NBA Free Agency Frenzy: Gilgeous-Alexander, Ayton, and More Reshape League Landscape
The NBA’s free agency period has exploded into action, with a whirlwind of signings and trades reshaping team rosters across the league. After a busy Monday night, the flurry of activity continued into Tuesday and Wednesday, signaling a significant shift in the balance of power as teams prepare for the 2025-26 season.
Supermax Deals and Major Moves Kick Off Action
The Oklahoma City Thunder wasted no time securing their franchise cornerstone, with reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander signing a four-year, $285 million supermax extension. This commitment underscores the Thunder’s belief in Gilgeous-Alexander as the centerpiece of their championship aspirations. Shortly after, the Milwaukee Bucks made a splash by reportedly agreeing to a four-year, $107 million deal with former Indiana Pacers center Myles Turner, addressing a critical need for size and rim protection. Turner was previously ranked as the top center on Yahoo Sports’ free agent big board.
However, acquiring Turner necessitated a difficult decision for the Bucks, who subsequently waived Damian Lillard, utilizing the stretch provision within the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) to remove the final three years and $113 million of his contract from their books. This move highlights the complex financial maneuvering teams are undertaking to navigate the new salary cap landscape.
Key Trades and Extensions Reshape Contenders
Beyond the high-profile signings, several key trades have already taken place. The Denver Nuggets bolstered their frontcourt by acquiring Jonas Valanciunas from the Sacramento Kings in exchange for Dario Saric. The Kings, in turn, added guard Dennis Schröder, while the Toronto Raptors secured Jakob Poeltl with an extension.
Wednesday brought another significant development, with Deandre Ayton reportedly agreeing to a two-year deal with the Los Angeles Lakers. The deal is structured with $34 million guaranteed for the upcoming season, comprised of $25.6 million from his buyout with the Portland Trail Blazers and $8.1 million from the Lakers. The second year of the contract includes a player option, according to insider Jake Fisher.
Salary Cap Increases and Early Signings
The NBA officially set the salary cap at $154.647 million for the 2025-26 season when free agency opened Monday night, a 10% increase from the previous season – a jump that was widely anticipated. The action began quickly, with Jaren Jackson Jr. and the Memphis Grizzlies reportedly agreeing to a five-year, $240 million max extension. The Nuggets also made a significant move, trading Michael Porter Jr. to the Brooklyn Nets in exchange for Cam Johnson.
Other notable deals from Monday included Dorian Finney-Smith agreeing to a four-year, $53 million contract with the Houston Rockets, Ty Jerome and the Grizzlies reaching a three-year, $28 million agreement, and the Dallas Mavericks securing point guard D’Angelo Russell on a two-year, $13 million deal.
Blockbuster Trades Preceded Free Agency
The groundwork for this active free agency period was laid last weekend with several blockbuster trades. The Phoenix Suns sent superstar Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets in exchange for Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, and the 10th overall pick (Khaman Maluach) in the 2025 NBA Draft. The Boston Celtics also initiated a roster overhaul, trading Jrue Holiday to the Portland Trail Blazers and Kristaps Porziņģis to the Atlanta Hawks.
Veteran Stability and Remaining Free Agents
Despite the widespread movement, several veterans have opted to remain with their current teams. LeBron James reportedly exercised his $52.6 million option for the 2025-26 season, reaffirming his commitment to the Los Angeles Lakers and their pursuit of a championship. James Harden will also continue in Los Angeles, signing a new two-year, $81 million contract after declining his player option. Julius Randle will remain with the Minnesota Timberwolves after agreeing to a three-year, $100 million contract.
Several prominent players remain available, including Damian Lillard, Chris Paul, and Jonathan Kuminga. Interested teams can find a comprehensive list of potential free agents on Yahoo Sports’ NBA free agent big board here. A complete overview of all deals finalized thus far can also be found here.
Position-specific rankings for point guards, shooting guards, small forwards, power forwards, and centers are also available to help teams assess their remaining options.
Follow Yahoo Sports for continuous updates, highlights, and in-depth analysis as the 2025-26 NBA free agency period unfolds.
