As NBA free agent rumors heat up 2025, the league is currently Free agency suspension period,start July 1 12:01 am ET. This window allows teams and players to start negotiating contracts, but prohibits official signing or dealings. Negotiation begins first June 30, 6:00 PM ETbut no transaction can be officially until the signing period is open 12:00 PM ET July 6. Rumors are rapidly evolving ahead of the summer league as former offices scramble to finalize the roster.
1. Kevin Durant to Houston Rockets
The biggest title? Kevin Durant’s on track will be reportedly traded from Phoenix’s Suns to the Houston Rockets on a July 6 pause lift. Sources suggest that deals involving Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, multiple first-round picks and several second-rounders. This blockbuster will mark a seismic shift in the Western Conference rating. As the team officially improves the deal, more details are expected.
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2. Jonathan Cushinga’s Golden State Future
Golden State has made a restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga’s eligibility proposal to allow competitors to match any contract offer by July 6. Kuminga’s youth and two-way upside aspects make him a senior signing for the champion. The Warriors are expected to be active in the last few days of the suspension of negotiations to secure him.
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3. Naz Reid re-signs with Minnesota Timberwolves
Timberwolves has reportedly reached a five-year, $125 million extension for backup center Naz Reid, even if he rejected a $15 million option. Reed’s decision highlighted his loyalty to Minnesota and helped stabilize the frontcourt behind Carl Anthony Town. This substantial contract could limit Minnesota’s ability to retain or acquire other key rotations this summer.
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4. The Bucks’ goal is to reshape Giannis
Milwaukee is actively exploring trades and free agents to recreate the roster around Giannis Antetokounmpo. With the flexibility of the hat, through exceptions and trade assets, they are focusing on movement to increase wing depth and enhance playoff preparation. The potential three-swap exchanges about names like RJ Barrett are also shocking. It was obvious that the Bucks didn’t stand up.
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5. BrookLopez heads to the open market
Experienced center Brook Lopez is expected to test free agents after seven seasons in Milwaukee. Even though he is 37, he is still a hot spot for competitors who need shooting and edge protection. Rumors say Lopez’s next contract is the veteran’s lowest or taxpayer’s MLE deal, which could be with teams like the Lakers, Clippers or Warriors.
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6. LeBron James may choose the Lakers
As the summer begins, everyone’s eyes are on LeBron James, who has $52.6 million in player options over the 2025-26 period. Industry insiders hope he opts to join to keep the Lakers in the championship game. His decision will have a chain reaction across the market, affecting the blocking space team and the team that hopes to form a super team.
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7. Jimmy Butler’s Miami fate is unclear
Jimmy Butler’s future in Miami remains uncertain after a turbulent season and trade request rumors. As his expiring contract approaches, he can return to the heating or explore the situation of re-signing, which continues to grow after the roster. His next step will greatly impact Miami and commercial market dynamics.
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8. Kyrie Irving stays in Dallas
Kyrie Irving reportedly rejected his $43 million player choice, but agreed to a $119 million extension for a new three-year, despite fighting the ACL recovery. This commitment from both sides demonstrates Dallas’s belief in his long-term vision and provides stability in the 2025-26 season.
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9.Davion Mitchell returns to Miami
Restricted free agent David Mitchell will reportedly re-sign with the Miami Heat in a two-year $24 million deal. Mitchell is known for his defensive tenacity and leadership, which fits seamlessly with Miami’s identity. This move not only ensures depth in the backcourt, but also emphasizes the process by which Heat retains culturally appropriate role participants.
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10. Sam Merrill is with Cleveland
The Cavaliers are expected to lock sharpshooter Sam Merrill on a four-year, $38 million contract after a great performance on the bench. Cleveland valued his floor spacing threat and expanded him early, which gave them the roster continuity they would give them as they prepare for a deeper playoff next season.
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Key timeouts and free agent schedules
- June 29: Deadline for player/team option decisions.
- June 30 (6 pm ET): The team started negotiating with free agents.
- July 1 (12:01 ET): The pause of free agent begins.
- July 6 (12:00 PM ET): Official free agent signature and trade window are open.
