The NBA Buyout Market in 2025: the Post-Trade Deadline Frenzy-As of March 26, 2025, the NBA landscape is buzzing with excitement and speculation following the February 6 trade deadline. While blockbuster trades like Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers and Anthony Davis to the Dallas Mavericks stole the spotlight, the buyout market has emerged as a critical second act for teams aiming to refine their rosters before the playoff push. This lesser-known transaction window, often dubbed the “trade deadline’s less glamorous cousin,” offers playoff contenders and hopefuls a chance to snag veteran talent at a bargain, while giving players an opportunity to chase glory or redefine their careers. In this expansive article, we’ll explore the latest developments in the 2025 NBA buyout market, break down its mechanics, spotlight key players, predict team moves, and answer the burning questions fans .
What Is the NBA Buyout Market?
The NBA buyout market is a post-trade deadline phenomenon where teams and players mutually agree to part ways, allowing the player to become a free agent after clearing waivers. Typically, this involves a player giving up a portion of their remaining salary—often from a larger contract—in exchange for the freedom to sign with a new team, usually for a prorated veteran minimum deal. It’s a win-win in many cases: teams shed salary or roster clutter, while players join contenders or find better fits.
How It Works
When a player is bought out, their team waives them, placing them on the 48-hour waiver wire. If unclaimed, they become unrestricted free agents, free to sign with any team. However, a key deadline looms: players must be waived by March 1 to retain playoff eligibility with a new squad. This cutoff, known as the Playoff Eligibility Waiver Deadline, drives urgency in late February and early March, as seen in 2025 with moves already trickling in by late March.
New CBA Restrictions
The 2023 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) has reshaped the buyout market, leveling the playing field. Teams above the first luxury tax apron—currently the Boston Celtics, Denver Nuggets, Los Angeles Lakers, Milwaukee Bucks, Minnesota Timberwolves, New York Knicks, and Phoenix Suns—cannot sign players whose pre-waiver salaries exceeded the non-taxpayer mid-level exception ($12.822 million in 2025). This rule limits high-spending contenders from snagging big-name buyouts like Ben Simmons or Malcolm Brogdon, opening opportunities for mid-tier teams.
The 2025 Buyout Market: What’s Happening Now?
As of March 26, the 2025 buyout market is heating up, though it’s thinner than in past years due to the wild trade deadline that saw nine All-Stars change teams. With the March 1 deadline passed, several veterans have already found new homes, while others linger as potential late additions (ineligible for playoffs but still valuable for the regular season). Here’s the latest snapshot:
Confirmed Buyout Moves
Ben Simmons (Nets to Clippers): The former All-Star finalized a buyout with Brooklyn on February 13, signing with the Los Angeles Clippers shortly after. His $40.3 million salary barred apron teams, but the Clippers, sitting at 27-23 and ninth in the West, nabbed him for defensive versatility.
Torrey Craig (Bulls to Celtics): Waived by Chicago, Craig joined the defending champion Celtics on February 12, adding physical wing depth. His career 35.8% three-point shooting bolsters Boston’s bench.
Alex Len (Wizards to Lakers): After a failed trade for Mark Williams, the Lakers signed Len on February 11. The 31-year-old center provides rim protection behind Anthony Davis.
Javonte Green (Pelicans to Cavaliers): Bought out by New Orleans, Green signed with Cleveland on February 14, bringing energy to a 33-5 Cavaliers squad eyeing a title.
Daniel Theis (Thunder to AS Monaco): Waived by OKC, Theis opted for Europe over an NBA minimum deal, signing with AS Monaco on February 15.
Potential Candidates Still in Limbo
Posts on X and reports from The Athletic suggest several players could still hit the market:
Malcolm Brogdon (Wizards): Despite a trade to Washington, the 2023 Sixth Man of the Year (13.1 PPG this season) remains a buyout candidate. His $22.5 million expiring deal makes him a fit for non-apron contenders like the Philadelphia 76ers.
Bruce Brown (Pelicans): Traded to New Orleans in the Brandon Ingram deal, Brown’s $23 million expiring contract and two-way skills (8.4 PPG, 3.8 RPG) make him a prime target if bought out.
