When Does NBA Free Agency Start?

NBA Free Agency will begin July 1, 2009. However, there are two parts to the process. Teams will only begin negotiations with players at this time. July 8, 2009 will be the first day teams can sign players. The reason for this is that luxury-tax and salary-cap numbers must be announced for the 2009-2010 season before teams can sign players.

Expect several teams to make free agent acquisitions on or immediately after the signing date of July 8, 2009. The Detroit Pistons appear to have a particular interest in Hedo Turkoglu. Although Turkoglu has only opted out of his current deal with the Orlando Magic, he has made it pretty clear that he would like a worthwhile extension with the team, preferably long-term. In addition, Hedo is seeking a pay raise after his performance in the 2009 NBA Playoffs. The Magic have stated that they would be willing to go over their luxury tax to retain Turkoglu, however, that would mean the team would lose millions of dollars yearly with him on their roster to taxes. Unfortunately, this seems to be the only scenario that would work out for Orlando. It's not the best circumstances, but it would mean the Magic could at least hang on to a valuable centerpiece in their offense. The question remains, could Vince Carter and Hedo Turkoglu co-exist? Both have similar styles of play and share the same jersey number. After reaching the NBA Finals for the first time ever last season, the Orlando Magic are on the hot seat. What will they do next?

Other notable free agents include:

Carlos Boozer -

He will decide weather or not to opt out of his contract with the Utah Jazz by 5 p.m. ET on July 30, 2009.

Allen Iverson -

The Bobcats are showing interest. The Pistons? Not so much.

David Lee -

The Knicks might not be able to hold on to him and there's an open market for the big man.

Ramon Sessions -

With the Bucks drafting Brandon Jennings, it's tough to be optimistic.

Ben Gordon -

Detroit has offered him a reported 11 million dollars a year. How do you turn that kind of money down?

Shawn Marion -

He remains Toronto's number one priority. The Raptors also happen to be the best suitor for his needs.

Trevor Ariza -

Los Angeles would like to hold on to the young player, who has shown high upside in these Playoffs.

Lamar Odom -

The Lakers could potentially keep Odom and Ariza. I could see Odom taking a pay-cut to stay with the team.

Jason Kidd -

Suddenly, everybody wants the aging Point Guard. I say, why not? He's still playing at an All-Star level.

Rasheed Wallace -

The Pistons don't intend to keep Wallace and so far, the Magic are making a run for him.