As the 2025 NBA free agency period approaches, the futures of key players such as James Harden remain subjects of close attention. Despite active discussions around potential contract moves, sources indicate that Harden and several other prominent stars are expected to continue with their present teams. This James Harden 2025 NBA free agency update sheds light on the evolving scenarios for Harden, Kyrie Irving, Fred VanVleet, and Josh Giddey.
Insights on Irving and Harden’s Free Agency Prospects
NBA insider Jake Fischer offered detailed commentary on the offseason‘s point guard market, focusing heavily on Irving and Harden. Both players carry player options in their contracts for the 2025-26 season and are aiming to negotiate longer-term deals with their respective organizations.
Fischer clarified that current projections don’t anticipate Irving or Harden departing from Dallas Mavericks and Los Angeles Clippers, respectively. Their situations are closely linked, with Irving’s forthcoming contract potentially influencing Harden’s negotiation parameters.
“No one, to be clear, is forecasting Irving or Harden to leave their current situations in Dallas and Los Angeles,”
—Jake Fischer
“What links Irving and Harden in 2025: The two thirtysomething stars sit atop this summer’s anticipated list of free agent point guards, both hold contracts that contain a player option for next season, and they are simultaneously seeking longer-term arrangements with their respective teams,”
—Jake Fischer
“More than one well-placed observer has noted that the former’s eventual new contract with the Mavericks could even serve as a barometer that helps establish the ballpark for what Harden ultimately banks from the Clippers in a new deal,”
—Jake Fischer
Fred VanVleet and Josh Giddey Likely to Stay Put
In addition to Harden and Irving, other notable players entering free agency include Fred VanVleet and restricted free agent Josh Giddey. According to Fischer, the prevailing view within NBA front offices is that both players will remain with their current teams—VanVleet with the Houston Rockets and Giddey with the Chicago Bulls.
“The working assumption in most front offices at this stage is that both Fred VanVleet (Houston) and restricted free agent Josh Giddey (Chicago) — like Irving and Harden — will be staying with their incumbent teams,”
—Jake Fischer
Performance Context Supporting Contract Continuity
Harden’s standout performance during his first full season with the Clippers earned him a spot on the All-NBA Third Team, reinforcing the Clippers’ desire to keep him long term. Irving, despite the Mavericks’ organizational challenges, has contributed positively without stirring controversy and will reunite with key players such as Anthony Davis and prospect Cooper Flagg upon his return.
VanVleet played an instrumental role in leading Houston to its first postseason appearance since the last season Harden was with the Rockets in 2020. Giddey experienced a significant breakout after January 20, posting averages of 18.9 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 7.9 assists, while demonstrating strong shooting percentages both overall and beyond the arc.
Implications for NBA Teams and Future Moves
While the likelihood of these top talent shifting teams appears low, the information reveals important dynamics in contract negotiations and team strategies during this free agency period. Harden’s situation is a key focal point given his recent success and contract option. Meanwhile, Irving, VanVleet, and Giddey’s expected stays maintain stability for their franchises, which is a positive sign during a season of frequent roster changes around the league. The upcoming deals will also influence market standards for veteran point guards heading into future seasons.