The 2025 NBA free agency period is officially underway, with teams actively pursuing players to strengthen their rosters for the upcoming 2025-26 season and beyond. Significant early moves include Myles Turner`s unexpected departure from the Indiana Pacers to join the Milwaukee Bucks, supermax contract extensions for star guards Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jaren Jackson Jr., James Harden`s new deal with the LA Clippers, and LeBron James opting into his player option with the Los Angeles Lakers.
As teams finalize agreements and news breaks, we analyze and assign grades to the most impactful signings, examining their potential effects on team dynamics and future prospects.
Myles Turner Joins Bucks on Four-Year Deal
Reported Agreement: Milwaukee Bucks agree to a four-year, $107 million contract with center Myles Turner.
Grade: B-
This signing is widely considered one of the most surprising developments of the free agency period. Turner had just played in Game 7 of the NBA Finals for the Pacers days prior, making his move to Milwaukee unexpected. The Bucks, seemingly poised for more modest moves to stay over the salary cap, orchestrated a complex series of transactions, including the historic waiving and stretching of Damian Lillard`s extension, to create the necessary cap space.
Adding Turner, a player who offers both rim protection and floor-spacing, aligns with the ideal center profile to complement Giannis Antetokounmpo. At 29, Turner represents a younger alternative to veteran options like Brook Lopez (whom he effectively replaces) or Al Horford. His recent performance, including a career-best 40% shooting from three-point range last season, demonstrates his offensive value. While perhaps not the elite defender Lopez was at his peak, Turner`s defensive metrics suggest solid performance, particularly when paired with a strong secondary defender like Antetokounmpo.
However, the move comes at a significant cost. The financial maneuvers to acquire Turner, especially the long-term cap hit from stretching Lillard, could constrain the Bucks` future flexibility. Furthermore, Milwaukee has yet to address other roster weaknesses, notably at the wing position. Despite the bold strategy, it`s debatable whether this signing significantly elevates the Bucks to championship contention in the immediate future. For the Pacers, losing a key starter and homegrown talent shortly after a deep playoff run is a clear setback, creating an immediate need at the center position.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Gets Supermax Extension from Thunder
Reported Agreement: Oklahoma City Thunder agree to a four-year, supermax extension with guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
Grade: Pass (Extensions graded on pass/fail)
The supermax extension was designed in part following Kevin Durant`s departure from Oklahoma City years ago, making it fitting that the Thunder are now utilizing it to secure another MVP-caliber player in Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. While Gilgeous-Alexander could have potentially waited another year to add a fifth season to his contract, agreeing to the supermax now provides long-term security for both player and team.
Although the exact value (projected around $285 million) depends on future salary cap figures, Gilgeous-Alexander has undoubtedly earned this maximum compensation. The Thunder organization has strategically prepared for their young stars to receive significant raises, structuring contracts and maintaining an unprecedented collection of future draft picks. This foresight allows them the flexibility to build a sustainable contender around Gilgeous-Alexander, integrating cost-controlled talent from the draft pool as core players like Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren become eligible for their own extensions.
Bucks Add Gary Harris and Jericho Sims
Reported Agreements: Milwaukee Bucks agree to a two-year deal with guard Gary Harris; Bucks agree to a two-year deal with center Jericho Sims.
Grades:
Harris: C
Sims: B-
Following the blockbuster Myles Turner acquisition, the Bucks continued to fill out their roster. Gary Harris, while a recognizable name, saw limited production last season, averaging low points and minutes for Orlando. He could potentially offer a `3-and-D` role off the bench, but the shooting guard position already appears to be a relative strength for Milwaukee with players like Gary Trent Jr. (re-signed) and AJ Green.
Jericho Sims, acquired mid-season previously, proved to be a reliable backup center. He provided valuable minutes when needed and serves as a solid third-string option at the position.
A point of concern for the Bucks is the number of player options included in recent signings (Trent, Kevin Porter Jr., Taurean Prince, Harris, Sims). While offering player options can attract players, it carries the risk of underperforming players occupying roster spots or valuable players potentially leaving, as seen with teams in previous free agency periods. It`s questionable whether these specific players warrant that contractual flexibility.
