Mets don't need drastic roster moves to stop freefall, but more aggressive ones are required

The good news for the Mets?

It's impossible to imagine things getting worse than they were over the weekend in Pittsburgh, when New York was swept in shocking fashion while being outscored 30-4 by a bad Pirates team that entered the series having scored the second-fewest runs in the majors.

Here's some more good news:

Despite a 3-13 tailspin that has turned a season of dominance into one that's currently off the rails, the Mets are still in a really good spot.

They are right there in the NL East, just 1.5 games behind the Phillies.

And they are holding the top Wild Card spot in the National League.

That's where the good news ends.

At present, the Mets are a team whose starting rotation -- down four key members and still waiting on returns from Sean Manaea and Kodai Senga -- is on fumes. And the rotation failing to provide length is putting tons of stress on an overworked bullpen.

In two of the games against the Pirates, things were basically over after the early innings, with David Peterson and Frankie Montas getting hit so hard that Friday and Sunday's tilts quickly became non-competitive.

Jun 29, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; New York Mets starting pitcher Frankie Montas (47) delivers a pitch against the Pittsburgh Pirates during the first inning at PNC Park.
Jun 29, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; New York Mets starting pitcher Frankie Montas (47) delivers a pitch against the Pittsburgh Pirates during the first inning at PNC Park. / Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

The Mets were in it until the end on Saturday, when the bullpen stumbled late and turned a tight game into a blowout.

The offense has been maddeningly inconsistent during this stretch, and seemed to be turning things around a bit after taking the final two games against the Braves during a four-game series last week at Citi Field. But the bats slumbered again in Pittsburgh, with a returning Mark Vientos still quite rusty.

So, what do the Mets need to do to turn around season that still has so much promise?

The first thing is to stop being almost robotically measured when it comes to the starting pitchers who are getting chances as the Mets await to returns of Manaea and Senga.

That starts with Paul Blackburn, who allowed three runs on six hits in 1.0 inning against the Pirates on Saturday. In his start before that, Blackburn surrendered three runs on six hits in 4.2 innings against the Braves. In the start that preceded that one, he lasted just 3.2 innings while giving up four runs (three earned) against Atlanta.

Blackburn is not offering length or effectiveness, with a 7.71 ERA and 1.98 WHIP in six games (four starts) this season.

Still, he's lined up to face the Yankees on Friday at Citi Field in the Subway Series opener. That Yankees team has scored 422 runs, good for second in the American League behind the Tigers (424).

There aren't any perfect options to replace Blackburn in the rotation. But there are two intriguing ones who just happen to be tremendous prospects with immense upside.

Nolan McLean, who last pitched on June 27, could be called up for Friday's game and not have to alter his schedule much. He has been terrific this season for Double-A Binghamton and Triple-A Syracuse, with a 2.25 ERA and 1.16 WHIP in 76.0 innings (12 starts, two relief appearances).

Port St. Lucie, Florida, USA; New York Mets pitcher Nolan McLean participates in the Spring Breakout game against the Washington Nationals at Clover Park.
Port St. Lucie, Florida, USA; New York Mets pitcher Nolan McLean participates in the Spring Breakout game against the Washington Nationals at Clover Park. / Jim Rassol - Imagn Images

Then there's Brandon Sproat, whose season in Syracuse has been up and down but who has been much better lately.

Sproat, intentionally pitching much more to contact this year instead of trying to blow everyone away, fired 6.0 scoreless innings on June 28 while allowing two hits, walking three, and striking out six. He has allowed two runs or fewer in six of his last seven starts.

The Mets should choose one of them to come up on Friday and start in place of Blackburn -- big stage be damned. A 40-man roster move would be needed, but New York has about a half dozen fungible spots that could be tweaked to make room.

Apropos of nothing, Jonah Tongshould also be in Triple-A. He's been toying with hitters in Double-A, to the tune of a 1.73 ERA, 0.91 WHIP, and 115 strikeouts in 73.0 innings.

Another thing the Mets should do is start using Jeff McNeilin center field every day.

They've had him out there much more often lately, but Tyrone Taylor got the start there on Saturday and went 0-for-4. Taylor's OPS for the season is down to .606. And while he provides incredible defense, the Mets need all the punch they can get in the lineup right now.

That should mean McNeil in center and Ronny Mauricio or Brett Baty at second base.

The bigger moves, which will be executed by David Stearns and Co. ahead of the trade deadline, will almost certainly have to wait. The market has been moving slower than usual over the last few seasons with more teams in contention than ever due to the added Wild Card spots.

