Jalen Brunson and the New York Knicks signed a Veteran Extension to much hullaballoo. Brunson signed a four-year, $156.5 million extension. That was the maximum that Brunson was allowed to sign for at this moment.

It’s that last part that is the key: “at this moment”.

As has been reported, Brunson could have signed for more money had he waited and re-signed with the Knicks as a free agent a year from now. By now, you’ve probably read that Brunson gave up $113 million by extending with New York now.

But did Brunson really leave $113 million on the table?

Yes…well kind of…but not really.

Let’s break it down!

The Veteran Extension

Here’s what Jalen Brunson did sign for:

• 2025-26: $34,944,001
• 2026-27: $37,739,521
• 2027-28: $40,535,041
• 2028-29: $43,330,561 (Player Option)
• Total: four years, $156,549,124

In Brunson’s case, he signed under the Veteran Extension rules. This allows for him to extend for 140% of his previous salary. To sign a four-year extension, Brunson declined his 2025-26 player option, so this extension is based off his current salary for 2024-25 of $24,960,001.

From there, Brunson can add four new years of salary with 8% raises off the first year. That’s how we get to figures above.

For now, we can assume that Brunson will opt out of his contract to become a free agent in 2028. That would allow him to sign for the 35% of the cap maximum, because he’ll have 10 Years of Service following the 2027-28 season. But more to come on that later!

Re-signing with New York in 2025

Here’s what Jalen Brunson could have signed for next summer:

• 2025-26: $46,394,000
• 2026-27: $50,105,628
• 2027-28: $53,817,156
• 2028-29: $57,528,684
• 2029-30: $61,240,212
• Total: five years, $269,085,780
• This contract reflects the 30% of the cap max, with 8% raises for Brunson. Had he played out this upcoming season, opted out of his contract, this is the maximum amount he could have signed for in July of 2025.

Breaking down the differences

This is where things get interesting!

If you compare what Brunson did actually sign for vs what he could have signed for, you get a difference of roughly $112.5 million. So, that’s where that “Brunson gave up $113 million” line-of-thinking came from.

But it’s not really that simple.

If you’ve ever read one of our “Next Contract” pieces here on Spotrac, you know we try to present things in a lens of what a player could get by extending vs re-signing vs leaving for another team. In this case, we’re going to do it, but within the lens of Brunson extending vs re-signing with the Knicks.

We’re not going to pretend that it’s inaccurate to say Brunson left nearly $113 million on the table. Instead, we’ll say that’s a little misleading. Because the chances of Brunson ever getting to that $113 million number are pretty low.

Instead, let’s first look at a four-year vs four-year comparison:

• Extending: four years, $156,549,124
• Re-signing: four years, $207,845,568
• Difference: $51,296,444

Already, we’ve cut the amount Brunson gave up by over half. This is much like why it’s not always a fair comparison to look at what a player can re-sign for with their own team vs what they can get by leaving for a new team. Only their own team can give them a fifth year. In this case, Brunson could only get a fifth year by delaying and re-signing next summer.

Now, let’s go a step further!

In Brunson’s new deal, he has a player option for Year 4 in 2028-29. It’s already been suggested that part of his motivation by extending vs re-signing was to get back into free agency in 2028. So, we’re going to assume he’ll opt out.

That means, the real comparison point here is Extension Years 1-3 vs Re-signing Years 1-3.

• Extending: three years, $113,218,563
• Re-signing: three years, $150,316,884
• Difference: $37,098,321

Now, we’re down to about 33% of the original $113 million that Brunson actually gave up.

Let’s pause for a moment here…

Giving up over $37 million is still a lot of money to leave on the table. For reference, during 2024 NBA free agency to date, only 21 of over 90 players got more than $37 million in total in their new contracts.

So, even as we try to pushback on reported $113 million sacrifice that Brunson made, we’re still going to recognize that the Knicks star did give up a large sum of money.

What does this mean for the Knicks?

For New York, this is big, but let’s not get too crazy here either.

For one, the Knicks now have their All-Star, All-NBA, MVP-candidate leader locked up on a below-max deal. No matter how you spin it, that’s a pretty big win.

But here’s what the Knicks save over the next three seasons after this upcoming one (Remember, we’re assuming Brunson opts out in 2028) by Brunson extending vs re-signing:

• 2025-26: $11,450,099
• 2026-27: $12,366,107
• 2027-28: $13,282,115

Those per-year amounts will certainly help the Knicks, but they aren’t necessarily life-changing for New York.

Here’s how much the Knicks have on the books for each of those three seasons and for how many players:

• 2025-26: $186,683,839 for 10 players (including Julius Randle, who has a player option for 2025-26)
• 2026-27: $129,935,530 for seven players
• 2027-28: $126,983,155 for five players

In each of the first two years, the Knicks are well above the cap. In 2026, they’ll potentially be facing free agency for Mikal Bridges, Julius Randle and Mitchell Robinson, assuming all three are still on the roster.

What giving up $11.5 million and $12.4 million in 2025 and 2026 does do is gives the Knicks some wiggle room under the now infamous tax aprons. That’s some welcomed flexibility, but won’t necessarily be the difference in making a huge addition. The reason for this is that making a big trade would likely still result in becoming hard-capped at either the first or second apron. This is basically the same dance New York did this summer with the Mikal Bridges trade.

But if we go out to the summer of 2027, this is where things could get really fun for the Knicks.

By that summer, New York could be down to Jalen Brunson, OG Anunoby, Josh Hart, Pacome Dadiet and Tyler Kolek on the roster. And that would be the final year of Brunson’s contract before he can opt out in the summer of 2028. Let’s add Mikal Bridges on a salary of $45 million for that season too, since the Knicks didn’t trade for him to watch him walk.

If New York kept the rest mostly as-is for the next couple of seasons, in the summer of 2027, they could have around $40 million in cap space. That’s a nice chunk of spending power, but that’s well shy of the projected first-year max salary of $65.5 million for that season.

Now, if the Knicks let Mikal Bridges walk (they likely won’t, but let’s live in Fantasyland for a moment!), they could have as much as $85 million in cap space that summer. That would be enough to get a max free agent and have some leftover money to spend. That’s starting to look a lot like the offseason the Philadelphia 76ers just had.

In summary: Jalen Brunson took less, which helps the Knicks create wiggle room to do their work. But this isn’t likely to result in a major addition in the next two seasons that New York couldn’t have made anyway. Three years from now, we could be in an entirely different place.

How does Jalen Brunson make back the money he gave up?

In short: he can’t.

Even on the most-accurate comparison of Extension Years 1-3 vs Re-signing Years 1-3, Brunson gave up over $37 million. He’s never getting that back.

What did happen by going this route is that Brunson will get into the free agent market a year earlier than he could have by re-signing for a full five-year deal. In this scenario, Brunson opts out in 2028. At that point, he’ll have 10 Years of Service and he’ll be eligible for a full 35% of the cap maximum salary. That contract will start with Brunson’s Age-32 season. Let’s say the Knicks do want to give him the full five-year max, that projects to look like this:

• 2028-29: $72,042,250
• 2029-30: $77,805,630
• 2030-31: $83,569,010
• 2031-32: $89,332,390
• 2032-33: $95,095,770
• Total: five years, $417,845,050

Whew, boy!

Let that sink in for a moment…

Yeah, that’s what a max contract will look like in just four years. Mind-blowing, right?

Will the Knicks want to give Brunson a five-year maximum contract when he’s on the other side of 30 years old? Historically, small guards haven’t aged that well in the NBA, but that’s been changing over the years. Maybe Brunson will hold up just fine and will cash in. But even if it’s not the full max, it’s safe to say that Brunson will get paid, and paid handsomely when he hits 10 Years of Service in 2028.

But here’s the thing (there’s always a thing!):

Brunson could have gotten this exact same deal by signing only a four-year deal in free agency next summer. Nothing says he would have had to sign a full five-year deal. He could have signed for four years, with a player option on the last year, and gotten back on the market in 2028.

Why couldn’t the Knicks and Brunson sign one of those Super Max Extensions?

The Designated Veteran Extension, or so-called Super Max Extension, is only available to players who were drafted by their current team or acquired while still on their Rookie Scale deal. Because Brunson changed teams as a free agent, he is not eligible for a Super Max Extension.

This is bad for all other NBA players, right? Owners will want everyone to take discounts?

Eh…maybe, but probably not. This situation is fairly unique. Most players aren’t going to look at this situation and see themselves in the same place as Brunson. Most front offices and owners will understand that, and will get that their teams are not in the same place either.As far as those screaming from the rooftops that “The players lost in this new CBA! The owners won!”, that’s not really an accurate assessment at all. At the end of the day, the players still get their 51% of Basketball Related Income (BRI). So, even if some contracts come in a little lower, the players are all still getting their fair share of the money. And, let’s not forget that a bunch of players have also signed maximum extensions worth hundreds upon hundreds of millions this summer.

Also, without boring everyone to tears, the BRI calculation was updated to include even more revenue streams. And the players have additional investment outlets available to them under the new CBA, as well.

