News Summary
As the NBA offseason heats up, teams are strategizing for the upcoming season with notable trades, contract extensions, and speculations surrounding free agents. Jayson Tatum aims to recruit Damian Lillard to the Celtics, while LeBron James faces uncertain future discussions with the Lakers. With significant player movements, including Giannis Antetokounmpo’s indecision and the Houston Rockets securing Jabari Smith Jr., the offseason is marked by transformative strategies and reshuffling across franchises.
Boston – The NBA offseason is in full swing, with teams making significant moves in anticipation of the new season. Notable trades, contract extensions, and free agency speculations have flooded headlines as teams reshape their rosters for the upcoming 2025 season.
Central to the offseason buzz is the Boston Celtics’ Jayson Tatum, who is reportedly seeking to recruit free agent Damian Lillard to join the Celtics. Both players, however, are predicted to miss significant time next season due to Achilles injuries. Lillard, who previously played alongside Tatum on the U.S. Olympic team during the 2020 Summer Games, averaged 24.9 points over 58 games last season with the Milwaukee Bucks before they waived him as part of their salary cap strategy. The Bucks extended Lillard’s contract, which was worth $112.6 million over two remaining seasons, before parting ways to clear salary cap space.
In other news, there is speculation regarding LeBron James‘ future in Los Angeles. The four-time champion opted into his $52.6 million player option with the Lakers for the upcoming season. However, with no discussions for a contract extension taking place, multiple teams, including the Los Angeles Lakers, have reached out to James’ agent concerning a potential trade. Last season, the star averaged 25.7 points, 8.3 assists, and 7.3 rebounds over 71 games.
Meanwhile, uncertainty looms over Giannis Antetokounmpo’s future with the Milwaukee Bucks. Although he has expressed a willingness to explore options, Giannis has not formally requested a trade. He has ruled out a move to New York, leading to speculation about his next steps. Simultaneously, the Bucks have signed Myles Turner to a four-year deal after waiving Lillard, a prized blockbuster add-on aimed at strengthening their roster.
Another high-profile name, Nikola Jokić, has informed the Denver Nuggets that he will not be signing a contract extension this offseason. Jokić, a three-time MVP, appears to be postponing an extension to capitalize on future financial opportunities. In similar news, Chris Paul has indicated that he may play only one more season, with interest from numerous teams in the league as he considers retirement.
Looking to position themselves for better future prospects, the Phoenix Suns are poised to buyout Bradley Beal‘s contract. This move aims to provide financial flexibility for upcoming acquisitions. Following the buyout, teams such as the LA Clippers and Miami Heat have shown interest in Beal.
Amid this offseason flurry, Lillard’s expected absence for the entirety of the 2025-26 season has led to increased interest from teams willing to wait for his recovery. The Utah Jazz’s Jordan Clarkson is also finalizing a contract buyout, entering the free-agent pool soon. Additionally, Deandre Ayton, following his exit from the Portland Trail Blazers, has emerged as a desirable center, garnering attention from several franchises.
The Houston Rockets are on the move as well; they have committed to a five-year, $122 million rookie contract extension for Jabari Smith Jr. While James Harden opted out of his previous contract, he has signed a new two-year, $81.5 million deal with the Clippers, seeking a more lucrative contract as he transitions to a new chapter.
In free agency and trades, players such as Bobby Portis, who has agreed to a three-year, $44 million deal with the Bucks, and Julius Randle, who has declined his player option seeking free agency, are pivotal figures to watch. The Oklahoma City Thunder have traded guard Jones to the Washington Wizards in exchange for a second-round pick, highlighting ongoing reshuffling within various franchises.
The New York Knicks are seeking new leadership, interviewing former Hornets coach James Borrego for their coaching vacancy. Furthermore, the Rockets have signed Fred VanVleet to a two-year, $50 million contract as they look to enhance their guard depth.
In a set of recent trades, the Pelicans acquired Jordan Poole and Saddiq Bey, parting ways with CJ McCollum and Kelly Olynyk as they work to revamp their roster. The Cleveland Cavaliers have made a significant acquisition, trading for Lonzo Ball from the Bulls in exchange for Isaac Okoro, marking a strategic shift for both teams.
Overall, the NBA offseason is shaping up to be transformative with numerous player movements and team strategies aimed at enhancing competitiveness for the 2025 season.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Heavy: LeBron James Rumors and News
- New York Times: NBA Free Agency 2025
- Hoops Hype: Brad Stevens Talks Offseason Trades
- ESPN: NBA Trade Grades 2025-26
- CBS Sports: NBA Summer Trade Guide
- Google Search: NBA free agency 2025

Author: STAFF HERE CLEVELAND WRITER
CLEVELAND STAFF WRITER The CLEVELAND STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECleveland.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Cleveland International Film Festival, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, and the Cleveland Air Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Cleveland Partnership and Destination Cleveland, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Cleveland Clinic and Sherwin-Williams. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Ohio's dynamic landscape.