As the NBA free agency rumors 2025 heats up, the league is currently in the free agency moratorium period, which began on July 1 at 12:01 a.m. ET. This window allows teams and players to begin negotiating contracts but prohibits official signings or trades. Negotiations started as early as June 30 at 6 p.m. ET, but no deals can become official until the signing period opens at 12:00 p.m. ET on July 6. With front offices scrambling to finalize rosters ahead of Summer League, rumors are flying at a rapid pace.
1. Kevin Durant to Houston Rockets
The biggest headline? Kevin Durant is reportedly on track to be traded from the Phoenix Suns to the Houston Rockets once the July 6 moratorium lifts. Sources indicate a deal involving Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, multiple first-round picks, and several second-rounders. This blockbuster would mark a seismic shift in the Western Conference hierarchy. More details are expected to emerge as teams formalize the trade.
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2. Jonathan Kuminga’s Golden State future
Golden State has tendered a qualifying offer to restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga, allowing rival teams to match any contract offer before July 6. Kuminga’s youth and two-way upside make him a high-priority re-signing for a championship-hopeful core. The Warriors are expected to be active in the final days of moratorium negotiations to secure him.
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3. Naz Reid re-signing with Minnesota Timberwolves
The Timberwolves have reportedly reached agreement on a five-year, $125 million extension with backup center Naz Reid—even though he declined his $15 million option. Reid’s decision underscores his loyalty to Minnesota and helps stabilize the frontcourt behind Karl-Anthony Towns. This substantial contract could limit Minnesota’s ability to retain or acquire other key rotation pieces this summer.
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4. Bucks aim to reshape roster around Giannis
Milwaukee is aggressively exploring both trades and free agency to retool their roster around Giannis Antetokounmpo. With cap flexibility through exceptions and trade assets, they’re eyeing moves both to shore up wing depth and enhance playoff readiness. There’s also chatter about a potential three-team swap involving names like RJ Barrett. It’s clear the Bucks are not standing pat.
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5. Brook Lopez heading to the open market
Veteran center Brook Lopez is expected to test free agency after seven seasons in Milwaukee. Despite being 37, he remains a sought-after piece for contenders needing shooting and rim protection. Lopez’s next contract is rumored to be a veteran-minimum or taxpayer MLE deal—possibly with teams like the Lakers, Clippers, or Warriors.
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6. LeBron James likely to opt in with Lakers
As the summer begins, all eyes are on LeBron James, who holds a $52.6 million player option for 2025–26. Industry insiders expect him to opt in, keeping the Lakers in championship contention. His decision will have ripple effects across the market, influencing both cap-space teams and those looking to form super-teams.
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7. Jimmy Butler’s Miami fate unclear
After a turbulent season with suspensions and trade request rumors, Jimmy Butler’s future in Miami remains uncertain. With his expiring contract approaching, he could either return to the Heat or explore re-sign-and-trade scenarios—depending on what the roster looks like post-moratorium. His next move will significantly impact both Miami and trade-market dynamics.
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8. Kyrie Irving to stay in Dallas
Kyrie Irving has reportedly declined his $43 million player option and instead agreed to a new three-year, $119 million extension with the Mavericks, despite battling ACL recovery. This commitment from both sides signals Dallas’s faith in his long-term vision and provides stability heading into the 2025–26 season.
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9. Davion Mitchell heading back to Miami
Restricted free agent Davion Mitchell is reportedly set to re-sign with the Miami Heat on a two-year, $24 million deal. Known for his defensive tenacity and leadership, Mitchell fits seamlessly with Miami’s identity. This move wouldn’t just secure backcourt depth—it underscores Heat’s process of retaining culture-fit role players.
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10. Sam Merrill to stay with Cleveland
The Cavaliers are poised to lock up sharpshooter Sam Merrill on a four-year, $38 million contract following his standout performances off the bench. Cleveland values his floor-spacing threat, and extending him early gives them roster continuity as they prepare for a potentially deeper playoff run next season.
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Key Moratorium and Free Agency Timeline
- June 29: Deadline for player/team option decisions.
- June 30 (6 p.m. ET): Teams begin negotiating with free agents.
- July 1 (12:01 a.m. ET): Free agency moratorium begins.
- July 6 (12 p.m. ET): Official free agency signings and trade window open.
