NBA Free Agency 2026: live NBA Offseason tracker
The 2026 NBA Free Agency period is officially underway. Here’s a complete recap of everything that has happened over the past few hours across the NBA offseason
With the NBA Finals and the 2026 NBA Draft now in the rearview mirror, the NBA offseason is officially in full swing. Franchises across the league are reshaping their rosters through blockbuster trades, major signings, and long-term roster-building strategies.
The trade sending Giannis Antetokounmpo to the Miami Heat set the tone for what promises to be a wild summer, while the Golden State Warriors continue to monitor the situation surrounding LeBron James.
In Boston, speculation surrounding Jaylen Brown’s future refuses to die down, while similar uncertainty continues to surround Kawhi Leonard and the Los Angeles Clippers.
From this point forward, every day has the potential to reshape the league. Here’s a chronological look at the biggest moves of the 2026 offseason (you can also follow the NBA offseason live here).
July 9, 2026
Mo Bamba returns to the Utah Jazz
Mo Bamba is returning to the Utah Jazz. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the veteran big man has agreed to a two-year deal with the Salt Lake City franchise. Bamba was acquired by the Jazz from the Toronto Raptors at last season’s trade deadline but appeared in just two games for Utah.
July 8, 2026
Nuggets waive Jonas Valanciunas
The Denver Nuggets have waived Jonas Valanciunas, according to HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto and ESPN’s Shams Charania. Denver made the move before the Lithuanian center’s $10 million guarantee was set to kick in.
Larry Nance Jr. signs with the Indiana Pacers
Larry Nance Jr. has agreed to a one-year, $4 million deal with the Indiana Pacers. The 33-year-old veteran joins his sixth NBA team in 12 seasons.
Quinten Post headed to the Grizzlies
The Golden State Warriors have declined to match the Memphis Grizzlies’ offer sheet for Quinten Post. On Tuesday night, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Golden State chose not to exercise its right to match the three-year, $30 million offer. As a result, Post is officially headed to Memphis on a three-year deal.
D’Angelo Russell lands with the Grizzlies in Middleton blockbuster
As part of the massive six-team trade reported by Shams Charania, the Washington Wizards are sending D’Angelo Russell to the Memphis Grizzlies, along with a future second-round pick and the right to swap a future second-round selection.
Middleton returns to Wizards via sign-and-trade on three-year, $17.6 million deal
Khris Middleton has agreed to a three-year, $17.6 million contract with the Washington Wizards, according to ESPN. The move was completed via sign-and-trade.
The blockbuster ultimately involves the Dallas Mavericks, Washington Wizards, Los Angeles Clippers, Detroit Pistons, Milwaukee Bucks and Memphis Grizzlies, while also folding in several trades completed over the past few days.
Pistons send Caris LeVert to Bucks, acquire Taurean Prince and Gary Harris
The Detroit Pistons have traded Caris LeVert and two second-round picks to the Milwaukee Bucks in exchange for Taurean Prince and Gary Harris, according to Shams Charania. The move clears cap space and creates a trade exception for Detroit, while Milwaukee adds LeVert along with additional draft assets.
July 7, 2026
Kevon Looney signs one-year, $3.9 million deal with Lakers
The Los Angeles Lakers have agreed to a one-year, $3.9 million contract with Kevon Looney, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. Looney spent last season with the New Orleans Pelicans, where he appeared in just 21 games, averaging 2.8 points, 5.6 rebounds and 14.6 minutes per game.
Donovan Mitchell signs four-year, $273 million max extension
According to ESPN, Donovan Mitchell has agreed to a four-year, $273 million maximum contract extension with the Cleveland Cavaliers. The deal also includes a player option for the 2030-31 season, according to Shams Charania.
Since arriving in Cleveland, Mitchell has established himself as one of the NBA’s premier guards, averaging 26.7 points, 5.3 assists and 4.6 rebounds per game across four seasons while earning All-Star honors every year. The Cavaliers have reached the playoffs in each of Mitchell’s four seasons with the franchise, though they have yet to capture an NBA championship.
