The Atlanta Hawks made significant moves at the start of NBA free agency, notably signing guard Nickeil Alexander-Walker to a four-year, $62 million contract. A standout during the 2024-25 season with the Minnesota Timberwolves, Alexander-Walker showcased his skills as a versatile 3-and-D player alongside Anthony Edwards. This addition reflects the Hawks' strategy to blend youth with experience, aiming for a playoff return after missing the postseason for the last two years.

In addition, the Hawks welcomed Luke Kennard with a one-year, $11 million deal. The sharpshooter, who played 65 games for the Memphis Grizzlies last season, averaged 8.9 points per game while shooting an impressive 43.3% from three-point range. His arrival adds depth to the Hawks' offensive capabilities, enhancing their long-range shooting following a season where they ranked 18th in the league. Trae Young's recruitment efforts have played a vital role in these signings, indicating the Hawks' commitment to building a competitive roster.

Luke Kennard, a talented guard previously with the Memphis Grizzlies, is set to join the Atlanta Hawks on a one-year deal worth $11 million. Kennard has built a reputation as one of the NBA's premier three-point shooters, maintaining over a 40% shooting percentage from beyond the arc during the last five seasons. Though he averaged 8.9 points per game this past season, his role fluctuated due to the competitive rotation in Memphis. With Kennard's departure, the Grizzlies will need to find suitable replacements for his shooting prowess.

Memphis is actively reshaping its roster in free agency, planning to sign Santi Aldama and Ty Jerome to new deals while also negotiating a five-year contract extension with Jaren Jackson Jr. To offset Kennard's absence, Ty Jerome, who also had a solid shooting percentage last season, and rookie Cam Spencer, drafted last year, are potential candidates to step into increased roles. The shifts in Memphis' lineup highlight the team's strategy to bolster its shooting capabilities moving forward.

The Memphis Grizzlies are set to secure Jaren Jackson Jr. with a remarkable five-year contract extension valued at $240 million, marking him as the highest-paid player in the franchise's history. This strategy comes as the Grizzlies prioritize retaining their core talent, especially with Jackson's status as a two-time All-Star and a three-time All-Defensive team member. Without an All-NBA nod, the team had to navigate creatively to finalize this deal before he potentially hit free agency.

With the extension beginning in the 2025-26 season, Memphis is focused on building around Jackson and Ja Morant. The team's salary cap situation is favorable thanks to strategic trades, positioning them for future success as they aim to enhance their roster through upcoming signings, including Cam Spencer and Santi Aldama.

Memphis Grizzlies have made a significant move by trading Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic, creating speculation about potential changes in their roster. However, the team quickly shifted focus to securing Jaren Jackson Jr.'s future by finalizing a five-year, $240 million max contract extension, ensuring he remains a cornerstone of the franchise. Last season, Jackson showcased elite performance as he averaged 22.2 points and won the Defensive Player of the Year award, establishing himself as an All-Star.

Furthermore, the Grizzlies retained Santi Aldama with a new three-year deal worth $52.5 million, bolstering their frontcourt alongside Jackson and newcomer Zach Edey. The team is also negotiating a resolution involving Cole Anthony to clear salary cap space. As they navigate these transitions, Memphis aims to maintain competitiveness in the Western Conference.

Jaren Jackson Jr. is set to sign a five-year, $240 million maximum renegotiation-and-extension with the Memphis Grizzlies, featuring a player option for 2029-30. This lucrative deal secures Jackson, a key figure for the franchise, until 2030. Last season, he became the sole NBA player to notch 1,500 points and 100 blocks, showcasing his dual-threat capability as a scorer and defender. His remarkable versatility allows him to guard multiple positions, making him one of the best big men in the league. Jackson's development has been undeniable, increasing his scoring and three-point shooting consistency over his seven-year tenure with the Grizzlies. The move demonstrates the franchise's commitment to building around Jackson, alongside fellow star Ja Morant, who is also up for an extension this summer. Memphis is reportedly maneuvering their salary cap to accommodate these substantial contracts, signaling their ambition to bolster their competitive standing in the Western Conference.