
2. Houston Rockets
- Previous Ranking: 5 (Up)
- Notable Additions: Clint Capela (free agency), Kevin Durant (trade), Dorian Finney-Smith (free agency), JD Davison (free agency)
- Notable Departures: Dillon Brooks (trade), Jalen Green (trade), Cam Whitmore (trade)
After a first-round playoff exit, Houston swiftly addressed its offensive needs by acquiring 15-time All-Star Kevin Durant. They also improved depth and perimeter defense with Dorian Finney-Smith. These veterans join Fred VanVleet and promising young talents like Alperen Sengun and Amen Thompson. The Rockets anticipate significant improvement from sharpshooter Reed Sheppard, who impressed in summer league, and expect strong frontcourt depth.
3. Denver Nuggets
- Previous Ranking: 3 (Steady)
- Notable Additions: Bruce Brown Jr. (free agency), Cam Johnson (trade), Tim Hardaway Jr. (free agency), Jonas Valančiūnas (trade)
- Notable Departures: Michael Porter Jr. (trade), Dario Šarić (trade)
The Nuggets underwent significant changes, including new coaching and front office leadership, to maximize Nikola Jokic`s championship window. They swapped Michael Porter Jr. for Cameron Johnson, re-signed Bruce Brown, and added Tim Hardaway Jr. in free agency. Crucially, they acquired Jonas Valanciunas as a backup for Jokic. While Jokic`s extension talks are delayed, the team has successfully added versatility, defense, experience, and depth.
4. Cleveland Cavaliers
- Previous Ranking: 4 (Steady)
- Notable Additions: Lonzo Ball (trade), Larry Nance Jr. (free agency)
- Notable Departures: Ty Jerome (free agency), Isaac Okoro (trade)
Cleveland`s offseason was marked by Darius Garland`s toe surgery, which sidelined him for crucial playoff games last season. At point guard, Ty Jerome departed for Memphis, and Isaac Okoro was traded to the Chicago Bulls for Lonzo Ball, signaling a significant backcourt adjustment for the Cavaliers.
5. New York Knicks
- Previous Ranking: 7 (Up)
- Notable Additions: Jordan Clarkson (free agency), Guerschon Yabusele (free agency)
- Notable Departures: None
Despite limited cap space, New York made smart moves, signing former Sixth Man of the Year Jordan Clarkson and forward Guerschon Yabusele. These additions bolster a squad that lacked depth last season. All attention now shifts to new coach Mike Brown and his ability to elevate a team that narrowly missed the NBA Finals, especially in a seemingly weaker Eastern Conference.
6. Minnesota Timberwolves
- Previous Ranking: 2 (Down)
- Notable Additions: None
- Notable Departures: Nickeil Alexander-Walker (free agency)
After failing to land Kevin Durant, Minnesota committed to its young core, relying on Anthony Edwards, Jaden McDaniels, and Naz Reid`s continued development. Coach Chris Finch is expected to give larger roles to Rob Dillingham and Terrence Shannon Jr. The team remains largely unchanged from its two consecutive conference finals appearances, with Julius Randle`s contract extension leading to Nickeil Alexander-Walker`s departure for Atlanta.
7. LA Clippers
- Previous Ranking: 10 (Up)
- Notable Additions: Bradley Beal (free agency), John Collins (trade), Brook Lopez (free agency), Chris Paul (free agency)
- Notable Departures: Norman Powell (trade)
The Clippers are strategically clearing cap space for future star acquisitions while enhancing their current roster. They re-signed James Harden, traded Norman Powell for John Collins, and secured Brook Lopez and Bradley Beal. Completing a busy offseason, Chris Paul also returned. With a strong starting five, added shooting, depth, and an elite front line featuring Ivica Zubac and Lopez, the Clippers are well-positioned for a playoff run if Kawhi Leonard stays healthy.
8. Orlando Magic
- Previous Ranking: 13 (Up)
- Notable Additions: Desmond Bane (trade), Tyus Jones (free agency)
- Notable Departures: Cole Anthony (trade), Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (trade)
Orlando made an early splash, trading four first-round picks to Memphis for Desmond Bane. Bane`s shooting and scoring boost their backcourt, positioning the Magic as East contenders, contingent on Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner`s continued growth. They also signed veteran Tyus Jones as a backup for Jalen Suggs, who is recovering well from knee surgery.
