NBA

Jaren Jackson Jr. Inks $240M Grizzlies Extension

Jaren Jackson Jr. (Memphis Grizzlies)
July 1, 2025

Memphis are finalizing a five-year, $240 million max extension with All-Star big man Jaren Jackson Jr., solidifying him as a franchise cornerstone alongside Ja Morant through at least the 2027–28 NBA season.
The deal adds four years to his current contract and includes a player option in 2029–30. Jackson led the league in floaters and blocks, and continues improving both defensively and offensively.

Finney-Smith Signs $53M Deal with Rockets

Dorian Finney-Smith (Houston Rockets)
July 1, 2025

Veteran 3-and-D wing Dorian Finney-Smith has signed a four-year, $53 million deal with the Houston Rockets, bringing elite perimeter defense and high-efficiency shooting to a team reshaping its rotation post-Kevin Durant trade.
After declining a $15.4M player option with L.A., Finney-Smith moved to Houston. He ranked top 10 in defending All-Stars last season and is expected to replace Dillon Brooks in the lineup.

Jake LaRavia Joins Lakers on Two-Year Deal

Jake LaRavia (Los Angeles Lakers)
July 1, 2025

Free agent forward Jake LaRavia has agreed to a two-year, $12 million fully guaranteed deal with the Lakers, set to fill Dorian Finney-Smith’s rotation role after impressing late in the season with Sacramento.
LaRavia’s strong finish with the Kings earned him a Lakers deal negotiated by AMR Agency. Drafted in 2022, he shot 38.5% from 3 and now adds depth to L.A.’s evolving frontcourt.

Aldama Signs $52.5M Extension with Grizzlies

Santi Aldama (Memphis Grizzlies)
July 1, 2025

Restricted free agent Santi Aldama has agreed to a three-year, $52.5 million deal to remain with the Memphis Grizzlies after a breakout season, averaging 12.5 points and 6.4 rebounds per game.
The deal was negotiated by CAA agents and finalized Monday night. Aldama’s shooting and versatility made him a key piece for Memphis. The Grizzlies see him as a long-term contributor in their rotation.

James Harden to Re-Sign with Clippers on $81.5M Deal

James Harden (LA Clippers)
June 2025

James Harden will decline his $36.3M player option and re-sign with the Clippers on a two-year, $81.5M contract. The deal includes a player option and partial guarantee for Year 2, aligning his timeline with Kawhi Leonard.
Harden’s All-NBA season — featuring 22.8 PPG, 8.7 APG, and 129 step-back threes — helped the Clippers outperform expectations. His leadership and high availability made him the Clippers’ top priority, and the new contract keeps them competitive with mid-level exception flexibility.

LeBron James Commits to Lakers for $52.6M, Eyes Championship Push

LeBron James (Los Angeles Lakers)
June 2025

LeBron James has exercised his $52.6 million player option for the 2025–26 season, confirming he’ll return for a record-setting 23rd NBA campaign. He remains focused on contending for a fifth championship before deciding on retirement.
Despite past speculation about his future and retirement hints, LeBron’s agent Rich Paul confirmed his intent to stay with L.A. He will monitor the Lakers’ offseason moves closely, especially as the team seeks a new center to fill gaps exposed in their playoff loss.

Cavaliers Acquire Lonzo Ball from Bulls in Okoro Swap

Lonzo Ball (Chicago Bulls), Isaac Okoro (Cleveland Cavaliers)
June 2025

The Cavaliers have acquired Lonzo Ball from the Bulls in exchange for 3-and-D forward Isaac Okoro. Ball, 27, averaged 7.6 points this season after a multi-year knee recovery.
Ball joins Cleveland as a fast-paced, defensive guard amid Garland’s injury and cap constraints. His $20M deal fits within budget, while Chicago gains a younger wing in Okoro for their rebuild.

Naz Reid Commits to Timberwolves with $125M Extension

Naz Reid (Minnesota Timberwolves)
June 2025

Naz Reid has agreed to a five-year, $125 million contract extension with the Timberwolves, including a player option for 2029–30. The reigning Sixth Man of the Year opted to stay despite outside offers for starting roles.
Reid declined his $15M player option to secure a longer-term deal. He averaged 14.2 points last season and remains a key stretch big man for Minnesota, helping drive their back-to-back Western Conference Finals appearances with elite 3-point shooting.

Suns Acquire Mark Williams and Khaman Maluach in Major Roster Shake-Up

Phoenix Suns
June 2025

The Phoenix Suns have acquired 7-foot centers Mark Williams and Khaman Maluach in separate trade deals. The moves aim to reinforce their frontcourt, especially after trading Kevin Durant. Jalen Green and Dillon Brooks also join Phoenix.
Phoenix sent pick No. 29 and a 2029 first-rounder to Charlotte for Williams, who previously failed a Lakers move due to medicals. Maluach, plus Green and Brooks, arrived from Houston as part of the Durant deal.

Jazz Stun Draft with Ace Bailey Pick Despite Pre-Draft Resistance

Ace Bailey (Utah Jazz)
June 2025

The Utah Jazz selected Ace Bailey fifth overall in the NBA Draft despite signals that his camp preferred another team. Bailey didn’t work out with Utah, and speculation suggested he wanted to join Washington at No. 6.
Utah defied draft-day expectations, believing in Bailey’s all-around game and character. Team president Austin Ainge praised Bailey’s scoring, rebounding, and defensive energy, confirming positive internal and external scouting reports ahead of a potentially franchise-shaping season.