The NBA never stops moving, and the 2025 free agency class could be one of the most chaotic. Stars are evaluating their futures, and teams are preparing for major financial decisions. We’ve seen it before – rosters change in an instant, and this offseason could be no different.
- Atlanta Hawks – Clint Capela
- Boston Celtics – Al Horford
- Brooklyn Nets – Cam Thomas
- Charlotte Hornets – Tre Mann
- Chicago Bulls – Josh Giddey
- Cleveland Cavaliers – Ty Jerome
- Dallas Mavericks – Kyrie Irving
- Denver Nuggets – Russell Westbrook
- Detroit Pistons – Malik Beasley
- Golden State Warriors – Jonathan Kuminga
- Houston Rockets – Fred VanVleet
- Indiana Pacers – Myles Turner
- Los Angeles Clippers – James Harden
- Los Angeles Lakers – LeBron James
- Memphis Grizzlies – Santi Aldama
- Miami Heat – Duncan Robinson
- Milwaukee Bucks – Bobby Portis
- Minnesota Timberwolves – Julius Randle
- New Orleans Pelicans – Bruce Brown
- New York Knicks – Precious Achiuwa
- Oklahoma City Thunder – Jaylin Williams
- Orlando Magic – Moritz Wagner
- Philadelphia 76ers – Kelly Oubre
- Phoenix Suns – Tyus Jones
- Portland Trail Blazers – Toumani Camara
- Sacramento Kings – Keon Ellis
- San Antonio Spurs – Chris Paul
- Toronto Raptors – Chris Boucher
- Utah Jazz – John Collins
- Washington Wizards – Khris Middleton
Whether it’s franchise cornerstones like LeBron James and Kyrie Irving weighing their options, or an underrated star like Cam Thomas or Jonathan Kuminga looking for a big payday, every team has at least one major name who could be gone by the time next season tips off. We break down the biggest potential departure from every NBA team heading into 2025 free agency.
Atlanta Hawks – Clint Capela
Contract Status in 2025: Free Agent
2024-25 Stats: 8.9 PPG, 8.5 RPG, 1.1 APG, 0.6 SPG, 1.0 BPG
Averaging decent numbers this season, Capela’s rebounding and shot-blocking will be prioritized for some contending teams in the NBA. With Onyeka Okongwu’s development and the Hawks’ desire to play a more versatile, switch-heavy defense, Capela’s future in Atlanta appears uncertain.
As Capela approaches free agency, teams in need of a reliable rim protector and rebounder will undoubtedly express interest. There is also a very strong chance Capela won’t get a deal that pays him at least $20 million, similar to what he received this season.
Boston Celtics – Al Horford
Contract Status in 2025: Free Agent
2024-25 Stats: 8.5 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 2.1 APG, 0.6 SPG, 0.9 BPG
At 38, Al Horford remains the Celtics‘ elder statesman, providing invaluable leadership and floor spacing. His ability to knock down perimeter shots and defend multiple positions has been instrumental in Boston’s success, especially after last year’s championship run.
However, Father Time is undefeated, and the Celtics may look to infuse younger talent into their frontcourt rotation. On the flip side, if Boston ends up moving on from Kristaps Porzingis, they might retain Horford on a team-friendly deal because they can’t lose their frontcourt with their title window still wide open.
Brooklyn Nets – Cam Thomas
Contract Status in 2025: $5,993,172 Qualifying Offer
2024-25 Stats: 24.0 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 3.8 APG, 0.6 SPG, 0.1 BPG
Cam Thomas has emerged as a dynamic scorer for the Nets, often providing a spark off the bench with his offensive bursts. His ability to create his own shot and score in bunches has been a highlight in an otherwise tumultuous season for Brooklyn.
With a qualifying offer on the table, Thomas will do his best to negotiate a bigger and longer deal for as much money as possible. Thomas’ scoring is certainly impressive, and he is one of the hottest names in the 2025 market this summer.
