NBA Basketball 3 Days

Last updated: July 7, 2026, 11:31 PM ET

NBA Offseason Shake-Up: Stars on the Move and Big Deals Signed

The NBA offseason has been a whirlwind of blockbuster trades and significant contract extensions, reshaping the league's power dynamics. The New York Knicks are dealing with a significant injury to their star guard, as Jalen Brunson underwent wrist surgery following his Finals MVP campaign. He is expected to be ready for basketball activities later this summer. In the Eastern Conference, the Milwaukee Bucks have reportedly acquired Caris LeVert from the Pistons in exchange for Taurean Prince and two second-round picks, a move that adds depth to their roster while the Pistons continue their rebuild trading LeVert. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Lakers are actively pursuing Jonathan Kuminga while also securing veteran center Kevon Looney on a one-year deal, signaling a strategic approach to bolstering their squad pursuing Kuminga. The Eastern Conference hierarchy has seen significant shifts, with teams needing to adapt or risk falling behind in a now more competitive landscape East standing still.

Superstar Signings and Extension News

Several franchise cornerstones have committed to long-term deals, while others are opting for a more patient approach to contract negotiations. Donovan Mitchell has agreed to a substantial $273 million maximum extension with the Cleveland Cavaliers, a four-year deal that includes a player option for the 2030-31 season, solidifying his future with the team Mitchell's max extension. In contrast, reigning MVP Nikola Jokic has indicated he will wait until next summer to sign an extension with the Denver Nuggets, despite reaffirming his desire to remain with the team long-term Jokic waits on extension. The landscape of player representation has also seen changes, with Kawhi Leonard reportedly hiring a new agent as contract extension talks with the Toronto Raptors are expected to begin soon Kawhi hires new agent.

Notable Departures and Free Agency Moves

The league is bidding farewell to a legend and welcoming new talent through free agency and waivers. Six-time All-Star Kyle Lowry has officially retired from the NBA after signing a one-day contract with the Toronto Raptors, concluding a 20-season career where he won a championship with the franchise Lowry retires Raptor. In a stunning move, Giannis Antetokounmpo's trade to the Miami Heat became official, ending his 13-year tenure with the Milwaukee Bucks Antetokounmpo posts goodbye. The Kings waived DeMar DeRozan, making the six-time All-Star a free agent with multiple contenders expected to show interest DeRozan cut Kings. Rui Hachimura is staying in Los Angeles, agreeing to a two-year, $28 million deal with the Clippers, adding to their wing depth Hachimura staying LA. Meanwhile, restricted free agent Quinten Post is signing a three-year, $30 million offer sheet with the Grizzlies, pending the Warriors' matching decision Post signing offer sheet.

Front Office Stability and Off-Court Developments

Beyond player transactions, the business side of the NBA is also seeing movement. Phoenix Suns and Mercury CEO Josh Bartelstein is finalizing a contract extension, underscoring a commitment to his leadership of both franchises CEO Bartelstein extension. On the legal front, former NBA star Lamar Odom is expected to plead no-contest to a reduced DUI charge, settling a January incident by pleading to reckless driving Odom enter plea deal. The league is also analyzing the early moves of the offseason, with some executives reacting to significant trades and their perceived impact on player valuations execs react to trade. The dynamic between the Los Angeles Lakers and LeBron James has been described as a convenient marriage that has reached its equally convenient conclusion, signaling a significant shift for both parties Lakers-LeBron marriage dissolution. The Washington Wizards are also bringing back veteran Khris Middleton on a three-year, $17.6 million contract via a sign-and-trade deal Wizards reunite with Middleton. NBA free agency has spurred intense discussion and analysis, with experts evaluating the most significant overreactions to the initial wave of moves judging biggest overreactions.