Teams eye top small forwards as NBA free agency begins
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 15, 2026, 5:42 PM
Last updated Jun 15, 2026
As the NBA offseason starts, the focus shifts to free agency featuring several key small forwards, including LeBron James, an unrestricted free agent with uncertain intentions about returning to the Los Angeles Lakers. At age 41, James is believed to be in physical decline, prompting speculation about his future role and potential fit with teams like the Golden State Warriors. Other notable free agents include Andrew Wiggins of the Miami Heat, who is weighing a lucrative player option, and Peyton Watson of the Denver Nuggets, a promising young talent expected to command significant interest. Additionally, Tari Eason from the Houston Rockets and Julian Champagnie from the San Antonio Spurs are also significant names as teams look to bolster their rosters ahead of the upcoming season.
- •LeBron James is an unrestricted free agent evaluating his options.
- •Andrew Wiggins has a $30.1 million player option with Miami.
- •Peyton Watson is a restricted free agent trending toward a substantial contract.
- •Tari Eason could be pried from the Rockets due to cap issues.
- •Julian Champagnie is viewed as a key player for the Spurs going forward.
- 5:42 PMYahoo Sports — Top NBA free-agent small forwards: What will LeBron James do?
"Let's break down the top small forwards in this year's free-agent market.
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