As the NBA playoffs approach the Finals, the impending free agency period draws near, prompting an analysis of players who may receive significant contracts after being overlooked. This offseason may present challenges for teams navigating the free-agent market, particularly due to the scarcity of high-end buyers. However, certain players stand out as candidates for pay raises, particularly those looking for contracts beyond their rookie deals.

The Minnesota Timberwolves have concluded their season, having competed in back-to-back Western Conference Finals. One significant consideration for the Timberwolves is how to retain key players, beginning with Naz Reid. At 25 years of age, Reid has a $15 million player option for the upcoming season but is likely to seek a different contract after significantly exceeding the value of his current deal, securing the Sixth Man of the Year award in 2024. He averaged a career-high 14.2 points per game while maintaining a 37.3 percent shooting rate from three-point range throughout his career. Such a performance, especially for a bench player earning approximately $13.9 million, has proven to be a bargain, but that situation is expected to change as he will likely attract interest from multiple teams, with expected salary demands starting around $20 million if he opts out.

Nickeil Alexander-Walker is another Timberwolves player that is likely to see a salary increase. As an unrestricted free agent this offseason, Alexander-Walker is coming off a two-year contract worth $9 million. His contributions over the past two years indicate he deserves a raise, despite a decrease in shooting during the playoffs. In the regular season, he successfully shot 38.1 percent from three-point range on 4.5 attempts per game. His ability to attack defenses and create plays when necessary has also been noticeable. Teams often seek perimeter defenders who possess shooting abilities, positioning Alexander-Walker's phone to ring frequently once the offseason begins.

Ty Jerome gained attention in a late-season bid for the Sixth Man of the Year award. Initially drafted by the Phoenix Suns, he transitioned through various roles, including a two-way player with the Golden State Warriors, before settling with the Cleveland Cavaliers on a two-year, $5 million contract. Following a strong season, Jerome is now viewed as a highly sought-after free agent. During this past season, he recorded career highs in points per game at 12.5 and a three-point shooting percentage of 43.9 on 3.6 attempts. He also averaged 3.4 assists while playing nearly 20 minutes per game. Despite a decline in performance during the playoffs, Jerome remains an appealing target for teams in need of scoring, particularly teams like the Orlando Magic. His next contract is expected to be significantly higher than his previous deal, potentially starting around Payton Pritchard's four-year, $30 million deal with the Boston Celtics.

Guerschon Yabusele has experienced an intriguing career path, fluctuating between the NBA and international leagues. Drafted by the Boston Celtics in the first round of the 2016 NBA Draft, Yabusele spent two seasons in Boston and subsequently pursued opportunities overseas, including stints in China, France, and Spain with Real Madrid. Returning to the NBA spotlight during the 2024 Paris Olympics as a member of the French national team led to a one-year contract with the Philadelphia 76ers. Despite a challenging season for the Sixers, Yabusele emerged as a positive contributor, averaging 11 points with a field-goal percentage of 50.1, along with 5.6 rebounds across 27.1 minutes per game. This production marks a notable improvement from his previous NBA experience, as he struggled to secure minutes. Yabusele, having earned just over $2 million last season, is poised for a pay raise and will attract attention from teams looking to enhance their size.

A noteworthy trade at the deadline involved Quentin Grimes moving from the Dallas Mavericks to the Philadelphia 76ers. One motivating factor for the trade was Grimes' impending restricted free agency status. As he reaches the conclusion of his rookie contract, a substantial financial reward seems likely. After joining the 76ers, Grimes showcased his talent, averaging 21.9 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.5 assists in 28 games. With enough playing time, he demonstrated his potential as a reliable rotation player, which is particularly timely as he enters restricted free agency. Grimes' rookie contract was valued at $11 million over four years, and despite his restricted status, he is expected to be well compensated for his performance in Philadelphia. According to reports, the 76ers are keen on re-signing Grimes, but the decision will hinge on financial considerations. The restricted nature of his free agency does provide Philadelphia some advantages, such as the right to match any offers he may receive from other teams.