Why these 4 very good NBA players remain unsigned

Four Top Free Agents Remain Unsigned: What's the Hold-Up?

Restricted Free Agency Creates Complex Negotiations

NBA free agency is mostly wrapped up, with teams enjoying a quiet summer. However, four talented players— Jonathan Kuminga (Warriors), Josh Giddey (Bulls), Cam Thomas (Nets), and Quentin Grimes (76ers)—remain unsigned. These players were ranked seventh, ninth, 11th, and 15th, respectively, in USA TODAY Sports' original Top 25 available players list.

So, why are they still on the market? The answer lies in restricted free agency, a unique situation that complicates negotiations for both players and teams.

Understanding Restricted Free Agency: A Player's Dilemma

In an ideal scenario, players use other teams' interest as leverage to secure the best possible contract from their current team. However, this offseason presents significant challenges for those seeking big paydays.

Limited cap space across the league means many teams are hesitant to offer hefty contracts, especially with potential luxury tax penalties looming. This shift in market dynamics favors teams holding the rights to these restricted free agents, as they have more bargaining power and less pressure to meet players' demands.

Player Options: Short-Term Sacrifice for Future Gains?

While negotiating a lucrative contract is appealing, restricted free agents face another option: accepting their team's qualifying offer. This would allow them to play out the final season of their rookie contract and become unrestricted free agents after the 2025-26 season. While this might involve playing for a below-market value in the short term, it could lead to greater earning potential when they enter the open market untethered to any team.

Four Talented Players Seeking New Deals:

Jonathan Kuminga (Warriors):
At just 22 years old, Kuminga's career with the Warriors has been marked by both flashes of brilliance and inconsistency. While his athleticism and scoring potential are undeniable, questions remain about his efficiency and role within the team.

Case for re-signing: Kuminga's youth aligns with Golden State's goal of maximizing their championship window alongside veterans Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green.

Case against: Coach Steve Kerr has shown hesitation in trusting Kuminga in crucial moments, casting doubt on his ability to consistently perform at a high level.

Josh Giddey (Bulls):
Giddey is a triple-double threat who averaged 14.6 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.2 assists for the Bulls last season. However, Chicago's reluctance to offer him a large contract stems from their recent decision to give Patrick Williams a substantial five-year, $90 million deal.

Case for re-signing: Giddey's unique skillset and scoring ability make him a valuable asset for a team seeking playoff contention.

Case against: Chicago's commitment to Williams complicates their ability to justify a lucrative contract for Giddey, creating optics concerns within the front office.

Cam Thomas (Nets):
Thomas is a proven scorer who averaged 24 points per game in the limited games he played last season due to injury. However, his perceived lack of versatility beyond scoring has raised questions about his ability to thrive on a championship-contending team.

Case for re-signing: On a young, rebuilding Nets squad, Thomas offers consistent offensive production and could be valuable as a trade asset in the future.

Case against: Critics label Thomas an "empty calories ball hog," questioning whether he can contribute beyond scoring on a high-caliber team.

Quentin Grimes (76ers):
Grimes burst onto the scene with the 76ers after the trade deadline, averaging 21.9 points per game in limited playing time. However, Philadelphia faces financial constraints due to their star players' contracts, potentially limiting their ability to offer Grimes a significant contract.

Case for re-signing: The Sixers have a history of injuries, and Grimes proved capable of excelling in a larger role.

Case against: With Tyrese Maxey, Jared McCain, and VJ Edgecombe already on the roster, Philadelphia's guard depth makes it difficult to justify a large contract for Grimes.