Restricted Free Agents Face Familiar Market Dynamics Ahead of 2026 Offseason
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Last summer’s restricted free agency period stretched for weeks as only two teams—the Nets and Bucks—possessed meaningful cap space. As a result, the four headline RFAs of 2025 all returned to their original clubs.
2025 RFA Deals
Josh Giddey – four years, $100 million (Chicago)
Jonathan Kuminga – two years, $46.8 million with a second-year team option (Golden State)
Quentin Grimes – accepted one-year, $8.7 million qualifying offer (Philadelphia)
Cam Thomas – accepted one-year, $6 million qualifying offer (Brooklyn)
The landscape shifted quickly afterward. Golden State sent Kuminga to Atlanta ahead of last month’s trade deadline, and Brooklyn waived Thomas shortly after the deadline; he signed with Milwaukee before the Bucks released him Monday to open a roster spot for Pete Nance. Grimes is headed for unrestricted free agency this summer, while Kuminga could join him if Atlanta declines his 2026/27 option.
Key Names for 2026
The forthcoming class is led by Pistons center Jalen Duren, who earned his first All-Star selection in 2025/26. Other notable RFAs include Peyton Watson and Walker Kessler. Whether this group enjoys greater bargaining power than last year’s cohort may again depend on how many teams enter July with room to pursue offer sheets.
Source: Hoops Rumors
