NBA free agency is just hours away from its official opening on Thursday at 6 p.m. ET. Player options decisions were made on Wednesday, so now it’s up to players and teams to negotiate contract extensions, transactions and other purchases. The best free agents include: James Harden† Bradley Beal† Zach LaVine† Deandre Ayton and Jalen Brunson† Follow along for live updates on signings, transactions, contract renewals and all NBA events.
Who are the best NBA free agents of 2022?
James Harden
Harden Reportedly Rejected His $47.4 Million Option Wednesday, and he is expected to sign a new contract with the team. He is eligible for a contract of up to $270 million over a five-year period, but the Philadelphia 76ers are expected to offer him a two-year extension.
Bradley Beal
Beal also reportedly turned down his $36.4 million option and is expected to re-sign with the Washington Wizards. He is eligible for a five-year contract of up to $250 million with the Wizards. Other teams may offer him a four-year contract worth more than $180 million.
Zach LaVine
LaVine is unlimited when the free agency starts, but the Chicago Bulls are expected to offer him a five-year contract worth up to $212 million and LaVine is expected to remain in Chicago.
Deandre Ayton
This is where things can shake up. Ayton did not receive a max extension from the Phoenix Suns last summer. He has four options this summer: 1) re-sign with the Suns; 2) sign an offer sheet elsewhere, which Phoenix can (and should) match; 3) find a sign-and-trade deal with another team; or 4) play the last season of his rookie contract with a $16.4 million qualifier and become an unlimited free agent after next season.
Jalen Brunson
Brunson meets the Dallas Mavericks, New York Knicks and Miami Heat when the free agency opens, Yahoo Sports’ Chris Haynes reported. The Knicks are considered frontrunners for weeks and reportedly cleared space to sign Brunson.
John Wall
Wall agreed to a last year buyout of his contract with the Houston Rockets, according to Yahoo Sports’ Chris Haynes† Wall didn’t play in Houston last season but has publicly said he wants to play on a contending team. He is expected to sign with the Los Angeles Clippers once he approves the waivers, Haynes reported.