The anticipation surrounding the 2024 NBA Free Agency Class is reaching a fever pitch as basketball fans eagerly await the opportunity to witness a star-studded lineup of players hit the open market. With the potential for blockbuster signings, major roster shake-ups, and teams vying for the services of elite talents, the upcoming free agency period promises to be one of the most thrilling and consequential in recent memory.
In this comprehensive article, we will delve deep into the talent pool of the 2024 NBA Free Agency Class, analyzing and ranking the top 25 free agents in distinct tiers based on their skills, contributions, and potential impact on prospective teams. This stacked class is poised to reshape the league’s landscape, with marquee names and rising stars offering an array of choices for teams looking to bolster their rosters and make a championship push.
The sheer star power of this free agency class is awe-inspiring. From established superstars seeking new challenges to emerging talents poised for breakout contracts, the pool of available players represents a captivating mix of experience, skill, and potential. The decisions made during this offseason could shape the league’s competitive balance for years to come.
As we embark on this exploration of the top 25 free agents, we will consider each player’s on-court impact, statistical prowess, and overall value to their respective teams. Beyond the numbers, we will examine their intangibles, leadership qualities, and fit within potential destinations. Contract expectations, market dynamics, and team needs will also play significant roles in our rankings, as we aim to provide a comprehensive analysis of each player’s potential impact on the league. Without further ado, here are the 25 top free agents in 2024 ranked into tiers.
Tier 5: Starting-Caliber Players
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope ($15.4 Million Player Option)
Lonzo Ball ($21.4 Million Player Option)
Josh Hart (UFA)
Buddy Hield (UFA)
Malik Monk (UFA)
Saddiq Bey (RFA)
Mike Conley (UFA)
Patrick Williams (RFA)
Known for his perimeter defense and three-point shooting, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope brings valuable skills to the free agent market. He has proven to be a reliable two-way player and a strong contributor to championship-caliber teams. Contending teams seeking a solid shooting guard should have their eyes on Caldwell-Pope. This past season, the shooting guard shot 42.3% from deep and the Nuggets might want to hold onto him by convincing him to sign a long-term deal or possibly accept the $15.4 million player option. Since Denver already lost Bruce Brown, they can’t afford to lose another key role player.
Lonzo Ball’s playmaking and defensive abilities have made him an intriguing point guard option. His improved three-point shooting has added a new dimension to his game, making him an attractive prospect for teams in need of floor spacing and playmaking. Ball’s potential for growth and his ability to impact the game in multiple ways make him a coveted free agent. It seems Ball will miss the entire 2023-24 season, which is sad, but hopefully, he can get a long-term deal by the time free agency rolls around. Considering Lonzo is more than an intelligent person, accepting a deal for over $21 million for one season might make sense because he likely won’t command that much for a single season after missing two campaigns with a severe injury.
Josh Hart is a versatile guard/forward who brings energy and toughness to the court. Known for his rebounding, defense, and ability to make timely plays, Hart is a valuable asset for teams looking to bolster their bench and add a player who can impact the game in various ways. The Knicks might want to hold onto their starting swingman because he has developed chemistry with Jalen Brunson, although there will be competing since Hart is an unrestricted free agent.
Buddy Hield is an elite shooter with a quick release and deep shooting range. His ability to stretch the floor and provide instant offense makes him an appealing option for teams in need of perimeter scoring. Hield’s shooting prowess and offensive firepower make him a valuable asset in today’s NBA. This past season, Hield shot 42.5% from the three-point line, and as an unrestricted free agent, the player will have a ton of offers from teams looking to boost their shooting guard depth.
Malik Monk is an athletic guard with scoring ability and potential as a microwave scorer off the bench. He has shown flashes of scoring brilliance but has yet to find consistent production. As a free agent, Monk could be an intriguing, low-risk, high-reward signing for teams in need of a scoring spark. With the Kings, Monk posted 13.5 PPG in only 22.3 MPG. Monk, at 25 years old, must find a way to make as much money as possible which means the unrestricted free agent will be as greedy as possible, which could mean bad news for the Sacramento Kings.