Knicks Acquire Guerschon Yabusele
Reported Agreement: New York Knicks agree to a two-year, $12 million contract with forward/center Guerschon Yabusele.
Grade: B
Guerschon Yabusele, returning to the NBA after time overseas and starring for the French national team, was a positive development for the Philadelphia 76ers last season, starting games and providing solid scoring and rebounding on a minimum contract. As the Sixers faced cap constraints, Yabusele became available, and the Knicks quickly added him.
Yabusele`s fit with the Knicks, particularly alongside players like Mitchell Robinson and Karl-Anthony Towns, appears promising. His ability to space the floor (shooting 38% from three on reasonable volume) and play a hybrid forward/center role addresses a potential need for the Knicks, offering size beyond Josh Hart in certain frontcourt pairings. This five-out spacing can benefit the offense.
Utilizing the taxpayer midlevel exception for Yabusele requires careful cap management from the Knicks, who are nearing the second luxury tax apron. This signing, along with potentially adding another veteran newcomer, could position New York competitively in the wide-open Eastern Conference. At 29, Yabusele is young enough to be a valuable contributor for the Knicks beyond the immediate future, especially as they navigate potential cap restrictions in subsequent offseasons.
Denver Nuggets Sign Tim Hardaway Jr.
Reported Agreement: Denver Nuggets agree to a one-year deal with guard Tim Hardaway Jr.
Grade: A-
Tim Hardaway Jr.`s arrival in Denver marks a shift in the Nuggets` roster-building approach, moving towards adding proven veterans rather than solely prioritizing development minutes for draft picks. Hardaway Jr., a veteran who started games and played significant minutes elsewhere last season, brings scoring and three-point shooting to the bench.
As a volume three-point shooter, Hardaway Jr. offers a skill set needed off the bench, potentially competing for minutes with younger players. Given concerns about the readiness of some younger players in high-pressure playoff situations, bringing in a veteran like Hardaway Jr. whom the coaching staff can trust seems a sensible move.
Along with other veteran additions, Hardaway Jr. strengthens Denver`s bench depth, enhancing their potential to challenge top teams like the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference. The short-term, potentially bargain-priced deal also provides value without a significant long-term commitment.
Raptors Extend Jakob Poeltl; Sign Sandro Mamukelashvili
Reported Agreements: Toronto Raptors agree to a four-year, $104 million extension with center Jakob Poeltl; Raptors agree to a two-year, $5.5 million deal with forward/center Sandro Mamukelashvili.
Grades:
Poeltl: Fail (Extensions graded on pass/fail)
Mamukelashvili: B+
The Raptors have consistently demonstrated a high valuation for Jakob Poeltl since trading for him in 2023, extending him shortly after that and now giving him a substantial raise on top of that contract. This new extension commits significant salary to Poeltl through his early to mid-30s.
While advanced metrics might rate Poeltl positively, the market outside of Toronto might not value him as highly, suggesting the Raptors potentially could have retained him later for less money. The primary concern with this extension is Poeltl`s age progression; he will be in his early-to-mid 30s during the entirety of this new deal, and his rim protection metrics have shown some decline since rejoining Toronto.
Investing heavily in a core that has yet to prove capable of making the playoffs, particularly with significant salary tied up years down the line, appears risky for the Raptors. Given the lack of immediate urgency, waiting to extend Poeltl could have provided Toronto more flexibility and potentially better terms.
Conversely, the Sandro Mamukelashvili signing appears to be a high-value, low-risk move. Mamukelashvili showed flashes of strong offensive production, including scoring outbursts and promising three-point shooting accuracy last season. His offensive skills, particularly scoring and shooting, could make him a valuable contributor off the bench, especially when paired with defensive-minded frontcourt players. For the modest cost, this signing is a worthwhile gamble for Toronto to bolster its depth.
Kings Sign Dennis Schroder to Three-Year Deal
Reported Agreement: Sacramento Kings agree to a three-year, $45 million contract with guard Dennis Schroder.
