A Chaotic Day 1 in the 2022 NBA Free Agency

NBA teams and players didn’t wait long before making some deals on Day 1 of the 2022 NBA Free Agency.

Surprisingly, Jalen Brunson leaves Luka Dončić alone in Dallas as he signs with the New York Knicks. The 25-year-old enjoyed his best season at the American Airlines Center averaging 16.3 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 4.8 assists for 31.9 minutes per game. However, his fairytale continues at the iconic Madison Square Garden in an attempt to bring back some glory to New York.
Another interesting trade from Day 1 was Malik Monk’s agreement with the Sacramento Kings. He signed a 2-year $19 million deal with the Western Conference team as the 24-year-old will undoubtedly strengthen the roster and open some spaces for De’Aaron Fox, Justin Holiday, and Domantas Sabonis.

Nikola Jokić made history by signing a 5-year super-max contract extension with the Denver Nuggets, valued at $264 million. The Serbian has been in Colorado since being drafted in 2015 and it looks like he will cement his legacy as one of the best Nuggets of all time.

There are certain NBA players who are yet to decide on their future. One of the most discussed topics is Kevin Durant’s desire to leave the Brooklyn Nets this summer. However, he hasn’t stated his final decision yet as franchises like the Miami Heat and the Phoenix Suns seem to be his desired destinations. Social media has gone crazy after hearing the news about Durantula and fans are eager to see where the former MVP could end up.

Other players signed contract extensions with their teams such as Bobby Portis will stay in Milwaukee, while Anfernee Simons and Bradley Beal will continue to play for the Portland Trail Blazers and the Washington Wizards.

There is still plenty of time before the so-called transfer window closes as it is expected to be one huge rollercoaster. 2022 NBA champion, Gary Payton II has signed for the Trail Blazers and this might turn out to be a fantastic move for the Western Conference team who are desperately looking to add players to support their star, Damian Lillard.

All in all, the Free Agency period is already shaping up to be eventful. Each team will look to make the best deals that will increase their chances of winning the NBA championship in the upcoming years. Some of them will go all-in betting either on getting the ring in the next 2-3 years or on luck through draft lottery picks. Others have already started their rebuilding process in an attempt to become among the top contenders in several years’ time.