NBA free agency has long been a dramatic off-court event, and the 2026 class could raise the stakes even higher. After a summer that reshaped several contenders, the upcoming group of potential free agents may have enough star power to alter the balance of the league again.
Headlined by LeBron James, Trae Young, and several other marquee names, the 2026 free-agent pool offers superstar intrigue and high-impact depth.
This list of NBA free agents includes unrestricted and restricted free agents, as well as those with player options.
Guards
1) Trae Young, Atlanta Hawks (Player Option)
Trae Young holds a player option but could be among the biggest names on the 2026 free-agent market if he opts out. The star guard remains one of the NBA’s elite offensive engines, finishing 2024 with 24.2 points and a league-leading 11.6 assists per game, according to Basketball Reference.
His 34.5% usage rate shows how vital he is to the Hawks’ offense. His deep shooting range and playmaking keep defenses on edge. Though turnovers and defense remain question marks, Young’s ability to control tempo and generate offense makes him one of the most dynamic guards in basketball.
Trae Young extension talks with the Hawks have not progressed at all, per @WindhorstESPN
(https://t.co/Ap0ffboJUa) pic.twitter.com/65YKYerXKw
— Fullcourtpass (@Fullcourtpass) November 7, 2025
It’s been a rough start to 2025, as Young’s numbers have dipped across the board and he’s missed time with a sprained MCL.
2) James Harden, Los Angeles Clippers (Player Option)
James Harden continues to prove he’s one of the game’s most inventive playmakers, even as he moves deeper into his career. The veteran guard posted 22.8 points, 8.7 assists, and 5.8 rebounds per game in 2024, his highest scoring mark since 2021, showing he can still anchor an offense. He’s seen a slight uptick to begin 2025 as well (23.3 PPG).
Harden finished last season with a 58.2% true shooting mark and remains one of the league’s toughest isolation scorers. His knack for drawing contact, averaging 6.4 free-throw attempts per game, continues to keep defenses on their heels.
3) Zach LaVine, Sacramento Kings (Player Option)
Zach LaVine remains one of the league’s most explosive scorers, blending elite athleticism with smooth perimeter shooting. He topped 22.0 points per game for the eighth time in his career and connected on a career-best 44.6% from three, showcasing his efficiency and flair. He’s off to a hot start this season, scoring 27.4 points per game.
Though his defense is still developing, LaVine’s offensive versatility makes him a constant threat. His ability to break defenders down off the dribble, attack the rim, and space the floor keeps him among the NBA’s most coveted perimeter scorers.
4) Austin Reaves, Los Angeles Lakers (Player Option)
Austin Reaves has established himself as a top-tier starting guard and one of the league’s best third options. In his fourth season with the Lakers, he took another leap forward, posting career highs with 20.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, 5.8 assists, and an 87.7 percent mark from the free-throw line.
Reaves continues to elevate his game when it matters most, delivering several standout performances this year, including explosions of 41 and 51 points. His growing consistency and star-level confidence could make him a hot commodity if Los Angeles doesn’t sign him to an extension.
5) Norman Powell, Miami Heat
Norman Powell remains one of the NBA’s most reliable scoring wings. The veteran averaged 21.8 points on a career-high 15.8 attempts per game, shooting 48.4% from the field and 41.8% from deep. He ranked in the 89th percentile among wings in effective field-goal percentage thanks to his catch-and-shoot ability and relentless rim attacks.
While Powell is not a primary playmaker, his low turnover rate and ability to guard both backcourt spots add value as a two-way role player. In a small sample size with the Miami Heat, he has proven he can shoulder a heavy workload in Tyler Herro’s absence.
6) Bennedict Mathurin, Indiana Pacers (RFA)
Bennedict Mathurin has quickly become one of the Indiana Pacers’ most exciting young talents. He took a major step forward in his third NBA season. The former Arizona standout averaged 16.1 points per game and posted a career-high 57.9% true shooting mark.
Mathurin’s aggressiveness remains a hallmark of his game. He has delivered late-game scoring bursts, and while his defense is still developing, his athleticism and scoring touch give him star-level potential on the wing. A foot injury has limited Mathurin to two games in 2025, but he averaged 31.0 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 2.5 assists in those contests.
7) Coby White, Chicago Bulls
Coby White followed his 2023 breakout with an even stronger 2024 campaign, raising his game as a scorer and playmaker. The Chicago Bulls guard averaged a career-best 20.4 points per game and hit 37% of his threes, solidifying his place as a dependable offensive leader in Chicago’s backcourt.