Charlotte Hornets – Tre Mann
Contract Status in 2025: $6,964,982 Qualifying Offer
2024-25 Stats: 14.1 PPG, 2.9 RPG, 3.0 APG, 0.5 SPG, 0.3 BPG
Tre Mann’s tenure with the Hornets has been marked by flashes of brilliance interspersed with inconsistency. His agility and scoring ability make him an interesting prospect, but Charlotte’s crowded backcourt and ongoing rebuild may not offer him the platform he desires.
As he approaches restricted free agency, Mann might attract attention from teams willing to bet on his potential and offer him a more defined role, potentially leading to his exit from Charlotte.
Chicago Bulls – Josh Giddey
Contract Status in 2025: $11,142,057 Qualifying Offer
2024-25 Stats: 14.1 PPG, 7.7 RPG, 6.9 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.6 BPG
Josh Giddey’s unique blend of size, vision, and playmaking has been a bright spot for the Bulls this season. His triple-double potential and court awareness have drawn comparisons to some of the league’s elite facilitators.
However, with the Bulls’ roster construction and Giddey’s desire for a primary ball-handling role, tensions may arise. As he becomes a restricted free agent, Chicago faces the challenge of matching potential offers from teams eager to build around a young, versatile point guard.
Cleveland Cavaliers – Ty Jerome
Contract Status in 2025: Free Agent
2024-25 Stats: 12.2 PPG, 2.5 RPG, 3.3 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.0 BPG
Ty Jerome has provided the Cavaliers with steady backup minutes, showcasing his shooting touch and basketball IQ as one of the contenders for Sixth Man of the Year. While not a marquee name, his contributions have been valued in Cleveland’s rotation.
Approaching free agency, Jerome may seek a larger role or a more lucrative contract, and with the Cavaliers’ salary cap tied up with their elite starting five, they might be reluctant to meet his demands. If Jerome wants to accept a team-friendly deal, he would be smart to return to a strong title-contender going forward.
Dallas Mavericks – Kyrie Irving
Contract Status in 2025: $43,962,963 Player Option
2024-25 Stats: 24.7 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 4.6 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.5 BPG
Kyrie Irving’s previous partnership with Luka Doncic produced incredible offensive displays, but with the Mavericks randomly deciding to change their focus, the point guard’s future is in doubt. Averaging nearly 25 points per game, Irving remains one of the league’s premier scorers, and Dallas would be foolish to lose Kyrie Irving and Luka Doncic in less than a year.
However, his player option looms large, and given his history of unpredictable decisions, both parties must prepare for any outcome. Maybe Nico Harrison might not see Irving’s long-term value following a severe ACL injury, or the player himself might not want to be in a rebuilding situation. Irving’s free agency will shape what happens with the Mavericks going forward.
Denver Nuggets – Russell Westbrook
Contract Status in 2025: $3,468,960 Player Option
2024-25 Stats: 13.2 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 6.2 APG, 1.4 SPG, 0.5 BPG
Russell Westbrook’s stint with the Nuggets has been better than anyone could have expected, with moments of vintage explosiveness combined with adaptability. His player option presents a crossroads: remain in Denver as a bench contributor or seek one last starting position elsewhere.
Given his competitive nature and desire to win an NBA title, Westbrook might opt to explore free agency before ultimately returning to the Nuggets. On the flip side, the Nuggets cannot afford to lose another key player because their bench is looking thinner than ever.
Detroit Pistons – Malik Beasley
Contract Status in 2025: Free Agent
2024-25 Stats: 16.2 PPG, 2.7 RPG, 1.7 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.1 BPG
Malik Beasley’s sharpshooting has been a rare highlight in a rebuilding Pistons squad. His ability to stretch the floor and provide instant offense has not gone unnoticed, and he is having a career year.
As he approaches free agency, Beasley may attract offers from contenders seeking a reliable perimeter threat, potentially outpricing Detroit’s budget and leading to his departure. Beasley will look to sign for as much money as possible this summer after a strong individual campaign.
Golden State Warriors – Jonathan Kuminga
Contract Status in 2025: $10,240,287 Qualifying Offer
2024-25 Stats: 16.3 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 2.3 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.5 BPG
Jonathan Kuminga’s athleticism and defensive versatility have been assets for the Warriors, though his offensive game remains a work in progress. With a qualifying offer pending, Golden State must decide whether to invest in his potential or allocate resources elsewhere.