Simply put: Half of a watermelon is better than a whole grape. NBA BRI is now one giant watermelon. NBA players and NBA teams are making more money than ever, even if those distribution channels may be evolving.

Summary

Jalen Brunson should be lauded for leaving a lot of money on the table. No, it wasn’t really $113 million. Nor was it even really $51 million. But $37 million is still a lot of money.

Brunson is clearly the toast of the town in New York. He’s arguably as big of a sports star as the city has. In a lot of ways, he’s everything Knicks fans want in a star: he’s tough, he plays with heart, he’s an underdog due to his size, and, mostly importantly, he loves New York and playing for the Knicks.

Brunson also clearly values playing with guys he enjoys being around. We’ve all made the jokes about the Villanova Knicks, but there is truth there. You can’t put a price on what it’s worth to play with your friends, even if that price is apparently something like $37 million.

Lastly, the Knicks win here. Not by an overwhelming margin, but things are starting to get really tight on their cap sheet. As we’ve seen in several situations this summer, including New York’s own, any extra wiggle room can make a major difference.

In the end, things got overblown as to how much Brunson really gave up, and how he’ll recoup it eventually. Instead, let’s just focus on the perfect marriage of player, team, time and place that resulted in Brunson making a sacrifice and the Knicks getting a great deal. That’s more than enough without turning this into a fairytale about a conquering hero sacrificing it all to save the kingdom.

A running list of notable 2024 NBA Free Agents agreements and signings throughout the free agency period, ordered by agreement date.

Franz Wagner – Orlando Magic

Status:

Agreed on July 5, 2024 – Designated rookie extension

Terms:

5 year, $224.23 million (AAV: $44.8 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2025-26: $38,661,750

2026-27: $41,754,690

2027-28: $44,847,630

2028-29: $47,940,570

2029-30: $51,033,510

Deal contains Designated Rookie language for 30% of the 2025-26 cap

Taurean Prince – Milwaukee Bucks

Status:

Agreed on July 3, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

1 year, $2.99 million (AAV: $2.99 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $2,988,550

Thoughts:

The Bucks only have minimum contracts to offer, but this looks like a steal for Milwuakee. They needed to add some form of frontcourt depth, as it was a bunch of unproven and/or undersized options behind Giannis Antetokounmpo, Brook Lopez and Bobby Portis. Taurean Prince will give the Bucks a combo forward who can score and hold his own defensively. As the Bucks have an older roster, they’ll likely be looking to spot players rest days when they can. Prince gives Doc Rivers a veteran he can count on when others are out.

PJ Dozier – Minnesota Timberwolves

Status:

Agreed on July 3, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

1 year, $2.6 million (AAV: $2.6 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $2,613,120

Thoughts:

The Timberwolves are looking to fill out their bench with minimum signings. Front office leader Tim Connelly has a comfort level with P.J. Dozier, as he’s signed him to a few different contracts over the years. Dozier had a solid year playing in Serbia last season. He should give the Wolves another perimeter player for their bench.

Alec Burks – Miami Heat

Status:

Agreed on July 3, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

1 year, $3.3 million (AAV: $3.3 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $3,303,771

Thoughts:

Burks will add some nice backcourt depth for the Heat on a veteran minimum deal. He showed in the playoffs that he’s still got some scoring punch left. Miami’s bench is in transition at the moment. Burks should work with Josh Richardson, who picked up his option, to give Erik Spoelstra another ballhandler off the bench.

Thomas Bryant – Miami Heat

Status:

Agreed on July 3, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

1 year, $2.8 million (AAV: $2.8 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $2,800,834

Thoughts:

Bryant never really made much of an impact for Miami last season. Mostly, he’ll be good competition for rookie Kel’el Ware for frontcourt minutes behind Bam Adebayo. That’s fine for a veteran minimum salary.

Joe Ingles – Minnesota Timberwolves

Status:

Agreed on July 3, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

1 year, $3.3 million (AAV: $3.3 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $3,303,771

Thoughts:

Joe Ingles really helped a young Orlando Magic grow up last season. He was also pretty solid on-court too. Ingles is a good passer and a really nice connective player. He’ll take on the role Kyle Anderson had for the Timberwolves last season, but with far better shooting.

Damion Lee – Phoenix Suns

Status:

Agreed on July 3, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

1 year, $2.8 million (AAV: $2.8 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $2,800,834

Thoughts:

The hope was that Damion Lee would give the Suns a sniper off the bench last season. A knee injury cost him all of last year. So, the Suns and Lee are running it back for another try for the minimum, or possibly slightly more with his Non-Bird rights.

LeBron James – Los Angeles Lakers

Status:

Agreed on July 3, 2024 – Maximum free agent

Terms:

2 year, $103.97 million (AAV: $51.99 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $49,987,718

2025-26: $53,986,735

Thoughts:

The only real question for LeBron James was if he would take his max?Or was he going to give the Lakers a discount to make other moves. After a handful of James’ reported preferred targets went elsewhere, he went for the max. There’s still a possibility James takes a little less to help the Lakers out, but it won’t be a meaningful amount. Now, we get to see how a Lakers team, one that has made very few changes to their roster to date (veterans Spencer Dinwiddie and Taurean Prince out, rookies Dalton Knecht and Bronny James in), can upgrade with limited resources to do so.

Kyle Anderson – Golden State Warriors

Status:

Agreed on July 2, 2024 – Free agent via Sign-and-Trade with Minnesota

Terms:

3 year, $27 million (AAV: $9 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $8,571,429

2025-26: $9,000,000

2026-27: $9,428,571

Thoughts:

Golden State is continuing to rebuild their roster as a non-tax team for the first time in years. After adding De’Anthony Melton for backcourt depth, the Warriors are adding Kyle Anderson to the frontcourt. He’s an ideal for the Warriors, because he can do a little of everything. Anderson’s pass-and-move style of play is a great fit for Golden State’s movement-based offense. For barely more than the Room Exception, this is a really good addition for the retooling Warriors.

Jonathan Isaac – Orlando Magic

Status:

Agreed on July 2, 2024 – Renegotiation-and-extend

Terms:

5 year, $84 million (AAV: $16.8 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: TBD

2025-26: TBD

2026-27: TBD

2027-28: TBD

2028-29: TBD

Thoughts:

Orlando made good use of their remaining cap space to get Jonathan Isaac signed long-term. The Magic will up Isaac’s salary for this coming season. In return, Isaac will take less per season on the four new years he’s adding to his contract. A renegotiation-and-extension deal is the only form of extreme front-loaded contract in the NBA. It’s smart cap management to use the space while you have it, to keep things in line later, when the rest of the roster will start getting more expensive.

Xavier Tillman – Boston Celtics

Status:

Agreed on July 2, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

2 year, $4.78 million (AAV: $2.4 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $2,237,692

2025-26: $2,546,675

Thoughts:

Boston is now running it back with their entire big man rotation from last season. Xavier Tillman Sr. joins Luke Kornet and Neemias Queta as staying with the champs. Tillman will be relied upon heavily this upcoming season. Kristaps Porzingis is out until sometime around the holidays, and Boston will aggressively manage Al Horford this season. Getting Tillman back on the minimum is big for the Celtics. Now, if he can keep refining that three-point shot…

Monte Morris – Phoenix Suns

Status:

Agreed on July 2, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

1 year, $2.8 million (AAV: $2.8 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $2,800,834

Thoughts:

Phoenix had to get a real point guard on the roster. Monte Morris more than fills that need. He won’t start when everyone is healthy, but given that Devin Booker and Bradley Beal are a good bet to miss some time, Morris will probably start some games. On the other nights, the veteran ballhandler will play a big role off the bench.

Mo Wagner – Orlando Magic

Status:

Agreed on July 2, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

2 year, $22 million (AAV: $22 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $10,576,923

2025-26: $11,423,077

Thoughts:

Orlando is running it back in the frontcourt. This deal probably looks similar to Wagner’s last one, where the second year will be a team option or carry some non-guaranteed money. The main thing is that Orlando’s best backup big man is still in the fold. With the Magic reportedly listening to offers for Wendell Carter Jr., it was really important to bring back Wagner, along with Goga Bitadze.

James Wiseman – Indiana Pacers

Status:

Agreed on July 2, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

2 year

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: TBD

2025-26: TBD

Thoughts:

Perfect flyer for the Pacers. Wiseman will be asked to rebound, run the floor and finish around the rim. Occasionally, Indiana might want him to hit a pick-and-pop jumper. The Pacers did a great job getting Jalen Smith’s career on track. With Myles Turner and Isaiah Jackson in place, Wiseman can work on his game without having to play big minutes. This is a great spot for him to figure things out. There’s a lot of talent there and he’s young. Never bet against the late-blooming big man.

Donovan Mitchell – Cleveland Cavaliers

Status:

Agreed on July 2, 2024 – Maximum veteran extension

Terms:

3 year, $150.3 million (AAV: $50.1 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2025-26: $46,394,100

2026-27: $50,105,628

2027-28: $53,817,156 (Player Option)

Thoughts:

Cleveland and Donovan Mitchell get some clarity for at least a few seasons. Because he was traded after his rookie scale deal ended, Mitchell wasn’t able to sign a supermax extension with the Cavs. This is a nice middle ground. Cleveland keeps him around for a while longer, and Mitchell has the opportunity to get back on the free agent market when he’ll be eligible for the 10 Years of Service, 35% of the cap max. That’s a win-win compromise for both Mitchell and the Cavaliers.