As the July 31 trade deadline gets closer, the Mets should be in the market for help in the rotation and bullpen, a center fielder, and perhaps a third baseman.

Between now and then, it's fair to expect things to normalize a bit once the offense awakens and Manaea and Senga return. Jesse Winker should also beback relatively soon.

But as the Mets wait for all of the above, they need to act with a bit more urgency.

This Lecture Is Aimed At Rangers Fans Who Are Singing The Blues

Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images

Rangers Fans, it's time for The Maven and You-All to have a heart-to-heart talk.

For starters, we all agree that the 2024-25 season was a disaster. It's over and done with; so forget about it.

Just as history showed us how easily it is to go from Presidents' Trophy-winner to the doldrums in one easy year, so it is easy to reverse the decline. (Exhibit A: Washington Capitals).

The club has a new coach and a brand new start. Likewise it's time to refresh with Free Agency here and a summer left for wheeling and dealing. 

My Rangers fan buddy Todd Siben writes a compelling note from Boynton Beach, Florida that should inspire fans who are riding the Blueshirt fence. Listen up, please: Go, Todd, go!

"Back in the 1980's, when the Rangers languished in the lower echelon of the division and the Devils were a new franchise," says Pal Todd, "I jumped ship and considered myself a Devils fan.

"After that season ended, I had a conversation with a Rangers fan friend who scolded me for abandoning our team. He delivered a message that went something like this:

 Why The Rangers Did Well Without A First Round Draft Pick Why The Rangers Did Well Without A First Round Draft PickI'm not going to sit here and tell you that it's a good idea NOT to have a first-round pick in the Entry Draft but – on the other hand – it's not the worst thing in the world either.

"'You don't jump ship at the first sign of adversity,' the guy said. 'You cheer your team through the good AND the bad.' And I learned a lesson from that."

That, good citizens of Rangerville, THAT'S my lesson to you. Plus, I'll throw one more line at you: PAIN AND PROGRESS ARE INSEPARABLE. 

With one notable exception: THE METS!

NHL Free Agency: Blues Should Have Clear Top Target

The start of free agency is just about here, so it is going to be a very busy time in the NHL. The St. Louis Blues will certainly be a team to watch once free agency opens, as they should be looking to add to their roster after their successful 2024-25 season. 

One of the Blues' clear top needs is another skilled center. Due to this, they should have a clear top target once July 1 is here - Dallas Stars forward Mikael Granlund.

Given the Stars' current salary cap situation, the expectation is that Granlund will become an unrestricted free agent (UFA). When noting that Sam Bennett, John Tavares, and Ryan Donato have all re-signed with their current clubs, Granlund is now arguably the best pending UFA center left. Thus, the Blues should seriously consider pursuing him if he officially hits the market.

When looking at Granlund's numbers from this past season, he would be a realistic option for the Blues' second-line center spot and power play if signed. In 83 games split between the San Jose Sharks and Dallas Stars, he posted 22 goals, 44 assists, and 66 points. Yet, he is also known for his smart two-way play, so he would also give the Blues another player to work on their penalty kill if brought in. 

On a short-term deal, Granlund would be a very good player for the Blues to sign as they look to take another step forward in 2025-26. It will be intriguing to see if they make a push for Granlund this summer from here.

 

NHL Rumors: Insider Names New Potential Suitor For Jordan Kyrou NHL Rumors: Insider Names New Potential Suitor For Jordan Kyrou All eyes will be on St. Louis Blues forward Jordan Kyrou during the final days of June. This is because his full no-trade clause until the end of the 2029-30 season starts on July 1. Thus, if the Blues want to move him, now would be the time to. 

Photo Credit:  © Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Report: Maple Leafs Are Frontrunners For Brad Marchand If He Hits Open Market, Could Still Re-Sign With Panthers

If Brad Marchand hits the open market on Tuesday, the Toronto Maple Leafs will reportedly be among several teams interested in the forward's services. And likely one of the frontrunners to land him.

The Athletic and TSN insider Pierre LeBrun reported on Sunday morning that while Marchand could return to Florida, the Maple Leafs and Boston Bruins, his former club, hope to speak with the forward if he's a free agent on July 1.

Further to that report, TSN's Darren Dreger appeared on TSN 1050's First Up with Aaron Korolnek and Carlo Colaiacovo on Monday morning, adding to LeBrun's report, which came a day earlier.

"This is very much a personal decision. The family influence is strong for Brad Marchand, his wife, and his children. I mean, most still believe he's going to stay in Florida, that Bill Zito's going to find a way to get it done," Dreger said.

