Prepare for a unique free agency this summer: Less chaotic, maybe, but more peculiar.
Initially, the 2025 NBA free-agent class may not impress with its top-tier talent. This isn’t the year for superstars hosting meetings in the Hamptons while teams anxiously wait for franchise-altering decisions. Only one probable All-NBA pick can hit free agency this summer, and that player (the Los Angeles Lakers’ LeBron James) isn’t going anywhere. The next best potential free agent, the Dallas Mavericks’ Kyrie Irving, is approaching 33 and just suffered an ACL tear.
Although lacking in superstar talent, this free-agent class compensates with its sheer quirkiness. With recent collective bargaining agreements, seldom-used rules, and players outperforming small contracts, this summer could present some real financial puzzles for front offices.
Here’s a preview of some intriguing scenarios as we head towards the offseason:
Ty Jerome’s Unexpected Breakout
Jerome arguably holds the best value non-rookie contract in the league; the Cleveland Cavaliers’ breakout sixth man earns only $2.56 million after signing a two-year deal in 2023.
This summer poses a dilemma for the Cavs as they only have early Bird rights on Jerome due to his two-year deal. No one anticipated Jerome’s success to lead to concerns about potentially losing him since they can only offer him $14 million next season. The question arises, should teams like the Brooklyn Nets or Chicago Bulls with some cap space consider offering Jerome $20 million a year? At 27, his next deal would cover his prime years.
Cleveland faces not only cap rules but also the prospect of Jerome re-signing. Committing to Jerome at $14 million becomes costly for the Cavs, especially with Evan Mobley’s likely supermax extension pushing them deep into the luxury tax next year. It’s possible that other trades could mitigate the impact, but Jerome’s unexpected achievement has added complexity to Cleveland’s already challenging cap situation.
Could Jerome opt for a one-plus-one deal to allow the Cavs to pay him more as a Bird rights free agent next year? While this might be the best option for Cleveland, it’s difficult to ask a player who has never been paid to wait another year for a significant contract.
Ty Jerome has taken a major leap in Year 6. (Gary A. Vasquez / Imagn Images)
Russell Westbrook’s Choice
Westbrook is excelling in Denver, but he and the Nuggets face a crucial decision. He holds a…