Mo Bamba – LA Clippers

Status:

Agreed on July 1, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

1 year, $2.6 million (AAV: $2.6 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $2,613,120

Thoughts:

This is fine. One year for the minimum isn’t going to hurt anyone. The Clippers frontcourt rotation seems to be very much in flux behind Ivica Zubac. Bamba is a different look from Mason Plumlee, as he can step out and shoot it, but he hasn’t been as productive with his minutes as Plumlee. But for the minimum, it’s a worthy flyer, even if LA will probably continue to work on their center depth.

Kris Dunn – LA Clippers

Status:

Agreed on July 1, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

TBD

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: TBD

Thoughts:

We’re still waiting on the terms for Kris Dunn’s deal with the Clippers, and also the path for him to get to LA. It’s been reported that this may be a sign-and-trade. Strictly keeping it on the court, this is a terrific addition for LA. Dunn can back up James Harden at point guard, plus play alongside Harden in lineups too. With Russell Westbrook reportedly headed out, the Clippers did well to replace him with Dunn.

Gary Harris – Orlando Magic

Status:

Agreed on July 1, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

2 year, $14 million (AAV $7 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $6,730,769

2025-26: $7,269,231

Thoughts:

Really good value for the Magic here. Gary Harris was a starter for Orlando for most of last season, and he was the team’s most consistent shooter. He’ll likely back up Kentavious Caldwell-Pope now, but this gives the Magic four good guards with Harris, Caldwell-Pope, Jalen Suggs and Cole Anthony. And Orlando has Anthony Black in the development pipeline as well. Don’t be surprised if the second season of this deal involves some form of team control, such as a team option or non-guaranteed season.

Goga Bitadze – Orlando Magic

Status:

Agreed on July 1, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

3 year, $25 million (AAV $8.3 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $7,716,049

2025-26: $8,333,333

2026-27: $8,950,617

Thoughts:

Orlando did well to keep Goga Bitadze in the fold. He was excellent as a spot starter when Wendell Carter Jr. had to miss time. This coming season, Bitadze may be in for a bigger role as a regular backup. Getting him for roughly the Room Exception is a win for both Bitadze and the Magic.

Jayson Tatum – Boston Celtics

Status:

Agreed on July 1, 2024 – Designated Veteran extension

Terms:

5 year, $314 million (AAV $62.8 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2025-26: $54,126,450

2026-27: $58,456,566

2027-28: $62,786,682

2028-29: $67,116,798

2029-30: $71,446,914 (Player Option)

Thoughts:

As expected, Jayson Tatum got the full supermax extension from the Celtics. No surprises here. Tatum earned this deal by becoming one of the best players in the NBA.

Klay Thompson – Dallas Mavericks

Status:

Agreed on July 1, 2024 – Free agent via Sign-and-Trade with Golden State

Terms:

3 year, $50 million (AAV $16.7 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $15,873,016

2025-26: $16,666,667

2026-27: $17,460,317

Thoughts:

(Note: When we get the full sign-and-trade details, we’ll do a full trade recap for this deal.)

It’s hard to believe Klay Thompson is leaving the Warriors. But landing with the Mavericks is a really solid outcome. Thompson will likely replace Derrick Jones Jr. in the starting lineup. Thompson isn’t the defender he once was, but he’s still a really good shooter. Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving coming off screens will love having Thompson spacing the floor for them. As long as folks have tempered expectations that this isn’t All-Star-level Klay Thompson, but instead wily veteran shooter Klay Thompson, this addition will be a hit.

De’Anthony Melton – Golden State Warriors

Status:

Agreed on July 1, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

1 year, $12.8 million (AAV $12.8 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $12,822,000

Thoughts:

If De’Anthony Melton didn’t have concerns about his back, he gets a far larger deal than this. As it is, this is a good get for the Warriors. Golden State needed another ballhandler behind Stephen Curry. If healthy, Melton will give Golden State solid depth at both guard spots. Also, non-Bird rights should be enough to re-sign Melton with after this season.

Aaron Holiday – Houston Rockets

Status:

Agreed on July 1, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

2 year, $9.56 million (AAV $4.78 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $4,668,000

2025-26: $4,901,400

Thoughts:

This is a small, but solid value for Aaron Holiday and the Rockets. Holiday gave Houston good minutes at times last season, as Amen Thompson got healthy and adjusted to the NBA game. The second season of this deal is reportedly a team option, which gives the Rockets an easy out if they are going the cap space route next summer.

Delon Wright – Milwaukee Bucks

Status:

Agreed on July 1, 2024 – Veteran extension

Terms:

1 year, $3.0 million (AAV $3.0 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $3,003,427

Thoughts:

The Bucks had a backup point guard problem for lots of last season. That’s not good, considering Damian Lillard is older and tends to miss games now. Wright gives Milwaukee a solid backup. He’s also got starting experience, if necessary. Good add for the minimum for Milwaukee.

Derrick White – Boston Celtics

Status:

Agreed on July 1, 2024 – Veteran extension

Terms:

4 year, $125.9 million (AAV $31.5 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $28,100,001

2025-26: $30,348,001

2026-27: $32,596,001

2027:28: $34,844,001

Thoughts:

Monster win for the Boston Celtics. Derrick White could have probably gotten $35-$40 million on the open market. Instead, he’s back in Boston for at least the next three years, as the fourth year is a player option. White said he loves it in Boston and didn’t want to leave the Celtics. Some things, like comfort and winning, are more important than getting every last penny in a deal.

Luke Garza – Minnesota Timberwolves

Status:

Agreed on July 1, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

2 year, $4.5 million (AAV $2.26 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $2,162,606

2025-26: $2,349,578

Thoughts:

Garza is well-liked because he stays ready and is a hard worker. For the minimum, you can’t ask for much more. That’s why he’s headed back to Minnesota. Expect this deal to ultimately include some non-guaranteed money.

Drew Eubanks – Utah Jazz

Status:

Agreed on July 1, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

2 year, $10 million (AAV $5 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $4,878,049

2025-26: $5,121,951

Thoughts:

This is a version of the Jalen Smith deal, where it works if the Jazz are making a playoff push or if they are rebuilding. If it’s the former, Eubanks is nice depth for not much over the minimum. If it’s the latter, Eubanks can play and is a nice trade chip down the line. Also: Walker Kessler has been in a lot of trade rumors. This gives the Jazz cover if they move on from the young center.

Tobias Harris – Detroit Pistons

Status:

Agreed on July 1, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

2 year, $52 million (AAV $26 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $25,365,854

2025-26: $26,634,146

Thoughts:

This one looks a little strange. But when you step back and realize the Pistons have to spend money on someone, it makes more sense. Is Harris going to make Detroit a contender? Nope. Will he help them be a more functional, competitive basketball team? Yes. That’s what this is about. This deal would look a lot better if the second season was a team option, but if it’s at least a partial or non-guaranteed year, that will suffice. But, as it is, this is fine. Neither good, nor bad. Just sort of meh.

Isaiah Hartenstein – Oklahoma City Thunder

Status:

Agreed on July 1, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

3 year, $87 million (AAV $29 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $30,526,316

2025-26: $29,000,000

2026-27: $27,473,684

Thoughts:

The Thunder are doing work. This is a big contract, but an important signing for Oklahoma City. They needed to add some additional size and to get more versatile in the frontcourt. Now, the Thunder have the option to go big against teams like Denver and Minnesota. Isaiah Hartenstein has experience starting or coming off the bench. He’s also going to immediately improve the defense and rebounding. Is this an overpay? Perhaps a bit, but the Oklahoma City cap sheet can afford it for a couple more years.

Jalen Smith – Chicago Bulls

Status:

Agreed on July 1, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

3 year, $27 million (AAV $9 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $8,571,429

2025-26: $9,000,000

2026-27: $9,428,571

Thoughts:

Outstanding value signing for the Bulls. Smith is only 24 years old, so he fits if Chicago flips towards a rebuild, or if they chase a postseason spot. He was probably a bit above his head with his shooting last year, but not so much so that it was a fluke. For $9 million AAV, this one of the best values of 2024 free agency so far.

Isaiah Joe – Oklahoma City Thunder

Status:

Agreed on July 1, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

4 year, $48 million (AAV $12 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $10,714,286

2025-26: $11,571,429

2026-27: $12,428,571

2027-28: $13,285,714

Thoughts:

I could just repeat the Aaron Wiggins analysis here, but won’t. The Thunder plucked Joe off the free agent market when he was waived by the Philadelphia 76ers. The promise Joe flashed with Philadelphia fleshed out in Oklahoma City. He’s an elite shooter. For less than the Non-Taxpayer MLE on an annual basis, the Thunder keep him around. Another step in building a sustainable small-market winner.

