NBA Free Agency 2025: Biggest Signings, Trades, and Offseason Winners
The NBA free agency 2025 period is officially underway, and teams across the league are making bold moves to reshape their rosters for the 2025-26 season. From blockbuster trades to superstar signings and crucial extensions, this offseason is already delivering major headlines and setting the stage for a thrilling upcoming year.
Major Signings and Extensions
Several high-profile deals have already been confirmed, with teams aggressively pursuing talent to bolster their championship hopes:
- Myles Turner to the Milwaukee Bucks: One of the most impactful moves so far is Myles Turner leaving the defending Eastern Conference champion Indiana Pacers to join the Bucks on a four-year deal. This signing strengthens Milwaukee’s frontcourt and signals their intent to remain contenders.
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA) Supermax Extension: The Oklahoma City Thunder locked up their franchise cornerstone, agreeing to a $285 million supermax extension with SGA. This move ensures the Thunder remain competitive in the West for years to come.
- Jaren Jackson Jr. Max Extension: The Memphis Grizzlies secured their defensive anchor, extending Jackson Jr. with a lucrative max deal. His presence is vital for Memphis’s playoff ambitions.
- James Harden’s New Deal with the LA Clippers: Harden re-signed with the Clippers on a two-year contract, providing stability and veteran leadership as the team looks to break through in the postseason.
- LeBron James Opts In with Lakers: LeBron exercised his $52.6 million player option to stay with the Los Angeles Lakers, ensuring the franchise remains a Western Conference threat.
Blockbuster Trades and Strategic Moves
The trade market is just as active, with teams leveraging deals to add star power and depth:
- Houston Rockets Acquire Kevin Durant: In a headline-grabbing trade, the Rockets landed Kevin Durant while maintaining much of their roster depth. Houston also re-signed Fred VanVleet, Aaron Holiday, Jae’Sean Tate, and Jeff Green, and extended coach Ime Udoka.
- Dorian Finney-Smith to Rockets: The Rockets further strengthened their lineup by signing Dorian Finney-Smith to a four-year, $53 million deal. Finney-Smith brings versatile defense and reliable three-point shooting, filling the void left by Dillon Brooks.
- Clint Capela to Rockets: Houston also added veteran center Clint Capela, giving them a formidable frontcourt rotation.
- Nuggets Trade for Jonas Valančiūnas: Denver addressed their depth concerns by acquiring Valančiūnas, adding size and experience to their roster.
Other Notable Moves
- Deandre Ayton to Lakers: Los Angeles filled their starting center spot by signing Deandre Ayton, aiming for a stronger interior presence next season.
- Boston Celtics Sign Josh Minott: The Celtics added young forward Josh Minott on a two-year, $5 million deal, betting on his potential as a rotation piece.
- Bucks Reshape Roster: Milwaukee is making cap space for Turner by trading Pat Connaughton and likely negotiating a buyout with Vasa Mičić. They also plan to sign veteran guard Gary Payton II, adding defensive grit to their backcourt.
Top Remaining Free Agents
The 2025 free agent class features several intriguing names still on the market5:
| Player | Position | 2024/25 Stats | Notable Strengths |
|---|---|---|---|
| Damian Lillard | PG | Elite scoring, playmaking | |
| Josh Giddey | PG | Versatile, restricted FA | |
| Jonathan Kuminga | SF | Athletic, two-way upside | |
| Malcolm Brogdon | PG | Veteran leadership, efficient scorer | |
| Jaxson Hayes | C | Athletic big, rim protector | |
| Trey Lyles | PF | Stretch four, experienced | |
| Thomas Bryant | C | Floor spacing, energy big |
Offseason Winners So Far
- Houston Rockets: With the additions of Durant, Finney-Smith, and Capela, plus key extensions and coaching stability, Houston has emerged as an early winner.
- Milwaukee Bucks: By landing Myles Turner and reshaping their supporting cast, the Bucks are poised for another deep playoff run.
- Los Angeles Lakers: Retaining LeBron James and adding Ayton strengthens both their star power and frontcourt.
What’s Next in NBA Free Agency 2025?
As the NBA free agency 2025 period continues, expect more signings, trades, and surprises. Teams are racing to finalize their rosters before training camp, and with several notable free agents still available, the landscape could shift dramatically in the coming weeks.
Stay tuned for daily updates on all the latest moves, contract details, and expert analysis as teams gear up for the 2025-26 NBA season.