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When Does NBA Free Agency Start in 2026? Date, Time & Top Available Players originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The NBA's latest free agency class is light on star power, but there is talent available for teams that are willing to spend.
One of the biggest names on this year's market? LeBron James. The future Hall of Famer is still performing at a high level and could help a contending team next season.
Beyond James, there are a few solid role players searching for new deals. How will the dominoes fall when free agency officially begins?
When does NBA free agency start in 2026?
- Date: Tuesday, June 30
- Time: 6 p.m. ET
NBA teams can begin negotiating with free agents at 6 p.m. ET on Tuesday, June 30. After reaching verbal agreements, teams can begin signing free agents to contracts at 12:01 p.m. ET on Monday, July 6.
NBA free agency 2026: Top available players
LeBron James
Despite being 41 years old, James, an unrestricted free agent, is one of the top players on the market. He is coming off a season in which he averaged 20.9 points, 7.2 assists and 6.1 rebounds per game.
James could return to Los Angeles for his ninth season with the Lakers, but he may be able to pursue a deal with the Warriors after Draymond Green declined his player option, giving Golden State more financial flexibility.
Jalen Duren
Duren earned his first All-Star and All-NBA selections last season after posting 19.5 points and 10.5 rebounds per game with the Pistons, but he did struggle in the playoffs.
A restricted free agent, Duren reportedly plans to meet with the Kings and Lakers, though the Pistons would be allowed to match any offer sheet.
Norman Powell
Powell was named an All-Star in his first season with the Heat, averaging 21.7 points per game while shooting 38 percent from beyond the arc.
Miami would like to keep the unrestricted free agent, who could provide 3-point shooting and secondary scoring around Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo. The big question is whether the Heat will have enough cap space to re-sign Powell.
James Harden
Harden reportedly declined his player option for the 2026-27 season, making him an unrestricted free agent. However, he is expected to sign a new deal with the Cavaliers, keeping the 36-year-old off the open market.
Walker Kessler
After a shoulder injury forced him to miss most of the 2025-26 season, Kessler reportedly turned down an offer from the Jazz that would have paid him approximately $140 million over five years. An elite rim protector and offensive rebounder, Kessler is hoping to get a bigger offer as a restricted free agent.
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