The 2025 Offseason’s Top 7 Contracts

1. Dorian Finney-Smith, Houston Rockets ($13.2 million AAV)

• Contract: 4 years, $52.7 million (with $26 million guaranteed)
• Cap percentage: 8.21%
• 2024-25 stats (63 games): 8.7 points, 3.9 rebounds, 1.4 assists

The Rockets acquired Finney-Smith from the Mavericks, aiming to bolster their wing defense and shooting alongside Amen Thompson and Tari Eason. This move was partly influenced by a previous trade where the Lakers obtained him, hoping to re-sign him, but Houston offered a more appealing, longer-term deal. Finney-Smith’s role as a reliable 3-and-D player is seen as a core component for Houston’s championship pursuit.

2. Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Atlanta Hawks ($15.2 million AAV)

• Contract: 4 years, $60.7 million (player option in 2028-29)
• Cap percentage: 9.8%
• 2024-25 stats (82 games): 9.4 points, 3.2 rebounds, 2.7 assists

Alexander-Walker, a versatile wing, joined Atlanta after being part of a trade involving the Lakers, Timberwolves, and Jazz. With a strong defensive reputation and connections to star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, he adds depth to the Hawks’ roster, which aims to compete in the Eastern Conference around Trey Young and Kristaps Porzingis.

3. Guerschon Yabusele, New York Knicks ($5.6 million AAV)

• Contract: 2 years, $11.3 million (with a player option in 2026-27)
• Cap percentage: 3.56%
• 2024-25 stats (70 games): 11 points, 5.6 rebounds, 2.1 assists

After a period overseas, Yabusele revitalized his NBA career with the Sixers and now joins the Knicks, providing size and shooting as a versatile frontcourt presence. His addition enhances New York’s bench depth as they push toward competing deep into the playoffs.

4. Deandre Ayton, Los Angeles Lakers ($8.1 million AAV)

• Contract: 2 years, $16.2 million (player option in 2026-27)
• Cap percentage: 5.24%
• 2024-25 stats (40 games): 14.4 points, 10.2 rebounds, 1.6 assists

The Lakers signed Ayton after a buyout from Portland, seeking a reliable center to upgrade their frontcourt. Despite past inconsistencies, Ayton’s ability to defend the rim and contribute offensively makes him a valuable piece for LA’s title ambitions.

5. Ty Jerome, Memphis Grizzlies ($9.2 million AAV)

• Contract: 3 years, $27.7 million (with a player option in 2027-28)
• Cap percentage: 5.68%
• 2024-25 stats (74 games): 12.5 points, 2.5 rebounds, 3.4 assists

Last season, Jerome was an excellent bench playmaker for Cleveland, but his playoff struggles exposed limitations. Now with Memphis, he provides valuable depth behind Ja Morant, especially important given Morant’s injury history.

6. Bruce Brown Jr., Denver Nuggets ($3.1 million AAV)

• Contract: 1 year, $3.1 million
• Cap percentage: 1.48%
• 2024-25 stats (74 games): 8.3 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists

The former Nuggets contributor signed with Indiana but could return to form on a minimum deal. His versatility and intensity as a defender remain assets capable of boosting any team’s second unit.

7. Gary Trent Jr., Milwaukee Bucks ($3.8 million AAV)

• Contract: 2 years, $7.6 million
• Cap percentage: 2.39%
• 2024-25 stats (74 games): 11.1 points, 2.3 rebounds, 1.2 assists

The Bucks re-signed Trent on a bargain deal, valuing his sharpshooting and effort. Known for his perimeter defense and deep shooting, Trent provides Milwaukee with a cost-effective role player capable of contributing on both ends.