Bill Simmons wants the Bulls to trade Coby White
“If I’m Chicago, I struck oil with Josh Giddey. I don’t want Coby White. I’m not going to pay him next year” pic.twitter.com/DQGZNxFCIb
— Die-Hard Chicago Bulls Fans (@DieHardCBfans) November 7, 2025
White’s efficiency and all-around growth stood out, with a career-high 60.1% true shooting mark and a 15.5 player efficiency rating. Beyond scoring, he’s more engaged defensively and on the boards, proving he can impact winning beyond just putting up points. He has yet to play in 2025 due to a calf injury.
8) Jaden Ivey, Detroit Pistons (RFA)
Jaden Ivey made major progress in his third NBA season before a leg injury cut his year short after 30 games. The explosive Detroit Pistons guard averaged 17.6 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 4.0 assists while shooting a career-best 40.9% from three on over five attempts per game.
His attacking style and ability to get to the rim remain his calling cards. He has also grown more comfortable as a secondary playmaker, posting a 19.7% assist rate.
A healthier, more consistent Ivey could cement himself as Detroit’s second offensive option alongside Cade Cunningham. He will miss the first month after knee surgery, but his improved shooting and relentless aggression position him as a key piece moving forward.
9) Cam Thomas, Brooklyn Nets
Cam Thomas entered the 2024-25 season as the Brooklyn Nets’ clear offensive focal point. He scored 30 or more points in six of his first 17 games, averaging 24.7 points on 46.1% shooting and 38.9% from three. A nagging left hamstring strain derailed his rhythm and limited him to 25 appearances, even as he managed a career-best 3.8 assists per game and showed improved playmaking with his scoring.
After signing a one-year, $6 million qualifying offer, Thomas is playing the 2025-26 season under pressure to prove himself before hitting unrestricted free agency next summer. He is a pure scorer capable of explosive nights, but questions remain about his health, consistency, and how much the Nets will feature him given his contract situation.
10) Collin Sexton, Charlotte Hornets
Collin Sexton has doubled down on his identity as an energetic scorer and relentless attacker, now thriving in his first season with the Charlotte Hornets. After averaging 18.4 points and 4.2 assists in 2024, the 26-year-old guard has carried that momentum forward, posting 16.1 points and 5.3 assists per game this year while shooting over 51% from the field and 44.4% from deep.
Sexton’s burst and fearlessness make him a constant threat in transition and off the dribble, often forcing defenses to scramble. While his size limits his defensive versatility, his effort and quickness allow him to create turnovers. Whether starting or coming off the bench, Sexton brings dynamic scoring and energy that elevates an offense.
Other notable free agents: Bradley Beal (Clippers), Fred VanVleet (Rockets), Quentin Grimes (76ers), Ayo Dosunmu (Bulls), Anfernee Simons (Celtics), CJ McCollum (Wizards), Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (Grizzlies), Kevin Huerter (Bulls), D’Angelo Russell (Mavericks)
Forwards
1) LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers
LeBron James continues to redefine longevity in professional basketball. The NBA’s all-time leading scorer turns 41 this season, yet remains one of the league’s top all-around players.
LeBroN cAN’t PlaY oFf oF LuKa pic.twitter.com/ODloEVd8nN
— NBA Shane (@Shane00) November 7, 2025
After averaging 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists on 51.3% shooting last year, James’ efficiency and leadership still set the tone for the Lakers. Though his scoring has dipped slightly, his playmaking and command of the game remain elite.
After exercising his $52.6 million player option for 2025-26, speculation has swirled about his long-term future in Los Angeles. The Lakers’ roster has changed significantly after the trade for Luka Doncic and the additions of Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart. James has yet to debut this season due to sciatica, and questions about his durability at age 40 are fair, but history suggests counting him out would be a mistake.
2) Andrew Wiggins, Miami Heat (Player Option)
Andrew Wiggins has found new life in Miami, re-establishing himself as a productive two-way wing after joining the Heat in the Jimmy Butler trade in 2024. In 17 games with his new team, he averaged 19.0 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 3.3 assists while shooting 36% from three. However, his usage is likely to drop with a healthy Tyler Herro and Norman Powell in 2025.
Wiggins’ shot selection and athleticism allow him to attack the rim or stretch defenses, and his defensive instincts keep him among the league’s more effective perimeter stoppers.
