NBA free agency 2026 winners and losers from Day 1: Raptors bet on Kawhi Leonard, Lakers set to transform team

The first day of NBA free agency in 2026 produced major moves across the league, headlined by a Kawhi Leonard trade to the Toronto Raptors. LeBron James also made a free agency announcement, while the Los Angeles Lakers positioned themselves for a significant roster transformation. Multiple other trades and signings took place around the league on an eventful opening day.