The Most High-Profile Players Entering the 2025 NBA Free Agency This Offseason 

The Most High-Profile Players Entering the 2025 NBA Free Agency This Offseason 

The landscape of NBA free agency has shifted significantly; it no longer resembles the chaotic spectacle it once was. Nowadays, top-tier players often secure their futures with contract extensions, opting to orchestrate trades when they seek a fresh start in a new environment. This suggests that the era of scrutinising Kawhi Leonard’s travel arrangements might be definitively behind us.

This summer stands out, as the 2025 free-agent class is undeniably filled with talent; yet, there’s a significant caveat to consider. The biggest stars in the game — LeBron James, Kyrie Irving, James Harden — may never even see free agency in their careers. The trio, along with several other notable potential free agents, possess player options that are likely to be either activated by their late June deadlines or restructured into extended contracts. Regardless, other teams will not have a genuine opportunity to present their arguments.

With that in mind, it’s important to recognise that every offseason brings its fair share of surprises, and there are still a few game-changers who might be on the move to new teams. Here’s a rundown of the top NBA free agents for 2025, including the chances that they might switch teams this summer. 

LeBron James (Player Option) 

We may as well start with the biggest potential free agent star, LeBron James. 

LeBron James’ decision to return to the Lakers for the upcoming season seems to be a mere formality at this point. The nature of the contract he chooses to sign—whether he decides to opt in or opts out and re-sign—will certainly be intriguing, as it may provide insight into his future retirement intentions. If he decides to proceed, it could be accompanied by the news that his unprecedented 23rd season in the NBA will mark the conclusion of his illustrious career. If he decides to opt out and signs another one-plus-one deal with a player option for next summer, it would indicate that he believes he still has at least two more years left in the tank.

If you’re going to exercise your EPSN sign up code with Gambling.com on potential player moves, I wouldn’t rush to utilize it on LeBron, sources indicate that rather than pursuing a new agreement, the strategy is for James to activate his player option and complete the season as planned. Next summer could bring a significant shift as James might consider a team change, contingent on the Lakers’ performance in the 2025-26 season.

Prediction: Stay with the Lakers (James will activate his player option)  

James Harden (Player Option)

Following his eighth All-NBA selection in the recent season, it’s nearly guaranteed that James Harden will opt out of his $36.3 million player option this summer, paving the way for him to enter unrestricted free agency. Given the circumstances, it would be surprising if he chose any path other than re-signing with the Clippers on a multi-year deal that aligns more closely with the market value for his talents, which is around 40-plus million per year.

Prediction: Stay with the Clippers (Harden won’t activate his player option but re-sign with the Clippers)  

Kyrie Irving (Player Option)

At first glance, it seems logical for Kyrie Irving to choose to exercise his $44M player option, especially considering his age and current situation with a torn ACL that he’s working to recover from. Irving possesses a distinct advantage as he stands out as the sole genuine playmaker on the Mavericks’ roster. 

This team has the potential to be an under-the-radar contender, especially with talents like Anthony Davis, Cooper Flagg, and a strong lineup of forwards and big men. It’s anticipated that Irving will choose to opt out and pursue a contract close to the maximum value.

Regardless of the circumstances, Irving is set to earn a substantial amount for participating in minimal, if any, games throughout the 2025-26 season.

Prediction: Stay with the Mavericks (Irving will receive a new contract)  

Julius Randle (Player Option) 

This scenario is intriguing, as prior to the playoffs, Julius Randle’s $30.9M player option appeared to align well with the market value of his contributions. During the initial two rounds of the playoffs, Randle showcased his superstar potential, leading many to believe he was poised to opt out and emerge as the most sought-after free agent this summer. Fortunately for the Timberwolves, he returned to a more realistic performance in a lacklustre conference finals against the Thunder. Now, even if he decides to opt out this summer, it’s likely just to secure a longer-term deal in the vicinity of $30M with the T’Wolves or see whose offering bigger bucks!

Minnesota is grappling with a rising payroll and will need to make a challenging decision regarding its ability to retain Randle, Naz Reid, and Nickeil Alexander-Walker, all of whom are set to enter free agency. It seems likely that Randle will remain, but the prevailing uncertainty adds an intriguing layer to the situation. One potential trade scenario involving Kevin Durant could necessitate the inclusion of Randle’s salary, making it a situation worth monitoring closely.

Prediction: Depart from the Wolves (Randle won’t activate his player option and test the free agency)  

 Myles Turner (Unrestricted) 

Turner stands as the top unrestricted free agent in this class, yet reports suggest there is little expectation he will depart from the Pacers after an impressive postseason that ended with an NBA Finals appearance. 

Turner’s unique blend of 3-point shooting and rim protection positions him as a highly sought-after player, ensuring that he will attract plenty of interest from teams should he choose to explore the unpredictable landscape of free agency.

Prediction: Stay with the Pacers (Turner will receive a fresh contract offer)  

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