Kuminga, on the other hand, may seek a team willing to offer him a more prominent role, making his future with the Warriors uncertain. Since Golden State has Jimmy Butler now, they might see Kuminga a little more expendable than we might do.
Houston Rockets – Fred VanVleet
Contract Status in 2025: $44,886,930 Team Option
2024-25 Stats: 14.6 PPG, 3.9 RPG, 5.5 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Fred VanVleet has been one of the main reasons the culture in Houston has shifted over the last two seasons, and there might not be a better option for the Rockets in the point guard market. We see both sides negotiating a long-term deal that will ultimately pay VanVleet more money than his one-year team option.
However, if someone like Devin Booker becomes available, the former NBA champion could be testing free agency before we know it. If Houston cannot find a bonafide All-Star to boost their core, VanVleet will be back.
Indiana Pacers – Myles Turner
Contract Status in 2025: Free Agent
2024-25 Stats: 15.5 PPG, 6.5 RPG, 1.6 APG, 0.8 SPG, 1.9 BPG
Myles Turner has remained a cornerstone of the Pacers‘ defense, leading the team in blocks while spacing the floor with his three-point shooting. Indiana has flirted with trading Turner for years, but his two-way impact has kept him in place.
With free agency looming, Turner may finally decide to control his own destiny, seeking a bigger payday or a championship-caliber situation. While the Pacers would love to keep him, their frontcourt dynamics with talents like Pascal Siakam and Obi Toppin could push them in a different direction.
Los Angeles Clippers – James Harden
Contract Status in 2025: $36,346,154 Player Option
2024-25 Stats: 22.5 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 8.7 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.7 BPG
James Harden’s arrival in Los Angeles created one of the most intriguing experiments in franchise history. While his playmaking and offensive efficiency have been crucial, questions remain about how long this big three (Harden, Kawhi Leonard, Norman Powell) will last.
Harden’s player option puts the Clippers in a difficult position—do they commit long-term to an aging but still elite offensive engine, or do they let him test the market and possibly deal with a one-year rental? Given his history, a sudden departure wouldn’t be surprising, but it is up to Harden to decide what he wants to do.
Los Angeles Lakers – LeBron James
Contract Status in 2025: $52,627,153 Player Option
2024-25 Stats: 24.9 PPG, 8.1 RPG, 8.4 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.6 BPG
LeBron James. Free agency. Those words alone are enough to shake the foundation of the league. LeBron holds a massive player option, and speculation around his future has intensified, especially with his son, Bronny, currently in Los Angeles.
If LeBron opts out, he could sign another two-year deal to stay with the Lakers (most likely scenario) or shock the NBA world and join a new team. The Lakers obviously want to keep him, but this decision isn’t just about basketball—it’s about legacy, family, and the final chapter of an unparalleled career.
Memphis Grizzlies – Santi Aldama
Contract Status in 2025: $5,940,797 Qualifying Offer
2024-25 Stats: 12.7 PPG, 6.6 RPG, 2.9 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.5 BPG
Santi Aldama has been a revelation for the Grizzlies, stepping into a bigger role amid injuries to key players. His blend of size, shooting, and defensive versatility makes him a valuable asset.
However, as a restricted free agent, Memphis might hesitate to match a big offer, especially with Jaren Jackson Jr. and other young stars commanding significant salaries. Aldama could draw interest from teams looking for a modern stretch big, potentially making this his final season in Memphis.
Miami Heat – Duncan Robinson
Contract Status in 2025: $19,888,000 Player Option
2024-25 Stats: 11.0 PPG, 2.3 RPG, 2.5 APG, 0.6 SPG, 0.1 BPG
Duncan Robinson has quietly had a bounce-back season, rediscovering his elite shooting touch. His player option complicates things—does he opt in and stay with Miami, or decline it and test free agency for a long-term deal?
