NBA Hoops

Start date, primer on top players, teams with salary cap space, rumors, predictions

James Harden of the Philadelphia 76ers reacts against the Miami Heat during the first half in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference semifinals of the NBA playoffs at FTX Arena on May 10, 2022 in Miami.

NBA free agency takes center stage with the 2022 NBA Finals and draft behind us. With Kyrie Irving and Russell Westbrook already making their decisions on player options and John Wall working toward a buyout with the Houston Rockets, the focus is now on James Harden, Bradley Beal, Zach LaVine and Deandre Ayton. Decisions on player options are due by 5 p.m. ET Wednesday, with free agency opening at 6 p.m. ET Thursday. Here’s a primer on everything you need to know leading up to free agency.

When does 2022 NBA free agency begin?

Thursday, June 30, at 6 p.m. ET.

Which NBA teams have salary cap space?

Only the Detroit Pistons (a little more than $40 million), San Antonio Spurs (roughly $33 million), Orlando Magic ($28 million), Indiana Pacers ($26 million) and New York Knicks ($25 million) are projected to have significant cap space this summer. The Memphis Grizzlies could join them if they lose key free agents.

A boon in sign-and-trade transactions for star players over the last few years leaves room for other teams to negotiate with free agents, but they face the prospect of parting with assets for their seat at the table.

Who are the biggest-name NBA free agents?

That depends.

James Harden

The 32-year-old one-time MVP, can become an unrestricted free agent, but that would mean declining his $47.4 million option to play for the Philadelphia 76ers for next season, which he is not expected to do. Multiple reports suggest the Sixers will offer him a two-year extension once he opts in.

Philadelphia 76ers guard James Harden could become an unrestricted free agent. (Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

Bradley Beal

The 29-year-old three-time All-Star for the Washington Wizards, can decline a $36.4 million option for next season and seek a starting salary of $43 million in free agency. While other suitors can offer a four-year, $184 million maximum contract, the Wizards can sign him to a five-year, $248 million max deal. Beal, with his 64 million guaranteed reasons to remain in Washington, is expected to stay put this summer.

Zach LaVine

The 27-year-old two-time All-Star guard for the Chicago Bulls, will be unrestricted when free agency begins. Bulls general manager Marc Eversley told reporters last week, “We’re prepared to do what it will take to bring Zach back in the fold,” which in essence means presenting him with a five-year, $212 million maximum contract offer. Multiple reports indicate LaVine will accept that offer to stay in Chicago.

Deandre Ayton

The…

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