Though Wiggins never met the lofty expectations of a No. 1 overall pick, he’s carved out an impressive NBA career, earning an All-Star nod and a championship with Golden State. Over the past five seasons, he’s shot 38.1% from deep and remained durable, topping 70 games in eight of his 11 years.
3) Draymond Green, Golden State Warriors (Player Option)
Draymond Green remains the emotional and defensive anchor of the Golden State Warriors as he enters the twilight of his career. Now in his 14th season, the veteran forward is still one of the most versatile defenders in basketball, capable of orchestrating the offense while guarding multiple positions. Last year, he averaged 9.0 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 5.6 assists over 68 games.
Green’s value extends far beyond raw numbers. His 25.5 percent assist rate and 2.5 combined steals and blocks per game last season reflected his continued all-around impact. While age and durability are growing concerns, his leadership, defensive instincts, and floor vision ensure he remains a vital piece. It is difficult to imagine him playing anywhere else.
4) Kelly Oubre Jr., Philadelphia 76ers
Kelly Oubre Jr. remains a spark plug for the Philadelphia 76ers, providing athleticism, scoring, and defensive tenacity on the wing. Last season, he thrived in a larger role while the team battled injuries to Joel Embiid and Paul George, averaging 15.1 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 1.5 steals in a career-high 34.6 minutes per game.
Oubre has played some of the best basketball of his career in 2025, as George is still out and Jared McCain is easing back in. Oubre’s high-energy defense and fearlessness attacking the rim remain valuable assets.
5) Rui Hachimura, Los Angeles Lakers
Rui Hachimura continues to provide steadiness and scoring efficiency for the Los Angeles Lakers, thriving as a dependable forward in multiple roles. Last season, he averaged 13.1 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.7 threes per game while shooting over 50% from the field and 41.3% from deep. His polished midrange game and growing spot-up accuracy make him a trusted floor spacer alongside the team’s star talent.
Hachimura has logged the most minutes per game of his career so far this season, as the Lakers have been battling injuries. At 27, Hachimura’s offensive reliability makes him a strong complementary piece, offering efficiency and versatility.
6) John Collins, Los Angeles Clippers
John Collins has started a new chapter with the Los Angeles Clippers after two seasons in Utah, where he averaged 19.0 points and 8.2 rebounds in 2024.
His athleticism, efficient shooting, and frontcourt versatility make him a valuable contributor, able to play power forward or small-ball center. Collins’ floor spacing and rim finishing keep him relevant in today’s NBA.
Spoke with John Collins about the elephant in the room wrt being patient during the “evaluation sample size” as well as his perspective on a third quarter (that he did not start) that saw the Clippers go from leading at halftime to getting blown out of the building pic.twitter.com/KM5L7AJ4ux
— Law Murray ⛲️ (@LawMurrayTheNU) November 7, 2025
Collins is on an expiring deal with plenty to prove after an injury-riddled campaign. He has not cracked the starting lineup in Los Angeles, but his production with the second unit is promising.
7) Tari Eason, Houston Rockets (RFA)
Tari Eason has built his reputation as one of the league’s most versatile young defenders, using his length and energy to impact games on both ends. After returning from a leg injury that cost him most of his sophomore season, he re-emerged in 2024 to average 12.0 points, 6.4 rebounds, 1.7 steals, and 0.9 blocks in 57 games. He ranked among Houston’s top per-minute contributors despite limited playing time.
Now in his fourth season, Eason got off to a slow start but has picked things up lately. The LSU product remains a crucial defensive piece even as Houston’s roster has changed with the arrival of Kevin Durant and several veterans.
8) Jeremy Sochan, San Antonio Spurs (RFA)
Jeremy Sochan remains one of the San Antonio Spurs’ most versatile young forwards, thanks to defensive switchability and flashes of playmaking and interior scoring. Last season, he averaged 11.4 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 2.5 assists on a career-best 53.5% shooting. His energy and awareness help him facilitate from the frontcourt and provide stability on both ends.
Sochan missed the start of his fourth season and faces tougher competition for minutes on a deeper Spurs roster. He remains a valuable rotational piece, able to guard multiple positions and make smart plays on both ends.
9) Nikola Jovic, Miami Heat
Nikola Jović emerged as a key piece for the Miami Heat last season, showcasing his versatility and feel for the game on the wing. Despite missing time with a hand injury, he impressed in 46 games, averaging 10.7 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 2.8 assists in just over 25 minutes per game. His 59.5% true shooting and 16.6% assist rate showed his efficiency and growing playmaking confidence.