The Heat, always in pursuit of star talent, might look to move on from his contract, making it likely Robinson will have to decide between financial security and a fresh start elsewhere.
Milwaukee Bucks – Bobby Portis
Contract Status in 2025: $13,445,754 Player Option
2024-25 Stats: 13.7 PPG, 8.3 RPG, 2.2 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.5 BPG
Bobby Portis could be a core player in Milwaukee’s frontcourt, but his 25-game suspension has thrown his future in doubt. Still, with his player option, Portis could cash in on a bigger payday elsewhere.
The Bucks will surely want to keep him, but a rising salary cap means other teams could come calling with lucrative offers. If Portis values a starting role and a bigger contract, he may have to leave Milwaukee to get it.
Minnesota Timberwolves – Julius Randle
Contract Status in 2025: $30,935,520 Player Option
2024-25 Stats: 18.6 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 4.6 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Julius Randle’s stint in Minnesota has been polarizing. Playing alongside Rudy Gobert and Naz Reid has forced him into a different role, and while he’s still a high-level scorer, the fit hasn’t been perfect.
With a player option looming, Randle might explore other destinations where he can be a featured offensive weapon. If he departs, it could spark a major shake-up in Minnesota’s frontcourt because the Timberwolves want to pay Reid a massive deal, in all likelihood.
New Orleans Pelicans – Bruce Brown
Contract Status in 2025: Free Agent
2024-25 Stats: 7.9 PPG, 3.6 RPG, 2.0 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.1 BPG
Bruce Brown’s versatility could be useful for the rebuilding Pelicans, as he provides defense, secondary playmaking, and hustle plays. However, as he enters free agency, he might look for a larger contract than what New Orleans is willing to offer.
Several contenders will surely pursue Brown, knowing his skill set translates well to winning basketball. If the Pelicans don’t move quickly, he could be one of the first names off the board.
New York Knicks – Precious Achiuwa
Contract Status in 2025: Free Agent
2024-25 Stats: 6.4 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 1.0 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.7 BPG
Precious Achiuwa has carved out a solid role in New York’s rotation, bringing defense and rebounding off the bench. However, the Knicks’ crowded frontcourt could make it difficult to justify paying him in free agency.
If a team offers Achiuwa a sizable contract, the Knicks may opt to let him walk rather than match an offer sheet. Considering Mitchell Robinson’s constant injury issues and Karl-Anthony Towns’ true lack of force at the center spot, the Knicks might want to keep their budding center.
Oklahoma City Thunder – Jaylin Williams
Contract Status in 2025: $2,187,699 Team Option
2024-25 Stats: 5.9 PPG, 5.7 RPG, 2.5 APG, 0.5 SPG, 0.6 BPG
Jaylin Williams has become a fan favorite in OKC, bringing energy, toughness, and underrated passing to the Thunder’s frontcourt. However, with Chet Holmgren taking over as the franchise’s big man of the future, Williams’ role might not be as secure.
If the Thunder decline his team option, expect teams to swoop in, seeing him as a valuable backup big with untapped potential. But a $2.2 million deal isn’t the worst to accept for another title run in 2025-26.
Orlando Magic – Moritz Wagner
Contract Status in 2025: $11,000,000 Team Option
2024-25 Stats: 12.9 PPG, 4.9 RPG, 1.4 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Moritz Wagner has thrived in Orlando’s second unit, providing scoring and physicality off the bench. With a team option looming, the Magic must decide whether he fits into their long-term plans or if they should let him walk to free up cap space.
Given his production, Wagner will have suitors if Orlando moves on, but we don’t see the Magic losing one of their most consistent performers, and they have flexibility with a team option.
Philadelphia 76ers – Kelly Oubre
Contract Status in 2025: $8,382,150 Player Option
2024-25 Stats: 15.1 PPG, 6.1 RPG, 1.8 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.5 BPG
Kelly Oubre Jr. has provided the Sixers with scoring and defensive energy, but his player option means he could be on the move. Oubre’s skill set fits well with Philadelphia’s system, but with the franchise’s focus on title contention, they may prioritize other roster moves.
