The NBA Offseason Update

The NBA offseason has gradually slowed down as most of the highly-ranked top-30 free agents have secured their contracts. However, several restricted players are still on the market, including Josh Giddey, Jonathan Kuminga, Cam Thomas, and Quentin Grimes. For those who remain without a contract, the prospects may only include minimum salary offers.

Veterans and Mid-Level Exceptions

Veteran players have the opportunity to sign contracts for up to two years at the minimum salary, which can range from $2 million for those with one year of experience to $3.6 million for veterans with over 10 years in the league. While some franchises possess mid-level exceptions between $5.1 million and $14.1 million, they may opt to conserve that financial flexibility for the upcoming season to avoid luxury taxes or other financial issues.

Top Remaining Minimum Contract Free Agents

As we assess the current landscape, here is a list of the top-10 free agents still available who may sign for the minimum:

• Josef: Last Team: Orlando Magic, 2024-25 Salary: $3.3 million. Josef offers experience and stability, having filled in as a starter during the playoffs.
• Landry Shamet: Last Team: New York Knicks, 2024-25 Salary: $1.7 million. Despite a G League stint, Shamet showcased solid three-point shooting during the playoffs.
• Jalen Mathews: Last Team: Atlanta Hawks, 2024-25 Salary: $2.2 million. Known for his shooting prowess, Mathews may find a new home this season.
• Malcolm Brogdon: Last Team: Washington Wizards, 2024-25 Salary: $22.5 million. Although limited by injuries, Brogdon is an experienced point guard that can impact playoff teams.
• De'Anthony Melton: Last Team: Golden State Warriors, 2024-25 Salary: $12.8 million. Melton's status is tied to Jonathan Kuminga's contract situation.
• Gary Payton II: Last Team: Golden State Warriors, 2024-25 Salary: $9.1 million. Payton is essential to the Warriors' defensive strategy and is expected to return soon.
• Ben Simmons: Last Team: L.A. Clippers, 2024-25 Salary: $1.1 million. After a disappointing stint, Simmons may not return to the Clippers following their roster changes.
• Amir Coffey: Last Team: L.A. Clippers, 2024-25 Salary: $3.9 million. Coffey's solid shooting could attract interest from teams needing perimeter defense.
• Russell Westbrook: Last Team: Denver Nuggets, 2024-25 Salary: $3.3 million. The former MVP remains a high-impact player but needs a team willing to work with his inconsistencies.
• Al Horford: Last Team: Boston Celtics, 2024-25 Salary: $9.5 million. The veteran big man has been connected to the Warriors as they look to bolster their title aspirations.

With various factors affecting signings, including team strategies and salary cap considerations, the remainder of the offseason could prove to be pivotal for these players as training camps approach.