Seth Curry (Hornets): The 34-year-old sharpshooter (43.2% career 3P) could be waived by rebuilding Charlotte, drawing interest from spacing-needy teams like the Orlando Magic.Why the Buyout Market Matters in 2025
The buyout market isn’t just roster filler—it’s a proving ground where veterans can swing playoff fortunes or reclamation projects can revive careers. In 2025, its importance is amplified by the trade deadline’s chaos, leaving teams with mismatched rosters and contenders seeking that final piece.
Historical Impact
Past buyouts have shaped championships:
Peja Stojakovic (2011): Joined the Mavericks midseason, helping them win their lone title.
Boris Diaw (2012): Bought out by Charlotte, Diaw was key to the Spurs’ 2014 championship.
Markieff Morris (2020): Scored 19 points in Game 3 of the Finals for the Lakers after a Pistons buyout.
This year, with the Eastern Conference led by Cleveland (33-5) and the West wide open beyond OKC (31-7), a savvy buyout signing could tip the scales.
2025 Context
The CBA restrictions have thinned the pool of high-salary buyouts, but the market still offers niche fits. Teams like the Cavaliers, Warriors, and Kings—each below the 15-player roster minimum—must act soon, while apron-limited squads like the Celtics and Lakers target lower-salary veterans.
Key Players to Watch
The 2025 buyout market features a mix of big names and role players. Here’s who’s driving the conversation:
Ben Simmons: The Headliner
Why He’s Available: Brooklyn’s rebuild accelerated with trades, and Simmons’ $40.3 million deal became expendable.
Impact: With the Clippers, his defense (career 1.5 SPG) and playmaking (7.5 APG in limited 2024-25 action) bolster a playoff push, though his offense remains a question mark.
Fan Buzz: YouTube comments ask, “Can Simmons still be an All-Star?” His Clippers stint will test that narrative.
Malcolm Brogdon: The Veteran Prize
Why He’s a Candidate: Washington’s acquisition of Marcus Smart and Khris Middleton crowded the backcourt, sidelining Brogdon (24.1 MPG).
Potential Fit: The 76ers, needing a backup point guard post-Reggie Jackson trade, see him as an upgrade over Kyle Lowry.
Stats: 13.1 PPG, 4.0 APG on 43.7% FG—still a contributor when healthy.
Bruce Brown: The Two-Way Gem
Why He’s in Play: New Orleans, resetting after trading Ingram, may not need Brown’s expiring deal.
Suitors: The Golden State Warriors, post-Jimmy Butler trade, and Sacramento Kings crave his versatility (38.8% career 3P).
X Sentiment: Posts call him “the best buyout steal if he’s free.”
Seth Curry: The Sniper
Why He’s Vulnerable: Charlotte’s youth movement leaves little room for the 34-year-old on an expiring deal.
Fit: Orlando, struggling offensively (25th in 3P%), could use his 43.2% career three-point accuracy.
Google Searches: “Seth Curry highlights 2025” spike as fans envision him spacing the floor.
Lonnie Walker IV: The Wild Card
Unique Case: Playing for Zalgiris in Lithuania, Walker had an NBA escape clause until February 18. He didn’t activate it but remains a name to watch if waived later.
Appeal: His 11.7 PPG with the 2022-23 Lakers makes him a bench-scoring option for non-apron teams.
Team Strategies: Who’s Hunting for Buyouts?
The buyout market is a chessboard, with teams maneuvering based on needs and cap constraints. Here’s how key players are approaching it:
Contenders Above the Apron
Boston Celtics: With two open spots, they’ve added Torrey Craig but could target Daniel Theis (if he returns from Europe) or P.J. Tucker for frontcourt depth.
Los Angeles Lakers: Post-Len signing, they’re capped at sub-$12.8 million options like Josh Richardson for wing help.
Milwaukee Bucks: After adding Kyle Kuzma, they seek a backup big—Mo Bamba’s name surfaces on X.
Playoff Hopefuls Below the Apron
Cleveland Cavaliers: Green’s addition fills a wing spot, but they’re linked to Reggie Jackson for backcourt insurance.
Golden State Warriors: With 12 players after Butler’s arrival, they’re eyeing Brown or Brogdon to round out the roster.
Philadelphia 76ers: Brogdon tops their wish list to back up Tyrese Maxey, per ClutchPoints reports.
