What is the deadline for a Restricted Free Agent to sign an offer sheet in 2025?

The deadline for a Restricted Free Agent to sign an offer sheet is generally set for a specific date in the calendar year following the end of the regular season. In the case of the 2025 season, the timeline reflects that Restricted Free Agents must sign offer sheets by April 18, which is significant as it falls a few weeks post the regular season. This date ensures that teams have a clear window to negotiate and finalize contracts, allowing for effective roster management and planning.

The other options present dates that do not align with the established timeline for Restricted Free Agency. March 1 falls too early, prior to the conclusion of the standard regular season and its subsequent free agency period. June 30 is past the deadline for Restricted Free Agents to sign offer sheets and would typically fall within the timeframe for other offseason activities. December 15 is well outside the relevant negotiation period for Restricted Free Agents, hence it cannot possibly serve as a valid deadline. By utilizing April 18, the league provides a reasonable timeframe for offer sheets while balancing team and player interests.