Jović enters the new campaign poised for a slightly larger role but has gotten off to a slow start. His size, vision, and shooting touch make him a good fit with the team’s core players. He should have room to build on last year’s momentum as a reliable two-way contributor.
10) Tobias Harris, Detroit Pistons
Tobias Harris continues to bring steady veteran production to a young Detroit Pistons roster. In his first full season back, he averaged 13.7 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 2.2 assists while shooting efficiently from all areas. His 57.1% true shooting and ability to space the court gave Detroit needed stability alongside Cade Cunningham, who carried most of the offensive load.
Now in his mid-30s, Harris has embraced a more complementary role, relying on experience and versatility to impact games without high usage. He remains a dependable midrange scorer and secondary creator, able to guard multiple frontcourt spots. When the Pistons are healthy, Harris’ touches will be limited, but his leadership and consistency still make him a valued piece in the rotation.
Other notable free agents: Harrison Barnes (Spurs), Khris Middleton (Wizards), Kelly Olynyk (Spurs), Guerschon Yabusele (Knicks), Taurean Prince (Bucks)
Centers
1) Kristaps Porzingis, Atlanta Hawks
Kristaps Porziņģis remains one of the NBA’s most uniquely skilled big men, able to stretch the floor offensively and anchor a defense with shot-blocking and rim protection. He averaged 19.5 points and 1.5 blocks last season on 61.8% true shooting, reaffirming his value as a two-way presence when healthy.
However, durability remains a concern, as he has not played more than 66 regular-season games since his rookie year.
After winning a championship with Boston, Porziņģis was traded to the Hawks this offseason. Now paired with Trae Young and Jalen Johnson, he brings elite shooting and spacing to a versatile Hawks lineup. He is a major offensive weapon if he can stay on the floor.
2) Nikola Vucevic, Chicago Bulls
Nikola Vučević remains one of the NBA’s most dependable big men, anchoring Chicago’s frontcourt with his balance of scoring, rebounding, and playmaking. Now in his 15th season, he has maintained remarkable consistency, averaging at least 17.0 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 3.0 assists for seven straight years while rarely missing games.
His shooting touch returned in 2024, as he hit over 40% from deep for only the second time in his career after a down year from beyond the arc.
The Bulls lean on Vučević’s stability as their roster evolves around a core of Coby White, Josh Giddey, and Matas Buzelis. His ability to stretch the floor and command the glass keeps him important to the offense, even as his ceiling has plateaued. At 34, Vučević remains a model of durability and efficiency, providing a reliable interior presence on a team looking to get over the hump.
3) Deandre Ayton, Los Angeles Lakers (Player Option)
Deandre Ayton has settled into his new role with the Lakers, providing interior scoring and rebounding stability for a reshaped roster. Despite two uneven seasons in Portland, the 2018 No. 1 pick has averaged a double-double every year of his career. His efficiency around the rim and soft midrange touch remain elite, and he has never shot worse than 54% from the field.
Durability and defensive engagement remain the main concerns for Ayton, who has played 69 or more games only twice in seven seasons. Still, his experience with high-usage stars prepared him for a complementary role next to Luka Doncic and LeBron James. Ayton’s play this season will determine if Los Angeles sees him as a long-term piece.
4) Mark Williams, Phoenix Suns (RFA)
Mark Williams has emerged as one of the NBA’s more intriguing young centers, now playing with the Phoenix Suns after a stint in Charlotte. The 7-footer averaged 15.3 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks last season while shooting over 60% from the field. Though a failed trade to the Lakers briefly disrupted his 2024 campaign, he finished strong and reaffirmed his value as a rim protector and lob finisher with upside.
🏀🏀
>Mark Williams over the last 6 games:
>
>15.0 PPG
>10.5 RPG
>1.7 SPG
>1.2 APG
>0.8 BPG
>59.6% FG
>27.4 MPG pic.twitter.com/tNkx47HYaQ— PARROT REPORT 🐦 (@PARROTREPORT) November 7, 2025
Now healthy, Williams anchors a Suns frontcourt built to complement the team’s fast-paced offense led by Devin Booker and Jalen Green. His size, touch, and defensive instincts make him a potential elite fit, though durability remains his biggest challenge. If he can stay on the court, Williams has the tools to become a breakout difference-maker for Phoenix this year.
