Nickeil Alexander-Walker has emerged as one of the better free agents available this offseason. The Detroit Pistons and Atlanta Hawks are contenders to sign Alexander-Walker. Both teams would likely offer deals starting near or at the Non-Taxpayer MLE amount of $14.1 million.
The Minnesota Timberwolves luxury tax and apron status means that Alexander-Walker could be available this summer for more than the Wolves can pay him. Minnesota recently agreed to a new deal with Naz Reid worth $125 million over five years. The Timberwolves are also expected to bring back Julius Randle, who has a $30.9 million player option for next season.
Detroit could be looking for backcourt upgrades, as free agent guard Malik Beasley is being investigated for gambling related to NBA games. In addition, Dennis Schroder is attracting interest around the NBA as a free agent.
The Hawks are resetting their depth this offseason. Atlanta acquired Kristaps Porzingis from the Boston Celtics, and drafted Asa Newell at the 2025 NBA Draft. Those moves have Atlanta looking for backcourt depth behind starters Trae Young and Dyson Daniels.