9. Golden State Warriors
- Previous Ranking: 8 (Down)
- Notable Additions: None
- Notable Departures: Kevon Looney (free agency)
With only nine players currently on the roster, the Warriors are expected to add veterans like Al Horford, De`Anthony Melton, and Seth Curry once Jonathan Kuminga`s restricted free agency is resolved. Kuminga`s situation remains uncertain. The team`s fate largely hinges on Stephen Curry (37), Jimmy Butler III (35), and Draymond Green (35) continuing to perform at a high level despite their age, given their significant combined contracts expiring in 2027.
10. Los Angeles Lakers
- Previous Ranking: 9 (Down)
- Notable Additions: Deandre Ayton (free agency), Marcus Smart (free agency)
- Notable Departures: Jordan Goodwin (waived), Trey Jamison III (waived), Shake Milton (waived), Dorian Finney-Smith (free agency)
Following a disappointing first-round exit, the Lakers opted to let Dorian Finney-Smith walk, using the cap space to sign Deandre Ayton and Jake LaRavia. They later waived Jordan Goodwin to sign Marcus Smart. These moves aim to improve Luka Doncic and LeBron James` second season together and enhance their chances of success.
11. Detroit Pistons
- Previous Ranking: 11 (Steady)
- Notable Additions: Caris LeVert (free agency), Duncan Robinson (sign-and-trade)
- Notable Departures: Tim Hardaway Jr. (free agency), Dennis Schröder (free agency), Lindy Waters III (free agency)
The Pistons pivoted late in the offseason after Sixth Man of the Year runner-up Malik Beasley came under federal investigation. They replaced Beasley and Tim Hardaway Jr. with sharpshooter Duncan Robinson and free agent Caris LeVert. While a tough act to follow Beasley`s league-leading three-point production, LeVert and Robinson aim to provide similar offensive firepower.
12. Atlanta Hawks
- Previous Ranking: 19 (Up)
- Notable Additions: Nickeil Alexander-Walker (sign-and-trade), Kristaps Porzingis (trade), Luke Kennard (free agency)
- Notable Departures: Clint Capela (free agency), Caris LeVert (free agency), Terance Mann (trade), Georges Niang (trade)
Atlanta had a strong offseason, acquiring skilled big man Kristaps Porzingis, versatile wing Nickeil Alexander-Walker, and sharpshooter Luke Kennard. They also secured an unprotected first-round pick from the Pelicans. These moves provide Trae Young with his most balanced roster since the 2021 conference finals, enhancing their competitive outlook.
13. Dallas Mavericks
- Previous Ranking: 14 (Up)
- Notable Additions: D`Angelo Russell (free agency)
- Notable Departures: Spencer Dinwiddie (free agency)
The Mavericks face concerns regarding ball-handling depth with Kyrie Irving expected to miss significant time. However, if they manage this, the roster`s talent and veteran leadership could foster chemistry and lead them to contention in the West. Dallas boasts a deep and skilled frontcourt with Dereck Lively II and Anthony Davis. Top pick Cooper Flagg, with his impressive playmaking, could be crucial for the team early in the season.
14. Milwaukee Bucks
- Previous Ranking: 16 (Up)
- Notable Additions: Cole Anthony (free agency), Myles Turner (free agency), Gary Harris (free agency)
- Notable Departures: Pat Connaughton (trade), Vasilije Micić (waived), Damian Lillard (waived), Brook Lopez (free agency)
The Bucks made a bold move by waiving Damian Lillard and stretching his remaining contract to sign free agent center Myles Turner. This unprecedented decision was made to bring in an elite talent to complement Giannis Antetokounmpo, aiming to maximize their superstar`s prime and extend their championship window.
15. Memphis Grizzlies
- Previous Ranking: 15 (Steady)
- Notable Additions: Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (trade), Ty Jerome (free agency)
- Notable Departures: Cole Anthony (waived), Desmond Bane (trade), Luke Kennard (free agency), Jay Huff (trade)
GM Zach Kleiman initiated a retooling, building around Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr., who signed a major extension despite a turf toe injury that is expected to minimally impact him. Memphis focused on increasing physicality with Cedric Coward and added veteran Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and sharpshooter Ty Jerome. The team`s new coach, Tuomas Iisalo, is expected to introduce tactical changes.