"As Pierre LeBrun alluded to, I believe yesterday on X, there's a world where you could see Marchand going back to Boston. And if that happens, I suspect that the term would be longer, not that it would play out, but primarily, that decision, if it went that way, would be because of what I just said. Just the pull of family, right?

"But Toronto is in the conversation, no doubt about it. As long as Toronto can be in the conversation. If all of a sudden, on the open market tomorrow, Brad Marchand says I need $8.5-9 million from the Maple Leafs, I'm not so sure they can make that happen."

Golden Knights Trade Nic Hague To Predators: What It Means For Maple Leafs And Mitch Marner Trade TalksGolden Knights Trade Nic Hague To Predators: What It Means For Maple Leafs And Mitch Marner Trade TalksAs speculation intensifies around a potential trade of Mitch Marner's negotiating rights from the Toronto Maple Leafs to the Vegas Golden Knights, one potential trade piece is now off the table. Early Monday morning, multiple reports surfaced that Golden Knights defenseman Nic Hague was being dealt to the Nashville Predators in exchange for defenseman Jeremy Lauzon and forward Colton Sissons. Hague is also expected to sign a four-year extension worth $5.5 million per season.

Dreger also reported on X that the Utah Mammoth could be a team that targets the veteran forward if he becomes a free agent.

Everyone remembers Marchand's Stanley Cup playoff with the Florida Panthers: 10 goals (two of which were overtime winners), 10 assists for 20 points in 23 games, and the moment he lifted the cup over his head again.

Matthew Knies Avoids Restricted Free Agency, Inks Long-Term Deal With Maple Leafs: 6 Years, $7.75M AAVMatthew Knies Avoids Restricted Free Agency, Inks Long-Term Deal With Maple Leafs: 6 Years, $7.75M AAVMatthew Knies will be a Toronto Maple Leaf for six more years.

Though at 37 years old, you have to wonder how much longer Marchand can play to that standard. However, teams like the Maple Leafs, who are in win-now mode, aren't really looking at the age factor too much. They want a Stanley Cup, and it appears they believe Marchand can help get them there.

"As far as I can gather, the Leafs’ biggest bet on July 1 is apparently going to be an attempt to sign Brad Marchand," The Athletic's James Mirtle wrote. "That would obviously eat up a huge percentage of their remaining cap space — likely in the $8 million range — with the understanding the 37-year-old would be a big part of their top-six for the next few years."

We'll see what transpires over the next 24 hours regarding Marchand's future, Mitch Marner's negotiation rights, which could be traded to the Vegas Golden Knights, and Matthew Knies' extension, that's not been made official yet.

If Mitch Marner Leaves in Free Agency, Could the Maple Leafs Pursue Tampering Charges?If Mitch Marner Leaves in Free Agency, Could the Maple Leafs Pursue Tampering Charges?Just when you thought Mitch Marner’s seemingly inevitable exit from Toronto couldn’t get more nasty, a new report has emerged. The Toronto Maple Leafs may be preparing to take action.

It's going to be a wild pre and start to free agency, which begins at 12 p.m. ET on Tuesday.

(Top photo: John E. Sokolowski / Imagn Images)

Phillies get Bryce Harper back to open series vs. Padres

Phillies get Bryce Harper back to open series vs. Padres originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia

It’s been a long month of June for the Phillies but offensive help is on the way.

The Phillies announced Monday that Bryce Harper has been reinstated from the 10-day injured list. He was placed on the IL retroactive to June 6 with right wrist inflammation and has missed 22 games.

Through 57 games this season, Harper is batting .258 with nine home runs, 34 RBIs and an .814 OPS.

To make room for Harper, Buddy Kennedy has been designated for assignment.

The Phillies open a three-game series against the Padres at Citizens Bank Park (6:35 p.m. ET/NBCSP).

Here’s the lineup:

1. Trea Turner, SS
2. Kyle Schwarber, DH
3. Bryce Harper, 1B
4. Alec Bohm, 3B
5. Nick Castellanos, RF
6. Max Kepler, LF
7. J.T. Realmuto, C
8. Bryson Stott, 2B
9. Brandon Marsh, CF
Zack Wheeler, P

(More coming …)

Penguins Add Mike Stothers As Assistant Coach To Fill Out 2025-26 Staff

After two long months, the Pittsburgh Penguins' quest to bring on a new coaching staff for the 2025-26 season is finally complete.

On Monday, the Penguins announced that they added Mike Stothers as an assistant coach to Dan Muse, Pittsburgh's new bench boss. Stothers joins previously named assistants Todd Nelson, Nick Bonino, and Rich Clune on Muse's staff.