July 6, 2026
Nikola Jokic plans to wait until next summer to sign extension with Denver
Following Serbia’s 94-81 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina in the FIBA World Cup Qualifiers, Nikola Jokić told reporters that he plans to hold off on signing a contract extension with the Denver Nuggets until next summer, after the 2026-27 season.
My plan is to sign next summer and stay in Denver for the rest of my career.
Nikola Jokić via DNVR Sports
The three-time MVP, now 31, has one year remaining on his contract worth $59 million, along with a $62.8 million player option for the 2027-28 season. Last season, he finished second in MVP voting behind Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and became the first player in NBA history to lead the league in both rebounds and assists in the same season.
Kings waive DeMar DeRozan
The Sacramento Kings have officially waived DeMar DeRozan, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania, after being unable to find a trade partner. The 36-year-old spent the past two seasons in Sacramento, averaging 20.3 points, 3.4 rebounds and 4.3 assists in 154 games with the franchise.
DeRozan had one year remaining on his contract at the time of his release. According to Charania, his salary for next season was only partially guaranteed, and both sides worked together on his release. Several teams are expected to show interest in the veteran.
Suns finalize extension with CEO Josh Bartelstein
The Phoenix Suns are finalizing a contract extension with CEO Josh Bartelstein, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. Bartelstein also serves as CEO of the WNBA’s Phoenix Mercury. Suns owner Mat Ishbia confirmed the news.
He’s one of the best CEOs in all of sports, and one of the youngest. I’m excited to continue working alongside him.
Mat Ishbia
Rui Hachimura agrees to two-year, $28 million deal with Clippers
Rui Hachimura has agreed to a two-year, $28 million contract with the Los Angeles Clippers, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. Regarded as one of the top frontcourt free agents in the 2026 class, Hachimura will remain in Los Angeles after spending the past several seasons with the Lakers.
Quinten Post signs offer sheet with Grizzlies
The Golden State Warriors have a decision to make after restricted free agent Quinten Post signed a three-year, $30 million offer sheet with the Memphis Grizzlies, according to ESPN. Golden State has until Tuesday at 11:59 p.m. ET to match the offer and retain the big man.
Kawhi Leonard hires new agent ahead of extension talks
The Toronto Raptors are expected to begin extension negotiations with Kawhi Leonard later this week. According to ESPN, the two-time Finals MVP has hired Harrison Gaines of SLASH Sports as his new representative after Gaines previously served as Leonard’s business attorney. Leonard has one year and $50.3 million remaining on his current contract.
July 5, 2026
Patrick Ewing in the Wizard’s coaching staff
Following the arrival of Deandre Ayton, the Washington Wizards are reportedly in talks with Hall of Famer Patrick Ewing about a possible addition to the coaching staff. Ewing played 15 seasons with the Knicks and served as an ambassador and advisor for the team for the past two seasons.
As a coach, he was an assistant with the Wizards from 2002 to 2003. He also served as an assistant coach with the Houston Rockets, Orlando Magic, and Charlotte Hornets before becoming head coach at Georgetown from 2017 to 2023.
July 4, 2026
I Minnesota Timberwolves puntano LeBron
Secondo The Athletic, i Minnesota Timberwolves credono di avere ottime possibilità di ingaggiare LeBron James. Minnesota era una delle 10 squadre elencate su una lavagna di Rich Paul, che indicava le potenziali pretendenti del quattro volte MVP.
Secondo Jon Krawczynski i Timberwolves stanno facendo un’offerta allettante a James, puntando tutto su un nucleo di giocatori come Anthony Edwards, LaMelo Ball, Jaden McDaniels e Rudy Gobert, e sulla leadership da veterano che James potrebbe offrire. Ma Minnesota fa leva anche sulla possibilità di scrivere nuovamente la storia per James, non hanno mai vinto un campionato NBA e se LeBron contribuisse a portarli alla vittoria, consoliderebbe ulteriormente la sua posizione nell’olimpo del gioco.
