Keith SmithJune 20, 2024

A handful of players got a jump on “option season” already. Lonzo Ball of the Chicago Bulls and Christian Wood of the Los Angeles Lakers picked up their player options several weeks ago. Gary Payton II of the Golden State Warriors joined them this week.

As a point of order, a player or team option isn’t really declined. It’s simply not exercised. A player must exercise, or opt in, to his option year, while a team must take the same action when they have control. The lone exception here is an Early Termination Option. For an ETO, a player must decline or opt out. No action would result in that player staying under contract.

With three decisions already made, we’re going to take a shot at predicting what happens with the remaining 50 player and team options.

(Note: This article does not include players on partial or non-guaranteed contracts. Although those are often referred to as options, they are a different thing. We’ll cover those in an upcoming article.)

Atlanta Hawks

Garrison Mathews - $2.2M team option

Mathews put together his best NBA season. He’s an elite shooter, even if he doesn’t offer much else. That skill for the minimum is worth it for the Hawks to pick up their option.

Boston Celtics

Oshae Brissett - $2.5M player option

Brissett gave the Celtics terrific energy off the bench. If he wants a bigger role, he may opt out and move to a new team. If Brissett is good with his role in Boston, he’ll be back. We’re assuming he’s back to try to win another title.

Sam Hauser - $2.1M team option

Hauser is an elite shooter and a better-than-you-think defender. He also started to do some things off the dribble this season too. If Boston wants to keep their tax bill down, they’ll pick up Hauser’s option. The challenge is that will make him an unrestricted free agent next summer. The other possibility for Boston is to decline their team option, and make Hauser a restricted free agent this summer. That would give the Celtics the chance to re-sign him on a long-term deal. Bet on the former, but then Hauser inking an extension before the end of next season.

Neemias Queta - $2.2M team option

Boston will pick up their option for Queta. The real question is if the big man will be the team’s third center next season or if he’ll be further down the depth chart. He’s definitely worth having around on the minimum though.

Brooklyn Nets

Keita Bates-Diop - $2.6M player option

Bates-Diop had a rough season between his time with the Nets and the Phoenix Suns. He’s better than what he showed at either stop. With the Nets prioritizing other players, Bates-Diop is likely to opt out and move on.

Charlotte Hornets

Davis Bertans - $16M player option

Bertans is a lock to pick up his option. His deal will then become partially guaranteed for $5.25 million. From there, it’s likely Charlotte will waive him to open up a roster spot and some additional cap flexibility.

J.T. Thor - $1.9M team option

The Hornets will pick up Thor’s option. He’s been a part of the rotation the last two seasons. For the minimum, that’s just smart business.

Chicago Bulls

Torrey Craig - $2.8M player option

Craig has become a pretty good 3&D player. He may not be a lock to get more than the minimum, but he should be able to find a role with a contender for at least the same money as he could make with the Bulls.

Cleveland Cavaliers

No pending options

Dallas Mavericks

No pending options

Denver Nuggets

Kentavious Caldwell-Pope - $15.4M player option

Caldwell-Pope is going to opt out, but he’s likely to stay with the Nuggets. Look for him to re-sign on a deal that adds a couple of additional years for him to stay in Denver.

Vlatko Cancar - $2.3M team option

The Nuggets will pick up their option for Cancar. He looked to be headed for a big season off Denver’s bench before tearing his ACL over the summer. He’ll be in the rotation as a backup forward next season.

Reggie Jackson - $5.3M player option

Jackson isn’t going to opt out, because he won’t see that much money in free agency. He’ll be back for another year in Denver.

Detroit Pistons

Evan Fournier - $19M team option

The Pistons aren’t going to pick up Fournier’s option. Letting him go will be a part of clearing out $64 million in cap space. Fournier will then look to catch on with a team that can give him real minutes.

Chimezie Metu - $2.6M team option

Metu is in the same boat as Fournier. He’s going to have his option declined, then he’ll be renounced to create cap space. Unlike Fournier, Metu may be re-signed by Detroit, pending how the new front office feels about him.