This group of new coaches will join forces with what's left of the Mike Sullivan-era staff in goaltending coach Andy Chiodo and video coach Madison Nikkel, along with another recent hire in assistant video coach Troy Paquette.

Stothers figures to be the man in charge of the defense and penalty kill, as general manager and president of hockey operations Kyle Dubas said Friday that the Penguins were looking to add one more coach behind the bench to oversee those units. 

Muse is excited to get to work with Stothers, who has more than 30 years of coaching experience and has served as an assistant coach at the NHL level with the Anaheim Ducks, the now-defunct Atlanta Thrashers, and the Philadelphia Flyers.

“As a champion at both the AHL and international levels, Mike has a tremendous track record of helping develop players and [taking] their game to the next level, as seen throughout the multiple leagues he has coached in over the last 30 years,” said Muse. “We’re thrilled to welcome Mike to the city of Pittsburgh as he rounds out our coaching staff for the 2025-26 season.”

Mike Stothers. (Screen Capture Credit: Ontario Reign)

In addition to his NHL experience, Stothers has experience at multiple levels of development - which seemed to be the focus for the Penguins in rounding out their coaching staff. He was at the helm of the Ontario Reign of the AHL from 2015-20, and he was also head coach of the Manchester Monarchs (2014-15) and Grand Rapids Griffins (2007-08). He was also an assistant with the Philadelphia Phantoms and Hershey Bears in the 1990s.

At the junior level, Stothers coached the Moose Jaw Warriors of the WHL from 2011-14 and the Owen Sound Attack of the OHL from 2002-07, and - as an assistant - coached Team Canada to a gold medal at the World Under-18 Championship in 2021-22.

Stothers was drafted 21st overall by the Flyers in 1980 and played a total of 30 NHL games between Philadelphia and the Toronto Maple Leafs, registering two career assists.

Penguins Name Full Coaching Staff For 2025-26 SeasonPenguins Name Full Coaching Staff For 2025-26 SeasonBack on Jun. 4, the Pittsburgh Penguins hired Dan Muse as the 23rd coach in franchise history.

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NHL Rumor Roundup: Latest On Mitch Marner, Bowen Byram, Mike Matheson And K'Andre Miller

The hockey world has been abuzz since Saturday following reports claiming the Toronto Maple Leafs and Vegas Golden Knights were discussing a “sign-and-trade” scenario involving Mitch Marner.

The 28-year-old right winger is expected to become a UFA on July 1. 

TSN's Darren Dreger reported talks were expected to continue throughout the weekend, indicating there was work to do regarding the return for the Maple Leafs. A Postmedia report claimed the Golden Knights would send defenseman Nicolas Hague and forward Nicolas Roy to Toronto. 

So far, there is no sign of a deal. Meanwhile, the Golden Knights reportedly sent Hague to the Nashville Predators, where he signed a four-year, $22-million contract. There's also speculation that the Leafs could pursue tampering charges against the Golden Knights if Marner signs with them, but Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman reports the Maple Leafs are trying to salvage something from the situation.

Mitch Marner (John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images)

The Buffalo Sabres shipping JJ Peterka to the Utah Mammoth last Thursday sparked rumors that Bowen Byram could be their next trade candidate. The 24-year-old left-shot defenseman is an RFA with arbitration rights after completing a two-year contract with an average annual value of $3.85 million. 

Byram's been a fixture in the rumor mill since the end of the regular season. He's become the top defenseman in this summer's trade market. 

TSN's Darren Dreger reported Thursday that the Los Angeles Kings, Vancouver Canucks, Golden Knights, St. Louis Blues and Colorado Avalanche were among the teams interested in Byram. However, he subsequently claimed the Sabres weren't feeling pressured to move him.

Mike Harrington of The Buffalo News believes Byram may be the best trade chip the Sabres have to land a top-six winger to replace Peterka. He wondered if the blueliner might fetch someone like Quinton Byfield of the Kings, Jordan Kyrou of the Blues or Bryan Rust of the Pittsburgh Penguins

Turning to Montreal, it's believed the Canadiens aren't done making moves following Friday's acquisition of Noah Dobson from the New York Islanders. TSN's Pierre LeBrun reported they'd like to add a top-six forward. 

Sportsnet's Eric Engels believes the addition of Dobson could make Mike Matheson available. The 31-year-old defenseman has a year remaining on his contract with an average annual value of $4.875 million and an eight-team no-trade list.

Meanwhile, K'Andre Miller is another defenseman who remains the subject of trade conjecture. Like Byram, the 25-year-old New York Rangers rearguard is an RFA with arbitration rights. 