Josh Okogie signs with the Utah Jazz
The Utah Jazz have added another piece to their roster, agreeing to a two-year, $12 million deal with Josh Okogie after his lone season with the Houston Rockets, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.
Knicks replace Mitchell Robinson with Andre Drummond
The New York Knicks have found Mitchell Robinson’s replacement. Veteran center Andre Drummond has agreed to a one-year, $3.9 million contract, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.
July 3, 2026
Mavericks’ Dusty May wants Garrett Temple on coaching staff
New Dallas Mavericks head coach Dusty May is looking to add more NBA experience to his coaching staff. According to Marc Stein, May is trying to convince Garrett Temple, a 16-year NBA veteran, to make the jump into coaching.
Jordan Miller re-signs with Clippers on three-year deal
Jordan Miller is staying with the Los Angeles Clippers after agreeing to a three-year, $15.3 million contract, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. After becoming a restricted free agent this offseason, Miller is coming off a season in which he averaged 10.0 points across 60 appearances.
Trey Lyles returns to the NBA, signs with Timberwolves
After a stint with Real Madrid, Trey Lyles is headed back to the NBA. The 30-year-old forward has agreed to a one-year deal with the Minnesota Timberwolves, according to HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto. Before his time overseas, Lyles played for the Sacramento Kings (2022-25), Detroit Pistons (2021-22), San Antonio Spurs (2019-21), Denver Nuggets (2017-19) and Utah Jazz (2015-17), who selected him with the No. 12 overall pick in the 2015 NBA Draft.
Lakers trade Deandre Ayton to Wizards, acquire Jaden Hardy
The Los Angeles Lakers have traded Deandre Ayton to the Washington Wizards in exchange for Jaden Hardy and two future second-round picks in 2031 and 2032, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. Ayton had exercised his $8.1 million player option earlier this week, but the move comes after the Lakers acquired Walker Kessler from the Utah Jazz in a sign-and-trade.
76ers sign Caleb Love to two-way contract
The Philadelphia 76ers have signed Caleb Love to a new two-way contract, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. After his rookie season with the Portland Trail Blazers, where he averaged 10.4 points on 38.8% shooting in 49 games, Love is headed to Philadelphia. Over the past 24 hours, the Sixers have also added Anfernee Simons and Rayan Rupert.
Rich Paul outlines several potential landing spots for LeBron James
Since LeBron James became a free agent, his agent Rich Paul has been openly discussing possible destinations for the future Hall of Famer. During the “Game Over” podcast with Max Kellerman, Paul unveiled a whiteboard listing teams he believes could pursue James this offseason. Among the franchises mentioned were the New York Knicks, Philadelphia 76ers, Boston Celtics, Cleveland Cavaliers, Minnesota Timberwolves, Denver Nuggets, Miami Heat, Golden State Warriors, San Antonio Spurs and Dallas Mavericks.
Dorian Finney-Smith traded to Hornets
Dorian Finney-Smith has been traded to the Charlotte Hornets along with three future second-round picks. The deal gives Houston a $13 million trade exception, while Charlotte now owns 20 second-round picks over the next seven NBA Drafts.
Pistons sign Javonte Green to a one-year deal
The Detroit Pistons have agreed to a one-year, $3.95 million contract with Javonte Green. The soon-to-be 33-year-old was one of only 18 NBA players to appear in every regular-season game last year. He ranked eighth on the Pistons in minutes played and finished second on the team with 102 steals.
Celtics sign Neemias Queta to four-year extension
The Boston Celtics have signed Neemias Queta to a four-year, $56 million contract extension. The center is coming off the best season of his career, averaging 10.2 points, 8.4 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 1.3 blocks per game.
Pistons sign Ugonna Onyenso to two-way deal
The Detroit Pistons have signed 2026 No. 53 overall pick Ugonna Onyenso to a two-way contract, according to HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto. The Virginia big man finished second in the nation last season with 105 total blocks and averaged 2.9 blocks per game.
