LeBron to Meet Several Teams as Free Agency Window Opens; Cavaliers, Lakers Evaluate Options
lebron-free-agency-cavs-lakers-grimes-wagner-kennard
Free agency begins at 5:00 p.m. CT today, and LeBron James plans to speak with multiple clubs after deciding he will not return to the Los Angeles Lakers, according to ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne. A source close to the process told Shelburne there is no timetable for James to choose his next destination.
Cavaliers Maneuver to Create Space for Possible LeBron Deal
James Harden is widely expected to re-sign with the Cleveland Cavaliers after declining his $— exit date, but league insider Joe Vardon of The Athletic reports Harden will wait to see whether the club needs financial flexibility to pursue James. Cleveland projects as the NBA’s lone second-apron team in 2025-26, so the front office might have to clear salary to offer James more than a veteran minimum and still retain free agents such as Dean Wade and Keon Ellis.
Chris Fedor of Cleveland.com adds that the Cavaliers have explored trading Max Strus, who carries a $16.66 million expiring contract, and Dennis Schröder, due $14.81 million in the second season of a three-year deal.
Lakers Eye Quentin Grimes, Maintain Center Search
The Lakers, who could open more than $50 million in cap room, have identified swingman Quentin Grimes as a prime target, report Grant Afseth (Dallas Hoops Journal), Marc Stein, Jake Fischer (The Stein Line) and Dan Woike (The Athletic). Los Angeles has not determined how much of its space it is willing to commit to Grimes while it also prioritizes adding an impact center.
Nets Interested in Moritz Wagner
The Brooklyn Nets are evaluating Magic big man Moritz Wagner as a free-agent option, sources tell Ian Begley of SNY. Although the club intends to expand DayRon Sharpe’s role following the trade of Nic Claxton, Brooklyn remains active in the center market and has been linked to several other targets, including Mitchell Robinson.
Luke Kennard Draws Interest From Suns, Lakers
Sharpshooter Luke Kennard is on the Phoenix Suns’ radar heading into free agency, according to John Gambadoro (Arizona Sports 98.7) and Grant Afseth. Dan Woike confirms that the Lakers are also interested in bringing Kennard back.
The negotiating period opens this evening, allowing players to engage with rival teams while formal signings can be finalized once the league’s moratorium is lifted.
Source: Hoops Rumors
