NBA Free Agency Frenzy: Projecting the Next Moves of the Top 25 Free Agents in 2025

The relentless cycle of player movement and team reconstruction is the lifeblood of the NBA. Even as teams battle for playoff positioning and championship contention in the present, front offices are already meticulously planning for the future, with the 2025 free agency period looming large on the horizon. Free agency presents teams with the opportunity to reshape their rosters, add crucial pieces, and potentially alter the league’s competitive landscape. Understanding the nuances of free agency – unrestricted free agents’ freedom to sign with any team, restricted free agents’ restricted mobility due to their incumbent team’s matching rights, and player/team options adding layers of uncertainty – is crucial to comprehending the potential domino effects this summer could bring.

Here’s an early look at 25 of the top free agents slated to hit the market in 2025, examining their current situations, statistical performances (through March 11, 2024-25 season), and potential landing spots.

1. LeBron James:

• 2024-25 Stats: 25 ppg, 8.5 apg, 8.2 rpg, 51.7% FG, 38.4% 3PT, 77% FT
• Status: Player Option
• Prediction: Los Angeles Lakers

Despite entering his 40s, LeBron James remains a dominant force, showcasing his all-around brilliance. He holds a player option for the 2025-26 season. While theoretically able to sign elsewhere, it’s highly improbable he leaves the Lakers. He’s repeatedly expressed his contentment in Los Angeles, his son Bronny James is also associated with the franchise, and he continues to perform at an elite level. Expect him to opt out, renegotiate a lucrative deal with a no-trade clause, and continue his legacy with the Lakers.

2. Kyrie Irving:

• 2024-25 Stats: 24.7 ppg, 4.8 rpg, 4.6 apg, 47.3% FG, 41% 3PT, 91.6% FT
• Status: Player Option
• Prediction: Dallas Mavericks (if willing to offer a new contract)

Kyrie Irving’s future is murky after a season-ending ACL tear abruptly ended his stellar campaign. Although once an All-Star, the serious injury could delay his free agency ambitions until 2026. If the Mavericks are willing to take a chance by offering him a new deal despite the severity of the injury, Irving could remain in Dallas. The recent trade of Luka Doncic to the Lakers for Anthony Davis creates further uncertainty regarding the Mavericks’ long-term plans and Irving’s fit within them.

3. James Harden:

• 2024-25 Stats: 22.3 ppg, 8.7 apg, 5.8 rpg, 39.4% FG, 34% 3PT, 87.6% FT
• Status: Player Option
• Prediction: Unknown

Harden possesses a player option for the 2025-26 season. While still a productive player logging significant minutes, his overall shooting efficiency has declined. This could influence his decision to opt in or test the free agent market. The team he’ll join depends on his priorities: maximizing earnings, joining a championship contender, or finding a situation where he can be a primary offensive option.

4. Julius Randle:

• 2024-25 Stats: 18.7 ppg, 7.3 rpg, 4.7 apg, 46.9% FG, 31.7% 3PT, 82.1% FT
• Status: Player Option
• Prediction: New York Knicks (pending ownership commitment)

Randle also has a player option for the 2025-26 season. The crucial factor here is the impending change in ownership. Will the new ownership group prioritize maintaining the current core roster and be willing to pay the necessary amount to keep Randle? If so, he’ll likely remain a Knick. Otherwise, he might explore free agency for a potentially larger payday or a better fit.

5. John Collins:

• 2024-25 Stats: 18.9 ppg, 8.2 rpg, 2.1 apg, 1 spg, 1 bpg, 52.4% FG, 40% 3PT, 85.4% FT
• Status: Player Option
• Prediction: A playoff-caliber team needing a versatile forward

Collins presents a versatile option with a player option this offseason. Despite dealing with injuries, he remains a productive player who can contribute as a valuable third or fourth option on a contender. If he opts out, he’ll likely seek a team where he can showcase his skills and contribute to a winning environment.

6. Naz Reid:

• 2024-25 Stats: 14.9 ppg, 6.1 rpg, 2.2 apg, 1 bpg, 46.5% FG, 39.2% 3PT, 79.2% FT
• Status: Player Option
• Prediction: Minnesota Timberwolves (if they offer a lucrative extension)

Reid is positioned for a substantial payday. He could opt out of his team-friendly deal to explore a more lucrative contract this summer after stepping up when the Timberwolves parted ways with Karl-Anthony Towns. If Minnesota offers a suitable extension, it’s highly likely he’ll remain with the team.

