LeBron’s new teammate and blockbuster deal in Denver: The biggest moves on day one of NBA free agency

After weeks of speculation, the first day of NBA free agency has not been short on drama. There have been big moves, huge contract extensions and one blockbuster trade already.

Monday’s action is just the start of what promises to be a busy offseason for front offices around the league. Here are three of the biggest stories to emerge from Monday, June 1...

LeBron James gets player option and new teammate

He may now be 40, but the LA Lakers’ roster decision still revolve around the veteran superstar. When LeBron James agreed an extension with the Lakers last summer it was announced as a two-year deal but actually included a player option for the second of those year.

On Sunday it was confirmed that he would be activating the $52.6 million player option for the 2025/26 season and he has already got a new teammate. The Lakers has brought in forward Jake LaRavia from the Sacramento Kings. The 6ft 8in big man is a fierce defender and will add greater physicality.

Denver trade MPJ to to Brooklyn

The Denver Nuggets have also been busy on opening day, trading Michael Porter Jr. to the Brooklyn Nets, getting Cameron Jackson and an unprotected 2032 first round pick in return. The trade has major salary cap benefits for the Nuggets, who are now able to shift the remaining $79.1 million due over the next to seasons.

That deal frees Denver of the luxury tax and even gives them use of the $14.1 million non-taxpayer midlevel exception within the salary limits. After losing Porter Jr. the Nuggets followed that up by agreeing a return for Bruce Brown, the free agent who helped the team to an NBA championship in 2023. Brown signs a one-year deal on the league’s veterans minimum terms.

New deals for Harden, Jackson Jr.

While LeBron James has accepted his player option, James Harden has held out for a little more than he had been entitled to. The Athletic reports that Harden turned down his $36.4 million final year option with the LA Clippers, and will instead sign a two-year deal worth $81.5 million.

The LA-born star put up a brilliant individual season in 2024/25, effectively carrying the team down the stretch. Harden was named in the All-Star team for the first time in three seasons and the 35-year-old has continued to prove that he is still an effective performer in the NBA.

But in terms of financial package, the biggest deal of Monday was the new contract set to be agreed between the Memphis Grizzlies and Jaren Jackson Jr. The defensive star was a key performer for Memphis last season and they have sought to tie him down with a five-year extension, worth the league-maximum $240 million. A big show of faith from the Grizzlies to the 26-year-old.

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