Rockets bring back Tari Eason on five-year deal
Tari Eason is staying with the Houston Rockets. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the forward has agreed to a five-year, $81.5 million contract. A restricted free agent this offseason, Eason was one of Houston’s top priorities thanks to his impact on the defensive end.
Tyus Jones returning to Nuggets
Tyus Jones is set to enter his 12th NBA season after agreeing to a one-year deal with the Denver Nuggets, according to his agents via ESPN. Jones appeared in 11 regular-season games for Denver last season, averaging 2.2 points, 1.3 rebounds and 1.2 assists while shooting 38% from beyond the arc.
Billy Donovan joins Spurs coaching staff
After months of speculation about a possible return to the college ranks, Billy Donovan is headed to the San Antonio Spurs. According to ESPN, the former Chicago Bulls head coach will serve as Mitch Johnson’s lead assistant.
Suns sign Pat Spencer to two-way contract
Pat Spencer is leaving the Golden State Warriors after agreeing to a two-way contract with the Phoenix Suns. Spencer showed flashes with Golden State last season and now gets a new opportunity in Phoenix.
Kings sign Daeqwon Plowden to two-year deal
The Sacramento Kings have agreed to a two-year, $5.1 million contract with Daeqwon Plowden, according to HoopsHype. The 27-year-old guard spent last season on a two-way contract, averaging 10.8 points in 32 appearances while shooting 62.4% from the field, 33.3% from three-point range and 85.7% from the free-throw line.
July 2, 2026
Thunder re-sign Kenrich Williams
Kenrich Williams is staying with the Oklahoma City Thunder. According to Chris Haynes, Williams has agreed to a one-year, $5 million contract, just days after the franchise declined his $7.5 million team option for next season.
Kyle Lowry to retire as a Raptor
Kyle Lowry’s NBA career is coming to an end. According to Sportsnet, the veteran point guard will sign a one-day contract with the Toronto Raptors next week, allowing him to retire with the franchise. After spending the past two-plus seasons with the Philadelphia 76ers, Lowry will close out his career with the team he led to the 2019 NBA championship.
76ers add Anfernee Simons
Anfernee Simons is headed to the Philadelphia 76ers. The veteran guard has agreed to a two-year, $12.3 million contract after Philadelphia had already shaken up the offseason with its acquisition of Jaylen Brown. Simons averaged 14.3 points per game last season while splitting time between the Boston Celtics and Chicago Bulls.
Raptors sign Darko Rajaković to multi-year extension
The Toronto Raptors have announced a multi-year contract extension for head coach Darko Rajaković. The 47-year-old guided Toronto to a 46-win season, returning the franchise to the playoffs for the first time in four years while earning the No. 5 seed in the Eastern Conference.
76ers also pursuing LeBron James
Philadelphia’s offseason may not be over just yet. After pulling off a blockbuster trade for Jaylen Brown, the 76ers are reportedly among the teams interested in signing LeBron James, who became an unrestricted free agent after eight seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers.
According to The Athletic’s Tony Jones, the Golden State Warriors and Cleveland Cavaliers are also monitoring the situation as James prepares for what would be his 24th NBA season.
Marvin Bagley signs with the Nuggets
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Marvin Bagley has agreed to a one-year deal with the Denver Nuggets. Bagley spent last season with the Wizards and Mavericks, continuing a career that has seen him bounce around the league since being selected No. 2 overall in the 2018 NBA Draft.
Grizzlies, Mavericks agree to Aldama-Johnson trade
The Memphis Grizzlies and Dallas Mavericks have agreed to a trade that sends Santi Aldama to Dallas, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. Memphis receives AJ Johnson, a protected 2030 first-round pick and two future second-round picks, while Dallas lands Santi Aldama and the draft rights to Tarik Biberovic.
Jaylen Brown traded to the Philadelphia 76ers
After the best season of his career and 10 years with the Celtics, Jaylen Brown is on the move, heading to the Philadelphia 76ers. In return, Boston will receive Paul George, along with two first-round picks and two second-round picks, according to Shams Charania.