7. Jonathan Kuminga:

• 2024-25 Stats: 16.8 ppg, 5 rpg, 2.2. apg, 45.9% FG, 34.5% 3PT, 63.9% FT
• Status: Restricted Free Agent
• Prediction: Golden State Warriors (likely to be matched)

Kuminga is a restricted free agent. This gives the Warriors the right to match any offer he receives from other teams, making it probable that he will continue his career in Golden State. His youth, athleticism, and potential make him a valuable asset for the Warriors’ future.

8. Myles Turner:

• 2024-25 Stats: 15.5 ppg, 6.5 rpg, 1.9 bpg, 1.6 apg, 47.5% FG, 39.7% 3PT, 77.2% FT
• Status: Unrestricted Free Agent
• Prediction: Team needing a floor-spacing center with rim protection

Turner finally has full control over his next destination as an unrestricted free agent. His ability to stretch the floor with his shooting and protect the rim with his shot-blocking makes him a valuable commodity. Numerous teams seeking a modern center will likely pursue him aggressively.

9. Josh Giddey:

• 2024-25 Stats: 13.8 ppg, 7.7 rpg, 6.7 apg, 1.1 spg, 46.2% FG, 37.6% 3PT, 78.9% FT
• Status: Restricted Free Agent
• Prediction: Chicago Bulls (likely to be matched)

Giddey is now with the Bulls and is a restricted free agent. He fits well within the Bulls’ system, contributing in various aspects of the game and posting career highs in assists, 3-point shooting, and minutes. The Bulls will likely match any reasonable offer to retain him.

10. Fred VanVleet:

• 2024-25 Stats: 14.4 ppg, 5.8 apg, 3.9 rpg, 1.6 spg, 38.3% FG, 34% 3PT, 82.4% FT
• Status: Team Option
• Prediction: Houston Rockets (dependent on their plans for their young core)

The Rockets hold a team option on VanVleet. The decision to exercise the option or let him become a free agent will depend on their long-term strategy for their young core. If they prioritize developing their younger players, they may decline the option. But if they want a steady presence, they may keep him on.

11. Cam Thomas:

• 2024-25 Stats: 24 ppg, 3.5 apg, 3.2 rpg, 44.3% FG, 34.9% 3PT, 88.3% FT
• Status: Restricted Free Agent
• Prediction: Team willing to bet on his scoring potential

Thomas is a restricted free agent poised for a significant raise. While injuries have hampered him, his scoring prowess is undeniable. A team willing to invest in his potential, especially if they lack offensive firepower, might pursue him aggressively.

12. Caris LeVert:

• 2024-25 Stats: 11 ppg, 3.4 apg, 3.1 rpg, 47.4% FG, 39.2% 3PT, 71.3% FT
• Status: Unrestricted Free Agent
• Prediction: Team needing a versatile scorer off the bench

LeVert is an unrestricted free agent following a solid season. He can provide instant offense off the bench with his scoring ability and versatility, making him attractive to many teams.

13. Bobby Portis:

• 2024-25 Stats: 13.7 ppg, 2.2 apg, 8.3 rpg, 46.3% FG, 36.4% 3PT, 82.1% FT
• Status: Player Option
• Prediction: Milwaukee Bucks (if offered a new contract) or a team willing to pay a premium for his energy and production.

Portis has a player option. If he declines it, his consistent scoring and rebounding off the bench, combined with his high energy and tenacity, will make him a sought-after commodity. A return to Milwaukee is possible with a satisfying contract, but other teams could offer more.

14. Chris Paul:

• 2024-25 Stats: 8.9 ppg, 7.9 apg, 3.6 rpg, 1.3 spg, 41.9% FG, 37.5% 3PT, 93.9% FT
• Status: Unrestricted Free Agent
• Prediction: Unknown (dependent on his desire to continue playing)

Paul’s future hinges on his desire to continue playing. If he chooses to return, his experience, playmaking, and shooting will make him a valuable asset for a contender seeking a veteran presence. His next team will likely depend on his personal preferences and the available opportunities.

15. Quentin Grimes:

• 2024-25 Stats: 12.4 ppg, 4.1 rpg, 2.5 apg, 47.8% FG, 39.1% 3PT, 76% FT
• Status: Restricted Free Agent
• Prediction: Philadelphia 76ers (likely to be matched)

Grimes, playing well since his trade to Philadelphia, is a restricted free agent. His scoring ability and improved 3-point shooting have made him an asset to the 76ers. The team will likely match any reasonable offer to retain him.

16. Nickeil Alexander-Walker:

• 2024-25 Stats: 9.4 ppg, 3.1 rpg, 2.5 apg, 44.3% FG, 39.7% 3PT, 75.9% FT
• Status: Unrestricted Free Agent
• Prediction: Team seeking a reliable rotation player who can shoot

Alexander-Walker, an unrestricted free agent, has established himself as a reliable rotation player. His shooting and overall solid play will make him an attractive option for teams looking to add depth to their roster.