16. San Antonio Spurs
- Previous Ranking: 17 (Up)
- Notable Additions: Luke Kornet (free agency), Kelly Olynyk (trade), Lindy Waters III (free agency)
- Notable Departures: Sandro Mamukelashvili (free agency), Chris Paul (free agency), Blake Wesley (free agency)
San Antonio`s roster now features a multitude of ball handlers, notably bolstered by No. 2 pick Dylan Harper, aiming to create matchup advantages with Victor Wembanyama`s inside presence. Wembanyama has fully recovered from a blood clot. The Spurs` recent draft success with Wembanyama and Stephon Castle continues with Harper`s potential. No. 14 pick Carter Bryant shows promise as a lockdown defender, and frontcourt depth has been improved.
17. Boston Celtics
- Previous Ranking: 12 (Down)
- Notable Additions: Georges Niang (trade), Anfernee Simons (trade)
- Notable Departures: Jrue Holiday (trade), Luke Kornet (free agency), Kristaps Porzingis (trade)
Boston`s offseason centered on cost-cutting as Jayson Tatum is likely out for the season with a torn Achilles. They moved Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday, aiming to duck under the second apron and reset their repeater tax clock, though their final tax status remains to be seen.
18. Philadelphia 76ers
- Previous Ranking: 21 (Up)
- Notable Additions: Trendon Watford (free agency)
- Notable Departures: Guerschon Yabusele (free agency), Jared Butler (free agency)
The 76ers made minor additions like Jabari Walker and draft picks VJ Edgecombe and Johni Broome. However, the major news revolved around injuries: Paul George`s knee procedure (to be reevaluated in September) and Joel Embiid`s indefinite return timeline, creating significant uncertainty for the team.
19. Miami Heat
- Previous Ranking: 18 (Down)
- Notable Additions: Norman Powell (trade)
- Notable Departures: Kyle Anderson (trade), Kevin Love (trade), Duncan Robinson (sign-and-trade)
Miami`s most significant offseason move was opportunistically acquiring Norman Powell from the Clippers in a three-team deal. After struggling in clutch situations last year, Powell is expected to be a strong fit in Miami`s backcourt alongside All-Star Tyler Herro, enhancing their late-game performance.
20. Indiana Pacers
- Previous Ranking: 6 (Down)
- Notable Additions: Jay Huff (trade)
- Notable Departures: Myles Turner (free agency)
The euphoria of Indiana`s thrilling Finals run quickly dissipated. Tyrese Haliburton`s torn Achilles will sideline him for the entire upcoming season, and Myles Turner departed for the rival Bucks. This sets up a “gap year” for Indiana, allowing them to audition various centers like Jay Huff, Isaiah Jackson, James Wiseman, and Tony Bradley for a long-term role.
21. Portland Trail Blazers
- Previous Ranking: 22 (Up)
- Notable Additions: Jrue Holiday (trade), Damian Lillard (free agency), Blake Wesley (free agency)
- Notable Departures: Anfernee Simons (trade), Deandre Ayton (free agency)
Portland`s most exciting offseason moves may not yield immediate results. Damian Lillard`s return is likely not until 2026-27 due to his Achilles tear, and No. 16 pick Yang Hansen needs time to adjust. However, Lillard`s return and Yang`s drafting have energized fans. The acquisition of veteran guard Jrue Holiday to complement Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe will be key to maintaining momentum after last season`s 36-46 finish.
22. Sacramento Kings
- Previous Ranking: 20 (Down)
- Notable Additions: Dennis Schroder (free agency), Dario Saric (trade)
- Notable Departures: Jonas Valanciunas (trade)
The Kings are burdened by significant contracts for Zach LaVine, Domantas Sabonis, and DeMar DeRozan, players with defensive weaknesses and offensive fit issues, limiting the team to a proven play-in ceiling. While draft picks Nique Clifford and Maxime Raynaud show promise, and Keegan Murray and Keon Ellis are solid young players, Sacramento is ripe for a rebuild. However, ownership`s historical lack of patience makes a proper rebuild unlikely. They are still exploring summer moves, meeting with restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga.
23. Chicago Bulls
- Previous Ranking: 23 (Steady)
- Notable Additions: Isaac Okoro (trade)
- Notable Departures: Lonzo Ball (trade)
Despite two consecutive 39-43 seasons, the Bulls are set to return a largely similar roster. They traded Lonzo Ball for Isaac Okoro, aiming to build a defensive identity despite Okoro`s offensive limitations. The final piece of their offseason puzzle is resolving the stalemate with restricted free agent Josh Giddey over a long-term deal.