Mollie Walker of the New York Post believes the Rangers' off-season plans hinge on what happens with Miller. She explained that the Blueshirts have been linked to Kings defender Vladislav Gavrikov, who is expected to become a UFA on July 1. It would be challenging to have both blueliners on their payroll without freeing up additional cap room.

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Nets re-signing forward Ziaire Williams to two-year deal

The Nets are retaining one of their key young pieces.

Brooklyn is re-signing forward Ziaire Williams to a two-year, $12 million deal, per multiple reports.

According to Shams Charania of ESPN, the second year of the contract is a team option for the 2026-27 season.

Acquired by Brooklyn in a July 2024 trade with the Memphis Grizzlies, Williams had his best pro season as a Net, starting 45 games while averaging 10.0 points and 4.6 rebounds.

The 23-year-old, listed at 6-foot-9, 215 pounds, was originally drafted by the New Orleans Pelicans and dealt to the Grizzles in a draft night trade. Over the course of his four NBA seasons, Williams has averaged 8.3 points and 3.2 rebounds.

Ex-Penguins Forward Lands Extension With Oilers

According to PuckPedia, former Pittsburgh Penguins forward Kasperi Kapanen is signing a one-year, $1.3 million contract to stay with the Edmonton Oilers. 

Kapanen was claimed off waivers by the Oilers from the St. Louis Blues back in November of this past season. In 57 regular-season games with the Oilers after this, he posted five goals, 13 points, 73 hits, and a minus-16 rating. He also recorded three goals, six points, and a plus-4 rating in 12 playoff games for the Oilers this spring. 

Kapanen played in three NHL seasons with the Penguins from 2020-21 to 2022-23, where he recorded 29 goals, 53 assists, and 82 points in 162 games. His time in Pittsburgh ended during the 2022-23 season when he was claimed off waivers by the Blues. 

Kapanen was also drafted by the Penguins with the 22nd overall pick of the 2014 NHL Entry Draft, but was traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs in the deal that brought Phil Kessel to Pittsburgh. 

Penguins Miss Out On Top Trade TargetPenguins Miss Out On Top Trade TargetThe Pittsburgh Penguins were one of the teams reportedly interested in defenseman Nicolas Hague, but he is officially no longer an option for them. 

Photo Credit:  © Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

What to make of Tatum's encouraging update in Achilles surgery rehab

What to make of Tatum's encouraging update in Achilles surgery rehab originally appeared on NBC Sports Boston

You knew Jayson Tatum wasn’t going to be laid up for long.

The Boston Celtics star underwent surgery to repair a ruptured Achilles tendon on May 13, one day after suffering the devastating injury in a Game 4 second round loss to the New York Knicks. About a month and a half later, Tatum is back in the gym doing this:

The video, which Tatum shared on his Snapchat, shows the Celtics star doing a rather intense core workout while wearing a very large brace on his right leg.

This type of workout is an impressive milestone for Tatum at such an early stage of his rehab. It sounds like he’s been itching to reach that milestone, too; here’s what the All-Star forward wrote Friday on X regarding his recovery process:

“Day 45… this is some bulls—“.

Recovery from an Achilles injury can be very grueling, as several NBA players have missed entire seasons due to similar ailments before returning to action. Tatum has a few factors working in his favor, though; he’s just 27 years old and had surgery immediately following his injury, which should aid his recovery time.

In fact, the biggest challenge for the Celtics might be ensuring Tatum doesn’t get too aggressive in his rehab and try to return to action before he’s fully healthy. Boston already has traded Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis this offseason to get under the second apron of the NBA’s luxury tax, and if the team doesn’t look like a serious contender in 2025-26, it may not be worth trying to rush Tatum back for the end of the regular season.

President of basketball operations Brad Stevens recently suggested the Celtics have no intention of expediting Tatum’s return.

“We won’t put a projected timeline on him for a long, long time,” Stevens told reporters Wednesday. “As we look at it, there’s no reason to. It’s baby steps right now. He’s actually progressed great, but I don’t know what that means with regard to projected timelines.”

“And that’ll be in consultation with him and (trainers) Nick (Sang) and Phil Coles and everybody else to make sure when he hits the court, he is fully ready and fully healthy. And that will be the priority.”

Knowing Tatum, he’ll attack his rehab with full force and do everything he can to get back on the court as quickly as possible. But when Tatum can return to action versus when he should might be two different answers.

