As the NBA playoffs approach the Finals, the offseason is on the horizon, prompting a closer look at potential bargain-bin players who might receive significant raises in their next contracts. This year's free-agent market appears challenging, primarily due to the limited number of high-end buyers. However, various overlooked players should be on every team's radar as they look to strengthen their rosters moving forward.

The Minnesota Timberwolves have concluded their season, raising questions about how to retain key assets. Center Naz Reid stands out as a crucial player, holding a $15 million player option for next season, though he is likely to opt-out of his current deal. His performance has exceeded the value of his contract, evidenced by winning the Sixth Man of the Year award in 2024. Reid averaged a career-high 14.2 points per game and boasts a career shooting percentage of 37.3 from beyond the arc. With teams seeking offensive depth off the bench, it is expected that Reid will draw interest from multiple franchises, potentially commanding a salary starting around $20 million if he opts out. The Timberwolves will strive to re-sign him, but they must navigate the implications of the first apron in salary cap management.

Another Timberwolves player poised for a pay increase is Nickeil Alexander-Walker, an unrestricted free agent this offseason concluding a two-year, $9 million deal. His recent production suggests he will garner attention on the open market, despite a dip in shooting during the playoffs. During the regular season, Alexander-Walker achieved a 38.1 percent shooting success rate from three-point range on an average of 4.5 attempts per game. Known for his ability to shoot and defend on the perimeter, he is likely to receive numerous calls from teams searching for that combination of skills as the offseason unfolds.

Ty Jerome has experienced a career resurgence, making a case for consideration in the Sixth Man of the Year discussions. Originally drafted by the Phoenix Suns, he evolved from a two-way player with the Golden State Warriors to a valuable asset for the Cleveland Cavaliers on a two-year, $5 million contract. Following a successful season where he averaged career-highs of 12.5 points per game and a three-point shooting percentage of 43.9, Jerome is set to transition from a lesser-known player to a sought-after free agent. Despite a less pronounced impact in the playoffs, his performance suggests that his next contract will likely exceed the terms of his previous deal. Teams in need of offensive firepower, particularly the Orlando Magic, would be wise to consider offering him a deal comparable to Payton Pritchard's four-year, $30 million contract with Boston.

Guerschon Yabusele's career has been marked by fluctuation, but he has recently resurged in the spotlight. After being a first-round pick by the Boston Celtics in 2016, Yabusele's journey has included stints overseas before re-establishing himself in the NBA during the 2024 Paris Olympics, where he represented the French national team. This led to a one-year deal with the Philadelphia 76ers. Despite the challenges faced by the Sixers this past season, Yabusele stood out, averaging 11 points with a field-goal percentage of 50.1 and 5.6 rebounds in 27.1 minutes per game. This significant improvement over previous seasons positions Yabusele as a player expected to attract interest and receive a pay raise, as NBA teams look to bolster their frontcourt.

In a notable trade during the season, the Dallas Mavericks acquired Quentin Grimes from the New York Knicks, a move influenced by Grimes' upcoming restricted free agency. As he nears the end of his rookie contract, Grimes demonstrated his heightened capabilities in Philadelphia, averaging 21.9 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.5 assists over 28 games. His ability to secure a regular role in the lineup coincides with his entry into restricted free agency, and given his rookie contract worth $11 million over four years, there are high expectations for a lucrative offer in the offseason. Reports indicate that the Sixers intend to retain Grimes, though negotiations may depend heavily on the financial demands and offers from other teams.