As the NBA playoffs approach the Finals, the free-agency period looms on the horizon. This is an opportune time to explore which under-the-radar players might be in line for salary increases in their forthcoming contracts. The free-agent market this offseason is expected to be competitive, with fewer high-end buyers available. Nevertheless, there exists a cadre of overlooked players that could be valuable assets for teams during the offseason. With one exception noted, this analysis will specifically focus on players who are seeking contracts beyond their rookie deals.

Following the conclusion of the Minnesota Timberwolves' season, the franchise faces the challenge of retaining its key components, starting with Naz Reid. The versatile 25-year-old is currently holding a $15 million player option for the upcoming season but is anticipated to opt-out of his current deal. Reid significantly outperformed his contract value last season, culminating in his recognition as the Sixth Man of the Year for 2024. He averaged a career-high 14.2 points per game and boasts a career three-point shooting percentage of 37.3%. Given that Reid has proven to be a substantial asset to the Timberwolves coming off the bench for only $13.9 million, it is expected that his market value will rise. He could realistically command a salary starting at approximately $20 million if he opts for free agency. Multiple teams are in search of scoring depth, and Reid will likely be in high demand.

Nickeil Alexander-Walker is another Timberwolves player likely to be eyeing a contract increase. As an unrestricted free agent this offseason and coming off a two-year, $9 million agreement, Alexander-Walker's performance in recent seasons should warrant a salary boost. Despite a slight decrease in shooting efficiency during the playoffs, he maintained a solid regular-season three-point shooting percentage of 38.1% on 4.5 attempts per game. Additionally, he has displayed the ability to attack defenses and create plays, making him an appealing option for teams seeking perimeter shooting and defense. Once the offseason unfolds, Alexander-Walker's phone is expected to receive considerable interest from various franchises.

Ty Jerome also emerged as a notable player during the latter part of the season, coming into discussions surrounding the Sixth Man of the Year award. After starting his NBA career with the Phoenix Suns, he transitioned to a two-way role with the Golden State Warriors before landing with the Cleveland Cavaliers on a two-year, $5 million deal. Jerome's recent performance has positioned him as a sought-after free agent. He posted career numbers, averaging 12.5 points per game along with an impressive three-point shooting percentage of 43.9% on 3.6 attempts. Although his playoff contributions were less pronounced, Jerome's overall performance indicates he will be highly desired in free agency. His recent showing suggests that the days of signing a modest two-year deal are likely over, with expectations for a new contract starting at a figure that parallels Payton Pritchard's four-year, $30 million agreement with the Boston Celtics. Teams desperate for offensive improvements, particularly the Orlando Magic, may be eager to pursue Jerome.

Guerschon Yabusele has experienced an intriguing professional journey, oscillating in and out of the league. Originally a first-round pick by the Boston Celtics in the 2016 draft, he played two seasons with the franchise from 2017 to 2019. Following that, he played internationally in China and France, as well as spending three years in Spain with Real Madrid. Yabusele re-emerged in the NBA's spotlight during the 2024 Paris Olympics while playing for the French national team, which led to a one-year contract with the Philadelphia 76ers. Despite the Sixers’ struggles this past season, Yabusele stood out, averaging 11 points with an impressive 50.1% field-goal shooting percentage and 5.6 rebounds over 27.1 minutes per game. This noteworthy performance marks a significant progression from his previous stints in the league, where he struggled to earn consistent playing time. Given that he earned just over $2 million last season, Yabusele should anticipate a salary increase this offseason, and he will likely attract attention from several teams, including the Sixers, looking to bolster their frontcourt.

An unexpected trade at the deadline involved the Dallas Mavericks sending Quentin Grimes to the Philadelphia 76ers. This trade was largely influenced by Grimes' impending restricted free agency status as he nears the completion of his rookie contract, which was worth $11 million over four years. Following his arrival in Philadelphia, Grimes experienced a productive stretch, averaging 21.9 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.5 assists over 28 games. This performance not only illustrates his capability as a consistent rotation player but also aligns perfectly with his entry into restricted free agency. While the 76ers are reportedly eager to re-sign Grimes, negotiations are likely to hinge on the cost, as the parameters of restricted free agency may temper his potential offers. The Sixers possess the ability to match any external offers, providing them with leverage as they navigate the offseason.