NBA Basketball 24 Hours

Last updated: July 7, 2026, 5:33 AM ET

NBA Offseason Shake-Ups and Contract Speculation

The landscape of the NBA has been dramatically reshaped in the last 24 hours, with blockbuster trades and significant free agency moves dominating headlines. The Milwaukee Bucks officially sent Giannis Antetokounmpo to the Miami Heat ending his 13-year tenure, a move that signals a new era for both franchises. Concurrently, the Philadelphia 76ers' acquisition of Jaylen Brown from the Boston Celtics has drawn mixed reactions from league executives, with some questioning the valuation of the star player despite the deal's competitiveness. Boston's front office, led by Brad Stevens, indicated that trading Brown was a strategic move to maintain team competitiveness while increasing draft asset flexibility creating optionality.

Meanwhile, Nikola Jokic has publicly stated his intention to wait until next summer to sign an extension with the Denver Nuggets, reaffirming his long-term commitment to the franchise while deferring the deal. In Los Angeles, Lakers star LeBron James has officially parted ways with the team, marking the end of a partnership described as a "marriage of convenience" initiating the divorce. Free agency also saw Rui Hachimura agree to a two-year, $28 million contract with the Los Angeles Clippers staying in LA, and restricted free agent Quinten Post is poised to sign a three-year, $30 million offer sheet with the Memphis Grizzlies signing with the Grizz, pending the Warriors' decision to match.

Further contractual developments are underway, with Kawhi Leonard expected to begin extension talks with the Toronto Raptors this week starting talks following his trade. The Phoenix Suns and Mercury are also solidifying their leadership, as CEO Josh Bartelstein is finalizing an extension with owner Mat Ishbia cementing partnership REF:6