The deal comes just days after Brown was reportedly the centerpiece of a trade package the Celtics discussed with the Milwaukee Bucks for Giannis Antetokounmpo. Once that deal fell apart, many expected Brown to remain in Boston, but the front office had other plans. Brown’s departure closes the book on a highly productive decade with the Celtics, during which he developed from a defensive specialist into an All-Star and eventually an MVP candidate.
July 1, 2026
Tobias Harris signs with the Spurs
According to Yahoo Sports’ Kelly Iko, Tobias Harris has agreed to a two-year, $31 million deal with the San Antonio Spurs. The contract is fully guaranteed.
Jazz land Jaxson Hayes
Walker Kessler and Jaxson Hayes are swapping teams. The Los Angeles Lakers acquired Kessler in a sign-and-trade with the Utah Jazz, while Hayes agreed to a two-year, $12 million contract with Utah after spending the past three seasons with the Lakers, according to ESPN’s Tim MacMahon. The second year of the deal is a team option.
Kelly Oubre Jr. signs with the Pacers
Kelly Oubre Jr. has agreed to a two-year deal worth nearly $17 million with the Indiana Pacers, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. Oubre had also planned meetings with the Philadelphia 76ers, Portland Trail Blazers, Los Angeles Lakers and several other teams.
Warriors re-sign De’Anthony Melton
The Golden State Warriors have agreed to a two-year, $11 million contract with De’Anthony Melton, according to ESPN. The 28-year-old averaged a career-high 12.3 points across 49 games for Golden State last season.
Raptors re-sign Alijah Martin
Guard Alijah Martin is staying with the Toronto Raptors. According to ESPN, Martin has agreed to a two-year, $4.5 million contract after being selected by Toronto in the second round of the 2025 NBA Draft.
Lakers sign Collin Sexton and Quentin Grimes
The Los Angeles Lakers were among the busiest teams in free agency on Wednesday. In addition to landing Sandro Mamukelashvili, the Lakers also signed:
- Collin Sexton to a two-year, $19 million contract;
- Quentin Grimes to a four-year, $60 million deal.
Sandro Mamukelashvili joins the Lakers
Sandro Mamukelashvili has agreed to a four-year, $52 million contract with the Los Angeles Lakers, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. The deal is fully guaranteed and includes a player option for the fourth season.
After emerging as a Sixth Man of the Year candidate during the 2025-26 season, the Georgian big man now heads to Los Angeles, where he’ll strengthen the Lakers’ frontcourt.
Lakers acquire Walker Kessler in sign-and-trade with Jazz
The Los Angeles Lakers have completed a sign-and-trade with the Utah Jazz to acquire Walker Kessler, who will sign a four-year, $130 million contract. The move takes one of the top centers available in the 2026 NBA free-agent market off the board.
In return, Utah will receive unprotected first-round picks in 2031 and 2033, along with first-round pick swaps in 2028 and 2030. Kessler, who turns 25 later this month, owns career averages of 9.5 points, 9.3 rebounds, 2.4 blocks and 1.2 assists in 25.3 minutes per game.
Mitchell Robinson signs with the Celtics
Fresh off winning an NBA championship with the New York Knicks, Mitchell Robinson has agreed to a three-year, $47.4 million contract with the Boston Celtics that includes a player option for the third year, according to ESPN. Knicks owner James Dolan had made it clear he wasn’t willing to cross the league’s second tax apron to keep the championship roster together, and Robinson’s departure confirms that stance.
Nikola Vucevic returns to the Magic
Nikola Vucevic has agreed to a one-year, $3.9 million contract with the Orlando Magic, according to ESPN. The center returns to Orlando, where he spent parts of nine seasons from 2012 to 2021 before being traded to the Chicago Bulls.
Mo Wagner joins the Nets
Mo Wagner has agreed to a two-year, $19 million contract with the Brooklyn Nets, according to ESPN. Both the Nets and Wagner will hold an option for the second year of the deal.
