The 2024 NBA free agency class has several proven veterans and rising stars potentially up for grabs. Teams looking to bolster their rosters or shift the balance of power can target top talent, including elite scorers, versatile defenders, and all-around playmakers. Let’s check out 15 of the best players in this list and what sets them apart.
Pascal Siakam
Pascal Siakam, a two-time NBA All-Star, is set to shine among free agents in 2024. After being traded to the Indiana Pacers, he recorded 21.3 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 3.7 assists on average in the regular season. Though the Pacers are reportedly prioritizing re-signing him, Siakam may also attract interest from other teams.
DeMar DeRozan
The 2024 free agency list also features DeMar DeRozan, who is currently with the Sacramento Kings. After averaging 24 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 5.3 assists last season with the Chicago Bulls, DeRozan’s performance has attracted several other teams. However, his market is complicated by evolving league dynamics and salary cap constraints.
James Harden
James Harden is set to return to the LA Clippers on a two-year, $70 million contract, offering a player option for the 2025-26 season. This deal was agreed upon before the official start of free agency, as new league rules now allow teams to negotiate with their own free agents early.
Tobias Harris
Tobias Harris has signed a two-year, $52 million contract with the Detroit Pistons. He’ll return to the team after previously playing there from 2015 to 2017. With an average of 17.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 3.1, Harris is expected to provide veteran leadership to a young Pistons roster.
D’Angelo Russell
Reports show that free agent D’Angelo Russell plans to opt into a $18.7 million contract with the Los Angeles Lakers. However, there are speculations that he might still explore the market, potentially becoming a coveted unrestricted free agent if he opts out.
Doug McDermott
Doug McDermott had a solid season with the Indiana Pacers in 2023. He averaged 10.5 points and shot 37% from three-point range. Known for his shooting ability, McDermott remains without a contract but could provide valuable scoring off the bench for any team needing perimeter shooting.
LeBron James
Troy Taormina/Imagn
LeBron James has won four NBA championships and is the league’s all-time leading scorer. His free agency decisions have historically shaped the NBA. James’ move to the Miami Heat in 2010 created a superteam that won two titles, while his return to the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2014 led to the 2016 championship victory.
Paul George
This nine-time NBA All-Star recently signed a $212 million contract with the Philadelphia 76ers for four years. Celebrated for his two-way play and versatility, George’s arrival is considered a major upgrade for the Sixers. The decision to leave the Clippers stemmed from their unwillingness to offer a fourth year on his contract extension.
OG Anunoby
OG Anunoby is currently a free agent after rejecting the $19.9 million player option for the 2024-25 NBA season. The forward, who was traded to the New York Knicks from the Toronto Raptors, is expected to attract a well-paying contract in free agency, potentially exceeding $35 million annually.
Nic Claxton
At just 25 years old, Nic Claxton recorded 11.8 points, 9.9 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks on average in the 2023-2024 season. His ability to dominate the paint makes him highly sought after, with projections estimating his next contract could range from $80 million to $100 million over four years.
Klay Thompson
The Golden State Warriors’ iconic shooting guard has become an unrestricted free agency for the first time in his career at 34 years old. Having spent his entire NBA tenure with the Warriors since being drafted 11th overall in 2011, Thompson has helped the team secure four championships.
Saddiq Bey
Saddiq Bey is currently an unrestricted free agent after the Atlanta Hawks opted not to tender him a qualifying offer. Following this decision, Bey signed a three-year contract worth $20 million with the Washington Wizards. He is also recovering from a torn ACL sustained in March 2024.
Bismack Biyombo
Jerome Miron/Imagn
The Congolese professional basketball player is a free agent after playing for the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Memphis Grizzlies. Over his career, Biyombo has played for several teams, including the Toronto Raptors, Orlando Magic, and Phoenix Suns. In 2016, he set a franchise record with 26 rebounds in a game.
Mo Bamba
Mo Bamba recently signed a one-year deal with the Philadelphia 76ers after being waived by the Los Angeles Lakers. The Orlando Magic selected him as the sixth overall pick in the 2018 NBA, but he has struggled to produce the expected results required for his position.
Wesley Matthews
Wesley Matthews is also one of the best free agents on the list. After going undrafted in 2009, he began his career with the Utah Jazz and gained prominence with the Portland Trail Blazers, where he recorded 15.9 points on average in his first season.
Who’s Up for Grabs in the 2024 NBA Free Agency