What happened: The restricted free agent market has dwindled to a single prominent name following Peyton Watson's sign-and-trade departure. Jalen Duren stands as the last major restricted free agent still seeking a resolution for the 2026 offseason. Players like Cason Wallace from the 2023 draft class are merely extension-eligible and will not hit restricted free agency until next year if a deal is not reached.

Why it matters: The scarcity of remaining restricted free agents highlights a market where nearly all offseason business has concluded. Duren's unresolved status leaves one final significant piece of business pending before training camps open for the 2026-27 campaign.

What to watch: The focus now shifts to whether an offer sheet materializes or a new contract is agreed upon before the preseason begins.

Sources

  • r/nba