Grade: C-
Following a roster shakeup that saw De`Aaron Fox traded, the Kings identified a need for traditional point guard play. Dennis Schroder, known for his ball-handling and ability to pressure opposing guards, fits that description. However, it`s debatable whether playmaking was the Kings` most critical weakness last season, as their offense remained relatively efficient even with ball-handling responsibilities distributed among multiple players. Defensive performance appeared to be a larger issue.
Schroder, at 6-foot-1, adds to the Kings` perimeter players who are undersized, potentially exacerbating defensive challenges compared to a player like Keon Ellis. Offensively, Schroder has historically been more effective as a high-usage bench player than a primary starter, and his value has fluctuated with his three-point shooting consistency.
Committing three years and $45 million to a player who will turn 32 shortly, especially given that his effectiveness relies significantly on quickness, carries notable risk of age-related decline. This signing also necessitated salary-saving moves, such as trading backup center Jonas Valanciunas for a lower-salaried player, which arguably downgraded the roster`s on-court production elsewhere. Compared to alternative options like Tyus Jones, the Schroder contract seems less optimal given the cost and fit.
Jaren Jackson Jr. Gets Extension with Grizzlies, Santi Aldama Returns
Reported Agreements: Memphis Grizzlies agree to a five-year, $240 million renegotiation and extension with forward/center Jaren Jackson Jr.; Grizzlies agree to re-sign forward Santi Aldama to a three-year, $52.5 million contract.
Grades:
Jackson: Pass (Extensions graded on pass/fail)
Aldama: B-
Securing Jaren Jackson Jr.`s long-term future was a top priority for the Grizzlies. By utilizing salary cap space to renegotiate his current contract before extending it, Memphis could offer a more competitive figure ($240 million over five years, starting with a bump in salary next season), coming close to the maximum he could have pursued as an unrestricted free agent. For Jackson Jr., accepting this deal provides security and significant wealth, likely worth the minor difference from a potential future max.
From Memphis` perspective, this is a major victory, eliminating the risk of Jackson Jr. leaving in free agency or qualifying for an even larger supermax contract down the line. The cap space required involved shedding salary, potentially through trades or stretching contracts, which paid off by enabling this extension.
The Grizzlies also retained Santi Aldama, who had a career-best season on his rookie contract. Aldama, still young, is expected to remain a key part of the rotation. While his contract ($52.5 million over three years) might be seen as generous compared to what other teams could offer using exceptions, it secures a valuable player and allows Memphis flexibility in structuring the deal to maximize cap space in the immediate future.
Hawks Sign Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Luke Kennard
Reported Agreements: Atlanta Hawks agree to a four-year, $62 million contract with guard Nickeil Alexander-Walker via sign-and-trade; Hawks agree to a one-year, $11 million deal with guard Luke Kennard.
Grades:
Alexander-Walker: A-
Kennard: B
Nickeil Alexander-Walker`s value likely increased following his strong defensive performances in the playoffs and his ability to hit three-pointers. He capitalized on this by agreeing to a lucrative contract with the Hawks via a sign-and-trade, slightly exceeding the non-taxpayer midlevel exception. This continues a positive offseason trend for Atlanta under its new general manager.
Alexander-Walker, younger than the player he effectively replaces (Caris LeVert), fits Atlanta`s timeline better. His defensive pressure and capability to play some point guard make him a valuable addition, potentially creating a formidable defensive backcourt rotation. The Hawks also added Luke Kennard, a career 44% three-point shooter, on a one-year deal to further boost their backcourt depth and shooting. With these moves, Atlanta`s backcourt is significantly deeper.
Although it`s early to predict Atlanta`s final standing in the Eastern Conference, these additions, combined with previous moves like acquiring Kristaps Porzingis and draft assets, position the Hawks to potentially avoid the play-in tournament and compete more effectively. While draft pick swap rights exist, the overall offseason strategy appears aimed at both improving the immediate roster and securing future assets.
Brook Lopez Joins Clippers on Two-Year Deal
Reported Agreement: LA Clippers agree to a two-year, $16 million contract with center Brook Lopez.
Grade: A
Brook Lopez joining the LA Clippers makes significant sense, especially on a team-friendly contract appropriate for a backup center. Despite their overall roster strength, the Clippers struggled last season when their starting center was off the court. Lopez provides a credible and experienced backup who can maintain defensive presence and offensive spacing.