Aaron Wiggins – Oklahoma City Thunder

Status:

Agreed on July 1, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

5 year, $47 million (AAV $9.4 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $8,103,448

2025-26: $8,751,724

2026-27: $9,400,000

2027-28: $10,048,276

2028-29: $10,696,552

Thoughts:

Aaron Wiggins is a player development success story for the Thunder. And, as they have so many times before, they reap the reward of that success by signing a good player to a team-friendly contract. Wiggins is a terrific depth player on the wing, and he’ll be playing for what is essentially the Room Exception. That’s how you build a sustainable winner in a small market.

Tyrese Maxey – Philadelphia 76ers

Status:

Agreed on July 1, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

5 year, $203.58 million (AAV $40.8 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $35,147,000

2025-26: $37,958,760

2026-27: $40,770,520

2027-28: $43,582,280

2028-29: $46,394,040

Thoughts:

As expected, after a year of waiting, Tyrese Maxey got his max deal. There was some thought that to thank Maxey for delaying signing so that they could use cap space, that Philadelphia might have given him a player option. That didn’t happen (and wouldn’t have in a regular extension either), so that’s a win for the Sixers. Philadelphia now has their star trio locked up long-term.

Paul George – Philadelphia 76ers

Status:

Agreed on July 1, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

4 year, $212 million (AAV $52.9 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $49,205,800

2025-26: $51,666,090

2026-27: $54,126,380

2027-28: $56,586,670 (Player Option)

Thoughts:

The major free agent domino has fallen. The Sixers got their guy. After lining up for over a year to add a third star around Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, Daryl Morey pulled it off. When healthy, George is a perfect fit with Embiid and Maxey. He’s a big wing to slide right in between the center and the ballhandler. George is very good playing off-ball, which he’ll have to do quite a bit to give Embiid and Maxey reps. The lone question is George’s track record of missing games and his age. Given those same questions exist for Embiid, there’s a chance this could go sideways a bit. However, the upside and fit are too good to pass up, simply because of health concerns. This is a tremendous addition for the 76ers, who vault themselves back into title contention in the Eastern Conference.

Kelly Oubre Jr. –Philadelphia 76ers

Status:

Agreed on July 1, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

2 year, $16.3 million (AAV $8.2 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $7,983,000

2025-26: $8,382,150  (Player Option)

Thoughts:

Kelly Oubre Jr. was the best ROI last summer, after the Sixers had him for the veteran minimum. Oubre cashed in on that productive season. This deal will most likely come out of the Room Exception, as Philadelphia continues to sequence their transactions. Even with the step-up in salary, this is still a great value for the 76ers. Oubre will give them scoring punch, as well as depth for when Paul George misses games.

Derrick Jones Jr. – LA Clippers

Status:

Agreed on July 1, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

3 year, $30 million (AAV $10 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $9,523,810

2025-26: $10,000,000

2026-27: $10,476,190

Thoughts:

The Clippers started re-shaping their roster a bit after they gave up on re-signing Paul George. Jones is a nice start. LA can’t replace George outright, so they have to replace him in the aggregate. Some will come from Terance Mann. Some from Amir Coffey. Now, some will come from Jones. This is a good pivot for a team that is in a bit of transition.

Naji Marshall – Dallas Mavericks

Status:

Agreed on June 30, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

3 year, $27 million (AAV $9 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $8,571,429

2025-26: $9,000,000

2026-27: $9,428,571

Thoughts:

Naji Marshall is a great story. He fought his way onto the Pelicans roster and then just kept improving. He’s a 3&D wing with some size, so that’s a great fit for the Mavericks. The only question: Was Marshall’s shooting last year real? If so, this is a homerun signing. If he dips a bit, it’s still a good signing, but more like an RBI double.

Mason Plumlee – Phoenix Suns

Status:

Agreed on June 30, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

1 year, $3.3 million (AAV $3.3 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $3,303,771

Thoughts:

Mason Plumlee has dropped off some from his most productive years, but he’s still a solid backup. The Suns can’t offer free agents anything more than the minimum. That means those minimum lottery tickets have to hit. This one feels like it should. Plumlee will return at least minimum value for Phoenix behind Jusuf Nurkic.

Jonas Valanciunas – Washington Wizards

Status:

Agreed on June 30, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

3 year, $30 million (AAV $10 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $9,523,810

2025-26: $10,000,000

2026-27: $10,476,190

Thoughts:

This one came a little out of leftfield, but it makes sense when you step back a little. Jonas Valanciunas will provide some protection and cover for Alex Sarr, as he figures out the NBA game. In addition, Valanciunas will be very tradable on this deal down the line. Even if it seems odd for a rebuilding team to go with a veteran center, this is a pretty good value all around.

Chris Paul – San Antonio Spurs

Status:

Agreed on June 30, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

1 year, $11+ million (AAV $11 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $11,000,000

Thoughts:

The Spurs have been looking for a veteran point guard and they got the most veteran one they could in Chris Paul. Paul will mentor San Antonio’s young guards, while also making the game easier for Victor Wembanyam. Also, who isn’t going to enjoy Paul playing for Gregg Popovich after all these years of going head-to-head.

Eric Gordon – Philadelphia 76ers

Status:

Agreed on June 30, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

1 year, $3.3 million (AAV $3.3 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $3,303,771

Thoughts:

If Philadelphia is signing a star to a max deal (Paul George perhaps?), they’ll need to fill out some depth on the cheap. Gordon will likely outplay this deal by a decent margin. He’s still an elite shooter and good off-the-dribble scorer. This is a terrific add for the Sixers.

Kentavious Caldwell-Pope – Orlando Magic

Status:

Agreed on June 30, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

3 years, $66 million (AAV $22 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $20,952,381

2025-26: $22,000,000

2026-27: $23,047,619

Thoughts:

This is a great pickup for the Magic. They’ll have an elite defensive backcourt with Caldwell-Pope joining Jalen Suggs. Caldwell-Pope will also help with spacing, as well. And Orlando still has around $30 million in cap space to spend. The Magic aren’t done yet.

Andre Drummond – Philadelphia 76ers

Status:

Agreed on June 30, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

2 years, $10+ million (AAV $5 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $4,878,049

2025-26: $5,121,951

Thoughts:

The 76ers had to use part of their cap flexibility this summer to add a reliable backup for Joel Embiid. It’s a luxury when Embiid is healthy, but a must when he’s not. The team has familiarity with Andre Drummond and he’s become an extremely productive backup. This is a homerun signing for not much over a minimum contract per year.

Luke Kornet – Boston Celtics

Status:

Agreed on June 30, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

1 years, $2.8 million (AAV $2.8 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $2,800,834

Thoughts:

Luke Kornet was the guy Joe Mazzulla called upon most often when one of Kristaps Porzingis or Al Horford was out. Kornet almost always delivered with solid minutes. Given Porzingis will miss the start of next season, and the team will actively manage Horford’s minutes, Kornet will play a big role. The Celtics comfort level with him makes this a worthwhile re-signing.

Kevin Love – Miami Heat

Status:

Agreed on June 30, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

2 years, $8+ million (AAV $4 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $3,846,154

2025-26: $4,153,846

Thoughts:

The Heat were always going to bring back Kevin Love. That this deal appears to be fully guaranteed with no options is a bit surprising. It’s not big enough that it will really matter, but Love getting two fully guaranteed years at his age wasn’t expected. But it’s fine for a guy who can give Miami solid regular season minutes.

James Harden – LA Clippers

Status:

Agreed on June 30, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

2 years, $70 million (AAV $35 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $33,653,846

2025-26: $36,346,154

Thoughts:

James Harden isn’t an MVP-level player anymore. He may not even be an All-Star again. But Harden is still good. The Clippers invested a decent amount into acquiring him. This deal is fine, especially given that the second year is reportedly an option for Harden, who is probably going year-to-year at this point.

Max Christie – Los Angeles Lakers

Status:

Agreed on June 30, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

4 years, $32 million (AAV $15 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $7,142,857

2025-26: $7,714,286

2026-27: $8,285,714

2027-28: $8,857,143

Thoughts:

Max Christie needs a consistent role to earn this contract. The good news? He may have one next year. Christie is a good athlete, solid defender and an improving shooter. If he gets regular minutes, Christie will deliver very good value on this contract.

Obi Toppin – Indiana Pacers

Status:

Agreed on June 30, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

4 years, $60 million (AAV $15 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $13,392,857

2025-26: $14,464,286

2026-27: $15,535,714

2027-28: $16,607,143

Thoughts:

This is a good deal for both Toppin and the Pacers. It’s essentially the MLE, and Toppin will outproduce the MLE amount, even when he plays primarily as a backup to Pascal Siakam. Something to keep an eye on: Indiana has a lot of money invested in Siakam and Toppin. Could that make Jarace Walker gettable via trade?

Alex Len – Sacramento Kings

Status:

Agreed on June 30, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

1 years, $3.31  million (AAV $3.31 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $3,313,453

Thoughts:

Each of the last three years, Len has started out of the Kings rotation, but finished the year as Domantas Sabonis’ primary backup. There is a comfort level there and Sacramento trusts him to stay ready when his number is called. For the veteran minimum, you can’t ask for much more.

