Draymond Green Says NBA CBA Put 'An End' to Free Agency, Players 'Overplay the Market'

Golden State Warriors player Draymond Green contends that many NBA players haven't adequately adjusted to the league's current financial landscape under the new collective bargaining agreement (CBA). He asserts that the "second apron" luxury tax penalty is drastically reducing team spending, effectively ending free agency as it previously existed. Green observes numerous players overvaluing their market worth without grasping the constraints imposed by these new rules, clarifying that his comments are not specifically about his unsigned, restricted free-agent teammate, Jonathan Kuminga.

Green isn't alone in criticizing the CBA's impact on free agency. NBA insider Chris Haynes reported a "high-ranking NBA figure" stating that "free agency is bad," arguing this negatively affects the league because offseason moves generate significant attention. This outcome was anticipated once the CBA details emerged, as the rules were designed to create greater financial parity and hinder the formation of superteams.

The CBA's effect is exemplified by the Warriors' changed approach. Previously, owner Joe Lacob readily paid high luxury taxes to pursue championships with stars like Green, Stephen Curry, and Klay Thompson. Under the current CBA, the team now prioritizes avoiding the tax. This financial pressure potentially contributed to Thompson's departure to the Dallas Mavericks last summer.

No immediate solution exists for players or fans dissatisfied with this new reality. The current CBA runs through the 2029-30 season, with June 2029 being the earliest either the players' union or league owners can opt out. When negotiations eventually reopen, the players' focus on modifying the second apron rules will be a key area to watch.