17. Santi Aldama:

• 2024-25 Stats: 12.7 ppg, 6.7 rpg, 2.8 apg, 0.8 spg, 48.7% FG, 37.5% 3PT, 70% FT
• Status: Restricted Free Agent
• Prediction: Memphis Grizzlies (likely to be matched)

Aldama, a restricted free agent, has become a valuable big man for the Grizzlies. His career highs in various statistical categories make him a player the Grizzlies will likely want to retain.

18. Kelly Oubre Jr.:

• 2024-25 Stats: 15.1 ppg, 1.8 apg, 6.1 rpg, 1.5 spg, 47% FG, 29.3% 3PT, 75.1% FT
• Status: Unrestricted Free Agent
• Prediction: Team seeking a scorer with athleticism and defensive versatility

Oubre has stepped up for Philadelphia, showcasing his athleticism, scoring ability, and defensive versatility. His ability to defend athletic wings and score effectively will make him a sought-after unrestricted free agent.

19. Clint Capela:

• 2024-25 Stats: 8.9 ppg, 8.5 rpg, 1.1 apg, 1 bpg, 55.9% FG, 53.6% FT
• Status: Unrestricted Free Agent
• Prediction: Team needing a rebounding and rim-protecting center

Capela, an unrestricted free agent, continues to provide rebounding and rim protection. Although his minutes are down, his per-36 statistics highlight his value in these key areas, making him attractive to teams needing a traditional center.

20. Brook Lopez:

• 2024-25 Stats: 12.5 ppg, 5 rpg, 1.9 bpg, 1.7 apg, 48.6% FG, 36.6% 3PT, 84.6% FT
• Status: Unrestricted Free Agent
• Prediction: Milwaukee Bucks (if terms can be agreed upon) or a team looking for a floor-spacing big

Lopez has been a valuable asset for the Bucks. A new deal with Milwaukee is possible if both sides can agree on terms. However, if Lopez seeks a different opportunity, his ability to shoot 3s and protect the rim will garner attention from other teams.

21. Malik Beasley:

• 2024-25 Stats: 16.5 ppg, 2.8 rpg, 1.7 apg, 44.1% FG, 42% 3PT, 65.4% FT
• Status: Unrestricted Free Agent
• Prediction: Team needing a reliable sharpshooter

Beasley, a veteran sharpshooter, provides instant offense with his 3-point shooting. His volume and accuracy from beyond the arc will make him a coveted asset for any team seeking to improve their perimeter shooting.

22. Al Horford:

• 2024-25 Stats: 8.3 ppg, 5.8 rpg, 1.9 apg, 41.8% FG, 35.8% 3PT, 89.3% FT
• Status: Unrestricted Free Agent
• Prediction: Boston Celtics (if he desires to continue his career)

Horford, an unrestricted free agent, remains a valuable player and a beloved teammate. If he decides to continue his career, a return to the Celtics is a strong possibility, given his fit and the team’s fondness for him.

23. Dorian Finney-Smith:

• 2024-25 Stats: 8.3 ppg, 1.1 apg, 3.6 rpg, 42.7% FG, 35.1% 3PT, 77.8% FT
• Status: Player Option
• Prediction: Los Angeles Lakers (if he opts in) or a team seeking defensive versatility

Finney-Smith possesses a player option. His impact on the Lakers’ defense since his acquisition is evident. If he opts in, he’ll remain a Laker. If he opts out, his defensive abilities will make him a desirable target for numerous teams.

24. D’Angelo Russell:

• 2024-25 Stats: 13 ppg, 5.1 apg, 2.8 rpg, 38.9% FG, 31.9% 3PT, 84.7% FT
• Status: Unrestricted Free Agent
• Prediction: Team seeking a ball-handler with offensive potential

Russell, though experiencing a slight dip in scoring, remains a capable ball-handler and playmaker. A team willing to provide him with a clearly defined role and stability could unlock his full potential.

25. Russell Westbrook:

• 2024-25 Stats: 12.8 ppg, 6.1 apg, 5 rpg, 1.4 spg, 46.2% FG, 33.8% 3PT, 63.5% FT
• Status: Player Option
• Prediction: Denver Nuggets (dependent on playoff performance) or a contender seeking a veteran presence

Westbrook holds a player option. The success of his partnership with the Nuggets in the playoffs will likely determine whether he stays in Denver. If not, a contender seeking a veteran point guard who can provide a spark off the bench could be interested.