Point guard might be the most important position in today’s NBA, and this summer’s free agency class is loaded with talent. With names like Kyrie Irving and James Harden potentially up for grabs, teams will be circling like sharks the moment free agency tips off.
- 1. Kyrie Irving
- 2. James Harden
- 3. Fred VanVleet
- 4. Josh Giddey
- 5. D’Angelo Russell
- 6. Tyus Jones
- 7. Russell Westbrook
- 8. Dennis Schroder
- 9. Tre Mann
- 10. Chris Paul
- 11. Malcolm Brogdon
- 12. Ben Simmons
- 13. Spencer Dinwiddie
- 14. Dante Exum
- 15. Davion Mitchell
- 16. Bones Hyland
- 17. Vasilije Micic
- 18. Tre Jones
- 19. Monte Morris
- 20. Kyle Lowry
But it’s not just the stars making headlines—underrated guards with something to prove could end up being the steals of the offseason. Let’s rank the 20 best point guards available and what makes each one a game-changer looking ahead to next season.
1. Kyrie Irving
2024-25 Stats: 24.7 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 4.6 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.5 BPG
Contract: $43,962,963 Player Option
Kyrie Irving’s decision this summer might dictate the future of the Dallas Mavericks. With a $50.4 million player option on the table, Irving could secure the bag for one more year and then hit free agency in 2026, giving himself control over the next phase of his career.
It is also possible that Irving will accept the player option because he does not want to leave himself without a long-term deal since he tore his ACL and is out for the season. If the Mavericks don’t want to risk a long-term deal, Kyrie might accept this player option but a quick recovery could get him the deal he is looking for.
Especially with Luka Doncic out of the picture for good and the front office’s desire to go all-in with Anthony Davis, Dallas could still persuade Kyrie to reject the option and sign a three-year deal, providing both sides some long-term commitment.
Financially, a three-year contract makes sense for the Mavs, who need a cornerstone to keep the fanbase from revolting. If Kyrie does test the market, the Lakers and Heat could be intriguing options, especially given LeBron’s appreciation for Kyrie’s game and Miami’s desperate need for shot creation. But if Dallas offers a max of three years, it’s hard to see Kyrie walking away.
2. James Harden
2024-25 Stats: 21.6 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 8.5 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.6 BPG
Contract: $36,346,154 Player Option
James Harden is easily the next-most valuable point guard in the upcoming free agency. After a solid season statistically that saw him make the All-Star Team, Harden can still be an impact player although his window of being a star player is rapidly closing. For a team looking to contend, Harden’s ability to run an offense and score at will is enticing.
The Clippers will likely re-sign Harden until the end of the player’s career. The Beard will almost certainly reject his player option and look for a new two or three-year deal before likely calling it quits on a Hall of Fame career. If Harden doesn’t want to live in Los Angeles, which is highly unlikely, there will be plenty of interest from pretty much every NBA team outside of the Thunder, Rockets, Nets, and 76ers.
3. Fred VanVleet
2024-25 Stats: 14.4 PPG, 3.9 RPG, 5.8 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Contract: $44,886,930 Team Option
Fred VanVleet’s numbers are down this season, but his leadership and defensive tenacity still make him a valuable piece. His shooting has been inconsistent, but the Rockets will proceed cautiously so as to not lose him for nothing. The team desperately needs a steady point guard and if they strike out on Devin Booker in a blockbuster trade this summer, they have to bring VanVleet back.
If the Rockets let him go, teams like the Heat and Timberwolves could use a guard who doesn’t shy away from big moments. A three-year deal at around $15 million per season seems reasonable for a contender in need of a veteran point guard. VanVleet’s free agency might not generate headlines, but he could be a game-changer for a playoff hopeful.
4. Josh Giddey
2024-25 Stats: 13.2 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 6.6 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.6 BPG
Contract: $11,142,057 Qualifying Offer
Josh Giddey’s versatility makes him one of the most intriguing free agents. His ability to rebound and facilitate is rare for a guard his size, but his shooting still leaves a lot to be desired. The Bulls would be wise to lock him up long-term, likely in the range of $20 million per year, as Giddey is one of their pieces for the future.
If they hesitate and do not want to extend a qualifying offer, teams like the Spurs or Pacers could swoop in with a big offer sheet. Giddey’s market value depends on how much teams believe in his shooting development, but either way, he will likely return to the Bulls because $11.1 million is a great deal for the team or they might offer an extension.
5. D’Angelo Russell
2024-25 Stats: 12.9 PPG, 2.8 RPG, 5.1 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Contract: Free Agent
D’Angelo Russell’s free agency feels like a test of how much scoring and playmaking are really worth when defensive liabilities (and the occasional poor performance) are involved. The Nets will have to decide if they want to bring back D-Lo or pursue a more two-way option at point guard.
A sign-and-trade isn’t out of the question either, especially if a team like the Magic is looking for a new point guard who can create his own shot. Russell’s market value might hover around $15-18 million per year, making him a solid but not spectacular option for teams that miss out on bigger names.
