Restricted Free Agents Struggle to Find Teams as Training Camp Approaches

As of August 1st, 2025, four restricted free agents—Jonathan Kuminga, Cam Thomas, Josh Giddey, and Quentin Grimes—have yet to sign new contracts, with training camp just around the corner. This situation has arisen due to the strict operating guidelines under the new collective bargaining agreement, which have given teams significant leverage over these players.

The Golden State Warriors, Brooklyn Nets, Chicago Bulls, and Philadelphia 76ers, the teams that hold the rights to these unsigned stars, have been able to maintain their positions, as there has been little outside interest in the players. Kuminga did receive some sign-and-trade offers, but the Warriors ultimately declined them.

In contrast, the Houston Rockets have managed to avoid a similar predicament. Last year, the team proactively extended their own 2021 draftees, Jalen Green and Alperen Sengun, before the October 21st deadline. Green signed a three-year, $105.3 million deal, while Sengun agreed to a five-year, $185 million contract, both with player options for the final year.

Had the Rockets not secured these extensions, Green and Sengun would have also entered restricted free agency, potentially creating uncertainty around their futures. This foresight by the Rockets' front office, led by GM Rafael Stone, has now paid dividends, as the team can focus on building around their young core without the distractions of looming free agency.