Stanley Umude - $2.1M team option

Umude is in the exact same spot as Metu. His option will be declined to create cap space. But he could be re-signed, pending where the roster stands after Trajan Langdon does his other work.

Golden State Warriors

No pending options

Houston Rockets

Jeff Green - $8M team option

The Rockets aren’t likely to be a cap space team this summer. As such, they’ll pick up Green’s option. If nothing else, they’ll have additional couple of weeks to decide on keeping him, as his contract doesn’t guarantee until July 11.

Jae’Sean Tate - $7.6M team option

Houston will pick up Tate’s option. But given the Rockets are deep in forwards, they’ll likely shop him in trade talks this offseason and up to the trade deadline.

Indiana Pacers

Jalen Smith - $5.4M player option

Smith is likely to opt out. His role with the Pacers has been inconsistent, especially as Isaiah Jackson has emerged as Myles Turner’s backup. Smith will pursue a bigger role and more long-term money elsewhere.

LA Clippers

Paul George - $48.8M player option

George is going to opt out. That much is a certainty. What happens from there is getting increasingly interesting. It once felt like a lock that George would extend or re-sign with LA. Now, it seems like George may consider leaving town. This is THE situation to watch in free agency.

Kai Jones - $2.2M team option

The Clippers will pick up this option. They’ll want to have a full offseason to work with Jones and see if they can continue to help him get his career on track.

P.J. Tucker - $11.5M player option

Of every player this offseason, Tucker may be the lockiest of all locks to pick up his option. From there, maybe the Clippers try to move him in a trade for a rotation upgrade.

Russell Westbrook - $4M player option

Westbrook made some noise about possibly opting out and looking for a bigger role with another team. The chances of that happening seem fairly slim, however. Westbrook is best off picking up his option, but he’s rarely done what conventional wisdom says.

Los Angeles Lakers

Jaxson Hayes - $2.5M player option

Hayes is right on the borderline of picking up his option or not. He’ll likely be on a minimum contract next season anyway. The real decision for Hayes is if he wants to be back with the Lakers or to move on.

LeBron James - $51.4M player option

James is going to opt out. After that, he’s probably staying with the Lakers on a new max deal…right? Or could the ultimate curveball be coming and James moves to a new team?

Cameron Reddish - $2.5M player option

Reddish is in the same situation as Hayes. If he wants to be a Laker, he’ll pick up his option. If he wants to go elsewhere, he won’t. Either way, Reddish will be on a minimum contract.

D’Angelo Russell - $18.7M player option

Russell is going to opt out. He’ll be looking for a long-term deal. He’s also going to be one of the better free agents available. That means Russell isn’t a lock to return to the Lakers.

Memphis Grizzlies

Luke Kennard - $14.8M team option

On its face, Kennard’s option should get picked up by Memphis. He’s worth nearly $15 million because of his shooting alone. But the Grizzlies are up against a whole new payroll level with their looming tax bill, in addition to running out of roster spots. That has it more like 50-50 on picking up Kennard’s option. Maybe there’s a deal or two in place to make it less of an issue. We’ll guess his option is picked up, and the Grizzlies figure it out down the line.

Yuta Watanabe - $2.6M player option

It’s been widely reported, including by Watanabe himself, that he plans to play in Japan next season. That will mean opting out of his deal.

Miami Heat

Thomas Bryant - $2.8M player option

Bryant is likely to opt out. He didn’t get much playing time this season, as Miami went with other options behind Bam Adebayo. He may seek a bigger role elsewhere, considering he’ll likely be on a minimum deal either way.

Kevin Love - $4M player option

Love is going to opt in. He won’t get more than a minimum deal if he opts out. He’s still got something left in the tank, but he’s more of a regular season backup than a key through-the-playoffs rotation guy now.

Caleb Martin - $7.1M player option

Martin will opt out. He’s got a chance to cash in for the first time in his career. He’ll be a sought-after 3&D wing. The real question is if Miami can re-sign him or not? The Heat don’t have a replacement lined up, but they are dealing with real tax apron issues. A big enough deal could pull Martin away from Miami.