Saddiq Bey had an impressive season, showcasing his shooting stroke and defensive versatility. As a prototypical “3-and-D” player, Bey offers valuable skills and the potential for further development. Teams looking for a young and promising wing player should have their eyes on Bey in the 2024 Free Agent Class. The forward is a restricted free agent and that means the Atlanta Hawks will want to hold onto him after acquiring him following the John Collins trade with Utah.
Mike Conley brings veteran leadership, and steady point guard play to the free-agent market. Known for his high basketball IQ, playmaking ability, and perimeter shooting, Conley provides stability and experience to any team’s backcourt. Contending teams in need of a floor general will consider Conley a valuable addition even if he will be 37 years old and counting by the time the 2024 Free Agency rolls around. An unrestricted free agent, Conley maybe wants one final chance to compete for a championship and could join a contender for a veteran’s minimum contract or otherwise try to make a couple more million before retirement.
Patrick Williams is a young and versatile forward with tremendous defensive potential. His length, athleticism, and ability to guard multiple positions make him a coveted asset for teams in need of a defensive anchor. Williams’ offensive game is still developing, but his defensive upside makes him an intriguing free-agent prospect. The Bulls know that Williams is a restricted free agent and since he is only 21 years old, he will in all likelihood be retained on a long-term deal. After all, why would the rebuilding Bulls not retain a player with three seasons under his belt as the No. 4 overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft?
Tier 4: Fringe All-Stars
Miles Bridges (UFA)
Jrue Holiday ($37.4 Million Player Option)
Tyrese Maxey (RFA)
Tobias Harris (UFA)
Jonas Valanciunas (UFA)
Nic Claxton (UFA)
OG Anunoby ($19.9 Million Player Option)
Miles Bridges has emerged as a dynamic forward with a combination of athleticism and scoring ability. His high-flying dunks and improved outside shooting make him an intriguing free-agent target. With continued development, Bridges has the potential to be a valuable contributor to any team’s roster. It seems the forward has cleared his name somewhat after the domestic abuse allegations and if so, he might be on his way to earn a max deal if he can play his way to the All-Star Team in 2024.
Jrue Holiday is a skilled and versatile guard known for his exceptional defense, playmaking, and ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor. He brings valuable leadership and experience to any team. Holiday’s combination of offensive and defensive abilities makes him a sought-after free agent, particularly for teams in need of a reliable guard who can contribute on multiple fronts. It will be interesting to see if the Milwaukee Bucks want to keep their championship Big Three from 2021 together. If Holiday accepts his $37.4 million player option, he might be looking for a chance to join a new franchise, but if he rejects, a long-term contract from the Bucks for at least three years could be on the table.
Tyrese Maxey is a young and promising guard who has shown flashes of scoring ability and potential. As a free agent in 2024, Maxey’s potential for growth and development will be an attractive aspect for teams looking to invest in a talented and ascending player. He possesses solid ball-handling skills, scoring instincts, and the potential to become a dynamic playmaker. If he doesn’t reach All-Star status by next season, he will by the time free agency hits. As a restricted free agent, Maxey will almost certainly be returning to Philadelphia because the 76ers have made it clear that the point guard is untouchable and will be offered a long-term deal.
Tobias Harris is an established forward with a diverse offensive skill set. He can score from inside and outside, create his own shot, and contribute on the boards. Harris brings stability and consistency to a team’s frontcourt, making him an attractive free agent for teams in need of a versatile scoring forward. Despite the criticism constantly coming his way, Harris can help teams win games even if he was underperforming compared to his max contract. Harris is an unrestricted free agent and considering how often he was criticized, he will likely be on a new team in 2024.
Jonas Valanciunas is a skilled and physical center known for his rebounding prowess and scoring ability in the paint. He provides a reliable presence in the low post and has developed a reliable mid-range shot. Valanciunas’ combination of size, strength, and scoring ability makes him a valuable asset for teams seeking a reliable big man. This past season, the big man averaged 14.1 PPG and 10.2 RPG. An unrestricted free agent, the big man will look to the team that pays him the most and he should because he is approaching 32 years old next season.
