The 2026 NBA draft class is nearing full contract completion as 49 of the 60 selected players have now signed with their respective teams. Every first-round pick has finalized their rookie deal, establishing a baseline of professional stability for the top half of the draft class. Karim Lopez, the 21st overall selection, became the final first-rounder to sign his agreement with the Memphis Grizzlies this week.
While the first round is settled, the situation for second-round picks remains in flux. Currently, 19 of the 30 second-round selections have signed their contracts, leaving 11 players without official team status as the start of the season approaches. Several factors contribute to these delays, including roster crunches, cap constraints, and planned returns to college or international leagues.
Specific players are dealing with unique circumstances that prevent immediate standard signings. Narcisse Ngoy appears likely to remain at Auburn rather than joining the Clippers immediately. Richie Saunders, a selection for the Grizzlies, is currently recovering from an ACL injury, which complicates his path to the active roster. Other teams like the Pacers, Knicks, and Celtics are carefully evaluating their salary cap situation and tax thresholds before committing to final roster spots.
Teams must balance the cost of a rookie minimum contract against their luxury tax obligations. For franchises near a hard cap, the distinction between a rookie contract and a veteran minimum deal is a significant accounting consideration. This often leads organizations to explore two-way contracts as a mechanism to retain player rights while maintaining financial flexibility. We expect further movement as teams finalize their training camp rosters over the coming weeks.