Patrick Williams – Chicago Bulls

Status:

Agreed on June 29, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

5 years, $90 million (AAV $18 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $15,517,241

2025-26: $16,758,621

2026-27: $18,000,000

2027-28: $19,241,379

2028-29: $20,482,759

Thoughts:

Williams has struggled to stay healthy in his career. When he has, he’s shown what we’ll call 3&D-plus ability. He can do a little bit off the dribble and he’s solid filling the lane on a fastbreak. Mostly, this deal is going to look a lot like the Non-Taxpayer MLE when it finishes. For a young guy who can defend and shoot, this is a pretty solid value for the Bulls, and it’s good guaranteed money for Williams.

Bol Bol – Phoenix Suns

Status:

Agreed on June 29, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

1 years, $2.9 million (AAV $2.9 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $2,919,013

Thoughts:

Phoenix gave Bol a slight bump over the minimum salary to stick around. This is an approach the Suns have used in the past, as a way to add a bit more tradable salary. Bol remains an enigma. He looks like a rotation big one game and like a raw project the next. For Phoenix, who just needs depth anyway they can get it, this is a fine deal.

DeAndre Jordan – Denver Nuggets

Status:

Agreed on June 29, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

1 years, $3.3 million (AAV $3.3 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $3,313,453

Thoughts:

Jordan gets a minimum deal to return as the third or fourth big for the Nuggets. Denver wasn’t likely to give this roster spot to a project, given they are a title contender. So, this is fine. The Nuggets can always move Jordan if they need to create a roster spot later.

Richaun Holmes – Washington Wizards

Status:

Agreed on June 29, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

2 years, $25.9 million (AAV $11.6 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $12,634,146

2025-26: $13,265,854 ($250,000 guaranteed)

Thoughts:

This is a weird one. Holmes hasn’t shown this kind of value in recent years. He’s struggled to get consistent minutes and hasn’t done much when he has. Washington does need to fill center minutes, though. Also, and this may be the real purpose of this contract, the Wizards gave Holmes a deal that is extremely tradable. Don’t be surprised if that happens sooner, rather later.

Royce O’Neale – Phoenix Suns

Status:

Agreed on June 29, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

4 years, $44 million (AAV $11 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $9,821,429

2025-26: $10,607,143

2026-27: $11,392,857

2027-28: $12,178,571

Thoughts:

This is a fair value deal for O’Neale. As a second-apron team, the Suns can’t let talent walk out the door, because they have no way to replace them. O’Neale is a good 3&D wing/forward for Phoenix. Just as importantly: the Suns now have a bit of salary to trade in-season, should the need arise.

Immanuel Quickley – Toronto Raptors

Status:

Agreed on June 28, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

5 years, $175 million (AAV $35 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $30,172,414

2025-26: $32,586,207

2026-27: $35,000,000

2027-28: $37,413,793

2028-29: 39,827,586

Thoughts:

Quickley checking in at $35 million AAV is exceedingly fair. There seems to be this stigma with some that he’s still a backup-level point guard. He’s not. Quickley is a good starter. He showed that in his half-season in Toronto. This is a good deal for the Raptors and they now have Quickley and Scottie Barnes both locked in as their long-term building blocks.

Nicolas Claxton – Brooklyn Nets

Status:

Agreed on June 26, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

4 years, $100  million (AAV $25 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $22,321,429

2025-26: $24,107,143

2026-27: $25,892,857

2027-28: $27,678,571

Thoughts:

Some seem to think $25 million AAV is too much for Claxton. That’s probably not the case. He’s a top-tier defensive center. He can switch and hold his own, and he’s a terrific rim protector. Claxton is a limited offensive player, but he’s been improving as a screener and passer. At no point will this contract turn sour or become untradeable for Brooklyn.

OG Anunoby – New York Knicks

Status:

Agreed on June 26, 2024 – Free agent

Terms:

5 years, $212.5  million (AAV $42.5 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $36,637,931

2025-26: $39,568,966

2026-27: $42,500,000

2027-28: $45,431,034

2028-29: $48,362,069

Thoughts: 

The Knicks are all-in on this group. They said they were confident in keeping Anunoby after surrendering a lot of talent to get him ahead of last season’s trade deadline. They certainly had to pay up to do so, but it’s worth it. Anunoby will pair with the newly-acquired Mikal Bridges to give the Knicks a dynamite defensive wing duo.

Bam Adebayo – Miami Heat

Status:

Agreed on June 26, 2024 – Maximum veteran extension

Terms:

3 years, $165.83  million (AAV $55.3 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2026-27: $51,183,000

2027-28: $55,277,640

2028-29: $59,372,280

Thoughts: 

Adebayo could have gotten more money from the Heat. A lot more money, actually. If Adebayo had waited a year, he could have added four years and a total of $229.3 million. If Adebayo had made All-NBA or won Defensive Player of the Year (neither are a stretch for him) in either 2024-25 or 2025-26, he could have signed a five-year supermax extension for $346.3 million. This deal is a massive win for the Heat. Adebayo will get back on the market in his early-30s, so he’ll get a fourth contract too. That’s nice, but still a bit strange that he passed up on a realistic chance at becoming supermax eligible in either of the next two seasons.

Scottie Barnes – Toronto Raptors

Status:

Agreed on June 24, 2024 – Rookie Scale extension

Terms:

5 years, $224.90  million (AAV $44.98 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2025-26: $38,775,000

2026-27: $41,877,000

2027-28: $44,979,000

2028-29: $48,081,000

2029-30: $51,183,000

Deal contains Designated Rookie language for 30% of the 2025-26 cap

Thoughts: 

Barnes got exactly what we predicted. He’s the face of the franchise for the Raptors now. This contract and commitment reflects that.

Malik Monk – Sacramento Kings

Status:

Agreed on June 20, 2024 – Free Agent

Terms:

4 years, $77.9 million (AAV $19.5 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $17,405,203

2025-26: $18,797,619

2026-27: $20,190,035

2027-28: $21,582,451 (Player Option)

Thoughts: 

This is a steal for the Kings. Monk could have gotten a deal between $20 and $25 million AAV in free agency. But you can’t put a price on comfort and happiness, which Monk has found in Sacramento.

Pascal Siakam – Indiana Pacers

Status: 

Agreed on June 19, 2024 – Free Agent

Terms: 

4 years, $189.5 million (AAV $47.4 million)

Estimated Salaries: 

2024-25: $42,300,000

2025-26: $45,684,000

2026-27: $49,068,000

2027-28: $52,452,000

Thoughts: 

Siakam was always destined to re-sign with the Pacers. They gave up too much to get him to let him leave after a half-season run. Indiana did well to keep this to a four-year max deal instead of the full five years they could have offered. This contract should take Siakam through the rest of his prime.

Sasha Vezenkov is somewhat of an afterthought in terms of the NBA. He signed with the Sacramento Kings to some fanfare during the 2023 offseason. After an injury-plagued and non-descript rookie season, Vezenkov was traded to the Toronto Raptors. This trade was mostly designed to clear Sacramento some flexibility under the tax aprons for future moves.

Seems like a pretty standard NBA move, right?

Not so fast, my friend!

This situation is far murkier and more complex than a simple salary-shedding trade in the NBA between a playoff contender and a rebuilding team. Most of it revolves around Vezenkov and his own desires being in conflict with the contract he signed with Sacramento a year ago.

A bit of background first, to better understand the complete situation.

Vezenkov was a two-time early entrant into the NBA Draft in both 2015 and 2016. The 6-foot-8 forward withdrew both times. In 2017, when Vezenkov was auto-eligible, he was drafted by the Brooklyn Nets with the 27th pick in the second round (57th overall).

In 2021, Vezenkov’s draft rights were traded by the Nets to the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Cavaliers then traded Vezenkov’s draft rights to the Sacramento Kings in 2022.

During this time, Vezenkov established himself as one of the best players in Europe. The dual-national of Bulgaria and Cyprus played for Barcelona in 2017-18, before moving to Olympiacos in Greece in 2018-19. Vezenkov blossomed while playing for Olympiacos.

While back in Greece, where he had previously won Greek League MVP in 2015 with Aris, Vezenkov won back-to-back MVPs for Olympiacos in 2022 and 2023. He was also named EuroLeague MVP in 2023, after leading Olympiacos to the top of the EuroLeague table and runners-up in the EuroLeague playoffs.

Following that season, Vezenkov decided to head to the NBA. He signed a three-year deal with the Kings worth $19.9 million. His per-year salaries on that deal are:

• 2023-24: $6,341,464 (season completed)
• 2024-25: $6,658,536 (current season)
• 2025-26: $6,975,609 (team option)
• Total: three years, $19,975,609

Vezenkov’s rookie season with Sacramento wasn’t what either side hoped for. Just when it seemed like the scoring forward was finding his rhythm in the NBA, Vezenkov suffered a sprained right ankle. He returned two weeks later and re-injured the same ankle. Vezenkov then returned to play out the final few weeks of the season for the Kings.

Following the season, rumors came up that Vezenkov was disenchanted with his role with the Kings and with the NBA overall. Reports were that he would seek a return to Europe, with a return to Olympiacos high on his list. Several reports went as far as to suggest that Vezenkov had already told the Kings that he wouldn’t be returning to Sacramento for next season.

