When Does NBA Free Agency Start in 2022? (Top Available Free Agents)
By Peter Dewey
The NBA offseason is in full swing, with rumors that players like Kyrie Irving, John Collins, Dejounte Murray and more could have new teams this offseason.
Sources: Kyrie Irving has requested and received permission from the Nets to find sign-and-trade offers from other teams. Kevin Durant still hasn't spoken to Nets front office. Russell Westbrook to Brooklyn remains unlikely. More for @NYDNSports https://t.co/SQ0hZxL4fm
— Kristian Winfield (@Krisplashed) June 27, 2022
One star that is rumored to be staying put is Washington Wizards star Bradley Beal, but that could change later this week.
Bradley Beal is 'very likely' to opt out of his $36.4M player option and re-sign with the Wizards on a five-year max contract, per @wojespn pic.twitter.com/zGyDinoLv2
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) June 26, 2022
When Does 2022 NBA Free Agency Start?
NBA free agency begins at 6 p.m. EST on Thursday, June 30.
Teams can begin negotiating with players that are set to become free agents once 6 p.m. hits, but don't be surprised if we see some deals struck rather quickly.
Last season, the Miami Heat and Chicago Bulls were in hot water for agreeing to sign-and-trades as soon as free agency opened, prompting the league to investigate tampering allegations between several franchises.
Who Are the Best NBA Free Agents?
There are several players that could reach free agency by opting out of their player options, such as Kyrie Irving, Bradley Beal and Russell Westbrook. However, there a bunch of players that are guaranteed to hit the open market this offseason.
Deandre Ayton, Center, Phoenix Suns -- Restricted Free Agent
Deandre Ayton was the No. 1 pick just a few seasons ago, but now it looks like the Phoenix Suns will let him walk in free agency or at least work a sign-and-trade.
Last season, Ayton averaged 17.2 points and 10.2 rebounds per game while shooting 63.4 percent from the field.
Zach LaVine, Guard, Chicago Bulls -- Unrestricted Free Agent
Zach LaVine is eligible for a five-year, $212 million contract from the Bulls, but he could decide to change teams and take a slightly smaller max deal elsewhere.
LaVine was an All-Star this past season and averaged 24.4 points per game. He's one of the better scorers in the league, but it's hard to see the Bulls letting him walk without at least finding a sign-and-trade.
Miles Bridges, Forward, Charlotte Hornets -- Restricted Free Agent
Miles Bridges is coming off arguably the best season of his career, and he's searching for a major offer in free agency.
If the Hornets balk and want to avoid the luxury tax, Bridges could find himself in a new uniform in the 2022-23 season.
Jalen Brunson, Guard, Dallas Mavericks -- Unrestricted Free Agent
Jalen Brunson has been heavily linked to the New York Knicks, and the Dallas Mavericks can't match his offer and retain him guaranteed since he's unrestricted.
However, the Mavericks could shell out a pretty penny to convince Brunson to remain Luka Doncic's running mate for the foreseeable future.
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