Rebuilding Teams Dumping Salary
Washington Wizards: Brogdon and Jackson (waived February 6) signal a youth focus post-Kuzma trade.
Charlotte Hornets: Curry’s exit seems imminent as they prioritize minutes for Zaccharie Risacher.
New Orleans Pelicans: Brown’s future hinges on their luxury tax stance after Ingram’s departure.
The buyout market has fans scouring YouTube and Google for answers. Here’s what they’re asking, with insights based on the latest chatter:
“Who’s Available on the Buyout Market?”
Answer: Simmons, Craig, Len, and Green are signed, but Brogdon, Brown, and Curry lead the watchlist. YouTube channels like “NBA on ESPN” and “HoopsHype” update rosters daily.
Fan Focus: Clips of Simmons’ Clippers debut (February 15 vs. Jazz) rack up views, with comments debating his fit.
“Which Teams Are Active in the Buyout Market?”
Answer: The Celtics, Lakers, Cavaliers, Warriors, and 76ers are key players. X posts highlight Cleveland’s interest in Simmons before he chose LA.
Search Spike: “Warriors buyout targets 2025” trends after Butler’s trade, with Brown a popular name.
“Can the Lakers/Celtics Sign Big Names?”
Answer: No—apron rules block Simmons, Brogdon, and Brown. Fans on YouTube ask, “Why can’t LeBron get Simmons?” unaware of the $12.8 million cap.
Workarounds: Len and Craig fit their budgets, per NBC Sports Boston.
“Where Can I Watch Buyout Highlights?”
Answer: YouTube’s “NBA” channel and “House of Highlights” post clips—Simmons’ first Clippers assist (February 15) nears 500K views.
Google Tip: Search “NBA buyout market 2025 highlights” for curated playlists.
“Will [Player X] Get Bought Out?”
Answer: Brogdon’s odds are high (Wizards’ guard logjam), Brown’s depend on New Orleans’ tax stance, and Curry’s seem certain unless Charlotte pivots.
Buzz: X posts like “Free Bruce Brown!” reflect fan hopes.
Breaking Down the Market: Tiers of Talent
The Athletic’s John Hollinger tiered the 2025 buyout market post-deadline, a framework still relevant in late March:
Tier 1: Game-Changers
Bruce Brown: A 2023 champion with Denver, his two-way play could elevate a contender.
Ben Simmons: Already signed, but his Clippers impact proves this tier’s value.
Tier 2: Rotation Boosters
Malcolm Brogdon: Health concerns linger, but his skills fit playoff teams.
Lonnie Walker IV: If he exits Europe, his scoring punch intrigues.
Tier 3: Niche Role Players
Seth Curry: A sniper for spacing-starved squads.
Larry Nance Jr.: Hawks may keep him, but his 8.5 PPG off the bench draws interest.
Tier 4: Depth Options
Reggie Jackson: Waived by Washington, he’s a cheap backup guard.
P.J. Tucker: His tenacity fits contenders if waived by the Clippers.
Predictions: What’s Next by Season’s End?
With the playoff eligibility deadline passed, the buyout market shifts to regular-season depth. Here’s what could unfold:
Brogdon to Philly
Why: The 76ers need a steady hand behind Maxey, and Brogdon’s expiring deal fits their non-apron status.
Impact: A 13-4-4 line off the bench could stabilize their postseason run.
Brown to Golden State
Why: The Warriors’ 12-man roster and Butler addition scream for a versatile wing.
Impact: Brown’s Nuggets pedigree could spark a Finals push with Curry and Butler.
Curry to Orlando
Why: The Magic’s offensive woes (102.3 ORtg, 27th) demand shooters.
Impact: A 40%+ 3P threat could make them a playoff sleeper.
Late Surprises
Chris Paul: If San Antonio fades post-Wembanyama injury, a buyout to OKC reunites him with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
Mo Bamba: Milwaukee might snag him for center depth if waived by the Clippers.
The Bigger Picture: Why the Buyout Market Endures
The buyout market isn’t about glamour—it’s about opportunity. For players, it’s a chance to chase rings (Simmons, Craig) or prove doubters wrong (Brogdon). For teams, it’s a low-risk shot at depth or a missing piece. In 2025, its muted star power reflects a trade deadline that drained the talent pool, yet its relevance persists as the playoff race tightens.