Josh Richardson - $3.1M player option

Richardson will probably opt in. Had he not finished the season out with an injury, Richardson looked like an opt-out candidate. As it stands now, he’ll likely opt in and hope for a healthier season with the Heat next year.

Milwaukee Bucks

No pending options

Minnesota Timberwolves

No pending options

New Orleans Pelicans

Jose Alvarado - $1.9M team option

This is another situation that is like Sam Hauser’s. Alvarado is a key rotation guy for New Orleans, so there could be benefit to declining his option. The team could then re-sign Alvarado while controlling the process through restricted free agent. However, the Pelicans are up against the tax and would likely rather benefit from the smaller contract for next season. Pencil this option in as being picked up.

Jeremiah Robinson-Earl - $2.2M team option

Robinson-Earl didn’t have a huge impact on the Pelicans last season. However, he did flash some ability to step in for some backup big minutes. That’s basically what he did for the Oklahoma City Thunder for two seasons too. For the minimum, on a team whose frontcourt is in transition, Robinson-Earl should stick around.

New York Knicks

OG Anunoby - $19.9M player option

Anunoby is going to opt out. The questions from there are:

Will he get anything approach a max deal?

Will that deal come from the Knicks or another team?

DaQuan Jeffries - $2.5M team option

Jeffries is clearly a player the Knicks like, because they’ve had him around for a couple of years on a few different contracts. This decision might be related to roster spots, more than Jeffries himself. The Knicks have three picks in the top-38 in this draft. They’ll need room for at least two of those players. That probably squeezes Jeffries out…for now.

Jericho Sims - $2.1M team option

The Knicks will pick up this option for Sims. He’s an ideal third center for them. He stays ready when his number is called, but doesn’t gripe when he doesn’t play. He also won’t be a priority free agent next summer, so there’s no need to speed up the process by making him a restricted free agent this offseason.

Oklahoma City Thunder

Isaiah Joe - $2.2M team option

This is one of the bigger locks on the board. The Thunder can’t make Joe a restricted free agent if they decline his option. OKC will also want to maximize cap space this summer. That means picking up this option. From there, keep an eye on a long-term extension for Joe before next season ends.

Lindy Waters III - $2.2M team option

The Thunder like Waters a lot. The challenge is that Oklahoma City is running out of roster spots. That, combined with a chance at a ton of cap space, probably leads to this option being declined. But don’t rule out a return to the roster down the line for Waters.

Aaron Wiggins - $1.9M team option

Wiggins is also in the Sam Hauser situation. He’s become a pretty good rotation guy for the Thunder. They might try to work out a long-term deal with him as a restricted free agent. They could also take a similar approach as to the one they’ll take with Joe, by picking up the option and hammering out an extension. Bet on the latter.

Orlando Magic

Joe Ingles - $11M team option

The Magic loved what Ingles brought to them as a veteran. He helped a young team grow up on and off the court. But $11 million is too steep for a team that has big dreams. This option will get declined, but don’t rule out Ingles re-signing after Orlando makes some bigger moves.

Moritz Wagner - $8M team option

Wagner is a key rotation player for Orlando. He was one of the best backup bigs in the NBA last season. He’ll be back, but probably after having this option declined. That way Orlando can use cap space, then re-sign Wagner, possibly via the $8 million Room Exception.

Philadelphia 76ers

Jeff Dowtin - $2.2M team option

The Sixers are looking to maximize cap space this summer. That means Dowtin likely has his option declined. There’s a slight chance his option is initially picked up, at which point his deal would become non-guaranteed. Then Dowtin could be waived later if Philadelphia needs the extra $2.2 million in space.

Phoenix Suns

Drew Eubanks - $2.6M player option

Eubanks is a little hard to predict. He could opt out and look for a deal with a different team. The Suns seem likely to bring in at least another option or two for backup center. But Eubanks is a minimum guy either way, and may want the security. This is more of a guess than anything, but Eubanks will probably opt out.

Eric Gordon - $3.4M player option

Gordon will opt out, but he might then re-sign immediately with the Suns. He could do a similar 1+1 situation with Phoenix, where he’d make the same money, but add an additional season.