WNBA Adds 3 Expansion Teams at Record $250 Million Fee

The WNBA will add new expansion teams in Cleveland, Detroit and Philadelphia, according to a Monday morning league announcement. All three teams have ties to current NBA ownership groups. The expansion fee is a record $250 million, according to two sources who requested anonymity because the discussions were private.

The $250 million cash expansion fee is by far the largest ever paid for a new team in a U.S. women’s sports league, topping the $110 million that a Denver group paid to join the NWSL this year.

The new additions comes on the heels of an earlier round of expansion. The Golden State Valkyries, which agreed to pay a $50 million expansion fee, began play this season. The Toronto Tempo (also $50 million) and a Portland team ($75 million) are set to join in 2026. Additionally, a looming labor fight is also on the horizon. WNBA players opted out of the current CBA at the end of 2024, and talks are underway for a new deal to kick in prior to the start of the 2026 season.

It also comes amid a rapid rise in WNBA team valuations. The average franchise is now worth $269 million, according to Sportico’s most recent numbers, up 180% from  just a year ago. In their inaugural season the Valkyries top the list at $500 million, followed by the New York Liberty ($420 million) and the Indiana Fever ($335 million).

In September, the WNBA enlisted Allen & Company to run the expansion process for a 16th franchise. The New York-based boutique investment bank served as the league’s financial advisor when it raised $75 million in strategic capital in 2022. Bids for this round of W expansion were due at the end of January, and the process drew interest from groups both inside the NBA and beyond. More than 10 cities submitted formal bids in advance of the deadline,, including groups in Austin, Charlotte, Cleveland, Denver, Detroit, Houston, Kansas City and Nashville.

The WNBA meant to only add a 16th team, but the robust interest spurred the league to add three new franchises.

The NBA owns 42% of the WNBA, with 42% shared by WNBA franchise owners and the other 16% held by the 2022 investor consortium capital raise. As the league expands, neither the NBA’s portion nor the investors’ stake gets diluted, Sportico previously reported.

The expansion continue the trend of WNBA teams going to owners with NBA ties. Portland is owned by siblings Lisa Bhathal Merage and Alex Bhathal, who are LPs in the Sacramento Kings. Toronto is owned by NBA board of governors chairman, Larry Tanenbaum, who’s Kilmer Sports owns 25% of the Toronto Raptors. The Golden State Warriors owners own the Valkyries. That’s also true for the groups in Cleveland (Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert), Detroit (Pistons owner Tom Gores) and Philadelphia (76ers owners HBSE).

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NBA free agency: Tracking deals and the best available players

NBA free agency: Tracking deals and the best available players originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

It’s been a hectic start to the NBA offseason — and the action won’t be slowing down.

The 2025 NBA free agency period opened Monday as a long list of veterans hit the open market. The start of free agency comes less than a week after the 2025 NBA Draft was held.

This offseason has already seen the likes of Kevin Durant, Jrue Holiday, Kristaps Porzingis, Desmond Bane, Anfernee Simons and Jalen Green change teams, among others. So, which other notable names will be on the move?

From the best available players and more, here’s what to know about NBA free agency:

When does NBA free agency start in 2025?

Teams were allowed to start negotiating and striking deals with free agents from rival clubs starting at 6 p.m. ET/5 p.m. CT/3 p.m. PT on Monday, June 30.

But contracts can’t be made official until Sunday, July 6.

What is the NBA salary cap in 2025-26?

The salary cap for 2025-26 is set at $154.6 million, the NBA confirmed Monday. That marks a roughly $14 million increase from last season.

The luxury tax is $187.9 million, with the first apron at $195.9 million and the second apron at $207.8 million.

Who are the best NBA free agents in 2025?

Here’s a look at the top names on the open market. This list will be updated with reported deals as free agents get scooped up (players listed alphabetically by last name):