Cultural Impact
YouTube reactions—like “Bregman’s Clips” praising Simmons’ debut—show fans relish these redemption arcs. Google Trends data spikes for “NBA buyout market 2025” post-deadline, signaling sustained interest.
Legacy Potential
A Brown-to-Warriors move or Brogdon-to-Philly signing could echo Diaw or Stojakovic—small moves with outsized postseason echoes. Even if no one swings a series, the market’s role in roster tinkering keeps it vital.
The Buyout Market’s 2025 Story
As March 26 dawns, the 2025 NBA buyout market is a simmering subplot to the season’s main drama. Simmons and Craig have landed, Brogdon and Brown loom as prizes, and teams like the Warriors and 76ers plot their next chess moves. It’s not the trade deadline’s fireworks, but a slow burn that could ignite playoff runs. For fans, it’s a treasure hunt—combing YouTube for highlights, Googling rumors, and debating on X whether their team lands the next big steal. In a league where every edge counts, the buyout market remains a quirky, essential chapter in the NBA’s endless saga.
Faqs
What Is the NBA Buyout Market?
The NBA buyout market kicks in after the trade deadline (February 6, 2025, this year) when teams and players agree to part ways early via a contract buyout. A player gives up some salary, gets waived, and—if unclaimed after 48 hours—becomes a free agent, free to sign with any team. It’s a second chance for veterans stuck on struggling squads to join contenders, and for teams to tweak rosters without trades. Think of it as speed dating for the NBA: quick, mutual agreements to find a better fit before the postseason clock ticks out.
When Does the 2025 NBA Buyout Market End?
Technically, buyouts can happen anytime, but the key date is March 1, 2025—the playoff eligibility waiver deadline. Players waived by this date can sign with a new team and play in the playoffs. After March 1, they can still join a roster but are sidelined for postseason action. Most activity wraps up by early March, though this year’s market has been slower than usual, with only a handful of moves by late March. YouTube fans are calling it “the quietest buyout season ever,” but stragglers could still emerge.
Who Are the Biggest Names in the 2025 NBA Buyout Market?
The 2025 buyout market has delivered some headliners:
Ben Simmons: Bought out by the Nets, the former All-Star signed with the Clippers on February 14, adding defensive versatility despite his $40 million-plus salary barring apron teams like the Lakers or Celtics.
Alex Len: Waived by the Wizards after a nixed Mark Williams trade, he joined the Lakers on February 11, bolstering their frontcourt.
Torrey Craig: Cut by the Bulls, he signed with the Celtics on February 8, bringing pesky defense to the champs.
Potential candidates still in play include Malcolm Brogdon (Wizards), Bruce Brown (Pelicans), and Seth Curry (Hornets), though their teams haven’t pulled the trigger yet. Google searches for “Simmons buyout” spiked after his Clippers move, with fans debating his fit.
Which Teams Can’t Sign High-Salary Buyout Players?
Under the 2023 CBA, teams above the first tax apron ($178.7 million in 2025) can’t sign buyout players whose pre-waiver salary exceeded the non-taxpayer mid-level exception ($12.8 million). The restricted teams are:
Boston Celtics
Denver Nuggets
Los Angeles Lakers
Milwaukee Bucks
Minnesota Timberwolves
New York Knicks
Phoenix Suns
This rule blocks stars like Simmons ($40.3 million) or Brogdon ($22.5 million) from joining these contenders, leveling the playing field. YouTube analysts note it’s why the Lakers grabbed Len (under $12.8 million) instead of chasing bigger names.
What Are the Latest Updates on the 2025 Buyout Market?
As of March 26, 2025, the market’s been sluggish post-deadline. Key moves:
February 8: Torrey Craig signs with Boston.
February 11: Alex Len joins the Lakers.
February 14: Ben Simmons lands with the Clippers.
February 19: Javonte Green signs with the Cavaliers after a Pelicans buyout.
Rumors swirl around Malcolm Brogdon (possibly to the Clippers if bought out) and Bruce Brown (linked to the Kings), but no deals have materialized. The March 1 deadline has passed, so any new signings—like a hypothetical Lonnie Walker return from Europe—won’t be playoff-eligible. Fans on X are frustrated, with posts like “Where’s the buyout action??”
