The NBA Draft is done, the suits are packed away, and the social media welcome posts have flooded in—but for front offices and fans alike, the real work is just beginning.
1. Summer League Madness 🏀
The next major stop is NBA Summer League, kicking off in early July. This is where rookies get their first real taste of NBA competition. Watch out for top picks like Cooper Flagg, Zaccharie Risacher, and others trying to prove they’re more than just hype. It’s also a key battleground for undrafted players on two-way contracts fighting for a permanent roster spot.
2. Free Agency Frenzy Begins 💰
Once the draft dust settles, free agency opens up. Expect chaos. From stars like Paul George potentially switching teams to role players cashing in, every contender will be tweaking their roster. Big extensions—like the Kyrie Irving one—or trade demands could shape the entire landscape.
3. Trade Season Still Cooking 🔥
The draft might’ve brought in new talent, but many teams now have the flexibility to start making big trades. Think veterans moved for picks, cap-clearing deals, or contending teams going all-in. The Celtics, Rockets, Suns, and Lakers are all expected to stay active.
4. Training Camp & Roster Battles
As we head into late summer and fall, training camps open and the battle for roster spots begins. Teams are allowed 21 players on the offseason roster, but that trims down to 15 plus two-ways by October. Expect surprise cuts, veteran signings, and plenty of drama.
5. Expectations vs. Reality
Every fanbase feels like a winner after the draft. But by preseason, we’ll start seeing who actually fits where. Will Cooper Flagg live up to the Luka comparisons? Can the Suns finally put it together? Did the Grizzlies get enough for Bane? These questions—and more—will define the offseason buzz.
Bottom Line:
The draft may be the headline, but it’s just the first chapter of the NBA offseason. From summer league stardom to free agency fireworks, stay locked in—this summer’s just heating up.
