The summer of 2027 is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated free agency periods in recent NBA history. With several perennial All-Stars and franchise cornerstones set to hit the open market, the balance of power in the league could change in one summer.
Front offices around the NBA are already preparing long-term strategies to create cap space, knowing that a single move in 2027 could alter their championship trajectory for years to come. At the forefront of this loaded class is none other than Nikola Jokic, a three-time MVP who is the best player in the world.
But Jokic is far from the only name worth watching. The class is stacked with other elite superstars, and simply put, the decisions made in the summer of 2027 could define the next era of NBA basketball. Let’s rank the top 10 players who could be available, noting that players such as LeBron James and Kevin Durant won’t be included since their futures are likely to be decided this season.
1. Nikola Jokic
2027 Free Agent Status: $62,841,702 Player Option
Career Statistics: 21.8 PPG, 10.9 RPG, 7.2 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.7 BPG
Nikola Jokic headlines the 2027 free-agent class as arguably the most skilled big man in NBA history. With a $62.8 million player option, his decision will command the attention of every front office, although the Denver Nuggets will believe they can re-sign him.
Jokic has already cemented his legacy as a three-time MVP, NBA champion, and one of the most versatile offensive forces the game has ever seen, and he is by far the best player in the NBA. If he chooses to test the market, Jokic could instantly tilt the balance of power toward whichever team secures his services.
However, considering Jokic’s demeanor and how he operates on and off the court, we see the Serbian returning to Denver. He clearly won’t accept his $62.8M player option because signing a long-term supermax deal will be on the table for Jokic unless he wants to leave.
2. Giannis Antetokounmpo
2027 Free Agent Status: $62,786,682 Player Option
Career Statistics: 23.9 PPG, 9.9 RPG, 5.0 APG, 1.1 SPG, 1.2 BPG
Giannis Antetokounmpo enters free agency in 2027 with a similarly massive player option, and his decision could spark a frenzy across the league. A two-time MVP and NBA champion, Giannis has proven himself as a once-in-a-generation athlete who dominates both ends of the floor with size, strength, and relentless energy.
Still in his early 30s by the time the end of the 2026-27 season arrives, he would give any franchise a centerpiece capable of competing for a title immediately, making him one of the most sought-after free agents of the modern era.
Is there a chance Giannis leaves Milwaukee? Absolutely. Their roster isn’t impressive by any means, and they will need to get the best two-way player in the world plenty of help to keep him happy. We predict that the Greek Freak calls it quits in Milwaukee by the time free agency arrives, that’s if he isn’t traded by then.
3. Stephen Curry
2027 Free Agent Status: Unrestricted Free Agent
Career Statistics: 24.7 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 6.4 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.3 BPG
Stephen Curry’s potential availability as an unrestricted free agent in 2027 is monumental. By then, the greatest shooter of all time will be nearing the twilight of his career at nearly 40 years old, but his ability to shoot the ball will never leave him. That’s why we think one of two things will happen by then: retire or stay in Golden State for at least one more season.
Curry’s next move, whether he finishes with Golden State or explores new opportunities, will be a defining storyline of the 2027 offseason, as the Warriors might weigh the impact of adding an iconic figure who still commands superstar attention. The decision is ultimately up to Curry because he has earned the right to decide what to do with his future.
4. Donovan Mitchell
2027 Free Agent Status: Unrestricted Free Agent
Career Statistics: 24.7 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 4.7 APG, 1.4 SPG, 0.3 BPG
Donovan Mitchell’s unrestricted free agency in 2027 comes at a pivotal point in his career. Already established as one of the league’s most explosive scorers and playoff performers, Mitchell offers the kind of backcourt firepower that can alter a franchise, especially if he joins a title-contender.
Mitchell’s decision to stay in Cleveland or leave will be closely monitored, as his prime years align perfectly with teams looking to build a championship contender. If the Cavs fail to contend for a title over the next two seasons, we 100% see Mitchell leaving.
There aren’t any major ties to Mitchell in Cleveland, and joining a big market such as Miami makes a ton of sense for an All-NBA-caliber player, or perhaps doing the superteam route could make sense. If we are forced to predict? Mitchell won’t be wearing a Cavaliers jersey after two seasons.
5. Kawhi Leonard
2027 Free Agent Status: Unrestricted Free Agent
Career Statistics: 20.1 PPG, 6.4 RPG, 3.1 APG, 1.7 SPG, 0.6 BPG
Kawhi Leonard’s presence in the 2027 free-agent class underscores the depth of this group. While health has often been a question mark and many teams won’t want to sign a player with his injury history, Leonard remains one of the most impactful two-way players in the NBA when available, with two championships and Finals MVPs on his resume.