Why Has the 2025 Buyout Market Been So Quiet?
Several factors are at play:
New CBA Rules: Apron restrictions limit contenders’ options, shrinking the pool of big-name targets.
Trade Deadline Frenzy: Blockbusters (Luka Dončić to Lakers, Anthony Davis to Mavs) left fewer roster mismatches needing buyout fixes.
Team Strategy: Rebuilding teams like the Wizards and Hornets are holding onto vets like Brogdon and Curry for summer trades, per Marc Stein reports.
YouTube breakdowns suggest teams are “playing it safe,” prioritizing cap space over mid-season gambles.
Who Are the Top Buyout Candidates Still Available?
While many expected moves haven’t happened, here’s who’s still in the mix:
Malcolm Brogdon (Wizards): A 2023 Sixth Man of the Year, he’s averaged 13.1 points in 21 games. At $22.5 million, he’s a fit for non-apron teams like the Clippers or 76ers.
Bruce Brown (Pelicans): Traded in the Brandon Ingram deal, his $23 million expiring deal and two-way skills make him a hot commodity if waived.
Seth Curry (Hornets): A 43.2% career three-point shooter, he’s on an expiring deal and could boost spacing for teams like the Magic.
Google searches for “Brogdon buyout” and “Brown to Kings” are trending, but no confirmations yet.
How Do Buyouts Affect NBA Playoff Contenders?
Buyout players can be game-changers—or busts. Past examples include Blake Griffin (2021 Nets) and Peja Stojaković (2011 Mavericks title run). In 2025:
Celtics: Craig adds depth to their title defense.
Clippers: Simmons bolsters their bench for a playoff push.
Lakers: Len fills a gap after missing Mark Williams.
However, apron rules mean top teams can’t grab stars like Simmons, forcing reliance on lesser-known fits. YouTube debates rage over whether Simmons can revive LA’s postseason hopes.
What’s the Difference Between a Buyout and a Waiver?
Buyout: A mutual agreement where a player forfeits part of his salary to be released, then hits waivers. If unclaimed, he’s a free agent.
Waiver: A team cuts a player without negotiation; other teams can claim him within 48 hours off the waiver wire, taking on his full contract.
Most buyout players clear waivers (e.g., Simmons, Len) because their salaries deter claims. Google searches clarify this often-confused distinction.
How Can Fans Track NBA Buyout Market Updates?
Stay in the loop with:
Websites: NBA.com, ESPN, Hoops Rumors, and Spotrac for trackers and news.
Apps: ESPN, The Athletic, or Bleacher Report for push alerts.
YouTube: Channels like “NBA on ESPN” or “House of Highlights” for recaps.
Social Media: Follow insiders like Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) or Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) on X.
Searches for “NBA buyout tracker 2025” lead to these sources, keeping fans updated on every move.
Why Do Players Agree to Buyouts?
Players opt for buyouts to:
Chase Rings: Veterans like Simmons join contenders for a title shot.
More Minutes: Guys like Craig escape crowded rosters for bigger roles.
Fresh Start: A change of scenery can revive a career or morale.
For teams, it’s about shedding salary or roster spots. YouTube vlogs highlight Simmons’ “redemption arc” with the Clippers as a prime example.
What’s the Outlook for the Rest of the 2025 Buyout Market?
With March 1 passed, the market’s winding down. Remaining moves will focus on regular-season depth, not playoff runs. Brogdon, Brown, and Curry could still shift if their teams pivot to youth, but don’t expect fireworks. The CBA’s apron rules and a loaded trade deadline have muted this year’s buzz—Google trends show searches peaking in mid-February, now tapering off. Still, a surprise signing could reignite fan chatter as the postseason looms.
Why Should Fans Care About the Buyout Market?
The buyout market isn’t as flashy as the trade deadline, but it’s where underdog stories and roster tweaks can tip the scales. A savvy pickup—like Simmons for the Clippers—might spark a playoff upset, while a miss could haunt a contender. For fans, it’s a chance to see familiar names in new jerseys, adding drama to the stretch run. As one X user put it, “Buyouts are the NBA’s plot twists—small but spicy.
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