The first official signings of Free Agency 2026
The transfer market is underway: Sixers, Heat, Suns, Bulls, Nets, and Rockets are already making moves
The NBA Free Agency 2026 is already underway. The market officially opened on July 1st and franchises have wasted no time in securing their first agreements to strengthen their rosters for the upcoming season. Philadelphia 76ers, Miami Heat, Brooklyn Nets, Phoenix Suns, Chicago Bulls, and Houston Rockets have already been involved in some of the initial moves of a summer that promises to be full of significant transactions.
Although the big stars are still expected to define their futures in the coming days, several organizations have begun to bolster their rotations with strategic additions, taking advantage of the various available salary exceptions and closing contracts that could prove very valuable in the medium term.
Dean Wade heads to Philadelphia
One of the first confirmed agreements in this free agency is that of Dean Wade, who will continue his career with the Philadelphia 76ers after signing a four-year, $39 million contract.
The Pennsylvania franchise will use the mid-level exception for teams not paying luxury tax to finalize the deal, a decision that also means the Sixers will be subject to the so-called first salary apron during the upcoming season.
Philadelphia continues to shape a roster that aims to reclaim prominence in the Eastern Conference after a season filled with ups and downs.
Miami Banks on Tim Hardaway Jr.'s Experience
Another early market move brings Tim Hardaway Jr. to the Miami Heat.
The veteran guard has agreed to a one-year, $6.5 million contract, also utilizing the mid-level exception for teams not paying luxury tax.
This addition brings experience, outside shooting, and depth to the Florida team's rotation, as they continue to adjust their roster to stay competitive in the East.
Brooklyn Keeps Keon Ellis
The Brooklyn Nets have also wasted no time in finalizing deals.
The franchise has reached an agreement with Keon Ellis, who signs a contract for two years and $18 million. The second year includes a mutual option, giving both the player and the team the choice to extend the association until the 2027-28 season.
The move allows Brooklyn to retain a young player with growth potential within their project.
Luke Kennard swaps Los Angeles for Phoenix
The Phoenix Suns have also been prominent in the opening hours of the market.
The franchise has come to terms with Luke Kennard, who signs for two years and $13 million.
Kennard ended the 2025-26 season with the Los Angeles Lakers, having joined from the Atlanta Hawks mid-season. Now, he brings his renowned outside shooting to a team still looking to surround their core with shooters.
Zach Collins Finds New Home in Chicago
The Chicago Bulls have bolstered their frontcourt with the addition of Zach Collins.
The center has signed a two-year, $17 million contract. Collins is represented by agents Mark Bartelstein and Kieran Piller.
A Season Marked by Injuries
The past season was particularly challenging for Collins. The big man only managed to play in 10 games due to a fractured left wrist and later a toe sprain, physical issues that severely hindered his continuity.
Chicago now hopes he can regain his best form if he can stay healthy.
Houston Adds Bogdan Bogdanovic
The Houston Rockets have also made a move in the early stages of free agency.
According to Shams Charania, Bogdan Bogdanovic has reached an agreement with the Texan franchise for a one-year contract.
The financial details of the deal have not been disclosed, but Houston adds a player with extensive NBA experience capable of providing scoring from the perimeter and leadership from the bench.
First Day with a Lot of Action
The market opening confirms that the franchises have not hesitated to strengthen their rosters right away. While none of these agreements involve superstars, they do represent moves that could have a significant impact on the construction of aspiring teams next season.
| Player | New Team | Contract |
|---|---|---|
| Dean Wade | Philadelphia 76ers | 4 years and $39 million |
| Tim Hardaway Jr. | Miami Heat | 1 year and $6.5 million |
| Keon Ellis | Brooklyn Nets | 2 years and $18 million |
| Luke Kennard | Phoenix Suns | 2 years and $13 million |
| Zach Collins | Chicago Bulls | 2 years and $17 million |
| Bogdan Bogdanovic | Houston Rockets | 1 year (amount undisclosed) |
The 2026 Free Agency has just begun, but the pace of activity already foretells intense days ahead. With many stars yet to settle their futures and several significant trades on the table, these initial agreements seem to be just the start of a summer that could significantly alter the competitive landscape of the NBA.
This is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Los primeros fichajes oficiales de la Agencia Libre 2026
