LeBron James enters free agency
LeBron James has informed the Los Angeles Lakers of his decision not to return, opting instead for free agency. This move comes as James prepares for his 24th NBA season. His time with the Lakers spanned eight seasons, marking his longest continuous tenure with any team in his career. Multiple reports on Tuesday, June 30, indicated his plans to play elsewhere for the 2026-27 season, just before the league’s free agency period began.
Despite entering a record 24th season, James is considered a highly sought-after free agent, particularly if he is open to a pay cut. Potential landing spots frequently mentioned include the Golden State Warriors, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Miami Heat. The Lakers, in response to James’s departure, have reportedly begun engaging with other free agents, including centers Jalen Duren and Walker Kessler, with whom they met on Tuesday.
Clippers and Raptors complete significant trade
Across Los Angeles, the Clippers have made a notable trade, sending Kawhi Leonard to the Toronto Raptors. In exchange, the Clippers received a package that includes Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, unprotected first-round picks in 2031 and 2033, second-round picks in 2030 and 2033, and a 2027 first-round swap. This trade marks a reunion for Leonard with the Raptors, following their 2019 NBA Championship run.
The Clippers, who still have roster spots to fill, are expected to be an active team to watch in the free agency market. The Raptors, meanwhile, welcome Leonard back to a roster that includes Scottie Barnes, RJ Barrett, and Collin Murray-Boyles.
Other key free agency movements
Several other players have made moves or signed new deals as free agency progresses. Luke Kennard, who spent part of last season with the Lakers, signed a two-year, $13 million deal with the Phoenix Suns, which includes a player option. Kennard was noted for shooting an NBA-high 47.8 percent from three-point range last season, split between the Atlanta Hawks and the Lakers.
The Houston Rockets agreed to a two-year, $13 million deal with Marcus Smart, as reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania. Smart, a 12-year NBA veteran guard, started 54 games for the Lakers last season, averaging 9.3 points, 3.0 assists, and 2.8 rebounds per game. He will reunite with Ime Udoka, who coached him in Boston from 2021-23.
Other signings include Bogdan Bogdanovic joining the Rockets for one year, and Dean Wade signing a four-year, $39 million contract with the Philadelphia 76ers after seven seasons with the Cleveland Cavaliers. Zach Collins extended his contract with the Chicago Bulls for two years, valued at $17 million, following an injury-affected 2025-26 season where he appeared in 10 games.
The Brooklyn Nets added Keon Ellis on a two-year, $18 million deal, while Kobe Sanders signed a four-year, $11.2 million contract to remain with the Clippers. Branden Carlson found a new home with the Portland Trail Blazers on a one-year, $2.5 million deal. Tim Hardaway Jr. joined the Miami Heat for one year at $6.5 million, and Ousmane Dieng re-signed with the Milwaukee Bucks for three years, $17.5 million.
Jock Landale returned to the Atlanta Hawks on a one-year, $14 million contract, and Robert Williams III signed a three-year, $44 million deal with the Portland Trail Blazers. Harrison Barnes will continue with the San Antonio Spurs on a one-year, $8 million contract, and Kristaps Porzingis secured a two-year, $40 million deal with the Golden State Warriors. Kevin Huerter was retained by the Detroit Pistons for three years, $27 million, and Jusuf Nurkic re-signed with the Utah Jazz for two years, $22 million. Julian Champagnie also signed a three-year, $45 million contract with the San Antonio Spurs.
The Oklahoma City Thunder exercised a $17.7 million option for Lu Dort, and Landry Shamet signed a four-year, $24 million deal with the New York Knicks. DeAndre Jordan is set to return to the New Orleans Pelicans for his 19th NBA season.
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Source: eu.usatoday.com
