NBA Offseason in Full Swing After Thunder Championship Parade
While the celebrations have barely settled from the Oklahoma City Thunder Championship Parade, the NBA offseason is already bustling. Kevin Durant was traded from the Houston Rockets just before Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals, sparking a whirlwind of trades and an impressive draft season.
Free agency is underway, and some top players quickly found new homes on the opening day. The Denver Nuggets made a significant move to bolster their championship aspirations, while other smart signings have introduced new contenders in both the Eastern and Western Conferences.
We’re keeping a close watch on all the NBA free agency transactions, evaluating the bigger deals as they come through. This post will be updated throughout the day with the latest developments.
Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Hawks Agree to Four-Year, $62 Million Deal
Luke Kennard, Hawks Agree to One-Year, $11 Million Deal
Hawks Grade: A
The Atlanta Hawks have made a significant splash by signing two quality players at reasonable prices, which strengthens their roster and playoff prospects. Atlanta seems to have hit the ground running this offseason under new executive ONSI Saleh, enhancing both immediate and long-term team outlooks. While they might not be the favorites in the East just yet, they’re certainly contenders.
Alexander-Walker could be a game-changer this year. He played a crucial role in Minnesota’s playoff push, providing a reliable guard who can handle tough defensive tasks while enhancing their scoring and playmaking. His shooting stats are impressive—38.5% over the past two years, with 52% on two-point attempts. He complements players like Trae Young or Kennard well, offering more offensive utility than current starter Dyson Daniels. Kennard, an excellent shooter with some playmaking abilities, is another solid addition. Having already secured Kristaps Porzingis, the Hawks are well-positioned for a deep playoff run, with a promising draft class on the horizon. These signings enhance what is already a remarkable offseason for Atlanta.
Dorian Finney-Smith, Houston Rockets Agree to Four-Year, $53 Million Deal
Rockets Grade: B+
Could the Rockets be the top challengers to the Thunder next season? They finished last season strong, winning 52 games and securing the second seed in the West, though their playoff performance fell short. Finney-Smith’s addition, in light of Durant’s departure after a trade, adds depth to their roster. He’s known for his defensive skills and ability to space the floor, making him a fitting complement to stars like Durant and Fred VanVleet. While his age might raise some concerns, Houston’s young talent behind him should help in the long run. Overall, this deal strengthens the Rockets’ chances as they look to make an impact in the West in 2026.
Jake LaRavia Agrees to Two-Year, $12 Million Deal
Lakers Grade: A
LaRavia was a sleeper pick for many admirers of this year’s free agent class. At 24, he’s got size (6’8″) and shooting ability, having hit 42.3% from three-point range last year. His off-ball skills should mesh well with Luka Doncic’s playmaking. While he may not defend as well as Finney-Smith, he brings offensive strength at a more affordable price. It’s not a groundbreaking move for the Lakers, but it’s a sensible acquisition that could yield great results.
Nuggets’ Bruce Brown Returns on a One-Year Deal
Nuggets Grade: A
After their championship run in 2023, the Nuggets have missed Brown’s contributions since his departure in free agency. Bringing him back through a low-key trade is a savvy move, allowing him to regain value. The Nuggets needed a reliable guard in their rotation, and as Brown turns 29, he adds much-needed stability.
Nuggets Trade for Cam Johnson in Exchange for Michael Porter Jr.
Nuggets Grade: B+
Net Grade: A
A comprehensive analysis is available regarding the Nuggets acquiring Cam Johnson for unprotected 2032 picks and Porter Jr.
Brook Lopez Agrees to Two-Year, $18 Million Deal
Clippers Grade: A
With fewer reliable options last season, the Clippers hope Lopez can change that. The 37-year-old center is still a strong shot-blocker and should bolster the defense immensely. He shot 37% from three on nearly five attempts per game, and his role backing up Ivica Zubac promises more depth for the team.
Ty Jerome and Memphis Grizzlies Agree to Three-Year, $28 Million Deal
Grizzlies Grade: B+
Jerome stood out as one of the best bench players in the Eastern Conference last season, yet his playoff performance raised eyebrows. He struggled in the second round against the Pacers, and though he brings valuable shooting to Memphis—especially with Desmond Bane likely out next season—his shaky playoff showing makes the contract a bit concerning.
Luke Kornet, San Antonio Spurs Agree to Four-Year, $41 Million Deal
Spurs Grade: B-
Kornet has worked hard to earn this contract, stepping into a more significant role last season. With impressive efficiency (68.3% true shooting), he adds defensive value and is a positive locker room presence. Still, it seems a hefty sum for a player with his limitations, and it’ll be interesting to see how he fits with Victor Wembanyama, who may overshadow him.
Detroit Pistons, Caris LeVert Agree to Two-Year, $29 Million Deal
Grade: C+
The Pistons have had a somewhat quiet offseason while other teams, like the Magic and Hawks, have made notable improvements. Adding LeVert can enhance their bench scoring, but it feels insufficient to compete in an increasingly competitive Eastern Conference. LeVert has struggled historically with his shooting, and while he’s a welcome addition next to Ron Holland and Ausar Thompson, this deal might not significantly shift the balance.
This post will be updated throughout the day.
