Each summer, the NBA free agency period becomes the focal point of the sports universe.
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Partly because of its sheer unpredictability, partly because of the thrill of watching familiar players in new team colors, and partly because of the relatively quiet sports scene in late June and early July, NBA free agency dominates sports broadcasts and conversations for an extended period. It has become a yearly ritual.
This season’s free agency is anticipated to be just as eventful. Following a fiercely contested NBA Finals between the Oklahoma City Thunder and Indiana Pacers, and just days after the NBA draft on June 25 featuring the highly anticipated prospect Cooper Flagg, expectations are high. The availability of a compelling group of players through free agency and trades, combined with the complex dynamics introduced by the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), makes this an exciting time to watch.
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Below is the timetable, regulations, and all other essential details you need to know for this summer’s NBA free agency.
NBA Free Agency Timeline
When does NBA free agency start?
NBA free agency begins on June 30. However, there are several important starting dates to remember.
The day following the conclusion of the Finals, which could occur in early June, teams are allowed to start negotiations with their own free agents. For instance, the Pacers cannot start discussions about a new contract with unrestricted free agent Myles Turner until after the Finals are over.
June 30 at 6 p.m. ET marks the official start of free agency, however no agreements can be officially signed during what is known as the moratorium period. During this time, teams can only negotiate and verbally agree with free agents. This is typically when major players are snapped up, often within minutes of the opening of free agency.
On July 6, at 12:01 p.m. ET, the moratorium period ends and free agents can officially sign contracts. Any agreements reached during the moratorium can now be formalized on paper. Free agents who failed to reach an agreement during the moratorium continue their negotiations.
When does NBA free agency end?
Free agency opens in late June and lasts throughout the summer. It officially ends in early October, which is the last chance for teams to engage in sign-and-trade deals and offer extensions on rookie-scale contracts. After the season starts, teams can still sign free agents, but with significantly less roster flexibility than during the summer.
Critical Dates for NBA Free Agency
Below are the key dates to keep in mind for the 2025 NBA free agency.
|
DATE |
SIGNIFICANCE |
|---|---|
|
June 20 OR June 23 |
Teams can negotiate with upcoming free agents on their own roster |
|
June 30 |
Free agency moratorium begins; teams can agree to terms with free agents across the league |
|
July 6 |
Moratorium ends; teams can officially sign free agents |
Rules of NBA Free Agency
The regulations governing NBA free agency are quite straightforward.
Teams are not allowed to engage in negotiations with players until the commencement of free agency. Once the NBA Finals conclude, teams may begin talks with their own upcoming free agents, but not with players from other rosters. On June 30, all restrictions are lifted, and teams are free to negotiate with any free agents. Then, on July 6, the agreements can be officially signed.
Does this mean no teams attempt to bend the rules and negotiate beforehand, gaining an advantage? Not exactly. Teams have tried and likely will continue to try this, often without significant penalties. However, the NBA has imposed fines and draft pick forfeitures on teams found guilty of violating free agency rules.
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Mike Johnson is a passionate news writer with a keen interest in current events. With over a decade of experience in journalism, he has a talent for uncovering the stories that matter most. Mike’s insightful articles and in-depth analyses have made him a trusted voice in the industry. He thrives on staying ahead of the news curve, providing readers with timely and relevant information. Whether it’s breaking news, politics, or social issues, Mike’s dedication to the craft ensures that his readers are always well-informed.