5) Jalen Duren, Detroit Pistons (RFA)
Jalen Duren continues to solidify his place as one of the NBA’s most promising young big men, anchoring Detroit’s frontcourt with his power, athleticism, and touch around the rim. The 21-year-old averaged 11.8 points, 10.3 rebounds, and 2.7 assists last season while leading the league in true shooting percentage at 70.3%. He has carried his efficient play into the 2025 campaign.
Defensively, Duren is still working on his discipline, as foul trouble and positioning issues have at times kept him out of the game. But when he stays on the court, his motor, rebounding dominance, and developing playmaking make him an essential piece for the Pistons’ rebuild.
6) Walker Kessler, Utah Jazz (RFA)
Walker Kessler’s 2025-26 season ended abruptly after just five games, as the Jazz center will undergo surgery to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder. Before the injury, he was off to a strong start, averaging 14.4 points, 10.8 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 1.8 blocks, and 1.4 steals while shooting efficiently and anchoring Utah’s defense. It’s a setback for both Kessler and the Jazz, who had been counting on him to build on last year’s growth.
Last season, Kessler posted career highs with 11.1 points and 12.2 rebounds per game on 66.3% shooting, starting all 58 of his appearances. Despite his steady production, free-throw struggles and limited shooting range kept him from becoming a full offensive threat.
Now sidelined for the rest of the season, the focus shifts to recovery and regaining form ahead of a crucial next step in his career.
7) Mitchell Robinson, New York Knicks
Mitchell Robinson remains one of the NBA’s top interior defenders when healthy, though injuries have continued to interrupt his progress. Ankle surgery limited him to just 17 appearances last season, and he averaged 5.1 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 2.0 combined steals and blocks in 17 minutes per game.
His elite rim protection and rebounding instincts remain unmatched, even as his offensive game continues to rely almost entirely on dunks and putbacks.
Robinson appears poised for a more stable role under New York’s new coaching staff. With Tom Thibodeau gone, the Knicks are expected to utilize Robinson more strategically to maximize his defensive impact. While still limited offensively, his ability to alter shots and dominate the glass ensures he remains a valuable presence in any frontcourt configuration.
8) Jusuf Nurkic, Utah Jazz
Jusuf Nurkić is looking to rebound in Utah after a down year split between Phoenix and Charlotte, where he averaged career lows of 8.9 points and 7.8 rebounds per game. The veteran big man, once a reliable double-double presence, saw his streak of eight consecutive double-digit scoring seasons come to an end.
Still, his passing and screen-setting remain valuable, as shown by a 24.2% assist rate and solid short-roll efficiency last season.
Nurkic began the new season as a reserve behind Walker Kessler, but Kessler’s injury opens the door for a larger role for the veteran. He provides experience and stability to a young Jazz frontcourt. Still, he’s likely best as an effective situational center who can contribute in limited minutes.
9) Moritz Wagner, Orlando Magic
Moritz Wagner is still working his way back from the ACL tear that ended his 2024 season after 30 games. Before the injury, he was enjoying a productive stretch for Orlando, averaging 12.9 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 1.4 assists in under 19 minutes per game while shooting efficiently. His energy and scoring off the bench gave the Magic quality depth in the frontcourt.
Orlando re-signed Wagner to a one-year, $5 million deal, signaling continued faith in his recovery, though he has yet to be cleared for full contact. When healthy, he’ll compete with Jonathan Isaac and Goga Bitadze for backup minutes behind Wendell Carter Jr. His offensive versatility and rebounding could earn him a role again, but his return timeline remains uncertain as he continues rehabilitation.
10) Jock Landale, Memphis Grizzlies
Jock Landale is coming off a quiet year in Houston, where he averaged 4.8 points and 3.3 rebounds across 42 games. Despite efficient moments in limited minutes, he struggled to carve out a steady role in a crowded frontcourt. The Grizzlies presented a modest opportunity for more playing time, and he’s making the most of it with Zach Edey recovering from injury.
Still, Landale’s long-term role projects to be that of a depth big man providing energy, screening, and rebounding in short spurts. His path to consistent minutes will depend on the team’s health and frontcourt rotation, but for now, he remains serviceable on both ends.
Other notable free agents: Al Horford (Warriors), Sandro Mamukelashvili (Raptors), Andre Drummond (76ers), Nick Richards (Suns), Jaxson Hayes (Lakers)