That’s all well and good, minus the fact that Vezenkov is under contract for the 2024-25 season for a guaranteed $6.6 million. In order for him to leave the Kings, he’d need a buyout or trade from Sacramento. A trade from Sacramento is what he got. The Kings traded Vezenkov and Davion Mitchell to the Raptors for Jalen McDaniels ahead of the 2024 NBA Draft.

Vezenkov’s desire to leave the NBA is now Toronto’s problem.

Immediately upon the trade being completed, Toronto media reported that the Raptors were looking forward to having Vezenkov on the roster. There were also reports that Toronto had no intentions of simply waiving Vezenkov.

Still, rumors of Vezenkov wanting to leave the NBA won’t go away. So much so, that reporting hit in the wee hours of July 5 in North America, that Vezenkov had already agreed to terms with Olympiacos on a long-term contract starting with the 2024-25 season.

Again: not so fast, my friend!

There isn’t a feasible way for Vezenkov to just leave Toronto to sign with Olympiacos. He’s not a free agent, nor do the Raptors currently seem inclined to make him one.

So, where does this situation stand? Let’s answer some of the most commonly asked questions.

Can Sasha Vezenkov just leave the Toronto Raptors? Why does he have to stay?

The simple answer is: No, he can’t just leave. Vezenkov is under contract with Toronto for $6.6 million for the 2024-25 season. He has to honor those terms.

Why does he have to honor that NBA contract? Olympiacos isn’t an NBA team.

In professional basketball, clubs who fall under the jurisdiction of FIBA have a thing called a “Letter of Clearance”. This letter is essentially what frees a player up to sign with a new team. The wording reads:

“By applying for this letter of clearance and affixing my signature below, I hereby attest that I have fulfilled all contractual obligations stipulated in any and all contracts between myself and any team, club or national federation. I have read and fully understand all material within this application and have answered all questions truthfully and honestly.”

The second part of the first sentence is the most important line. In order to receive this Letter of Clearance to sign with Olympiacos, Vezenkov will have to prove he has fulfilled his contract with the Toronto Raptors. Simply walking away doesn’t fulfill that obligation.

Fine…How does Vezenkov get that Letter of Clearance?

Since NBA teams cannot trade, nor sell, contracts to non-NBA teams, Vezenkov’s options are limited. He can ask Toronto to waive him. They won’t do that, as simply eating his $6.6 million contract doesn’t make sense.

The other option is that Vezenkov asks the Raptors to work with him on a buyout. That’s a more reasonable path. He could offer to give up as much as all $6.6 million to get free of his contract with Toronto.

Walking away from $6.6 million is an awful lot to give up. But, if Vezenkov is that unhappy in the NBA, he may wish to.

In technical terms, working a buyout still results in a waiver. There is a bit of a challenge with that process, as another NBA could claim Vezenkov off waivers. At that point, that team would assume his full remaining contract, and we’d be right back in this same place.

Simply put: In order to obtain a Letter of Clearance, Vezenkov will need to get waived and then clear waivers to become a full free agent again.

Wait…Why won’t the Raptors just waive Vezenkov?

Toronto gets nothing out of simply waiving Vezenkov. They’d have $6.6 million in dead money on their cap sheet in that case.

Beyond that, the Raptors may like Vezenkov as a player. They may see a better path towards playing time, and a better roster fit with them, than the one Vezenkov had with the Kings.

Finally, if nothing else, $6.6 million is a valuable piece of salary-matching in future trades for Toronto. They aren’t likely to want to just give that up without getting back a significant return of salary through a buyout.

What if Vezenkov just left and signed with Olympiacos? What would happen?

It wouldn’t play out like this. FIBA wouldn’t approve his contract, because he hasn’t received a Letter of Clearance. That would mean he could not play for Olympiacos in any sanctioned competitions.

As for him just leaving the Raptors, he could try that path. That would be a from of holdout. That would begin to trigger some of the same things we talked about potentially happening with the James Harden and Ben Simmons situations.

Essentially, to keep it simple, if Vezenkov held out long enough, the Raptors could effectively pause his contract and could keep him from becoming a free agent.

What happens after this season? Is Vezenkov a free agent in 2025?

Kind of…The Raptors, or any NBA team that holds Vezenkov’s current contract, have a team option for the 2025-26 season. If that option is picked up by the team, Vezenkov will be on the roster for $6.9 million for the 2025-26 season.

If the team declines their option for Vezenkov next summer, he would be a free agent. The Raptors, or any NBA team that holds his contract at the time, could make Vezenkov a restricted free agent. That gives them the right to match any NBA contract he signs. But Vezenkov would be free and clear to sign with a non-NBA club, as his contract will have been fulfilled.

So, what exactly are Sasha Vezenkov’s options here?

There are a few:

• Play out the 2024-25 season with the Toronto Raptors, or another team if traded again. Vezenkov could then become a free agent in 2025, if the Raptors, or any NBA team, declines their team option for him for the 2025-26 season. If that option is picked up, we could do this whole dance again next summer.
• Work a straight waiver with the Toronto Raptors, upon which Toronto would eat $6.6 million in dead money on their cap sheet. If Vezenkov clears waivers, he could then be a free agent. If he was claimed off waivers, his contract would move in full to the new NBA team.
• Work a buyout with the Toronto Raptors. In this scenario, Vezenkov would give back some or all of his $6.6 million contract for the 2024-25 season to become a free agent. He would still need to clear waivers upon a buyout, as listed above.

Sasha Vezenkov may yet return to Greece for Olympiacos for the 2024-25 season. That’s certainly possible. But that will require the Toronto Raptors assistance to happen. And that may require Vezenkov leaving a significant amount of money on the table in a buyout from Toronto.

This isn’t a simple situation with easy decisions, for Vezenkov or the Raptors. It’s going to require a good amount of patience, working together, and ultimately, it may result in Vezenkov having to delay a return to Europe for at least another season.

The NBA offseason is fully in swing now. We’ve seen nearly 50 new contracts agreed to for more than $2 billion in new salary. There have also been several trades made, both officially executed and agreed to.

However, there some situations that remain unresolved. Here are some of the big ones we have our eyes on!

Utah Jazz

The Jazz are involved in all kinds of discussions right now. Are they saving a bunch of cap space to renegotiate-and-extend Lauri Markkanen’s contract? Are they going the other way and trading Markkanen away for even more future draft capital? Are they going to use some of their projected $37.7 million in cap space to trade for an All-Star-level player?

There’s a lot of confusion around Utah right now, maybe because they haven’t picked a direction yet themselves. They’ve got the most cap space left in the league, and they’ve got some good veterans to trade. That’s a lot of flexibility. Danny Ainge has control of the market to some extent, which is just how he likes it.

DeMar DeRozan

DeMar DeRozan is easily the best free agent who is actually available, since LeBron James is returning to the Los Angeles Lakers. After operating for months like DeRozan would simply return to the Chicago Bulls, it’s clear now that isn’t happening. The Bulls are heading in a different direction (more on them next), and so is DeRozan.

The challenge is that the teams with cap space left aren’t great fits for DeRozan, and vice versa. There has been some reporting that DeRozan may sign a one-year deal, possibly for the $12.8 million Non-Taxpayer MLE. Then, the veteran wing would hit free agency again next summer.

Chicago Bulls

What are the Bulls doing? They traded for Josh Giddey, which seems to have been a getting-younger domino that set DeMar DeRozan on a course to leave Chicago. They’ve tried to move Zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic, but found extremely tepid markets for both.

Jalen Smith was a good signing for part of the Non-Taxpayer MLE, because he can fit on a rebuilding team or a team chasing a playoff spot. But Chicago has a lot more work to do with this roster. The LaVine situation is still uncomfortable and won’t get better the longer it drags out. The Bulls have a lot of guards, especially if they’re going to try to play Lonzo Ball. As it stands, it feels like this offseason is half-done, at most.

Los Angeles Lakers

This one has been talked to death, so we’ll keep it simple. LeBron James offered to take less money to open up flexibility under the first apron for the Lakers to add talent. As of now, the Lakers haven’t done anything. Free agent options have dried up considerably, unless DeMar DeRozan is coming home for the Non-Taxpayer MLE.

The bigger option is to make some sort of trade where the Lakers will probably hard-cap themselves at the first apron. Otherwise, James is going to run out of patience, take his full max salary and leave the Lakers to figure out the rest with some restrictions on doing so.

Brandon Ingram and New Orleans Pelicans

Well before free agency opened, it was rumored that Brandon Ingram was on the trade market. He’s going into the final year of his contract, and there doesn’t seem to be a lot of momentum towards an extension. Lots of contenders still need a wing. The Pelicans are now overstuffed with perimeter talent, with Dejounte Murray joining the team. Trading Ingram could bring some balance to the roster.

Where is that balance most needed? In the frontcourt. The big man rotation for New Orleans right now is Zion Williamson, rookie center Yves Missi and…that’s it. It may not be as easy as swapping Ingram for a center, but that’s something the Pelicans need to look at. Or maybe C.J. McCollum is the trade piece. Either way, New Orleans has to add a lot more to their frontcourt.