Damion Lee - $2.8M player option

Lee missed all of last season with a knee injury. He’ll pick up his option and look be the knockdown shooter the Suns hoped he would be when they signed him last offseason.

Josh Okogie - $2.9M player option

Okogie will likely opt out. He’s not technically on a minimum deal, but he’s close. He could find a bigger role, and possibly more money, with another team. He may also run it back with the Suns on a year-to-year basis now.

Portland Trail Blazers

Dalano Banton - $2.2M team option

Banton played pretty well for Portland down the stretch last season. Was it a situation of good stats on a bad team with nothing to play for? Or was it a further sign of the talent Banton has previously flashed? The Blazers have tax issues (yes, despite being a bad team), so they might move on. But bet on them keeping Banton on this minimum deal, and solving tax issues in other ways.

Sacramento Kings

No pending options

San Antonio Spurs

No option decisions pending

Toronto Raptors

Bruce Brown - $23M team option

When the Raptors extended Kelly Olynyk late last season, it was a sign that they don’t intend to be a cap space team this summer. That means Brown will have this option picked up. Then he becomes a key trade chip this offseason and up to the trade deadline.

Utah Jazz

No option decisions pending

Washington Wizards

Richaun Holmes - $12.9M player option

Holmes is going to pick this option up. His once-promising career has stalled some. For that reason, Holmes isn’t going to give up on that much guaranteed salary.

Tristan Vukcevic - $2.4M team option

Vukcevic came over from Europe late last season. The contract he signed is designed for the Wizards to decline their option, but then re-sign Vukcevic to a long-term deal. Look for that to be the case, as the team can use his Non-Bird rights to give him up to a four-year contract.

 

Keith SmithJune 17, 2024

The 2021 NBA Draft class is eligible to sign Rookie Scale contract extensions this offseason. Each player has until late-October to agree to an extension. If no agreement is reached, the player will be eligible for restricted free agency in the summer of 2025. A handful of players are ineligible to sign an extension, because they had team options declined or were waived at some point during their rookie scale contract.

By pick from that 2021 Draft, here’s where things stand for each player. We’ll also make a prediction on what happens before the late-October extension deadline.

For reference: The standard maximum extension (25% of the cap) these players can sign projects to be $224,895,000 over five years. The Designated Rookie Extension amount (30% of the cap) projects to be $269,874,000 over five years. We’re projecting this off a salary cap of $155.1 million for the 2025-26 season.

In order to qualify for the Designated Rookie Extension, a player must make All-NBA this coming season, or they can also qualify by winning MVP or Defensive Player of the Year this coming season.

#1 Cade Cunningham – Detroit Pistons

Cunningham had a rough start to his career. He struggled some as a rookie, which is completely forgivable. His second year was a lost season due to injuries. In Year 3, Cunningham finally showed why he was the first overall pick in 2021. He was simply better in every facet of the game. The efficiency was better, the overall shooting improved and his playmaking took another leap. Cunningham is a franchise guy. Franchise guys get the max.

Prediction: Five years, $224,895,000 (25% of the cap), no options; Designated Rookie language to bump the extension to five years, $269,874,000, no options
Signed: 5 years, $224,238,150

#2 Jalen Green – Houston Rockets

Despite the counting stats improving in his sophomore season, Green was worse in Year 2 than he was as a rookie. In his third season, Green got back on track, especially in the second half of the year. Playing “real” basketball for the first time, Green showed he can contribute to winning. But he’s not a no-brainer max guy. The Rockets have big dreams, and if Green doesn’t get to star status, a max deal would become a cap-clogger. There’s a gap here that probably won’t be overcome. But, hey, that’s what restricted free agency is for on the back end. If Green pops this year, the Houston can max him out next summer.

Projection: No extension

#3 Evan Mobley – Cleveland Cavaliers

Mobley isn’t perfect. He’s still figuring things out, especially as a four. When he’s played the five, Mobley looks like a different, and better, player. This extension is as much about what Mobley might be and where the Cavs roster might go, as it is anything we’ve seen from player or team right now.

