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

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:

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.