The NBA trade season has concluded, and there are teams that prioritized financial flexibility in the future. On the other hand, there are teams like the Cleveland Cavaliers, who went all-in in hopes of a deep playoff run this season.
Teams that prioritized salary cap savings are likely gearing up for what could be a deep free agent pool in the upcoming offseason. Several players have either a team or player option and there are some who could be restricted free agents.
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Regardless of their status, championship contenders are likely monitoring some names who they think could help their championship run. Here are the top 10 players who are most likely being considered by contenders.
Top 10 NBA free agents available this summer with potential to elevate championship teams
#10 Kristaps Porzingis
Several injuries have hindered Kristaps Porzingis’ career. Currently, he is suffering from an illness (postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome). However, Porzingis could either be a key piece in a championship team or a valuable contributor to a perennial playoff team.
Despite his limited availability, Porzingis was the third leading scorer, behind Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, during the Boston Celtics‘ 2024 title run.
#9 Keon Ellis
Keon Ellis, whom the Cleveland Cavaliers recently acquired via a three-team trade, was the subject of several rumors leading up to the deadline. Ellis would certainly generate interest when he hit free agency this summer, as there would be contenders that need a defensive-minded guard.
#8 Gary Payton II
Another defensive-minded guard is Gary Payton, who was a key contributor to the Golden State Warriors’ 2022 championship run. Despite his limitations offensively, Payton could give valuable minutes to a contender off the bench.
#7 Rui Hachimura
Rui Hachimura would certainly generate interest from championship contenders looking for wing depth. Signing the 6-foot-8 forward would likely come at a price, but Hachimura brings versatility to teams. Since returning from an injury last month, the Japanese forward has embraced a bench role for LA Lakers coach JJ Redick.
#6 Mitchell Robinson
Teams looking for big man depth could be interested in signing Mitchell Robinson. The 7-foot center was the New York Knicks’ starting center before the arrival of Karl-Anthony Towns in 2024. Robinson has since embraced a backup role and has also shown that he could play in double-big lineups.
#5 Austin Reaves
Some pundits have predicted that Lakers star Austin Reaves would likely opt out of his $14.9 million player option next season. Reaves would be asking for a big payday, and there will be contenders that will likely pursue him. The 6-5 star is a proven scorer and could be the missing piece that could help a team get over the hump.
#4 Isaiah Hartenstein
Championship contenders would be monitoring Isaiah Hartenstein, who has a $28.5 million team option next season. Hartenstein is key to the OKC Thunder’s success, and he would undoubtedly have an impact on any team he is on.
#3 Norman Powell
Norman Powell played a key bench role in the Toronto Raptors‘ 2019 championship run. He was recently named to his first All-Star selection. The 32-year-old guard would generate much interest in free agency. He is a proven scorer who has deep playoff experience.
#2 Luguentz Dort
Like Hartenstein, Lu Dort has a team option next season, and the Thunder would likely pick it up. Nevertheless, many teams would inquire about Dort as his fit would be seamless. He is widely regarded for his defense, being named to the All-Defensive first team last season, but he could also light it up from the 3-point range.
#1 LeBron James
Any team that adds LeBron James would be catapulted among the favorites to win the title. Despite his age, James has proven that he can still be a valuable contributor to a contending team. Reports surfaced recently that the Cleveland Cavaliers are open to re-signing him and would pursue him in the offseason.
Edited by Kim Daniel Rubinos