Expanded Trades

Speaking of the Pelicans…they are a good candidate for an expanded trade. An expanded trade is when the deal gets larger than what was previously reported. The Dejounte Murray trade isn’t complete yet, because it had to wait until the league year changed over. (Cap/CBA Nerd Alert! Because Murray has incentives that would have flipped from unlikely to likely, plus his trade bonus, the Pelicans would have ended up in the tax for 2023-24 if they completed the deal in the last league year.) That gives the Pelicans a chance to expand that trade by bringing in an additional team, or by possibly adding an additional player from the Hawks.

The Mikal Bridges deal to the Knicks is in a similar place. New York would like to avoid being hard-capped at the first apron, if at all possible. That will mean expanding this deal to send more salary out to Brooklyn, or to a third team. That’s certainly possible now, as offseason rosters expand to 21 players per team (as opposed to 15 players on standard contacts, plus three two-way players in the regular season). A handful of teams also have cap space or plenty of room under the tax to eat a small salary in a deal. The Knicks may have to pay an additional pick to avoid a first-apron hard-cap, but that’s probably worth it for the additional flexibility it would create.

Miles Bridges

It’s a bit of a surprise that Miles Bridges’ free agency has lingered into the third day. The Hornets publicly said they “made it clear” to Bridges that they wanted to keep him in Charlotte. Bridges doesn’t seem to have bigger offers to leave. So, what’s the holdup?

There are a couple of possibilities here. Maybe Bridges and the Hornets are far apart in contract terms. Charlotte is rebuilding under a new leadership group from ownership to the front office to the coaching staff. They may not want to lock in on big money for Bridges right now. As much as the Hornets have supported Bridges, that reluctance could have something to do with his past history of domestic violence. That’s not something a team can fully look past, even if Charlotte has already welcomed Bridges back.

The other possibility is that Bridges has sign-and-trade opportunities available to him. He may be looking to leave Charlotte for a contender. If so, that’s likely to take a bit to sort out.

Bruce Brown

The Raptors picked up Brown’s $23 million option, presumably to use him as a trade chip. That hasn’t happened yet. Of course, there was never a guarantee it would happening in the opening moments of the offseason. But it should happen sooner, rather than later.

Toronto has a lot of wings and wing-like players on this roster. Scottie Barnes, RJ Barrett, Gradey Dick, Ochai Agbaji and rookie Ja’Kobe Walter all overlap on the wing with Brown, at least to some extent. If you consider Brown as an on-ball guard, then he’s overlapping with Immanuel Quickley and Davion Mitchell. That means something has to give, and ideally before the regular season starts. Otherwise, Darko Rajakovic is going to have a hard time getting everyone minutes.

Portland Trail Blazers

The Trail Blazers got under the tax by moving Malcolm Brogdon to the Wizards in exchange for Deni Avdija. That was a good trade for Portland, even if they did have to give up some draft capital. But that’s probably not enough movement for this roster.

The Blazers are only about $3.7 million under the tax line. That’s not a lot of wiggle room. More importantly in the immediate, Portland is out of roster spots. Something has to give with Deandre Ayton and Robert Williams III at center, because the Blazers didn’t draft Donovan Clingan to sit. And, no, those guys don’t make a good double-big pairing, no matter which two you pick.

Portland also has Jerami Grant, Anfernee Simons and Matisse Thybulle who they could look at moving. Right now, the Tral Blazers have one foot in the rebuilding pool. It’s time to fully jump in by moving another veteran or two…or three.

Veteran Point Guards

There are a lot of veteran point guards still on the market, but spots for their services seem to be drying up rather quickly. Tyus Jones is the best of the bunch. The Wizards acquired Malcolm Brogdon and Bub Carrington, but there’s still room for Jones. Brogdon is a combo guard and Carrington isn’t ready to be an NBA point guard yet. He’s probably going to get the biggest deal of the remaining free agent lead guards.

Beyond Jones, the list is flush with recognizable names for vets who still have lots to offer. Markelle Fultz, Kyle Lowry, Monte Morris, Patrick Beverley, Spencer Dinwiddie, Cameron Payne, Dennis Smith Jr., and Jordan McLaughlin are all guys who could be in NBA rotations. In a flip from previous years, backup centers flew off the market, while several teams are still looking for big man help. This year, it’s the point guards who are hanging out, while available jobs are rapidly thinning out around the league.

The Denver Nuggets wanted to create some clearance around the tax aprons for making moves this offseason. The Charlotte Hornets are in asset-collection mode. That makes them natural partners for a salary-dump.

Here are the particulars:

Denver Nuggets acquire: Cash

Charlotte Hornets acquire: Reggie Jackson, three future second-round picks

Let’s dive in!

(Note: We are analyzing this deal as it has been reported. If the trade is adjusted to include additional players or teams, we’ll adjust the analysis.)

Denver Nuggets

Incoming salary: None

Outgoing salary: $5.3 million in 2024-25

• Reggie Jackson (PG, one year, $5.3 million)

This trade is super straightforward for Denver. They cleared more than $5 million off their books for next season by salary-dumping Reggie Jackson.

The Nuggets should now have about $8.7 million in room under the first apron. And Denver is about $19.5 million under the second apron.

The main priority for the Nuggets this summer is re-signing Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, who opted out of his contract for next season. Doing so will take the Nuggets back over the first apron, but could leave them with some wiggle room under the second apron.

Charlotte Hornets

Incoming salary: $5.3 million in 2024-25

• Reggie Jackson (PG, one year, $5.3 million)

Outgoing salary: None

For second time in about a year-and-a-half, the Hornets are eating Reggie Jackson’s contract in a trade. And for a second time, the Hornets will probably waive or buyout Jackson too.

This trade for Charlotte was about renting out some salary space to add three second-round picks. That’s fine for a team that is still in rebuilding mode and collecting as many assets as they can.

The Dallas Mavericks found some much-needed wiggle room under the tax apron. The Detroit Pistons got paid to eat another contract.

Here are the particulars:

Dallas Mavericks acquire: Quentin Grimes

Detroit Pistons acquire: Tim Hardaway Jr., three future second-round picks

Let’s dive in!

(Note: We are analyzing this deal as it has been reported. If the trade is adjusted to include additional players or teams, we’ll adjust the analysis.)

Dallas Mavericks

Incoming salary: $4.3 million in 2024-25

• Quentin Grimes (SG, one year, $4.3 million)

Outgoing salary: $16.2 million in 2024-25

• Tim Hardaway Jr. (SG, one year, $16.2 million)

This isn’t a straight salary-dump for the Mavericks. Instead, it’s a like a salary-dump-plus.

The primary goal for Dallas in this deal was to knock some money off their cap sheet. Mission accomplished.

The Mavs cleared almost $12 million off the books in this swap. That gives them more than enough clearance under the first apron to use the full Non-Taxpayer MLE now. Using at least $5.2 million of the $12.9 million Non-Taxpayer MLE, or giving out a contract with the MLE for more than two seasons, would hard-cap the Mavericks at the first apron. That’s no longer a real concern.

Dallas can now re-sign Derrick Jones Jr., which was one of their stated goals for this offseason. Giving Jones all of the Non-Taxpayer MLE might be an overpay, but the Mavs want to retain their starting small forward.

But wait! There’s more!

In this trade, Dallas also picked up Quentin Grimes. Grimes will be behind a few other Mavericks to open the season, but he’s a worthy flyer. In his first two seasons, Grimes looked like a developing 3&D shooting guard. Last season was a mess, due to injuries and changes in his role, plus a midseason trade. But Grimes showed he can play previously. That’s worth taking a shot on him in trade.

Trading three second-round picks isn’t really all that big of a worry for Dallas. They seem to be fairly cap-conscious, so they should be able to avoid apron issues for a while longer. And the Mavs can acquire second-round selections down the line, should they need some additional draft capital.

Dallas needed to create clearance under the apron. They did that and got a worthy flyer in the process. That’s a win-win trade.

Detroit Pistons

Incoming salary: $16.2 million in 2024-25

• Tim Hardaway Jr. (SG, one year, $16.2 million)

Outgoing salary: $4.3 million in 2024-25

• Quentin Grimes (SG, one year, $4.3 million)

New Pistons front office executive Trajan Langdon said he was open to using his team’s cap space to eat contracts in exchange for assets. Detroit did that with Langdon’s first big trade.

The Pistons still have more than $51 million in cap space, even after taking on Tim Hardaway Jr. and Wendell Moore Jr. in separate trades this offseason. That’s more than enough cap room to do whatever else Langdon has planned for this summer.

Detroit owner Tom Gores said he wanted to see the team acquire contracts, but for players who can also help. Hardaway can do that. Things went sideways for him in Dallas over the last season-plus, but Hardaway can still shoot. The Pistons are light on shooting, so he could help them quite a bit.

Three second-round picks might cause some to shrug, but Detroit ate “only” $16.2 million in salary in this deal. That’s not enough to get them a first-round pick. However, given how quickly second-round draft picks are moved around the NBA now, it’s good to have the extra currency for use in future trades.