Oubre will surely attract attention from teams looking for a scoring wing, and he will get more money than his player option with the Sixers. It could be a very interesting summer for the 76ers because they have more to worry about regarding Paul George and Joel Embiid.
Phoenix Suns – Tyus Jones
Contract Status in 2025: Free Agent
2024-25 Stats: 10.4 PPG, 2.4 RPG, 5.6 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.1 BPG
Tyus Jones’ steady playmaking has been a stabilizing force for the Suns, but his free agency could get interesting. With Phoenix’s roster built around expensive stars who might not want to be there anymore, they might not be able to afford Jones if another team offers him a starting role and a lucrative deal.
We don’t anticipate Jones coming back to Phoenix as he looks for a lucrative contract to most likely become a sixth man or a starter for a rebuilding franchise. Jones should look for money this summer after agreeing to a team-friendly deal with the Suns.
Portland Trail Blazers – Toumani Camara
Contract Status in 2025: $2,221,677 Team Option
2024-25 Stats: 11.1 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 2.2 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.7 BPG
Toumani Camara has quietly been a bright spot in Portland’s rebuild, showcasing defensive versatility and upside. His team option makes him a cost-effective piece, but if the Blazers decline it, he could be a steal for another team looking for a young, defensive-minded wing.
However, considering how slowly Portland’s rebuild has been, we don’t see Camara being let go because he is only 24 years old and brings elite versatility as a 6’8″ forward with athleticism.
Sacramento Kings – Keon Ellis
Contract Status in 2025: $2,301,587 Team Option
2024-25 Stats: 8.5 PPG, 2.6 RPG, 1.5 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.8 BPG
Keon Ellis has earned minutes in Sacramento’s backcourt rotation, flashing defensive potential and shooting ability. With a team option on the table, the Kings must decide if he’s part of their long-term plans or if they’ll let him explore free agency.
The Kings would be smart to exercise their team option or lock him up on a long-term deal because the guard is showing two-way promise. After all, Sacramento won’t want to lose another backcourt player after trading De’Aaron Fox before the trade deadline.
San Antonio Spurs – Chris Paul
Contract Status in 2025: Free Agent
2024-25 Stats: 8.7 PPG, 3.6 RPG, 7.7 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Chris Paul’s veteran leadership has been crucial for the Spurs this season, helping guide their young core, including Victor Wembanyama. However, at this stage in his career, Paul may want one last shot at a title.
He could join a contender for one final playoff push, and the Spurs might not need him after trading for De’Aaron Fox. In a dream situation, Paul teams up with the Los Angeles Lakers, Clippers, or Bucks to provide veteran leadership and playmaking presence.
Toronto Raptors – Chris Boucher
Contract Status in 2025: Free Agent
2024-25 Stats: 10.0 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 0.7 APG, 0.5 SPG, 0.5 BPG
Chris Boucher has remained a steady contributor in Toronto’s rotation, but as the Raptors continue reshaping their roster, he may be expendable. The Raptors will focus their efforts on Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram, after all.
His contract and skill set could attract teams looking for a high-energy big man off the bench, and he could get a two or three-year deal as a result.
Utah Jazz – John Collins
Contract Status in 2025: $26,580,000 Player Option
2024-25 Stats: 19.0 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 2.0 APG, 1.0 SPG, 1.0 BPG
John Collins’ time in Utah has been solid but not spectacular. His player option gives him a decision—stay and continue his role with the Jazz, or opt out and test free agency for a better financial deal elsewhere.
Given Utah’s long-term plans, they might not be inclined to keep him at a high price. In our prediction, we see Collins getting a longer-term deal from another team and leaving.
Washington Wizards – Khris Middleton
Contract Status in 2025: $33,345,679 Player Option
2024-25 Stats: 12.0 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 4.1 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Khris Middleton’s leadership could be vital for Washington next year, but with his player option, he could be on the move. If he believes the Wizards aren’t close to being remotely competitive, he might decline his option in search of another title run elsewhere.
Middleton could accept his player option if there isn’t a better deal anywhere else, so we have to wait and see what happens with the former NBA champion.
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