Nic Claxton is a young and athletic big man who has shown promise in limited playing time. As a free agent, Claxton’s potential and upside will be enticing for teams looking for a mobile and versatile frontcourt player. He has demonstrated shot-blocking ability, rebounding prowess, and the potential to become a capable scorer. At only 24 years old, there will be much more to come from the explosive center in the coming seasons, so that means the Brooklyn Nets would be foolish to not give him a 4-year deal considering they just are holding onto Mikal Bridges and just paid Cam Johnson.
OG Anunoby is a versatile forward known for his defensive abilities and three-point shooting. He has developed into a reliable 3-and-D player, capable of guarding multiple positions and knocking down shots from beyond the arc. Anunoby’s defensive versatility and improving offensive game make him an intriguing free-agent target for teams in need of a two-way wing who posted 16.8 PPG and 5.0 RPG this past season. The Raptors are in rebuild mode after letting Fred VanVleet walk and that means Anunoby might reject his player option worth $19.9 million and look toward any team that pays him close to $20-$25 million per season.
Tier 3: All-Stars
James Harden (UFA)
Jaylen Brown (UFA)
Klay Thompson (UFA)
Pascal Siakam (UFA)
DeMar DeRozan (UFA)
James Harden is one of the premier scoring guards in the league, known for his offensive prowess, playmaking ability, and ball-handling skills. As a perennial All-Star and former MVP, Harden brings a wealth of experience and scoring talent to any team. His ability to create shots for himself and his teammates makes him a highly coveted free agent for teams in need of a dynamic playmaker and go-to scorer. Even if The Beard has aged, he still led the NBA in APG this past season and will always be a capable All-Star point guard for any franchise. So far, it doesn’t seem like Harden will be going anywhere since the Philadelphia 76ers probably don’t want to trade him. However, since The Beard accepted his player option, he is looking for the most money on the market since that means more to him than anything else at this point.
Jaylen Brown is a bonafide All-Star in the NBA, showcasing a well-rounded skill set and exceptional athleticism. His ability to score at all three levels, play solid defense, and contribute on the boards makes him a highly desirable free-agent target. Brown’s potential for growth and his ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor make him an attractive option for teams looking to build around a young, dynamic talent. It seems the Boston Celtics will want to hold onto Brown, although they could be waiting for the free agency craze to settle down a little bit. By posting 26.6 PPG and 6.9 RPG this past season, he might deserve the supermax extension, but until then, he will be a free agent in 2024.
Klay Thompson is one of the premier shooters in NBA history, known for his ability to catch fire from beyond the arc. His elite shooting stroke, combined with his off-ball movement and defensive abilities, has made him a key contributor to championship-caliber teams. After recovering from injuries, Thompson’s return to the court will undoubtedly attract significant interest from teams seeking a deadly shooter and experienced playoff performer. If the Warriors can’t agree on a deal for him after this season for one more run, Thompson could be looking for a new team in short order. The question is, how much is he worth after playing only 111 games over the last four regular seasons? A big summer awaits for Thompson and the Golden State Warriors and the sharpshooter’s play this upcoming season might dictate the result.
Pascal Siakam is a versatile forward with a unique combination of size, speed, and skill. His ability to score in various ways, defend multiple positions, and contribute as a playmaker has made him an integral part of the Toronto Raptors’ success. Siakam’s potential as a two-way player and his versatility make him an intriguing free agent for teams in need of a versatile forward who can impact the game on both ends if he isn’t traded this summer. In 2023, Siakam averaged 24.2 PPG, 7.8 RPG, and 5.8 APG, so he is of All-Star caliber. The Raptors have lost Fred VanVleet, so it only makes sense to move on from Pascal Siakam for young players and picks because he could realistically walk for nothing as an unrestricted free agent because many title-contending teams are after him.
DeMar DeRozan is a highly skilled scoring guard known for his mid-range game, driving ability, and playmaking skills. His scoring consistency and ability to create his own shot have made him a perennial All-Star. DeRozan’s offensive skills and veteran leadership make him an appealing free agent for teams in need of a scoring boost and a leader who can guide young players. After posting 24.5 PPG and making his 6th All-Star Team, DeMar will likely command another max deal for at least three years if he joins a new team. Expect the Chicago Bulls to trade DeRozan this upcoming season to prevent the unrestricted free agent from walking for nothing because his time in the Windy City could be coming to an end.