Known as “Splash Mountain” for his three-point shooting ability, Lopez offers a level of floor spacing from the center position that significantly upgrades the Clippers` backup options. He can also provide occasional post-up offense. Defensively, Lopez is a proven rim protector whose presence ensures the Clippers have quality defense at the center position for 48 minutes per game.
At 37, age is a potential concern, but Lopez`s primary skills (size, shooting) tend to age well. The two-year contract mitigates long-term risk while providing excellent value for a player who was a full-time starter just last season. This signing effectively addresses a clear depth weakness for the Clippers at a favorable price.
Bucks Re-Sign Kevin Porter Jr., Gary Trent Jr., and Taurean Prince
Reported Agreements: Milwaukee Bucks agree to re-sign guard Kevin Porter Jr. to a two-year, $11 million deal; Bucks agree to re-sign guard Gary Trent Jr. to a two-year, $7.5 million deal; Bucks agree to re-sign forward Taurean Prince to a two-year, $7.1 million deal.
Grades:
Porter: B
Prince: C
Trent: A
In addition to re-signing Bobby Portis, the Bucks brought back several other rotation players who were on minimum contracts, securing them at modest price points. Kevin Porter Jr. received the largest raise after showing promise as a point guard in extended minutes late last season due to injuries. With Damian Lillard`s expected absence, Porter Jr. could step into the starting point guard role. His talent is evident, although his efficiency had been inconsistent before joining Milwaukee, and his future depends on maintaining focus off the court. Utilizing an exception for his contract was a necessary part of Milwaukee`s cap strategy.
Gary Trent Jr. also proved valuable, particularly in the playoffs, with strong scoring performances. Securing his return using non-Bird rights at a minimal raise is a significant win for the Bucks, providing scoring and shooting depth at a bargain price. Trent also gains the ability to establish early Bird rights in the future.
Taurean Prince, however, saw his role diminish significantly in the playoffs after starting most of the regular season. Given his lack of impact in critical games, giving him a two-year deal with a player option seems questionable, especially as it counts against the cap at a higher rate than a minimum contract. Re-signing these players maintains continuity but doesn`t necessarily elevate the team`s ceiling, particularly in the absence of key players from previous seasons. The Bucks still have room to use their midlevel exception to address needs, but their path to championship contention remains unclear based on these early moves alone.
Spurs Sign Luke Kornet to Four-Year Deal
Reported Agreement: San Antonio Spurs agree to a four-year, $41 million deal with center Luke Kornet.
Grade: B+
While seemingly counterintuitive for a team built around Victor Wembanyama, signing Luke Kornet provides valuable depth and specific defensive skills. San Antonio`s biggest long-term need might be a versatile forward, but acquiring such a player in free agency was likely out of their price range. Kornet, highlighted by advanced metrics for his defensive impact and efficient finishing, represents a strong acquisition at the center position.
Kornet excels at rim protection, demonstrating top-tier effectiveness within 5 feet. This addresses a critical weakness the Spurs faced last season: their defensive rating plummeted when Wembanyama was off the court. Kornet`s presence provides quality defense at the center position for the minutes Wembanyama rests, significantly improving the team`s defensive stability.
There`s also potential for Kornet to play alongside Wembanyama at times, exploring effective “double-big” lineups. While Wembanyama primarily played center last season, experimenting with capable big men next to him is a worthwhile strategy. The structure of Kornet`s contract, likely descending in salary, aligns well with the Spurs` future cap planning as Wembanyama eventually moves off his rookie deal. Overall, this signing effectively addresses a key weakness at a reasonable cost, offering both immediate impact and future flexibility.
Nuggets Agree to Deal with Bruce Brown Jr.
Reported Agreement: Denver Nuggets agree to a contract with guard/forward Bruce Brown Jr.
Grade: B+
A reunion between Bruce Brown Jr. and the Denver Nuggets, following their 2023 championship run, makes sense for both sides. Brown Jr. cashed in after that season but saw his production dip slightly away from Denver`s unique offensive system led by Nikola Jokic. His three-point and inside-the-arc shooting percentages decreased over the past two seasons, potentially due to increased defensive responsibilities against larger opponents or simply a different offensive flow.