By 2027, he may no longer be at his peak and might even retire. Sure, his elite defense, steady scoring, and championship pedigree will ensure that he draws interest from contenders searching for proven leadership on the biggest stage. However, the Clippers probably won’t jump at re-signing The Claw.
With all the drama surrounding Leonard right now and the fact that he will be 36 years old and counting, perhaps retirement is the best option for the future Hall of Famer. Our prediction: Kawhi signs a one-year deal in L.A., or if he doesn’t get it, calls it quits on an impressive career.
6. Anthony Davis
2027 Free Agent Status: $62,786,682 Player Option
Career Statistics: 24.1 PPG, 10.7 RPG, 2.6 APG, 1.3 SPG, 2.3 BPG
Anthony Davis holds a $62.7 million player option that could reshape the market if he declines it. When healthy, Davis remains one of the most dominant two-way big men in the league and a true superstar talent inside the paint.
Nearing 35 years old in 2027, questions about durability will follow him, but his talent is undeniable. Any team that adds Davis gains an elite interior presence who can still elevate a roster’s championship ceiling.
The Mavericks traded Luka Doncic (!) to acquire Davis, so they won’t be interested in losing their investment. Considering Davis and Kyrie Irving (more to follow) will both be on the market, Dallas has to weigh out their future very carefully, although it might come down to how good Cooper Flagg looks.
7. Karl-Anthony Towns
2027 Free Agent Status: $61,015,192 Player Option
Career Statistics: 23.1 PPG, 11.1 RPG, 3.2 APG, 0.8 SPG, 1.2 BPG
Karl-Anthony Towns’ 2027 player option places him in a fascinating position as one of the league’s premier shooting players, let alone big men. For the New York Knicks, who are hungry for an NBA title, Towns offers a unique skill set that few centers possess.
By the time he reaches free agency, teams will evaluate not only his offensive impact but also his defensive consistency and leadership. For the right situation, Towns could be the missing piece to form a dominant frontcourt core.
However, we see the Knicks doing everything possible to keep Towns. He is a perfect fit alongside Jalen Brunson and the biggest marquee acquisition the Knicks have made since Carmelo Anthony.
8. Kyrie Irving
2027 Free Agent Status: $42,416,562 Player Option
Career Statistics: 23.7 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 5.6 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Kyrie Irving, the second major Mavericks star, has a $42.4 million player option for 2027, and his free agency will once again spark intrigue given his combination of unmatched shot creation and unpredictable career path. Irving remains one of the most skilled guards in NBA history, even if he will be over 35 years old by then.
While durability and off-court questions may temper some interest across the league, his talent ensures that he will be highly sought after by teams looking for a difference-maker in high-pressure situations.
Will Dallas have competition from other teams? Yes. Kyrie will likely see how the next two seasons play out before deciding because, as we have seen from him over his career, he isn’t the most loyal to any organization.
9. Trae Young
2027 Free Agent Status: Unrestricted Free Agent
Career Statistics: 25.3 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 9.8 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Trae Young’s status as an unrestricted free agent in 2027 makes him one of the most intriguing players to watch. Still in his prime, Young brings elite playmaking, deep shooting range, and the ability to carry an offense as a lead guard.
The fact that he hasn’t signed a long-term deal with the Atlanta Hawks raises some eyebrows. He is undoubtedly a valuable asset for any franchise seeking to establish a competitive core, so it isn’t a foregone conclusion that he stays where he is.
Young’s decision could reshape the future of whichever team lands his services, but we aren’t sure the Hawks would be so willing to lose him. They will offer him the maximum deal possible if Atlanta looks good this season, but it is up to Young to decide what he wants to do.
10. Zach LaVine
2027 Free Agent Status: Unrestricted Free Agent
Career Statistics: 20.8 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 4.0 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.3 BPG
Zach LaVine rounds out the top 10 as a dynamic scorer who will be an unrestricted free agent in 2027. James Harden or Jimmy Butler are also good choices, but both will be very over the hill in two seasons, or at least we think so.
Offensively, LaVine remains a strong option for teams seeking a perimeter weapon. While injuries have been a major part of his career, his talent and offensive versatility ensure multiple franchises will pursue him once he hits the market.
In the right situation, LaVine could be a high-level secondary star capable of elevating a contender. We don’t see LaVine being a long-term member of the Sacramento Kings, so he could be an under-the-radar free agent signing.
