TORONTO, ON - OCTOBER 26: A detailed view of the NBA logo painted on the wooden floor boards of the court prior to the start of the Toronto Raptors NBA game against the Dallas Mavericks at Scotiabank Arena on October 26, 2018 in Toronto, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images) *** Local Caption ***Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images

NBA Moves Start of 2019 Free-Agency Period to 6 p.m. ET on June 30

Adam WellsMay 24, 2019

The NBA has officially announced free agency will begin six hours earlier this summer.

K.C. Johnson of the Chicago Tribune provided the official release stating the 2019 free-agency period will begin at 6 p.m. ET on June 30:

TOP NEWS

Bleacher Report6h

Bleacher Report23h

Los Angeles Lakers v Oklahoma City Thunder

Bleacher Report18h

The change has been anticipated after being reported by ESPN's Tim Bontemps on May 15.

It's a practical decision for the NBA to move up the start of its free-agent moratorium period. Player movement during the offseason occurs at such a rapid pace that having it begin at a more reasonable hour will benefit players, teams and fans who like to keep track of everything that happens.

This offseason, especially, figures to be one that can reshape the direction of the NBA for years to come.

Kemba Walker, Klay Thompson and Tobias Harris are among the unrestricted free agents available. They could also be joined by Kevin Durant, Kawhi Leonard, Kyrie Irving and Jimmy Butler if they opt out of their deals.