NBA News: Latest Updates on Top 3 Remaining Free Agents

There are still three notable free agents out there looking for a job in the NBA for 2025-26. There have been plenty of rumors surrounding the trio this summer, but let's get the latest on how things are shaking out for each of them, from ESPN's NBA Insiders.

Russell Westbrook

The nine-time All-Star had a nice season off the bench for the Denver Nuggets, but Russ is apparently one-and-done in Denver.

Tim McMahon tells us that the Sacramento Kings are "the most likely destination" for Westbrook for his age-37 campaign. He won't be getting a starting job, however, in Sac-Town, as McMahon suggests that Russ will have to share the point guard job with another free agent addition the Kings have already made this summer, in Dennis Schroder.

Ben Simmons

The former All-Star is a shell of the player he once was back in his Philly days, but if he's willing to care enough, and convince a team that he's still interested in playing basketball, he can be a playmaker, rebounder and solid defender off the bench. But Bobby Marks calls Simmons' situation a 'numbers crunch', writing that it'll be hard for him to find a club that has the room to take him on.
"Teams other than Golden State, for the most part, have completed their rosters for next season or cannot sign a player due to the apron. For example, the Lakers have an open roster spot but cannot sign a player until Jan. 18."

Nevertheless, we've heard numerous rumors about the New York Knicks being the frontrunners to sign Simmons. The Kings are said to be another possibility, but if they bring in a poor shooter like Westbrook, adding Simmons—and his outright fear of shooting the ball—would be a non-starter.

Al Horford

For a while now, it's sounded like a slam dunk that Horford will be going to the Golden State Warriors. But why hasn't it happened yet? "The Kuminga situation continues to hold up business for them, keeping Horford in a holding pattern," writes Anthony Slater. Kuminga has to decide what contract offer he'll be accepting from the Warriors.

"But Horford is comfortable waiting. Retirement remains on the table, sources said, though the Warriors appear to be operating as if he is a firm part of their plan next season."

Horford would be the de facto starting center for the Dubs, if he eventually signs on the dotted line.