NBA Free Agency 2023: The Early Winners and Losers

NBA free agency is officially underway, and teams are already making big moves. Here are some of the biggest signings and trades that have happened so far:

• Damian Lillard requests trade from Portland Trail Blazers: The biggest news of the day came when Damian Lillard, the star point guard for the Portland Trail Blazers, requested a trade. Lillard has been with the Blazers for his entire career, but he is reportedly unhappy with the team’s direction.
• LaMelo Ball signs max contract extension with Charlotte Hornets: Another big signing came when LaMelo Ball agreed to a five-year, $260 million max contract extension with the Charlotte Hornets. Ball is just 20 years old, but he is already one of the best young players in the NBA.
• Brook Lopez agrees to two-year deal with Milwaukee Bucks: Lopez is returning to the Milwaukee Bucks on a two-year, $48 million deal. Lopez was a key member of the Bucks’ championship team in 2021, and he is expected to help them contend for another title in 2023.
• Austin Reaves agrees to four-year, $56 million deal with Los Angeles Lakers: Reaves is staying with the Lakers on a four-year, $56 million deal. Reaves was a surprise contributor for the Lakers last season, and he is expected to play a bigger role in 2023.
• D’Angelo Russell agrees to two-year, $37 million deal with Los Angeles Lakers: Russell is joining the Lakers on a two-year, $37 million deal. Russell is a talented point guard who can score and create for others. He is expected to help the Lakers improve their offense in 2023.

These are just a few of the biggest signings and trades that have happened so far in NBA free agency. There are still many more players who are available, and it is expected that there will be more big moves in the coming days and weeks.

NBA free agency is always a wild time, and this year is no exception. There have already been some major moves, and it is only going to get more exciting from here. Stay tuned for more news and updates as the offseason progresses.