NBA Basketball 24 Hours

Last updated: July 3, 2026, 8:31 PM ET

NBA Free Agency Frenzy

The NBA offseason has exploded into a whirlwind of activity, with teams aggressively reshaping their rosters. The Philadelphia 76ers, fresh off acquiring Jaylen Brown, are reportedly making a play for LeBron James, aiming to lure the superstar to Philadelphia. Meanwhile, veteran guard Anfernee Simons has agreed to a two-year, $12.3 million deal with the Sixers, including a player option for the second season Simons agrees with Sixers. In other high-profile moves, the Lakers are reportedly trading center Deandre Ayton to the Wizards for Jaden Hardy and two future second-round picks, a move that comes on the heels of LeBron James announcing his departure from Los Angeles Lakers' overhaul begins.

Big Deals and Coaching Carousel

Free agency has seen significant financial commitments to big men, with restricted free agent Tari Eason agreeing to a five-year, $81.5 million deal to remain with the Houston Rockets Eason to Rockets. The Rockets are also sending Dorian Finney-Smith and three second-round picks to the Charlotte Hornets in a separate transaction Finney-Smith dealt Hornets. The New York Knicks have found a potential replacement for Mitchell Robinson in veteran Andre Drummond, who has agreed to a one-year, $3.9 million contract Drummond Knicks. On the coaching front, Billy Donovan has reportedly agreed to become the lead assistant coach for the San Antonio Spurs under head coach Mitch Johnson Donovan to Spurs. The Toronto Raptors are also extending head coach Darko Rajakovic on a multiyear deal Raptors coach extended.

Player Movement and Roster Shuffles

Player movement continues at a rapid pace as teams finalize their rosters. The Boston Celtics have exercised their option on center Neemias Queta for the upcoming season and are adding a four-year, $56 million extension to his contract Celtics pick up Queta option. LeBron James, whose next destination remains a central focus, is reportedly considering a range of teams, including the Heat, Cavaliers, and 76ers, according to his agent LeBron eyeing teams. Meanwhile, Ja Morant is set to change his jersey number to No. 1 with his new team, a departure from his long-time No. 12.

Offseason Analysis and Summer League Preview

The league is also using the summer league as a testing ground for new rules. The NBA will trial the one-and-done free throw rule, previously seen in the G League, and will incorporate embedded sensors in basketballs during the July series NBA testing rule. Executive discussions are ongoing regarding the impact of the Jaylen Brown trade, substantial spending on centers, and surprising cap developments as the league heads into the second week of free agency NBA execs buzz. Trade grades are also being issued for notable offseason transactions, including the deal that sent Walker Kessler to the Lakers Ayton trade grades. Notable figures like Jay-Z and Kevin Durant were among the attendees at Michael Rubin's annual "White Party," a high-profile social gathering within the sports world White Party attendees.