6. Tyus Jones
2024-25 Stats: 10.5 PPG, 2.5 RPG, 5.8 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.1 BPG
Contract: Free Agent
Tyus Jones is the ultimate safety net for a team in need of stability at point guard. He doesn’t turn the ball over and makes smart plays, which could make him a target for the Clippers or Bucks if they’re looking to shore up their bench. It just doesn’t seem likely Jones would want to stay with a struggling Suns team that will reportedly lose Kevin Durant this summer.
A deal around $5-10 million annually feels right for Jones, who won’t wow you but won’t lose you games either. For a contender looking to improve its second unit, Jones might be one of the sneaky good signings of the summer because you know what you will get from him almost every night.
7. Russell Westbrook
2024-25 Stats: 12.7 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 6.2 APG, 1.4 SPG, 0.5 BPG
Contract: $3,468,960 Player Option
Russell Westbrook’s free agency is one to watch because options won’t be plenty. While the triple-doubles aren’t as frequent, Westbrook can still push the pace and wreak havoc in transition. The question is whether he’ll accept his player option and return to the Nuggets, but that might depend on how the team does in the playoffs.
If the Nuggets make the NBA Finals or come close to it, Westbrook will likely stay in Denver and go for one more round for a title. It is hard to see any other contenders outside of the Milwaukee Bucks giving Russ a chance considering he is 36 years old.
8. Dennis Schroder
2024-25 Stats: 13.4 PPG, 2.6 RPG, 5.3 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Contract: Free Agent
Dennis Schroder has put together a solid campaign, reminding teams why he’s a valuable rotation piece. His speed and ability to get to the rim make him a useful sixth man or low-end starter, and his defensive tenacity has been better than expected.
The Raptors might want to bring him back, but contenders in need of bench scoring—like the Suns or Celtics—could be interested as well. A two- or three-year deal worth around $10-12 million annually feels right for Schroder, who still has plenty to offer in the right situation.
9. Tre Mann
2024-25 Stats: 14.1 PPG, 2.9 RPG, 3.0 APG, 0.5 SPG, 0.3 BPG
Contract: $6,964,982 Qualifying Offer
Tre Mann’s scoring outbursts over 13 games before a season-ending injury derailed his season might have caught the eye of a few teams, but questions remain about his consistency. At his best, Mann is a microwave scorer who can light it up off the bench, but his playmaking and defense still need work.
The Hornets might want to exercise their $6.9 million qualifying offer and keep Mann for another season to see how he handles the return from injury. Otherwise, a short-term deal with a team option might be the move, especially for squads like the Magic or Hornets looking for a young guard with upside. Mann’s free agency might not be one of the headliners, but he could end up being a bargain for a team willing to bet on his development.
10. Chris Paul
2024-25 Stats: 8.9 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 7.9 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Contract: Free Agent
At 39, Chris Paul’s days as a top-tier point guard are behind him, but his basketball IQ and leadership still hold immense value. CP3 can’t carry an offense anymore, but as a backup point guard or mentor for a young contender, he makes perfect sense.
The Lakers, Clippers, or Bucks might consider a veteran minimum deal if Paul is willing to chase a ring. Anything beyond that feels like an overpay given his health concerns. A one-year deal with a contender is likely the play here, letting Paul make one last push for a title. The Spurs might move on from Paul because they have their point guard in De’Aaron Fox so it’s hard to see the point guard remain in San Antonio.
11. Malcolm Brogdon
2024-25 Stats: 12.7 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 4.1 APG, 0.5 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Contract: Free Agent
Malcolm Brogdon’s ability to play both guard spots and defend multiple positions makes him a valuable asset in free agency. The injury history is a concern, but his efficiency and off-ball skills fit seamlessly on a contender and he is only two seasons away from reaching the Eastern Conference Finals with the Boston Celtics while winning Sixth Man of the Year.
The Lakers or Sixers could use his versatility, while a chance with the Pacers might be on the table if they can make the money work. A mid-level exception deal for 2-3 years seems like the sweet spot for Brogdon, giving him a chance to contribute without breaking the bank.
12. Ben Simmons
2024-25 Stats: 6.3 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 6.7 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.5 BPG
Contract: Free Agent
Ben Simmons’ free agency might be the most unpredictable storyline of the summer. His stock has plummeted to an almost unimaginable level, but teams desperate for a defensive playmaker could be willing to take a flier. Obviously, Simmons won’t make close to the $40 million he earned this season.
A prove-it deal is likely all Simmons can hope for, potentially with a team like the Heat or Kings who have a strong opening for a playmaker and athletic defender. The Clippers might want to bring him back to keep stocking up on aging veterans, but anything more than a short-term deal feels like a gamble, given his offensive limitations and ongoing questions about his confidence and health.
