As the NBA playoffs approach their climax, the anticipation for the impending free agency period intensifies. This offseason presents a complex free-agent market, particularly with high-tier teams expected to be sparse. Nevertheless, several overlooked players are worthy of consideration for teams looking to bolster their rosters. The focus primarily lies on individuals seeking contracts beyond their rookie deals.

The Minnesota Timberwolves have concluded their season, having reached the Western Conference Finals in consecutive years. A critical challenge now lies in retaining key talent, starting with Naz Reid. The 25-year-old big man holds a $15 million player option for the upcoming season but is expected to opt out. After winning the Sixth Man of the Year award in 2024, Reid has exceeded his contract's value, averaging a career-high 14.2 points per game and maintaining a 37.3 percent shooting rate from beyond the arc. Having a player of his caliber coming off the bench for $13.9 million has proven to be a significant asset, one that is likely to come to an end soon. Reid's market value will be high, potentially commanding a salary starting around $20 million if he opts out, as multiple teams will be in the hunt for offensive depth.

Another Timberwolves player expected to see an increase in his salary is Nickeil Alexander-Walker. As an unrestricted free agent this offseason, he comes off a two-year, $9 million contract. His performance over the prior two seasons is anticipated to warrant a raise. Although his shooting dipped during the playoffs, he recorded a solid 38.1 percent shooting from three-point range over the regular season on 4.5 attempts per game. Teams are actively scouting for perimeter defenders who can shoot, indicating that Alexander-Walker's phone is likely to be busy once the offseason kicks off.

Ty Jerome emerged as a candidate for the Sixth Man of the Year award during the tail end of the season. After a journey that began with the Phoenix Suns, followed by a two-way player stint with the Golden State Warriors, Jerome found success with the Cleveland Cavaliers on a two-year, $5 million contract. Following a breakout season, Jerome has positioned himself as a highly sought-after free agent. In the previous season, he registered career highs, averaging 12.5 points and a three-point shooting percentage of 43.9, alongside 3.4 assists in nearly 20 minutes per game. Despite a dip in playoff performance, there is little doubt of his desirability in free agency. The expectation is that Jerome's next contract will start from a much higher baseline than his previous deal, with numbers similar to Payton Pritchard's four-year, $30 million contract with Boston being in the realm of possibility. Teams in desperate need of offensive support are likely to pursue Jerome with vigor.

Guerschon Yabusele has had a distinctive career trajectory, having oscillated in and out of the NBA. The former first-round pick by the Boston Celtics in the 2016 draft had a brief two-season tenure with the team before pursuing opportunities overseas. His international career spanned two seasons in China and France, followed by a three-year stint in Spain with Real Madrid. Yabusele returned to the NBA spotlight during the 2024 Paris Olympics while representing the French national team, which culminated in a one-year deal with the Philadelphia 76ers. Despite the challenging season for the Sixers, Yabusele emerged as a notable performer, 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 last NBA appearances when he struggled to secure playing time. Yabusele, who earned just over $2 million last season, is primed for a salary increase this offseason and is likely to attract interest from teams wanting to add size.

A notable transaction at the trade deadline involved the Dallas Mavericks trading Quentin Grimes to the Philadelphia 76ers. One of the motivations behind the trade was Grimes' upcoming restricted free agency. Now at the conclusion of his rookie deal, Grimes is in line for a substantial financial reward. Since joining the 76ers, Grimes has seen a notable improvement in his game, averaging 21.9 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.5 assists over 28 games. When provided sufficient playtime, he has demonstrated that he can be a reliable component of a rotation. The timing of his development could not be more fortuitous, as he enters restricted free agency. Grimes' rookie contract was valued at $11 million over four years. Although being a restricted free agent typically moderates the market for such players, he is projected to receive significant offers based on his performance in Philadelphia. The 76ers have expressed interest in retaining Grimes, as reported by Marc Stein and Jake Fischer; however, the negotiation process will hinge on the terms of the eventual offers.