2022 NBA free agency rumors: Live updates as Kevin Durant demands trade; Jalen Brunson to Knicks

July 1, 2022 World Sports

The 2021-22 season and NBA Draft are both in the books, and now all eyes are on the start of free agency. The speculation and rumors that surround free agency are what make this time of the year truly entertaining. This summer may not have some of the biggest names available on the free-agent market, but it’s still going to be a hectic offseason. Hours before free agency officially kicked off, Kevin Durant requested a trade away from the Brooklyn Nets. One of the NBA’s biggest superstars is now set to change teams this summer, and KD’s trade request will undoubtedly impact how teams handle their offseason business.

NBA free agency started Thursday at 6 p.m. ET, when teams could start negotiating deals with players. However, contracts won’t actually be official until the moratorium period is lifted on July 6. The NBA has reportedly told teams that the salary cap for next season is projected to be set at $123.6 million, up $11.6 million from last year’s $112 million cap figure. Zach LaVine and Deandre Ayton are among the top unrestricted free agents available this offseason. One name off the board is Jalen Brunson, who reportedly agreed to a four-year, $110M deal with the New York Knicks.