The upcoming 2026 NBA free-agency period is generating buzz as some teams and players are accelerating their contract agreements. Notable stars like Trae Young and Austin Reaves have already inked significant deals, prompting an analysis of how these contracts hold up under scrutiny. Using an A-F grading scale, we’ll dive into each situation, taking into account player performance, team fit, and contract size.
Austin Reaves: Rising Star in LA
Austin Reaves, fresh off a breakout season, has agreed to a notable contract despite an overall landscape that may not rank him as a top-40 earning player in the league for the 2026-27 season. Last season, he averaged 23.3 points and 5.5 assists per game. However, his numbers shot up when playing without LeBron James on the floor, ascending to 26.7 points and 7.5 assists per 75 possessions. With a remarkable true shooting percentage of 65.5, Reaves has proven his ability to command the court.
The Los Angeles Lakers need additional defensive support to complement Reaves’ offensive prowess, yet they recognized the importance of retaining such a talent. His multifaceted skill set—ability to control tempo, create plays for others or himself, and draw fouls—makes him indispensable. Grade: A-
Trae Young: Controversial Extension
In recent discussions, Trae Young’s contract extension has sparked debate among analysts and fans alike. Some deemed it one of the poorer deals in the league, but it’s essential to view his contributions through a different lens. Young has established himself as one of the top pick-and-roll playmakers, consistently averaging impressive numbers with 24.8 points and 10.7 assists over the last four seasons.
Now paired with a prominent big man like Anthony Davis in Washington, Young’s ability to facilitate scoring opportunities can’t be underestimated, even if previous teams struggled defensively during his tenure. His style might lead to questionable shot selections, and the value of this contract could trend downward as it matures. Nevertheless, allowing him to exit the team after just one season would have been a miscalculation. Grade: B
Ayo Dosunmu: A Bright Investment
Amidst a salary dump involving Julius Randle, the Minnesota Timberwolves have quickly secured Ayo Dosunmu with a long-term contract. His critical role in the playoff upset of the Denver Nuggets showcased his capabilities, particularly his combination of sharp shooting and secondary playmaking. As Donte DiVincenzo recovers from a torn Achilles, Dosunmu’s talents in perimeter defense will be increasingly important, especially in supporting Anthony Edwards.
Even maintaining his postseason average of 15.6 points and 4.1 assists per game should solidify this contract as a wise investment for Minnesota. Grade: B+
CJ McCollum: The Veteran Presence
After being traded to the Hawks, CJ McCollum’s experience and leadership have proven vital, even as he approaches his mid-30s. While his raw numbers may not dazzle, he enhances the offensive flow for the Hawks. This one-year deal allows Atlanta to keep his veteran presence while evaluating the team’s ongoing transition, especially as they shift offensive control to Jalen Johnson.
A low-risk scenario like this allows both McCollum to showcase his value and the Hawks to determine their long-term needs. Grade: A
Collin Gillespie: A Story of Triumph
Collin Gillespie’s rise from a two-way contract player to a bona fide starter for the Suns is a testament to hard work. Last season saw him average 12.7 points and 4.6 assists while significantly improving his three-point shooting. The Suns capitalized on his growth by securing him on a long-term deal that maintains a backup salary rate, marking this as a significant win for the franchise despite the potential for a more prominent role. Grade: A
Jordan Goodwin: A Strategic Move
A similar success story, Jordan Goodwin has transformed from an underappreciated backup to a consistent rotational player. His defensive tenacity and improved scoring efficiency, especially from beyond the arc, have made him an invaluable asset on a contract that comfortably fits within budget constraints for the Suns.
Retaining an emerging talent at a reasonable cap hit represents a smart strategy as teams look to maximize depth. Grade: A
Al Horford: Experience Over Numbers
Al Horford finished the last season playing 45 games for the Golden State Warriors, contributing more off the court than on it at times. While some metrics fell short, the Warriors recognized his leadership and experience as vital to their success moving forward. Priced at four percent of the cap, the value aligns with what he brings as an elder statesman, though relying on his skills in critical moments could pose challenges. Grade: B
In summary, the early stages of the 2026 free agency period are defining as teams position themselves for both immediate success and future growth. The agreements made by stars like Reaves and Young show a blend of expectation, potential, and strategic foresight—factors that set the tone for an intriguing offseason.
