Latest NBA rumors: Updates on Knicks coaching job, LeBron James and free agency

NBA free agency began today at 6 p.m. ET, and although teams are unable to officially sign players until July 6, we are officially in negotiation territory. Odds are that we’ll see a flurry of signings the moment they’re allowed. The only question is what those signings will be.

With numerous free agents ready to help teams take that next step, there are more than a few names fans need to keep their eyes on. Already, we’ve seen extensions and opt-outs, but how will those moves affect what is expected to be one of the wildest offseasons in recent memory?

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Here are the latest rumors surrounding NBA free agency.

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Latest NBA offseason rumors

Knicks head coaching hunt sees surprise name

It was a shock to everyone when the New York Knicks announced that they were firing head coach of five years Tom Thibodeau, especially considering he’d just led the team to their first Eastern Conference Finals appearance since 2000.

Despite the shocking move though, the Knicks are already reaching out to several big names, including former Sacramento Kings head coach Mike Brown.

Brown isn’t the only big name the Knicks have eyed, though. Reports indicate that the Knicks also reached out to South Carolina women’s basketball coach Dawn Staley about their opening.

It’s no secret that South Carolina women’s basketball has been one of the greatest college basketball teams under Staley’s tenure. They’ve won two of the last four national championships, reached the finals in one more, and have earned trips to the national semifinals in each of the last five seasons. In that span, Staley’s Gamecocks have lost a combined 12 games.

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South Carolina athletic director Jeremiah Donati confirmed the news, telling On3’s Talia Goodman, “If I were [the Knicks], I would have called her, too.”

Other candidates being considered for the job are Taylor Jenkins and Micah Nori, among others.

Knicks rumors: Does Dawn Staley fit with the New York Knicks?

LeBron James expected to stay with Lakers

No player in NBA history has played in 23 seasons, but after news broke of LeBron James, 40, opting into his $52.6 million player option for 2025-26, it appears LeBron will be setting yet another standard.

James recently returned to the court after weeks of nursing a knee injury that he suffered in the Lakers’ final playoff game against Minnesota.

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James’ agent, Rich Paul, told ESPN that LeBron still wants to compete for a championship. “He knows the Lakers are building for the future. He understands that, but he values a realistic chance of winning it all.” He continued, “We understand the difficulty in winning now while preparing for the future. We do want to evaluate what’s best for LeBron at this stage in his life and career. He wants to make every season he has left count, and the Lakers understand that, are supportive and want what’s best for him.”

Paul also ominously added that James will be keeping a close eye on the team’s roster decisions throughout the offseason.

Ayton, Clarkson to become free agents

Early Monday morning, former No. 1 overall pick DeAndre Ayton finalized a buyout of his contract with the Portland Trail Blazers.

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Although Ayton is coming off a down season, setting a career-low in scoring (14.4 points per game) across just 40 games, he is already drawing interest.

Former sixth man of the year Jordan Clarkson is also expected to become a free agent. He’s reportedly finalizing a buyout with the Utah Jazz.

ESPN’s Shams Charania claims that multiple playoff teams are interested in signing Clarkson.

Jaren Jackson Jr. signs 5-year extension

Shams Charania reports that the Grizzlies have signed former Defensive Player of the Year winner Jaren Jackson Jr. to a five-year, $240 million deal that includes a player option through the 2029-30 season.

Sacramento looking at veterans

The Sacramento Kings are coming off a disappointing season, falling under .500 for the first time in three years. In an attempt to rebound, it appears the Kings are looking at some veterans, including Dennis Schroder and former MVP Russell Westbrook.

NBA insider Chris Haynes claims that while the Kings are looking to sign both players, they have other options lined up as well in case one or both options fall through. Quentin Grimes, Malik Beasley (the subject of a gambling investigation), and Cam Thomas are all available in free agency as well.

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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: NBA rumors: Latest updates on free agency, Knicks and more