Who are the remaining free agents in the NBA market? The official website evaluates the nine major targets yet to sign: including Westbrook and Paul.

On July 18, Beijing time, the NBA free agency market is becoming increasingly quiet, with fewer options available. However, there are still some targets that could help teams. The NBA official website has listed the nine most notable free agents who are still unsigned (including restricted and unrestricted free agents), sorted alphabetically as follows —

Malcolm Brogdon

At 32 years old, he is nearing the end of his career but still possesses enough talent to serve as a quality backup point guard or an emergency starter for certain teams. Contending teams in need of backcourt reinforcements might want to consider him, as Brogdon plays a steady, non-rash style. Last season, during a rebuilding phase with the Wizards, he performed decently (averaging 12.7 points and 4 assists), and his recognized leadership is highly valued. If he hasn’t found a new home by the time training camp opens, it would be quite surprising.

Josh Giddey

When a restricted free agent hasn’t reached an agreement with their original team nor received a decent offer from other teams, it often indicates an issue. Either Giddey’s asking price is too high for the Bulls, or potential suitors are uncertain about acquiring him, as the Bulls can easily match any offer to keep him. Giddey showcased some value in his first season with the Bulls, averaging 14 points, 8 rebounds, and 7 assists. The question is whether his market value can reach around $30 million per year. However, one party will eventually make a concession — either the Bulls or Giddey — to finalize a trade.

Quentin Grimes

Last season, all eyes were on Doncic’s departure from the Mavericks, but another less noticed change was Grimes’ transfer from Dallas to Philadelphia. After joining the 76ers, he excelled, averaging 21.9 points, raising questions about why the Mavericks let him go, especially considering their need for backcourt depth. The Mavericks’ loss became the 76ers’ gain. Of course, as a restricted free agent, despite his brief period of standout performance, Grimes’ asking price has significantly increased.

Al Horford

At this stage of his career, Horford prioritizes family and comfort over money — after all, he has already made a substantial fortune. Once the Celtics decide he is no longer cost-effective and let him go, Horford will need to determine which team and city best fit his situation. Any team in need of a space-oriented big man would want to sign him, partly because he can still contribute in limited minutes, and partly because his asking price is likely to be reasonable. The Warriors are interested, but San Francisco is quite far from his homes in Boston and Miami.

Jonathan Kuminga

This restricted free agent may be looking for a change of scenery, as his playing time and role under Steve Kerr are somewhat uncertain. However, so far, no other teams have made him high offers. Kuminga is clearly an emerging forward with significant room for improvement. The key issue lies in his asking price and whether the Warriors would agree to a sign-and-trade, or if Kuminga would opt for a less likely scenario — staying in Golden State for another season and then testing free agency again next summer.

Chris Paul

At 40, he is better suited for a backup role. The good news is that Paul played all 82 games for the Spurs last season, maintaining good form and an open mindset. As a long-time veteran in the league, he has accumulated wealth that could influence generations, and he now hopes to be closer to his family, living in a city of his choice. All signs indicate that Paul may stay in Los Angeles next season; however, which team is still uncertain. From a sentimental perspective, the Clippers would be a nice choice for him to retire with a team he once helped.

Gary Payton II

Any team needing defensive reinforcement will consider this "Son of the Glove." He is unlikely to return to the Warriors next season. Payton is older than most people realize (32), yet he still has impressive leaping ability. He is one of the few free agents facing financial difficulties as the summer ends, with teams running low on funds and starting to seek cost-effective players. Payton's salary last season was $9 million, and his new contract is likely to be in that range. He will certainly find a new team this fall; it’s just a matter of time and place.

Cam Thomas

This restricted free agent from the Nets is recognized as a scorer (averaging 24.0 points last season) and is eagerly awaiting his first significant contract. Clearly, there is a significant disagreement between him and Brooklyn in negotiations; otherwise, he would have already signed. His situation is similar to Kuminga’s, so it’s possible that once one signs, the other will follow suit quickly. For Thomas, it all comes down to price and value, nothing more.

Russell Westbrook

He is a major unknown in the free agency market. Some teams still believe he can contribute, while others are convinced he is no longer effective. The three teams Westbrook previously played for (Lakers, Clippers, Nuggets) are all contenders but chose not to retain him, which clearly does not reflect well on his abilities. His jump shot has never been a strength and has now become a significant liability — defenders are willing to give him ample space to shoot, hoping he will take the shot. Additionally, he often commits turnovers. However, even in a declining phase of his career, Westbrook remains full of energy. This might give him another opportunity.