With the start of the NBA’s 2025/26 league year and the end of the July moratorium, free agents will be able to officially sign contracts.
At the same time, a key group of young players – those entering the final year of their rookie-scale deals – will become eligible for extensions starting July 1.
These players, all 2022 first-round picks, have until the eve of the 2025/26 regular season to reach long-term agreements.
If they don’t, they’ll hit restricted free agency in summer 2026. Rookie extensions can last up to five years and take effect in 2026/27.
Recent seasons have seen a growing number of early extensions, with at least 10 per year since 2020, including a record 14 in 2023.
That trend is expected to continue, as teams aim to secure rising stars before they reach the open market.
Notable 2022 draftees eligible for extensions this offseason include Paolo Banchero, Chet Holmgren, Keegan Murray, Shaedon Sharpe, Jalen Williams, and Jabari Smith Jr., among others.
A total of 22 players will be eligible this offseason for rookie scale extensions. Here's the full list: https://t.co/jlf3c68Uu2
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) May 6, 2025