Guards

  • Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Minnesota Timberwolves
  • Malik Beasley, Detroit Pistons
  • Malcolm Brogdon, Washington Wizards
  • Bruce Brown Jr., New Orleans Pelicans
  • Jared Butler, Philadelphia 76ers
  • Jordan Clarkson, Utah Jazz (buyout)
  • Spencer Dinwiddie, Dallas Mavericks
  • Dante Exum, Dallas Mavericks
  • Javonte Green, Cleveland Cavaliers
  • Josh Giddey, Chicago Bulls (restricted)
  • Eric Gordon, Philadelphia 76ers
  • Quentin Grimes, Philadelphia 76ers (restricted)
  • Tim Hardaway Jr., Detroit Pistons
  • Gary Harris, Orlando Magic
  • Aaron Holiday, Houston Rockets — reportedly re-signing with Rockets for 1 year, minimum
  • Ty Jerome, Cleveland Cavaliers
  • Tre Jones, Chicago Bulls
  • Cory Joseph, Orlando Magic
  • Luke Kennard, Memphis Grizzlies
  • Caris LeVert, Atlanta Hawks
  • Tre Mann, Charlotte Hornets
  • De’Anthony Melton, Brooklyn Nets
  • Chris Paul, San Antonio Spurs
  • Cameron Payne, New York Knicks
  • Gary Payton II, Golden State Warriors
  • Kevin Porter Jr., Milwaukee Bucks
  • Duncan Robinson, Miami Heat
  • D’Angelo Russell, Brooklyn Nets
  • Dennis Schröder, Detroit Pistons
  • Landry Shamet, New York Knicks
  • Cameron Thomas, Brooklyn Nets (restricted)
  • Gary Trent Jr., Milwaukee Bucks
  • Russell Westbrook, Denver Nuggets
  • Delon Wright, New York Knicks

Wings

  • Santi Aldama, Memphis Grizzlies (restricted) — reportedly re-signing with Grizzlies for 3 years, $52.5M
  • Nicolas Batum, Los Angeles Clippers — reportedly re-signing with Clippers for 2 years, $11.5M
  • Brandon Boston Jr., New Orleans Pelicans
  • Amir Coffey, Los Angeles Clippers
  • Dorian Finney-Smith, Los Angeles Lakers — reportedly signing with Rockets for 4 years, $53M
  • Jeff Green, Houston Rockets — reportedly re-signing with Rockets for 1 year, minimum
  • Caleb Houstan, Orlando Magic
  • Johnny Juzang, Utah Jazz
  • Jonathan Kuminga, Golden State Warriors (restricted)
  • Jake LaRavia, Sacramento Kings
  • Trey Lyles, Sacramento Kings
  • Doug McDermott, Sacramento Kings
  • Taurean Prince, Milwaukee Bucks
  • Antonio Reeves, New Orleans Pelicans (restricted)
  • Jae’Sean Tate, Houston Rockets — reportedly re-signing with Rockets for 1 year, $3M
  • Jabari Walker, Portland Trail Blazers

Bigs

  • Precious Achiuwa, New York Knicks
  • Deandre Ayton, Portland Trial Blazers (buyout)
  • Marvin Bagley III, Memphis Grizzlies
  • Chris Boucher, Toronto Raptors
  • Thomas Bryant, Indiana Pacers
  • Clint Capela, Atlanta Hawks
  • Luka Garza, Minnesota Timberwolves
  • Jaxson Hayes, Los Angeles Lakers
  • Al Horford, Boston Celtics
  • Isaiah Jackson, Indiana Pacers (restricted)
  • Luke Kornet, Boston Celtics
  • Kevon Looney, Golden State Warriors
  • Brook Lopez, Milwaukee Bucks
  • Sandro Mamukelashvili, San Antonio Spurs
  • Larry Nance Jr., Atlanta Hawks
  • Paul Reed, Detroit Pistons — reportedly re-signing with Pistons for 2 years, $11M
  • Day’Ron Sharpe, Brooklyn Nets — reportedly re-signing with Nets for 2 years, $12M
  • Ben Simmons, Los Angeles Clippers
  • Myles Turner, Indiana Pacers
  • Mo Wagner, Orlando Magic
  • Trendon Watford, Brooklyn Nets
  • Guerschon Yabusele, Philadelphia 76ers

Reports via Chris Haynes, ESPN’s Shams Charania, The Athletic’s Kelly Iko, HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto

Flyers Reportedly Rejected Islanders Trade to Secure Porter Martone

The Flyers were all-in on Porter Martone at the NHL Draft. (Photo: Kirby Lee, Imagn Images)

The Philadelphia Flyers were open to lots of things ahead of the NHL Draft, but, ultimately, a bold New York Islanders trade offer wasn't enough to pull them away from selecting Porter Martone with the sixth overall pick.

The Islanders, who already drafted stud defenseman Matthew Schaefer with the No. 1 pick, received the 16th and 17th overall picks from the Montreal Canadiens in the Noah Dobson trade, and those ultimately became winger Victor Eklund and defenseman Kashawn Aitcheson.

Those two picks were reportedly offered to the Flyers, according to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, but it was a non-starter with Martone on the board.

"With the 16th and 17th picks, I think [Islanders GM Mathieu Darche] definitely offered them to the Predators at five," Friedman said in his latest episode of the "32 Thoughts" podcast.

