The 2025 NBA free agent class lacks top-end star power. The current CBA has disincentivized players from reaching free agency, resulting in more extensions and trade-based movement. Very few All-Stars hit the open market, and All-NBA-caliber players are even rarer.
Still, there is value available this summer. The market features veteran bigs, versatile defenders, and high-upside former lottery picks. This list excludes players like James Harden, Kyrie Irving, and LeBron James, who are expected to either pick up their player options or re-sign with their current teams. Fred VanVleet is also omitted, as the Rockets are likely to exercise his team option or restructure his deal.
Here are the 10 best free agents available this offseason.
1. Julius Randle (Player Option)
Randle was expected to pick up his option when he was traded to the Timberwolves last year. However, after a strong postseason run and a Conference Finals appearance, he may now explore his options. With his playoff struggles behind him, Randle enters the offseason as the best available free agent.
A three-time All-Star and two-time All-NBA selection, Randle still requires the right context to succeed. Minnesota looks like a good fit, and a return seems likely. If he chooses to decline the option, the Timberwolves will face a massive hole in their rotation. Losing Randle could set back their Finals ambitions significantly.
2. Myles Turner
Turner has become a core piece of Indiana’s Finals run. The Pacers were nearly eight points per 100 possessions better with him on the court during the playoffs. Reports suggest Indiana is open to paying the luxury tax, which makes re-signing Turner a priority.
His ability to space the floor complements Pascal Siakam, and he remains an above-average rim protector. Turner fits perfectly in Rick Carlisle’s system. Barring a major surprise, he should return to Indianapolis on a significant multi-year deal.
3. Nickeil Alexander-Walker
In a free agent class lacking elite talent, Alexander-Walker stands out as a valuable two-way contributor. He has been a key bench piece for the Timberwolves, providing length, versatility, and perimeter defense.
With a 6-foot-10 wingspan, he can guard multiple positions and has shot nearly 39 percent from three on decent volume over the past two seasons. Detroit could be a strong suitor if they open cap space. Alexander-Walker would fit well next to Cade Cunningham and could slide into small-ball lineups with Jaden Ivey.
4. Josh Giddey (Restricted Free Agent)
After a breakout season in Chicago, Giddey is not going anywhere. The Bulls acquired him as the centerpiece in the Alex Caruso deal, and they will do whatever it takes to keep him.
The only question is whether Chicago offers a max deal immediately or waits for another team to set the market. Either way, Giddey will remain a Bull, and the franchise must handle this negotiation carefully to avoid tension with its emerging star.
5. Malik Beasley
Beasley became the sixth player in NBA history with four straight seasons of 200 or more made threes. He finished just behind Anthony Edwards in total threes this year and remains one of the league’s most dangerous shooters.
While Detroit appears to be the favorite to retain him, teams like the Grizzlies or Spurs could offer a non-taxpayer mid-level exception. Beasley will draw interest from any contender looking for spacing and quick scoring. A return to Detroit still looks like the most probable outcome.
6. Jonathan Kuminga (Restricted Free Agent)
Golden State has spent years trying to figure out Kuminga’s role. Now entering restricted free agency, the Warriors must make a decision.
Kuminga has shown flashes as a scorer and athlete but has never fully found his place alongside Draymond Green and Jimmy Butler. Brooklyn, with max cap space and an eye for upside, could present a challenge for Golden State. A sign-and-trade might be the best option, allowing the Warriors to pursue win-now pieces in return.
7. Santi Aldama (Restricted Free Agent)
At 6-foot-11 with three-point shooting range, Aldama is a stretch big who fits the modern game. He has mostly played at the four but can serve as a small-ball five in certain lineups.
Memphis values his versatility, but with significant money already committed to the core trio, the Grizzlies may hesitate to match a large offer sheet. A sign-and-trade could bring back veteran help and allow Memphis to rebalance its roster.
8. De’Anthony Melton
Melton missed most of the season following ACL surgery in November but should be healthy early in the 2025–26 campaign. Even returning from injury, he will attract widespread interest.
Teams looking for size and shooting in the backcourt will be interested. Melton is a strong defender, capable of guarding both guard spots, and has a reliable catch-and-shoot game. Golden State, Denver, the Lakers, and Minnesota all make sense as potential landing spots. He is one of the most underrated players available.
9. Ty Jerome
Jerome impressed during the regular season, stepping in capably for Darius Garland and Donovan Mitchell. He offered lineup flexibility and was one of the league’s best sixth men.
The playoffs were less kind. Jerome dropped 28 in Game 1 but looked outmatched the rest of the series, struggling with turnovers and shot selection. Still, his regular season was strong enough that a return to Cleveland makes sense. He fits well in their system and can anchor second units effectively.
10. Dennis Schröder
Schröder has played for nine teams but continues to be a valuable contributor. His stint with the Warriors was rocky, but he was effective with the Nets and Pistons.
Known for his defensive effort and downhill attacking, Schröder is a versatile backup guard who can play both positions. He is best used as the first guard off the bench but has enough experience to step in as a starter when needed. He will not shift the championship landscape but is a smart addition for playoff-caliber teams.
Final Thoughts
This free agent class lacks marquee names, but there is real value to be found for teams willing to spend wisely. From emerging talents like Giddey and Kuminga to established veterans like Turner and Randle, the 2025 offseason will be about fit, flexibility, and finding the right deals in a cap-restricted environment.
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