As the NBA playoffs approach the Finals, the specter of free agency looms on the horizon. This upcoming offseason presents a unique opportunity to explore the potential for lesser-known players to secure more lucrative deals. The free-agent market may prove difficult to navigate this year, with high-end buyers in limited supply. Nonetheless, a number of overlooked talents are worth consideration for teams aiming to bolster their rosters.

The Minnesota Timberwolves have concluded their season, following two consecutive appearances in the Western Conference Finals. One of their primary objectives will be to retain key players, starting with Naz Reid. The 25-year-old big man possesses a $15 million player option for the coming season; however, he is likely to opt out of his current agreement. Reid has greatly exceeded the value of his contract, earning the Sixth Man of the Year award in 2024. He recorded a career-high average of 14.2 points per game and has shot 37.3 percent from beyond the arc throughout his career. Having a player of his caliber as a bench option for $13.9 million has been a steal for the Timberwolves, but that will likely change in the upcoming season as he enters free agency. Reid is expected to attract interest from numerous teams looking to enhance their offensive depth; he could command a starting salary near $20 million if he opts out, especially given the increasing demand for scoring options off the bench.

Another player from the Timberwolves likely to receive a pay raise is Nickeil Alexander-Walker. As an unrestricted free agent this offseason, Alexander-Walker is coming off a two-year, $9 million contract. Based on his performance over the past two seasons, he is well-positioned to secure a more lucrative deal. While his shooting numbers dipped during the playoffs, he achieved a 38.1 percent success rate from three-point range on 4.5 attempts per game during the regular season. He has demonstrated potential as a perimeter defender and playmaker, displaying an ability to attack closeouts when the opportunity arises. Teams actively seek versatile shooters who can defend effectively, which should lead to high demand for Alexander-Walker once free agency commences.

Ty Jerome made a notable late-season push for the Sixth Man of the Year award after transitioning through several teams in his career. Originally drafted by the Phoenix Suns, he later signed with the Golden State Warriors as a two-way player before concluding this season with the Cleveland Cavaliers and a two-year, $5 million contract. Following an impressive season, Jerome is expected to become a highly sought-after free agent. He averaged career-best numbers of 12.5 points per game and 43.9 percent shooting from three-point range on 3.6 attempts, alongside contributing 3.4 assists in 19.9 minutes per game. Despite experiencing a statistical decline during the playoffs, his improved performance throughout the regular season signifies a significant upward trajectory in his career, warranting a salary increase that should exceed his previous contract. Teams looking to enhance their offensive capabilities, such as the Orlando Magic, should consider pursuing Jerome at a price point similar to Payton Pritchard's four-year, $30 million deal with Boston.

Guerschon Yabusele has experienced an unconventional career path, having fluctuated between the NBA and international play. A former first-round pick by the Boston Celtics in the 2016 draft, Yabusele spent two seasons with the team before pursuing opportunities overseas in China, France, and a three-year stint with Real Madrid. His resurgence began during the 2024 Paris Olympics, where he represented France, leading to a one-year contract with the Philadelphia 76ers. Although the Sixers faced challenges last season, Yabusele emerged as a notable contributor, averaging 11 points, a 50.1 field-goal percentage, and 5.6 rebounds in 27.1 minutes per game. This performance marks a significant improvement from his prior stint in the NBA, where he struggled to secure consistent playing time. After earning just over $2 million this past season, Yabusele is now poised for a pay increase and is expected to attract interest from multiple teams looking to add depth and size to their frontcourt.

One of the more surprising transactions at the trade deadline involved the Dallas Mavericks trading Quentin Grimes to the Philadelphia 76ers. A key factor in the deal was Grimes’ upcoming restricted free agency, as he reaches the end of his rookie contract. Following his arrival in Philadelphia, Grimes showed marked improvement, averaging 21.9 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.5 assists across 28 games with the team. His ability to perform consistently when given ample minutes underscores his potential as a valuable rotation player. With his elevated performance coinciding with his entry into restricted free agency, Grimes is set to receive a significant increase in salary—his rookie deal worth $11 million over four years likely serves as a baseline for negotiations. The Sixers have expressed interest in re-signing Grimes, although negotiations will hinge on the contract's financial terms. Fortunately for Philadelphia, the nature of restricted free agency often tempers the offers players receive, allowing the Sixers the opportunity to match any offers Grimes may receive from other teams.