As the NBA playoffs near the Finals, the free agency period is set to begin, prompting a closer examination of players who may be poised for pay increases. The coming offseason could present challenges, especially due to the limited number of teams positioned to engage in high-profile signings. Nevertheless, there exists a pool of overlooked talents that could attract the attention of various franchises. This analysis focuses primarily on players seeking contracts beyond their initial rookie deals.

The Minnesota Timberwolves have concluded their season following a series of back-to-back appearances in the Western Conference Finals. The challenge now lies in retaining their core players, notably Naz Reid. The 25-year-old big man holds a player option worth $15 million for the upcoming season but is anticipated to opt out. Reid has exceeded the expectations of his contract, notably earning the Sixth Man of the Year award in 2024. He recorded a career-high average of 14.2 points per game and boasts a lifetime shooting percentage of 37.3 percent from beyond the arc. Securing Reid's services at $13.9 million was an advantageous situation, but this arrangement is unlikely to extend into the next season, given the anticipated interest in his abilities. If he chooses to opt out, Reid is expected to command a salary beginning around $20 million as several teams actively seek to enhance their bench scoring options. While the Timberwolves will strive to re-sign him, they must navigate the constraints of the first apron and its implications.

Another Timberwolves player looking for a salary increase is Nickeil Alexander-Walker. As an unrestricted free agent this offseason, he enters the market after completing a two-year contract valued at $9 million. His performance over the last two seasons places him in a favorable position for a pay raise. Though his shooting percentage dipped during the playoffs, Alexander-Walker's regular-season statistics include a 38.1 percent success rate from three-point range on an average of 4.5 attempts per game. He has also demonstrated the ability to attack closeouts and contribute to playmaking, making him an attractive option for teams seeking perimeter defenders who can shoot. As the offseason unfolds, Alexander-Walker's phone is likely to be active with interest from various franchises.

Ty Jerome experienced a noteworthy late-season push that positioned him as a contender for the Sixth Man of the Year award. After being drafted by the Phoenix Suns, transitioning to a two-way player with the Golden State Warriors, and ultimately signing a two-year, $5 million deal with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Jerome's trajectory has shifted considerably. Following a breakout season, he is set to transition from a lesser-known signing to a highly sought-after free agent. Over the past season, Jerome posted career numbers, averaging 12.5 points per game and achieving a three-point percentage of 43.9 on 3.6 attempts. He also averaged 3.4 assists across 19.9 minutes per game. Despite experiencing a decline in production during the playoffs, Jerome's stock remains high, and he is expected to command a salary starting in the range of Payton Pritchard's four-year, $30 million contract with the Boston Celtics. Teams in need of offensive reinforcements, particularly the Orlando Magic, may look to secure Jerome's talents.

Guerschon Yabusele has had a unique career marked by inconsistent opportunities in the NBA. Drafted in the first round by the Boston Celtics in 2016, he spent two seasons with the organization before taking his talents overseas to play in China and France, eventually spending three years with Real Madrid. His reemergence on the NBA's radar came during the 2024 Paris Olympics, where he represented the French national team, leading to a one-year contract with the Philadelphia 76ers. Despite a challenging season for the Sixers, Yabusele emerged as a bright spot, averaging 11 points while shooting 50.1 percent from the field and securing 5.6 rebounds in 27.1 minutes per game. This represents a significant improvement from his previous tenure in the league, during which he struggled to secure consistent playing time. Having earned just over $2 million last season, Yabusele is poised for a salary increase and will likely attract interest from teams, including the 76ers, looking to bolster their frontcourt depth.

Another intriguing development occurred with the Dallas Mavericks' mid-season trade of Quentin Grimes to the Philadelphia 76ers, closely related to his impending restricted free agency. As he concludes his rookie contract, Grimes is positioned for a potentially lucrative deal. After joining the 76ers, his performance flourished; in 28 games with the team, he averaged 21.9 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game. His increased playing time allowed him to prove he could be a reliable contributor in a rotation. Entering restricted free agency could not come at a more opportune moment for Grimes, who previously signed a four-year rookie deal worth $11 million. Although he is a restricted free agent, Grimes can anticipate a rewarding contract based on his recent performance in Philadelphia. The 76ers are reportedly keen on retaining him, although the final decision will hinge on the financial terms of any offers he might receive, considering their ability to match if he signs elsewhere.