Mike Conley signs with the Celtics
Mike Conley has agreed to a one-year contract with the Boston Celtics, according to ESPN. After spending the last four seasons with the Minnesota Timberwolves, Conley is set to enter his 20th NBA season.
Ariel Hukporti signs with the 76ers
Ariel Hukporti has agreed to a one-year, $3.4 million contract with the Philadelphia 76ers, according to ESPN.
Norman Powell leaves the Heat for the Bulls
Norman Powell, 33, has agreed to a two-year, $45 million contract with the Chicago Bulls. Last season with the Miami Heat, Powell averaged 21.7 points (47% FG, 38% from three, 83% FT), along with 3.5 rebounds and 2.5 assists in 29.6 minutes per game, earning his first NBA All-Star selection.
John Collins heads to the Pistons
John Collins has agreed to a three-year, $51 million contract with the Detroit Pistons, according to ESPN. The 28-year-old averaged 13.6 points (55% FG, 41% from three, 77% FT) and 5.3 rebounds in 27.1 minutes per game with the Los Angeles Clippers last season, appearing in 69 games, primarily as a starter.
Marcus Smart signs with the Rockets
Marcus Smart is the latest free agent to leave the Los Angeles Lakers, agreeing to a two-year, $13 million contract with the Houston Rockets, according to ESPN. The second year of the deal includes a player option.
Bogdan Bogdanović signs with the Houston Rockets
Bogdan Bogdanović has agreed to a one-year deal with the Houston Rockets, according to Shams Charania.
Dean Wade leaves Cleveland to sign with the 76ers
After starting 14 of the Cavaliers’ 18 playoff games, Dean Wade is leaving Cleveland to join the Philadelphia 76ers, signing a four-year, $39 million contract, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.
Zach Collins signs extension with the Chicago Bulls
The Chicago Bulls and Zach Collins have agreed to a two-year, $17 million contract extension. Collins appeared in just 10 games last season after suffering a fractured left wrist and undergoing season-ending foot surgery.
Luke Kennard joins the Phoenix Suns
After splitting last season between the Hawks and Lakers, Luke Kennard is headed to the Phoenix Suns on a two-year, $13 million contract, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.
Branden Carlson signs with the Trail Blazers
Center Branden Carlson has agreed to a one-year, $2.5 million deal with the Portland Trail Blazers.
Kobe Sanders stays with the Clippers
Kobe Sanders has signed a new four-year, $11.2 million contract with the Los Angeles Clippers. Selected in the second round of the 2025 NBA Draft, Sanders averaged 7.3 points in 19.9 minutes per game across 68 appearances during his rookie season.
Keon Ellis signs with the Brooklyn Nets
Free-agent guard Keon Ellis has agreed to a fully guaranteed two-year, $18 million contract with the Brooklyn Nets, according to ESPN.
Walker Kessler receives offers worth more than $30 million annually
Walker Kessler is one of the most intriguing names in this year’s NBA Free Agency. The Utah Jazz center is a restricted free agent after reportedly turning down a five-year, $140 million extension (roughly $37.5 million per season) from Utah. According to Tony Jones of The Athletic, several teams have expressed interest, submitting offers ranging from $35 million to $39 million annually.
The Jazz will retain the right to match any offer sheet. As a result, Kessler could still end up re-signing with Utah. If he returns to Salt Lake City, he would remain part of a young, promising core featuring All-Stars Lauri Markkanen and Jaren Jackson Jr., 2025 No. 5 overall pick Ace Bailey, and 2026 No. 2 overall pick Darryn Peterson, a highly talented two-way guard.
June 30, 2026
Kelly Oubre Jr. to meet with multiple teams, including the 76ers, Pacers, Trail Blazers and Lakers
According to Yahoo Sports’ Kelly Iko, Kelly Oubre Jr. is scheduled to meet with several teams, including the Philadelphia 76ers, Indiana Pacers, Portland Trail Blazers, and Los Angeles Lakers. After spending the last three seasons in Philadelphia, Oubre averaged 14.1 points per game in 2025-26 while improving his three-point shooting to 36%.
