NBA Offseason Drama: Free Agency and Trade Talks Heat Up

NEW YORK, NY – The NBA offseason is filled with intrigue as teams navigate unresolved situations and the futures of key free agents and trade targets. As the 2025-26 season approaches, teams are gearing up for training camp, while speculation and rumors surround several players.

One significant scenario involves the Golden State Warriors and restricted free-agent Jonathan Kuminga. After a crucial meeting with team owner Joe Lacob in August, discussions have stalled. Warriors GM Mike Dunleavy proposed Kuminga a three-year, $75.2 million deal with a team option for the third year. However, Kuminga is pushing for a player option, creating a deadlock.

Meanwhile, former All-Star Ben Simmons is reportedly weighing whether to continue his NBA career. His agent informed the NBA Players Association that he no longer represents Simmons, who averaged just 5.0 points in 51 games last season split between the Brooklyn Nets and Los Angeles Clippers. New York Knicks are interested in Simmons but have not finalized anything.

On a different front, Washington Wizards have signed forward Deni Avdija to a four-year, $90 million contract extension. Avdija had an impressive last season, averaging 14.7 points and a career-high 7.8 rebounds. In contrast, the Milwaukee Bucks seem poised to keep Giannis Antetokounmpo, as rumors of a potential trade have not materialized.

Trade discussions are also buzzing around Kuminga and Oklahoma City Thunder‘s Josh Giddey. Both are restricted free agents, and a rumor exists that Kuminga could be traded for Giddey, who averaged a solid 14.6 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.2 assists per game last season. These are just a few of the many situations being monitored this offseason.

As the countdown to the season continues, teams may make more moves, reshaping their rosters and strategies. All eyes are on potential trades and signings, especially for players like Simmons, and whether stars will stay or leave their current teams. The league’s dynamics could shift dramatically as decisions are made in the coming weeks.