24. Toronto Raptors
- Previous Ranking: 26 (Up)
- Notable Additions: Sandro Mamukelashvili (free agency)
- Notable Departures: None
Toronto`s offseason is defined by the departure of Masai Ujiri, who led the Raptors to their 2019 championship over a decade. The succession plan remains uncertain, though long-time general manager Bobby Webster is a strong candidate for the lead executive role.
25. Phoenix Suns
- Previous Ranking: 24 (Down)
- Notable Additions: Jared Butler (free agency), Dillon Brooks (trade), Jordan Goodwin (waivers), Jalen Green (trade), Mark Williams (trade)
- Notable Departures: Bradley Beal (buyout), Kevin Durant (trade), Tyus Jones (free agency), Cody Martin (waived), Mason Plumlee (free agency)
Phoenix successfully cut significant costs, ducking entirely out of the second apron and luxury tax by waiving and stretching Bradley Beal`s contract, saving an estimated $210 million. However, this came at the expense of future competitiveness. They traded Kevin Durant and are saddled with Beal`s dead salary for five years, without control of their next six drafts. Devin Booker remains the centerpiece, but the team`s long-term outlook is challenging.
26. New Orleans Pelicans
- Previous Ranking: 25 (Down)
- Notable Additions: Saddiq Bey (trade), Kevon Looney (free agency), Jordan Poole (trade)
- Notable Departures: Bruce Brown (free agency), CJ McCollum (trade), Kelly Olynyk (trade)
The Pelicans had a questionable offseason: making a poor trade (unprotected 2026 pick to move up 10 spots in 2025 draft), acquiring Jordan Poole`s large contract, and signing non-shooting big man Kevin Looney to a roster already rich in similar players. Furthermore, their two 2025 lottery picks have faced setbacks (wrist surgery for Derik Queen, high turnovers for Jeremiah Fears), raising concerns for the team`s immediate future.
27. Charlotte Hornets
- Previous Ranking: 28 (Up)
- Notable Additions: Spencer Dinwiddie (free agency), Mason Plumlee (free agency), Collin Sexton (trade)
- Notable Departures: Jusuf Nurkic (trade), Mark Williams (trade)
Charlotte made subtle improvements, most notably acquiring Collin Sexton from Utah for Jusuf Nurkic. Trading Mark Williams also opens up opportunities for Moussa Diabate and rookie Ryan Kalkbrenner. Re-signing Tre Mann on a reasonable deal was another positive. These moves aim to enhance their roster depth and defensive identity.
28. Brooklyn Nets
- Previous Ranking: 27 (Down)
- Notable Additions: Terance Mann (trade), Michael Porter Jr. (trade)
- Notable Departures: Cam Johnson (trade), D`Angelo Russell (free agency)
Brooklyn`s focus on development was clear with an NBA-record five first-round draft selections, including three point guards and two wings. They also traded their biggest asset, Cameron Johnson, to Denver for sharpshooter Michael Porter Jr. and a 2032 first-round pick. This offseason signals a clear prioritization of building for the future through young talent.
29. Washington Wizards
- Previous Ranking: 30 (Up)
- Notable Additions: CJ McCollum (trade), Cam Whitmore (trade)
- Notable Departures: Saddiq Bey (trade), Richaun Holmes (waived), Jordan Poole (trade), Kelly Olynyk (trade), Marcus Smart (waived)
Washington`s rebuild continues with moves to add promising talent, veteran leadership, and financial flexibility. After drafting Tre Johnson and Will Riley, they traded Jordan Poole and Saddiq Bey for CJ McCollum`s expiring deal and Kelly Olynyk, aiming for significant cap space in 2026. They also acquired young talents like Cam Whitmore and will rely on veterans like McCollum and Khris Middleton to mentor their young core of Bilal Coulibaly, Alex Sarr, Bub Carrington, and Kyshawn George, allowing them to develop before future roster flexibility.
30. Utah Jazz
- Previous Ranking: 29 (Down)
- Notable Additions: Kyle Anderson (trade), Kevin Love (trade), Jusuf Nurkić (trade)
- Notable Departures: John Collins (trade), Johnny Juzang (waived), Collin Sexton (trade), Jordan Clarkson (free agency)
Utah traded away Collin Sexton and John Collins for minimal returns and waived Jordan Clarkson, meaning three of their top five scorers from last season will play elsewhere. This creates ample opportunities for rookies Ace Bailey and Walter Clayton Jr., along with other young teammates, but also signals a likely season of many losses as the team focuses on rebuilding.