Tier 2: Superstars
Kawhi Leonard ($48.8 Million Player Option)
Anthony Davis ($43.2 Million Player Option)
Paul George ($48.8 Million Player Option)
Kawhi Leonard will be one of the most coveted free agents in the 2024 class. Known for his elite two-way skills, Leonard is widely regarded as one of the best players in the league. His defensive prowess, scoring ability, and knack for stepping up in clutch moments make him a true game-changer. Despite injury concerns in recent years, his impact on the court cannot be overstated. Teams will be vying to secure his services, hoping to add a bona fide superstar who can elevate them to championship contention. Obviously, his injury history remains a problem since he has played under 60 games per season since arriving in Los Angeles. Look at his track record with the Clippers: 57 games, 52 games, 0 games, and 52 games. That is scary availability for a man over 32 years of age, and teams will proceed wisely. Still, due to his ability to be the best player on a championship team, The Claw should be able to command another max deal from the Los Angeles Clippers or any other team that wants a new franchise player. If Kawhi is alerted that there might not be long-term money on the market, accepting his player option for nearly $49 million and then re-assessing could be in the cards.
The Los Angeles Lakers are reluctant to give Anthony Davis another long-term deal worth max money, and that is reasonable. He has struggled to stay healthy, even after having a terrific season when he played by posting 25.9 PPG and 12.5 RPG, and there are doubts about the player as he approaches 31 years old. Still, Davis will be one of the premier free agents in the 2024 class. As a dominant big man with a unique combination of size, skill, and athleticism, Davis is widely considered one of the best players in the league. With a $43.2 million player option on the table, the big man could decide to take it and then look to join another team. Of course, that greatly depends on what the Lakers do. Teams will be eager to secure his services, as he has the potential to be a franchise cornerstone and a game-changing force in the frontcourt. What the Lakers do with Davis might also depend on what LeBron James does as well, and a conversation about The King is coming up shortly.
Paul George will be a sought-after free agent in the 2024 class regardless of the critics. As a versatile wing player, George brings a valuable combination of scoring ability, perimeter defense, and playmaking skills. Known for his smooth shooting stroke and ability to create his own shot, he can be a reliable scoring option for any team. George’s defensive prowess and ability to guard multiple positions make him an asset on the defensive end as well. Despite facing scrutiny for some postseason performances, he has shown the ability to step up in big moments (including the 2021 Playoffs) and has multiple All-Star appearances to his name. The upcoming season for the Clippers will be huge because it seems that George (and Leonard) might not be given long-term deals if they can’t stay healthy. George might not command a salary of over $48 million in one season again, so he might accept his player option to grab the bag before departing. No doubt, George will follow Kawhi’s lead in terms of staying or leaving because if Leonard goes, the Clippers’ title-contending days are over.
Tier 1: The Best Free Agent In 2024
LeBron James ($51.4 Million Player Option)
Sure, LeBron James will be 39 years old at some point next season and approaching 40 years old by the time the 2024-25 season comes around. James has a $51 million player option and if he accepts, it means he is staying with the Lakers for one last run. However, if The King doesn’t sign another max deal with the Los Angeles Lakers this year and does not want to retire, there will be a massive hysteria about where James will end up. He has made it clear that he wants to play with his son, Bronny, and that might be the deciding factor in where LeBron ends up after this season. If teams such as the Orlando Magic, Atlanta Hawks, or Oklahoma City Thunder end up drafting Bronny, LeBron James could have a tough decision to make next summer. His worth is over $1 billion, but would he reject an easy $51.4 million deal and join his son on any NBA team next season, or he will stay with the Lakers for one more year?
It is also possible that the Lakers make a run for the championship because their depth chart is looking very scary, to say the least. LeBron is still a top-10 player in the world, and if he can stay healthy for most of this season and actually compete for the NBA championship, he will be the most valuable free agent in the 2024 Class. LeBron, as always, will headline the 2024 Free Agent Class because what he decides to do will shape out the rest of the team’s decision-making. The 2023-24 season will be extremely important with regard to LeBron’s impending free agency because if the Lakers can make the NBA Finals or even win it all, it makes sense for The King to see out his career in Los Angeles and try to catch Michael Jordan’s elusive shadow.