Tim Hardaway Jr. joins the Miami Heat on a one-year, $6.5 million deal
Tim Hardaway Jr. has agreed to a one-year, $6.5 million contract with the Miami Heat. The 34-year-old guard is coming off his 13th NBA season with the Denver Nuggets, where he finished third in Sixth Man of the Year voting after averaging 13.5 points per game while shooting 40.7% from three-point range.
DeAndre Jordan returns to the Pelicans
DeAndre Jordan will play his 19th NBA season after agreeing to return to the New Orleans Pelicans, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. He appeared in just 12 games for the franchise last season.
Ousmane Dieng returns to the Bucks
Ousmane Dieng has agreed to a three-year, $17.5 million contract to remain with the Milwaukee Bucks. Dieng joined Milwaukee via trade from the Oklahoma City Thunder during last season.
Kawhi Leonard returns to the Raptors
The Los Angeles Clippers have decided not to offer Kawhi Leonard a contract extension and instead traded the 35-year-old star back to the Toronto Raptors on Tuesday, according to Shams Charania. Leonard is entering the final season of his current $50 million contract.
In return, the Clippers receive Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, two future first-round picks, two second-round picks, and a first-round pick swap. Leonard returns to the franchise where he enjoyed the greatest success of his career. During his lone season in Toronto in 2018-19, he led the Raptors to the first – and still only – NBA championship in franchise history since joining the league in 1995.
LeBron James announces departure from the Lakers
LeBron James has informed the Los Angeles Lakers that he will play elsewhere during the 2026-27 season. Among the most likely destinations are the Golden State Warriors.
Although the Lakers made it clear they wanted to keep James and continue their partnership, the four-time NBA MVP has decided to move forward with a new chapter in his career.
Robert Williams III signs new contract with the Trail Blazers
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, free-agent center Robert Williams III has agreed to a three-year, $44 million contract extension to remain with the Portland Trail Blazers through the 2028-29 season.
June 29, 2026
Nurkic returns to Utah
Jusuf Nurkic is returning to the Jazz on a two-year, $22 million contract. The former Trail Blazers center is expected to play a significant role on a young roster led by Lauri Markkanen and Jaren Jackson Jr. after averaging 10.9 points and 10.4 rebounds in 41 games last season.
Thunder keep Dort, move on from Kenrich Williams
Oklahoma City exercised Luguentz Dort’s $17.7 million option for 2026-27 while declining Kenrich Williams’ $7.2 million team option, balancing roster continuity with salary cap flexibility.
Shamet stays with the Knicks
Landry Shamet re-signs with New York on a four-year, $24 million deal, remaining part of the defending champions’ core.
Atlanta declines Kuminga’s option
The Hawks declined the team option on Jonathan Kuminga, making him an unrestricted free agent after appearing in just 20 games last season.
Blockbuster: Morant traded to Portland
Ja Morant has been traded to the Trail Blazers in exchange for Jerami Grant and Kris Murray. The former Grizzlies star remains under contract for two more seasons: $42.17 million in 2026-27 and $44.89 million in 2027-28 before becoming a free agent in 2028.
Detroit keeps Jenkins
The Pistons exercised Daniss Jenkins’ $4 million option after he averaged 9.3 points and 3.9 assists per game.
Devin Carter on the move
Sacramento traded Devin Carter and a second-round pick to the Atlanta Hawks in a deal whose return has yet to be finalized.
Beal declines player option
Bradley Beal declined his $5.6 million player option and becomes a free agent.
Houston keeps Eason, picks up Davison’s option
The Rockets extended a qualifying offer to Tari Eason and exercised J.D. Davison’s $2.6 million team option.
Miami Moves On From Johnson
Keshad Johnson did not receive a qualifying offer and becomes a free agent.
Bryant expected back in Cleveland
Thomas Bryant is reportedly close to signing a new one-year deal with the Cavaliers.