The Nuggets are likely banking on Brown Jr.`s ability to thrive again within their system, utilizing his cutting, reading of the game, and defensive versatility. His previous success fitting alongside Jokic is a proven commodity. The reported veteran`s minimum salary is a significant win for Denver, allowing them to add a valuable proven contributor without using their midlevel exception, which can be used elsewhere to further improve the roster.
Adding Brown Jr. strengthens the bench and brings back a player with championship experience and a history of fitting seamlessly into the team`s scheme. This low-cost, high-potential signing is a positive step in the Nuggets` offseason makeover.
Pistons Acquire Caris LeVert and Re-sign Paul Reed
Reported Agreements: Detroit Pistons agree to a two-year, $29 million contract with guard Caris LeVert; Detroit Pistons agree to re-sign center Paul Reed to a two-year, $11 million contract.
Grades:
LeVert: B-
Reed: B
News regarding Malik Beasley`s investigation seemingly prompted the Pistons to pivot their plans for a backup guard. They quickly moved to sign Caris LeVert, a veteran reserve guard who has provided scoring and playmaking off the bench in recent seasons. While LeVert is not as strong a three-point shooter as Beasley, he offers more ball-handling and on-ball defense, skills that complement their younger backcourt players.
Signing LeVert using the non-taxpayer midlevel exception allows the Pistons to retain flexibility elsewhere, notably in re-signing Tim Hardaway Jr. using Bird rights. While potentially not their first choice given circumstances, LeVert is a capable reserve who fills an immediate need for bench production.
The Pistons also re-signed Paul Reed, securing their backup center at a reasonable price. Reed`s active defense makes him a reliable option in that role. Both signings add depth and address rotation spots for a team focused on building its core, operating well below the luxury tax line.
Clint Capela Returns to Rockets on Three-Year Deal
Reported Agreement: Houston Rockets agree to a three-year, $21.5 million contract with center Clint Capela.
Grade: D+
Bringing Clint Capela back to Houston, especially after extending backup center Steven Adams, is a somewhat surprising move. Capela and Adams offer similar skill sets and positional limitations, leading to questions about fit and minutes management alongside starting center Alperen Sengun. While minutes can be managed, committing significant resources to two non-spacing backup centers seems redundant.
Adding Capela`s salary will likely push the Rockets into the luxury tax, signaling a commitment to winning now after previously acquiring Kevin Durant. However, this commitment comes with limitations, as nearing the luxury tax apron reduces flexibility for future additions. The larger concern is the long-term implication of paying two backup centers as the team`s younger core becomes eligible for extensions. This strategy seems counterproductive to building sustainable future flexibility, especially when those salary slots could potentially be used on younger, more versatile players.
Bulls Sign Tre Jones to Three-Year Deal
Reported Agreement: Chicago Bulls agree to re-sign guard Tre Jones to a three-year, $24 million contract.
Grade: B+
Tre Jones impressed during his brief stint with the Bulls after being acquired in a trade last season, providing efficient scoring, playmaking, and strong free throw shooting. This three-year contract secures a solid rotation guard through his prime years.
Jones has proven capable of starting, but this contract is priced more appropriately for a high-level backup, which he is expected to be with the Bulls. The value is favorable for Chicago, as the annual salary is below the top tier of the backup point guard market.
The contract structure allows the Bulls flexibility in future years, particularly as they aim to maintain cap space. Starting the salary higher initially and descending in later years can maximize their room when needed. Overall, securing a productive and young backup point guard at this price is a positive move for Chicago.
Knicks Plan to Sign Jordan Clarkson
Reported Agreement: New York Knicks plan to sign guard Jordan Clarkson.
Grade: B-
Following a buyout, Jordan Clarkson is expected to join the Knicks. Clarkson is a veteran guard known for his scoring prowess off the bench, having previously won Sixth Man of the Year. He has been a primary offensive option for the Jazz during their rebuilding phase.
While Clarkson provides instant offense, he hasn`t historically been the most efficient scorer. Adding him gives the Knicks another veteran option for bench scoring and creation. His fit and exact role will become clearer upon official signing and integration into the Knicks` system.