NBA Rookie Extension Deadline: Who’s Getting Paid Before the Season Tips Off?

The NBA regular season tips off Tuesday night — but before the first jump ball, there’s money on the line in another sense. Monday’s rookie extension deadline (6 p.m. ET) is crunch time for front offices trying to lock up their young stars before the 2025-26 campaign begins.

A few teams already cashed in early. Paolo Banchero, Chet Holmgren, and Jabari Smith Jr. — the top three picks from the 2022 draft — all secured big-money deals this summer. Jalen Williams re-upped with the Thunder, Nikola Jovic stayed in Miami, and Keegan Murray got a five-year, $140 million bag from the Kings.

But there’s still a list of young names hanging in the balance — and the closer we get to Monday’s buzzer, the better the odds that a few last-minute deals drop. Here’s a look at who could be next to hit the jackpot 👇

Dyson Daniels – Atlanta Hawks

The defending Most Improved Player turned into one of the league’s premier two-way guards last season. Atlanta wants to lock him up long-term, but his camp is reportedly chasing something near $150 million. With Trae Young’s future uncertain, that number could decide whether Atlanta doubles down on defense — or rolls the dice later.

Christian Braun & Peyton Watson – Denver Nuggets

Braun has proven he’s more than just a role player — stepping into a starting spot and becoming a reliable piece next to Nikola Jokic. A five-year, $125M extension seems realistic. Denver’s front office is also weighing an offer for Watson, though luxury-tax pressure could slow things down.

Jaden Ivey & Jalen Duren – Detroit Pistons

Detroit’s rebuild still needs a direction. Ivey’s health and Duren’s defensive consistency leave the Pistons with a decision: lock them in now, or wait to see how the season unfolds? Bettors might want to keep an eye on both as potential breakout prop targets early in the year.

Tari Eason – Houston Rockets

High motor, defensive versatility, and a steady shot — Eason fits the Rockets’ long-term mold. If he can stay healthy, a four-year, $80M deal wouldn’t surprise anyone. He’s a sleeper pick to outplay his contract value.

Shaedon Sharpe – Portland Trail Blazers

Sharpe is already showing star flashes, averaging 18.5 PPG last year. Portland’s rebuild centers around him, and a four-year, $105M deal would be a smart hedge before his price skyrockets. He’s a good “Most Improved” longshot to watch this season.

Walker Kessler – Utah Jazz

Utah’s big man might not get his deal now — but with elite rim protection and a team-friendly cap situation, the Jazz can afford to wait. If he takes another leap defensively, expect the line on his next contract to soar.

The clock’s ticking ⏰. Some front offices are playing it safe, others are betting on upside — but by Monday night, expect a few big extensions to hit the wire before tip-off.