The initial wave of high-profile signings and trades has crested, but the NBA free agency landscape remains dynamic. Teams are now sifting through the remaining pool of talent, broadly categorized into two groups: seasoned veterans seeking meaningful roles on competitive teams and promising young players looking to fulfill their potential, perhaps in a new environment.
While the marquee names securing max contracts have made their moves, several notable figures could still change jerseys. This secondary market, though less flashy, is crucial for teams looking to fine-tune their rosters or take calculated risks on players with high upside.
Players Generating Buzz
Here`s a look at some of the prominent names still being discussed in trade circles and the free agent market, and the factors shaping their immediate futures:
Giannis Antetokounmpo (30, Forward, Milwaukee Bucks)
The “Greek Freak” finds himself in an uncomfortable position. Reports suggest discomfort with the Milwaukee situation, stemming perhaps from the team`s perceived inability to build a consistent championship contender around him, exacerbated by Damian Lillard`s injury and subsequent departure. The Bucks have attempted to placate their superstar, notably acquiring Myles Turner and re-signing Bobby Portis, but whether these moves fundamentally shift the team`s championship prospects in Giannis`s eyes remains an open question. Acquiring a player of Antetokounmpo`s caliber would necessitate an astronomical package, a price few teams can realistically pay. Yet, where there`s a superstar`s potential availability, speculation will inevitably swirl. Milwaukee`s roster, as currently constructed (Porter, Trent, Kuzma, Giannis, Turner), appears, charitably speaking, inadequate for deep playoff aspirations, lending some credence to his potential desire for a change.
Jonathan Kuminga (22, Forward, Golden State Warriors)
Kuminga represents the perpetual paradox of unfulfilled potential. Blessed with exceptional athleticism and scoring flashes, his consistency and defensive understanding have reportedly left coach Steve Kerr unconvinced of his fit within the Warriors` system. The narrative surrounding him often feels like “so much talent, so little consistent production.” Despite this, his youth and raw ability make him an attractive target. A team with different needs and coaching philosophies might see him as a cornerstone. Given his contract situation, a “sign-and-trade” seems the most plausible route for his departure from the Bay Area, likely involving another team willing to invest significantly in his upside.
Josh Giddey (22, Guard, Chicago Bulls)
The Australian point guard is a stat-sheet stuffer, demonstrating a triple-double threat capability with points, rebounds, and assists. While not a natural sharpshooter, he has shown improvements in his three-point efficiency. Chicago reportedly intends to secure him long-term but may be hesitant to offer a maximum-level contract. This potential gap between his value to another team and what Chicago is willing to pay creates an opportunity for rivals to try and pry him away from the Windy City. A versatile playmaker like Giddey, still early in his career, is a valuable commodity.
Chris Paul (40, Guard, San Antonio Spurs)
Remarkably, CP3 managed to play all 82 regular season games last season in San Antonio – a testament to his enduring physical conditioning. While no longer the “Point God” of his prime, his basketball IQ, passing vision, and ability to bring order to an offense are still valuable, even in a reduced-minutes role. Think of him as a highly experienced general coming off the bench. His presence could stabilize a second unit or provide veteran leadership on a playoff team. A return to a familiar environment like the Los Angeles Clippers could be a logical, late-career move.
Russell Westbrook (36, Guard, Denver Nuggets)
Westbrook surprised many by adapting effectively as a complementary player alongside Nikola Jokic in Denver. This stint proved he is far from “finished.” When utilized correctly – specifically, not stuck in a corner waiting for threes, but allowed to drive the second unit`s pace and attack – he remains a potent force. His energy, intensity, and professional work ethic serve as a compelling example for younger players. One might wryly observe, “If only everyone worked as hard as him…” His role now is that of an impactful reserve, and teams needing a jolt off the bench could benefit.
Al Horford (39, Center, Boston Celtics)
Retirement rumors swirled around Horford, yet no official announcement has materialized, and apparently, neither have offers ceased. This suggests he might be contemplating another season. His cerebral game and defensive intelligence make him a valuable big man, particularly for teams prioritizing spacing and high-IQ play, such as the Golden State Warriors or Los Angeles Lakers, who are reportedly showing interest. With Boston potentially taking a “sabbatical” year from championship contention after their recent success, moving Horford could align with a strategic shift for the Celtics, giving his departure some logical footing.
Damian Lillard (35, Guard, Milwaukee Bucks)
Milwaukee`s decision to surprisingly waive Lillard following his Achilles tendon tear during the 2025 playoffs dramatically altered his market. While he isn`t expected back on the court until perhaps spring 2026, the team that acquires him could potentially do so at a significant discount compared to his previous value. Despite the severe injury, Lillard was an All-Star caliber player in the two seasons preceding it. This situation presents a calculated risk-reward scenario for teams willing to stash him and await his return.
LeBron James (40, Forward, Los Angeles Lakers)
The perennial question in Los Angeles: “Is this his last year? Will he stay or go?” James exercised his player option, ostensibly keeping him with the Lakers for another season. Most indicators point to him staying, influenced by significant off-court interests in Los Angeles and the complex dynamics surrounding the team`s potential new ownership. The market for a 40-year-old, albeit one of the greatest ever, is also complicated by his salary and the immense trade package required. A move remains improbable, almost surely so. Yet, it is LeBron James. And in the unpredictable world of the NBA, occasionally, someone makes a dramatically irrational move for a player of his stature, even if logic dictates otherwise. He remains the gigantic suggestion that refuses to disappear entirely.
As teams finalize their rosters for the upcoming season, the fates of these players will continue to be a focal point, shaping not just their own legacies but the competitive balance of the league.
Murray Blackwood