NBA Players Positioning Themselves for Major Contracts in 2025-26
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With most offseason business complete, several NBA players will spend the 2025-26 campaign showcasing their value in hopes of securing new deals next summer, according to Zach Harper of The Athletic.
Porter Eligible for Early Extension
Brooklyn forward Michael Porter Jr., 27, is one of the few non-rookie players who can still sign an extension during the season. His current contract runs two more years, paying $38.3 million in 2025-26 and $40.8 million in 2026-27. Brooklyn acquired Porter to boost its starting lineup, and league observers will watch to see whether he chases a long-term agreement at roughly his present $40 million annual rate or accepts a smaller yearly number for extra security.
Frontcourt Free Agents to Watch
Three centers could reach unrestricted free agency in July:
- Kristaps Porzingis, now starting for the Hawks, must prove he can stay healthy.
- Mitchell Robinson, the Knicks’ intermittent starter, faces both durability questions and a crowded New York payroll.
- Nikola Vucevic, a Bulls veteran frequently mentioned in trade talks, may depart as Chicago leans harder into a youth movement. Harper projects Vucevic’s next contract at roughly $21 million per season.
Scoring Guards Heading to Market
A trio of high-volume backcourt scorers will also be free agents:
- Anfernee Simons, dealt to the Celtics this summer, is pegged for a salary near $20 million annually.
- Coby White, entering his seventh season with Chicago, is predicted to land about $75 million over three years.
- Norman Powell, now with Miami, could command around $50 million across two seasons.
Player-Option Decisions Loom
Several veterans can test the market via player options: Zach LaVine (Kings), Bradley Beal (Clippers) and Austin Reaves (Lakers). In addition, Cam Thomas (Nets) and Quentin Grimes (76ers) accepted one-year qualifying offers this offseason and will try to recoup missed earnings when they reach unrestricted free agency.
Role Players Seeking First or Second Payday
Four rotation pieces could draw aggressive interest next summer depending on 2025-26 performance:
- Rui Hachimura (Lakers)
- Tyus Jones (Magic)
- Keon Ellis (Kings)
- Georges Niang (Jazz)
Ellis, 25, has emerged over the past two seasons and might secure a contract similar to Ty Jerome’s recent three-year, $27.6 million agreement with Memphis if his production continues.
Source: Hoops Rumors