Smart declines Lakers option
Marcus Smart declined his $5.4 million player option and enters free agency.
Wiggins stays in Miami
Andrew Wiggins agreed to a three-year, $64 million contract to remain with the Heat.
Ayton stays with the Lakers
Deandre Ayton exercised his $8.1 million player option.
Brooklyn restructures Minott and Sharpe deals
The Nets declined their team options before renegotiating new contracts: Josh Minott signed a two-year, $9 million deal, while Day’Ron Sharpe agreed to a two-year, $20 million contract.
Mamukelashvili leaves Toronto
Sandro Mamukelashvili declined his $2.8 million player option and becomes a free agent.
Green leaves Golden State?
Draymond Green declined his $27.7 million player option, opening the door to multiple scenarios for the Warriors.
LaVine stays in Sacramento
Zach LaVine exercised his $49 million player option and will remain with the Kings for another season.
Harden declines option but wants to stay in Cleveland
James Harden declined his $42.3 million player option but is expected to negotiate a new long-term contract with the Cavaliers.
VanVleet remains in Houston
Fred VanVleet exercised his $25 million player option.
Clippers and Raptors discuss Kawhi
The Clippers and Raptors have opened discussions regarding Kawhi Leonard, with a long-term extension reportedly possible only if he lands in Toronto.
Nets decline Ziaire Williams’ option
Brooklyn declined Ziaire Williams’ $6.5 million team option, making him a free agent.
Buddy Hield’s contract fully guaranteed
Atlanta fully guaranteed Buddy Hield’s $9.6 million salary for 2026-27 while retaining a $10 million player option for the following season.
Dallas enters the Kawhi sweepstakes
The Mavericks have joined the pursuit of Kawhi Leonard with a package centered around Klay Thompson, P.J. Washington, and future draft picks.
June 28, 2026
Miami looking for shooters
The Heat are searching for perimeter shooting to surround Giannis Antetokounmpo, with targets including Tim Hardaway Jr. (41%), Khris Middleton (36%), Landry Shamet (39%), Anfernee Simons (39%), and Quentin Grimes (33%).
Toronto prefers Ingram over Barrett
The Raptors reportedly value Brandon Ingram (21.2 PPG, $40 million salary with a $42 million player option) over RJ Barrett ($29.6 million) in potential Kawhi Leonard negotiations.
Bridges to Phoenix as Hornets stay active
Charlotte traded Miles Bridges to the Suns in exchange for Grayson Allen, Royce O’Neale, and an unprotected 2033 first-round pick. Bridges averaged 17.1 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 3.2 assists while shooting 33% from three.
Butler: “I’m back to being myself”
Months after ACL surgery, Jimmy Butler said he feels fully recovered.
I’m back to being myself – maybe even better. I know I’ll still be among the league’s best when I return. I’ve got a couple of great seasons left in me, and we’re going to compete all the way
Jimmy Butler
Orlando waives Jonathan Isaac
The Magic waived Jonathan Isaac, creating $6.5 million in cap space while taking on $8 million in dead money.
June 27, 2026
Giannis to Miami: the biggest questions
Miami acquired Giannis Antetokounmpo in a blockbuster trade involving Tyler Herro, Kel’el Ware, Jaime Jaquez Jr., Kasparas Jakučionis, three first-round picks, and one second-round pick.
Ron Harper Jr. nears new deal with Boston
Ron Harper Jr. is reportedly close to signing a three-year, $9 million contract after averaging 4.2 points in 29 appearances.
Can Caleb Wilson win Rookie of the Year?
The Bulls’ No. 4 overall pick enters the NBA after a college season shortened by hand injuries.
Hartenstein stays in Oklahoma City
The Thunder re-signed Isaiah Hartenstein to a three-year, $75 million contract after he averaged 10.3 points and 10.1 rebounds per game.
June 26, 2026
LaMelo Ball traded to Minnesota
LaMelo Ball was traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves in a deal involving Naz Reid and multiple future draft picks.