NBA free agents list and Knicks' defensive hurdles ahead of the 2026‑27 season

A roundup of the most sought‑after unrestricted and restricted free agents for the 2026‑27 NBA season highlights several high‑profile names. James Harden, who averaged 23.6 points and nearly eight assists last season, is expected to return to the Cleveland Cavaliers but has not yet signed. Young center Jalen Duren, a former Detroit Pistons draft pick averaging 19.5 points and 10.5 rebounds, remains a restricted free agent with teams weighing offers. Other notable players still on the market include DeMar DeRozan, Russell Westbrook, Bradley Beal, Bruce Brown, Kevin Love, Nicolas Batum and Seth Curry, as well as un‑restricted prospects such as Peyton Watson and Benedict Mathurin.

The New York Knicks, aiming to defend their championship, will rely on core players Jalen Brunson, Karl‑Anthony Towns, OG Anunoby, Mikal Bridges and Josh Hart. They face three major challenges: containing the Philadelphia 76ers’ new duo LeBron James and Jaylen Brown; coping with the Miami Heat’s Giannis Antetokounmpo‑Bam Adebayor frontcourt; and compensating for the loss of Mitchell Robinson. These issues will shape the Knicks’ strategy as the league heads into the new season.