Introduction

As the NBA season progresses towards the postseason, teams are starting to shift their focus towards free agency. While some organizations enjoy the luxury of competing for a championship, many must also contemplate the future consequences of their current roster configurations. This article takes a look at the biggest free-agency flight risks for each team ahead of the 2026 offseason and evaluates the potential impact of these players leaving their respective franchises.

Atlanta Hawks: CJ McCollum

The Atlanta Hawks have recently welcomed 34-year-old CJ McCollum, who is navigating a transitional phase within the organization focused around young players like Jalen Johnson. McCollum, acquired in a trade for Trae Young, has made a notable impact on the court, averaging 19.0 points and 3.4 assists while contributing positively to team dynamics with his leadership and experience. However, as he approaches free agency, the likelihood that McCollum might consider a pay cut to chase a championship with a contending team could signal his exit from Atlanta.

Boston Celtics: Nikola Vučević

Nikola Vučević's recent trade to the Boston Celtics has showcased how he fits into Joe Mazzulla's offensive framework. His skills complement Jayson Tatum perfectly, and the two could form a dynamic duo upon Tatum's return from injury. However, Vučević's expiring contract raises the question of whether he will remain in Boston, especially given the Celtics' financial commitments to Tatum and Jaylen Brown. Other teams might offer him a more lucrative deal, nudging him toward free agency.

Brooklyn Nets: Day'Ron Sharpe

The Brooklyn Nets face a unique situation as many of their potential free agents hold team options. Nevertheless, Day'Ron Sharpe is poised to become a free agent and could attract attention from other franchises if he continues to develop. His contributions may not grab the national spotlight yet, but his style of play could make the Nets uncomfortable should they need to match any competitive offers.

Charlotte Hornets: Coby White

Joining the Charlotte Hornets, Coby White steps into the spotlight as a promising scorer. Over the past three seasons with the Chicago Bulls, White showcased his scoring prowess, averaging 19.5 points, 4.8 assists, and excelling from beyond the arc. If he can continue this production and navigate a potential playoff run, expect several teams to show interest in acquiring him once he hits the free agency market this upcoming summer.

Cleveland Cavaliers: James Harden

At 36 years old, James Harden's status as a flight risk remains controversial. If the Cavaliers don't make a significant playoff run, Harden may contemplate declining his $42.3 million player option to seek a multi-year deal elsewhere. Given the cost of trading for Harden, losing him could pose a substantial setback, particularly with the team previously having traded younger talent like Darius Garland in the process.

Dallas Mavericks: Marvin Bagley III

Marvin Bagley III's impressive performance for the Mavericks illustrates his value beyond his initial draft placement. Posting averages of 18.6 points and 10.9 rebounds per game, Bagley's resurgence could very well earn him a contract elsewhere, especially since the Mavericks don’t retain his Bird rights. His unique blend of scoring and rebounding makes him a potential target for teams looking to bolster their frontcourt.

Denver Nuggets: Peyton Watson

Peyton Watson has shown notable improvement in his scoring and shooting efficiency during Nikola Jokić’s absence. With averages of 14.9 points and 41.7 percent shooting from three-point range, his development makes him an attractive restricted free agent. However, the Nuggets' deep commitment to other key players may lead to hesitation in matching high offers for Watson, laying the groundwork for a potential departure.

Detroit Pistons: Jalen Duren

Despite sporadic appearances in prior seasons, Jalen Duren has emerged as one of the Detroit Pistons’ bright spots. As a restricted free agent, he is unlikely to leave easily. The Pistons would likely match any reasonable offer due to Duren's growing value and foundational role within the team's future strategy.

Conclusion

With numerous teams dealing with impending free agency, the dynamics of each player could impact their franchises significantly. From seasoned veterans like CJ McCollum and James Harden to budding talents such as Coby White and Marvin Bagley III, the 2026 offseason could reshape several rosters throughout the NBA. As we inch closer to the postseason, it's crucial for organizations to consider not only their playoff strategies but also how they plan for the future.