Quentin Grimes didn’t really have a future in Detroit. The Pistons weren’t going to extend him on anything that wasn’t team-friendly. If you aren’t going to extend a rookie scale guy, you might as well trade him and let the next team figure it out.

This move isn’t going to put the Pistons in the playoffs, but it’s a smart use of cap space. Mostly, this is a good start for Trajan Langdon in what will be a very busy summer in Detroit.

The Oklahoma City Thunder dipped into the draft pick treasure chest to effectively buy an additional first-round pick. The New York Knicks added a bunch of future draft capital, while clearing some room under the hard cap.

Here are the particulars:

Oklahoma City Thunder acquired: draft rights to Dillon Jones

New York Knicks acquired: five future second-round picks

Let’s dive in!

(Note: We are analyzing this deal as it has been reported. If the trade is adjusted to include additional players or teams, we’ll adjust the analysis.)

Oklahoma City Thunder

Part of the reason Sam Presti has been collecting and hoarding draft picks is so that he can move up to get a targeted prospect. That’s exactly what happened here with Dillon Jones.

The Thunder cashed in five second-round picks to move back into the first round to select Jones. Given they still have several additional picks, and they don’t have unlimited roster spots, Oklahoma City will never miss these picks.

As for Jones, the Thunder got a really intriguing prospect. Because Jones played at mid-major Weber State, he’s probably not familiar to a lot of fans, but he can really play. The 6-foot-6 guard was a three-year starter for the Wildcats.

As a senior, Jones’ game went to a new level. He took on increased playmaking responsibility and averaged 5.2 assists per game. That complemented his already solid scoring and rebounding.

In the NBA, Jones is probably more of a secondary creator vs a primary playmaker. If his shot improves, Jones’ ability to play off-ball will be a nice add to the Thunder rotation.

One last note: Jones’ profile looks somewhat similar to that of Jalen Williams. Mid-major star who got better each year, took on more creation responsibility and was a shaky shooter. Picking Williams worked out pretty great for Oklahoma City. There’s a chance they hit again with Jones.

New York Knicks

For the Knicks this was about adding back to their draft pick coffers, while creating financial flexibility. New York traded a total of five of their own first-round picks (four straight picks and a swap) in the deal to acquire Mikal Bridges. As they re-sign their core players, the Knicks are likely to face some second-apron restrictions. Having a bunch of additional second-round picks will help them replace some depth in the coming years, as well as giving them something to put into future trades.

In the immediate, New York cleared an additional $2.6 million in space under the first apron. Given the Knicks may find themselves hard-capped at the first apron as a result of the Bridges trade, that’s a big deal. New York should now have about $6.6 million in wiggle room under the first apron. They could even increase that some too, if necessary.

Creating flexibility under the hard cap is huge for New York. Getting a bunch of draft capital, when they were running a little low, makes this even better for the Knicks.

The Washington Wizards came away with their third rookie in the 2024 draft class. The New York Knicks dropped back momentarily, before moving out of the draft entirely with this pick.

Here are the particulars:

Washington Wizards acquired: draft rights to Kyshawn George

New York Knicks acquire: draft rights to Dillon Jones, 2024 51st overall pick

Let’s dive in!

(Note: We are analyzing this deal as it has been reported. If the trade is adjusted to include additional players or teams, we’ll adjust the analysis.)

Washington Wizards

After drafting Alex Sarr with the second pick, and adding Carlton Carrington via trade, the Wizards added a rookie wing in Kyshawn George. On a busy night, Washington added players at all three levels.

George was kind of a late-riser, both in-season and during the draft process. The 6-foot-8 wing is mostly a shooter right now. George hit 40.8% of this three-pointers while at Miami. More impressive? 130 of George’s 190 field goal attempts were from behind the arc.

With Deni Avdija traded to Portland and Corey Kispert due for a rookie scale extension, Washington was able to add a replacement wing in George. At the cost of a second-round pick that probably would go to a two-way player, that’s really good work by the Wizards.

New York Knicks

We’ll keep this one quick, because New York didn’t end up keeping the pick that became Dillon Jones.

This trade was mostly about the Knicks snagging an extra second-round pick to move back what was effectively one pick (New York also held the selection in between the two first-rounders moved in this deal.)

In addition, with the Knicks facing some apron and hard-cap issues, they were able to get a more cost-controlled second round pick in this move. That’s a win, given a second first-round rookie wasn’t cracking the rotation in New York anyway.

The Denver Nuggets were rumored to have given a promise to DaRon Holmes II. If that was true, the Nuggets had to move up the draft board to keep that promise. In exchange, the Phoenix Suns dropped back, while adding some much-needed additional draft capital.

Here are the particulars:

Denver Nuggets acquired: draft rights to DaRon Holmes II

Phoenix Suns acquire: draft rights to Ryan Dunn, 2024 56th overall pick, two future second-round picks

Let’s dive in!

(Note: We are analyzing this deal as it has been reported. If the trade is adjusted to include additional players or teams, we’ll adjust the analysis.)

Denver Nuggets

For a few weeks now, speculation was that the Denver Nuggets promised Dayton big man DaRon Holmes II that he would be their selection with the 28th pick. Denver must have sensed that Holmes wouldn’t get to them, because they cashed in some assets to move up to get their man.

Sitting just ahead of the Nuggets were the New York Knicks. After swinging the big trade for Mikal Bridges and re-signing OG Anunoby, the Knicks were going to find it hard to retain Isaiah Hartenstein in free agency. They could have had their eyes on Holmes as a replacement, which may have prompted the Nuggets to jump ahead of them.

Denver needed another big to back up both Nikola Jokic and Aaron Gordon. The hope has been that Zeke Nnaji would seize that role, but injuries and inconsistent play have kept that from happening.

Holmes can fill that role right away. He’s got the size and skill to play either of the big positions. Holmes will be a good finisher around the basket, as well as having the ability to step out and shoot it. He’s also a very good shot-blocker and rebounder.

In order to acquire their new third big, the Nuggets took on a little additional in tax money. It’s not such a meaningful amount to really matter, but it shows good commitment from ownership to keep adding to the team to stay in title contention.

Phoenix Suns

The Suns hit draft week look to come away with some additional draft capital. They achieved that in this trade. Phoenix snagged and extra second-round pick in this draft, which will be helpful given the second-apron restrictions the Suns are operating under.

Of immediate interest is drafting Ryan Dunn. He’s probably the best defensive wing in this draft, and possibly the best defensive player in the draft, period. Dunn will find his way on the court as a rookie, simply because of his defense and rebounding. On offense, Dunn is pretty raw, but the Suns don’t need any more offense.

Phoenix also saved some money off their tax bill by moving back several picks in the draft. Every little bit helps for a team that projects to be one of the most expensive in the NBA next season. And having some additional draft picks to use in future trades is also welcomed.

The Minnesota Timberwolves are going for it. The San Antonio Spurs are still in asset-collection mode. That made them natural trade partners, even if this was for a rookie and not the typical win-now veteran.

Here are the particulars:

Minnesota Timberwolves acquired: draft rights to Rob Dillingham

San Antonio Spurs acquire: 2030 protected first-round pick swap, 2031 protected first-round pick

Let’s dive in!

(Note: We are analyzing this deal as it has been reported. If the trade is adjusted to include additional players or teams, we’ll adjust the analysis.)

Minnesota Timberwolves

Despite a messy ownership situation, no one can accuse the Timberwolves as going cheap on their team. Minnesota is adding about $6.3 million in salary onto their books by acquiring this additional pick. That projects to take the tax penalties from about $56 million to $87 million for next season.

Both sides of the Wolves ownership fight said they were committed to spending what it takes to keep the team a title contender. This is a sign they aren’t backing off that.

One of the holes Minnesota had to fill was at point guard. The Wolves need a backup for Mike Conley for next season, at least. And they also need a player they can develop long-term.

Enter Rob Dillingham.

The Kentucky guard isn’t a perfect player, but he’s also a 19-year-old developing point guard. What Dillingham can do right now is shoot and score. He put up 15.2 points per game, while coming off the bench and playing in the Wildcats equal-opportunity offense. Dillingham put together 48/44/80 shooting splits.

What’s really exciting is that Dillingham managed to average 3.9 assists in 23 minutes per game. That’s an impressive mark, given the circumstances.

Now, Dillingham gets to learn behind one of the steadiest point guards there is. Conley will help Dillingham learn how to run a team, while also challenging him to improve as a defender.

Yes, Minnesota increased their tax bill by about $31 million for next season. But the Timberwolves now have their point guard of the future and the long-term backcourt running mate for Anthony Edwards. That’s money well-spent, and the fact that the team did it should excite Wolves fans.

San Antonio Spurs

There was a sense in the weeks leading up to the Draft, that the Spurs didn’t want to bring two first-round rookies to an already young roster. They explored trading up, but couldn’t find a trade partner.

Instead, San Antonio took the sort of patient approach that has always served them well. The Spurs added a couple of picks that are far enough out that we have no idea of knowing what the Wolves will be by then. That’s always good business.

In addition, the Spurs wiped $6.3 million off their own books for this summer. That pushes them up to somewhere in the range of $25-$30 million in potential cap space to spend in the offseason. Not a bad night’s work, both in the short- and long-term.