13. Spencer Dinwiddie
2024-25 Stats: 10.1 PPG, 2.3 RPG, 3.7 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Contract: Free Agent
Spencer Dinwiddie’s stock has taken a dip since his strong play from Brooklyn a few years ago, but his size and ability to create shots make him an interesting option for teams looking to bolster their bench. Dinwiddie might not get the same payday as his last contract, but a short-term deal of around $5 million per year seems reasonable.
The Bulls or Mavericks might be interested, especially if they strike out on bigger names. Dinwiddie’s best role is likely as a sixth man, and if he embraces that, he could bounce back next season. Considering the drama surrounding the Mavs this year, Dinwiddie had a pretty good year and could get a nice bag before settling for veteran minimums.
14. Dante Exum
2024-25 Stats: 9.2 PPG, 1.6 RPG, 3.3 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Contract: Free Agent
Dante Exum’s NBA comeback has been great to watch over the last two seasons. While his playmaking isn’t great, his three-point shooting (41.2%) is a major strength. Exum’s defense and size make him a useful depth piece and that was proven as he played a role for the Mavericks team last year.
He’s not going to command big money, but a $5 million deal or even a bi-annual exception might land him a spot on a playoff contender. Teams like the Bucks or Nuggets could see Exum as a low-risk, defensive-minded guard who can fill a specific role.
15. Davion Mitchell
2024-25 Stats: 7.0 PPG, 1.9 RPG, 4.5 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Contract: $8,741,210 Qualifying Offer
Davion Mitchell’s offensive game remains a work in progress, but his on-ball defense is elite. The Heat might look to keep him as part of their new core, but if they hesitate to extend a qualifying offer, a team like the Grizzlies could come calling.
Mitchell’s best fit is likely as a defensive specialist off the bench, and a three-year deal of around $7-9 million per year seems fair. The question is whether he can develop a reliable outside shot to keep defenses honest because he shot 38.3% from deep this season but is only averaging 33.7% for his career.
16. Bones Hyland
2024-25 Stats: 7.2 PPG, 1.2 RPG, 1.4 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Contract: Free Agent
Bones Hyland’s shot selection might drive coaches crazy, but his ability to heat up quickly is valuable for a team needing instant offense off the bench. A short-term deal with a rebuilding squad like the Magic or Pistons could give Hyland a chance to prove he can be more than just a volume shooter.
His market is likely limited, but a deal around $5-7 million per year feels reasonable for a player with his scoring ability. At 24 years old, Hyland is certainly a very solid bench option who only made a little over $4,000,000 this season and had a decent output.
17. Vasilije Micic
2024-25 Stats: 7.3 PPG, 2.4 RPG, 3.4 APG, 0.4 SPG, 0.0 BPG
Contract: $8,109,150 Team Option
Vasilije Micic’s second season in the NBA has been a mixed bag, showing flashes of his EuroLeague dominance but struggling to adjust to the pace and athleticism of the league. His high basketball IQ and ability to run an offense still make him an intriguing free agent.
The key question is fit—teams with more structured offenses like the Spurs or Heat might see value in Micic as a backup playmaker. A two-year deal with a team option in the second year of around $5 million seems about right if the Suns do not bring him back with a $8.1 million team option.
18. Tre Jones
2024-25 Stats: 5.3 PPG, 2.0 RPG, 3.5 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Contract: Free Agent
Tre Jones has quietly been one of the more dependable backup point guards this season. He won’t wow you with scoring, but his ball security and decision-making are top-notch. The Spurs might want to retain him, but if they move in a different direction, Jones should have suitors looking for a steady hand off the bench.
A deal in the $6-8 million per year range for 2-3 years makes sense for a team needing a backup who won’t make mistakes—think Clippers or Bulls. Jones made over $9,000,000 this season and he might not get a deal of that magnitude next season unless it is over a long-term deal that has incentives.
19. Monte Morris
2024-25 Stats: 4.9 PPG, 1.4 RPG, 1.7 APG, 0.4 SPG, 0.1 BPG
Contract: Free Agent
Monte Morris has taken a step back over the last two seasons, but his reputation as one of the league’s best caretakers with the ball as a backup point guard should keep him on NBA radars. Teams searching for a veteran backup who won’t turn it over—like the Warriors or Bucks—could see value in Morris at the right price.
A short-term deal for the veteran minimum or a little above might be all he can get, but for a contender, that’s a steal for a reliable second-unit point guard. Morris is only two seasons removed from averaging 10.3 points and 5.3 assists per game and isn’t even 30 years old yet so he has the capacity to contribute.
20. Kyle Lowry
2024-25 Stats: 4.0 PPG, 2.0 RPG, 2.8 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.3 BPG
Contract: Free Agent
It’s clear that Father Time has caught up to Kyle Lowry. The six-time All-Star’s production has cratered, and his mobility is a significant concern. That said, Lowry’s leadership and experience might still appeal to teams with championship aspirations.
If he’s willing to take a veteran minimum deal, the Clippers or Lakers could see him as an end-of-bench veteran presence. A return to Toronto for a farewell tour also isn’t out of the question, but anything beyond a one-year deal feels too risky for the nearly 39-year-old at this point.
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