"I think Philly told them... I think [the Islanders] called and said we'll do this, but Philly's like, nope. I don't even think Philly considered it. I think once Martone was there, Philly was like, 'We're not doing this,' because they really like Martone."

Flyers Can Thank Cutter Gauthier for New Left Wing ProspectFlyers Can Thank Cutter Gauthier for New Left Wing ProspectWith the 2025 NHL Draft now in the books, the Cutter Gauthier trade is now complete with the Philadelphia Flyers replacing their former top forward prospect outright.

Friedman went on to explain that the Flyers, like the Predators and Utah Mammoth before them, were right to reject the Islanders' approaches based on the value of the picks.

The Islanders, presumably, were after new Boston Bruins center James Hagens at the draft, but dropping that far in the draft would have guaranteed that the Flyers lost out on Martone.

Aitcheson actually would have been a nice add for the Flyers given the start of their prospect pool on the left side of the defense, but Eklund is another small (but very talented, to be fair) winger who would have quickly become redundant in Philadelphia.

Plus, fans have been clamoring for size and skill.

They finally got it in Martone, as the Flyers refused to give into the temptation of trade offers or the allure of a center like Hagens.

NBA rumors: Stretch center a ‘high priority' for Warriors in free agency

NBA rumors: Stretch center a ‘high priority' for Warriors in free agency originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

The Warriors’ priority this NBA offseason is in place.

Golden State’s “high priority” in the opening hours of free agency is signing a stretch center, with veteran Al Horford surging as a “preferred target,” The Athletic’s Anthony Slater reported Monday, citing league sources. 

While adding a stretch center is Golden State’s priority, Jonathan Kuminga’s restricted free agency is the biggest question the Warriors have to answer this offseason, and as Slater noted, adding a free agent could complicate general manager Mike Dunleavy’s workflow. 

“If the Warriors use the taxpayer midlevel exception (projected at around $5.7 million) on Horford or another free agent, they’ll be hard-capped at the second apron, currently projected at $207.8 million,” Slater wrote. 

“The Warriors currently have nine players under contract at $170.5 million. Kuminga’s qualifying offer, extended over the weekend by the Warriors, is $7.9 million, but his cap hold is $22.9 million, further clogging the Warriors’ books if his situation drags deeper into July.”

In addition to Slater, NBA insider Marc Stein reported in his latest Substack, citing league sources, the Warriors’ interest in Horford. 

Before the NBA’s Feb. 6 trade deadline, Golden State was the team most interested in trading for Chicago Bulls center Nikola Vučević

Dunleavy and Co., however, were unable to agree to a trade package with Chicago for the two-time All-Star.

Many believe the Warriors need a stretch five who can help anchor the rotation against bigger teams on defense while providing dynamic shooting on offense.

It now appears the Warriors will prioritize filling a massive hole ahead of a crucial 2025-26 season.

Download and follow the Dubs Talk Podcast

NBA rumors: Stretch center a ‘high priority' for Warriors in free agency

NBA rumors: Stretch center a ‘high priority' for Warriors in free agency originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

The Warriors’ priority this NBA offseason is in place.

Golden State’s “high priority” in the opening hours of free agency is signing a stretch center, with veteran Al Horford surging as a “preferred target,” The Athletic’s Anthony Slater reported Monday, citing league sources. 

While adding a stretch center is Golden State’s priority, Jonathan Kuminga’s restricted free agency is the biggest question the Warriors have to answer this offseason, and as Slater noted, adding a free agent could complicate general manager Mike Dunleavy’s workflow. 

“If the Warriors use the taxpayer midlevel exception (projected at around $5.7 million) on Horford or another free agent, they’ll be hard-capped at the second apron, currently projected at $207.8 million,” Slater wrote. 

“The Warriors currently have nine players under contract at $170.5 million. Kuminga’s qualifying offer, extended over the weekend by the Warriors, is $7.9 million, but his cap hold is $22.9 million, further clogging the Warriors’ books if his situation drags deeper into July.”

In addition to Slater, NBA insider Marc Stein reported in his latest Substack, citing league sources, the Warriors’ interest in Horford. 

Before the NBA’s Feb. 6 trade deadline, Golden State was the team most interested in trading for Chicago Bulls center Nikola Vučević

Dunleavy and Co., however, were unable to agree to a trade package with Chicago for the two-time All-Star.

Many believe the Warriors need a stretch five who can help anchor the rotation against bigger teams on defense while providing dynamic shooting on offense.

It now appears the Warriors will prioritize filling a massive hole ahead of a crucial 2025-26 season.

Download and follow the Dubs Talk Podcast