Projection: Five years, $224,895,000 (25% of the cap), no options; Designated Rookie language to bump the extension to five years, $269,874,000, no options
Signed: 5 years, $224,238,150

#4 Scottie Barnes – Toronto Raptors

Barnes is the Raptors franchise guy now. Toronto has traded away any other contenders for that crown. And, you know what? The Raptors were right. Barnes is the kind of all-around player everyone wants to build around. He’s a good defender, in addition to carrying a heavy offensive load. Barnes’ jumper keeps getting better every year too. That’s a no-questions-asked max player, with upside still in play.

Projection: Five years, $224,895,000 (25% of the cap), no options; Designated Rookie language to bump the extension to five years, $269,874,000, no options
Signed: 5 years, $224,238,150

#5 Jalen Suggs – Orlando Magic

Suggs first two years were full of fits and starts. He’d get going, then pick up an injury and have to start over. Year 3 was a pretty healthy year for Suggs, and he leveled up big time. Suggs had easily his best offensive season, and he was a menace defensively too. Most importantly, he showed he can play either guard position, which helps Orlando with roster construction. He’s not a max extension guy, but Suggs is going to get paid.

Projection: Four years, $112 million, no options

#6 Josh Giddey – Oklahoma City Thunder

OKC keeps things pretty quiet, as far as future plans go. That said, it seems like something has to give with the roster. Not in a bad way, but to take the next step. Feels like that something may involve Giddey getting traded. He was played off the floor for parts of the playoffs. Feels like the Thunder may deal him now and let another team figure out what to do with Giddey’s next contract.

Projection: No extension

#7 Jonathan Kuminga – Golden State Warriors

This one is tricky. Kuminga became a regular starter in his third season and put together his best season. He’s one of the younger players in this draft class too, so there’s still plenty of upside. But the Warriors are trying to rebalance their cap sheet too. The presumption here is that rebalancing is being done with extending Kuminga on a big, but non-max deal in mind.

Projection: Four years, $108 million, no options

#8 Franz Wagner – Orlando Magic

Despite a really rough shooting season, Wagner is a franchise cornerstone for Orlando. He’s a good all-around player on offense and a better defender than he gets credit for. He’s not quite at the no-brainer max level that Paolo Banchero will be a year from now, but he’s pretty close. We’re going to call this a “Desmond Bane” max, where Wagner gets just below the max in guaranteed, but can hit some incentives (some related to shooting) to get up to the full max.

Projection: Five years, $200,000,000 with nearly $22.5 million in incentives, no options
Signed: 5 years, $224,238,150

#9 Davion Mitchell – Sacramento Kings

Mitchell spent part of this season out of the Kings rotation. He’s never quite popped as hoped for. The good news? His three-point shot showed real improvement last year. The Kings will probably give this another year before handling things in restricted free agency next offseason.

Projection: No extension

#10 Ziaire Williams – Memphis Grizzlies

Williams came along late in his rookie season, but has gone through two injury-plagued years since. His shot hasn’t improved much either. Memphis is still looking for that star-level small forward, but has added some depth. With the roster getting full and expensive, Williams won’t get an extension.

Projection: No extension

#11 James Bouknight – Out of the NBA

Bouknight was waived by the Charlotte Hornets midway through last season. He’s yet to catch on with another NBA team.

#12 Joshua Primo – Out of the NBA

Primo was waived by the San Antonio Spurs in 2022. He spent part of last season with the LA Clippers before being waived in mid-April.

#13 Chris Duarte – Sacramento Kings

Duarte never built on a promising rookie season. He dealt with injuries in his second year, then had an inconsistent role with the Kings last season. Duarte would have to sign something so team-friendly that he’s better off betting on himself figuring it out.

Projection: No extension

#14 Moses Moody – Golden State Warriors

Moody has been a pretty steady player for the last couple of seasons. He’s a pretty shooter and a rugged defender. With the Warriors watching their payroll over the next couple of seasons, they may not want to commit to Moody long-term without making some other roster moves first.

Projection: No extension

#15 Corey Kispert – Washington Wizards

Kispert has improved each season. He showed more variety to his game in his third year, as he made shots off the dribble and flashed some playmaking skills. The Wizards got Deni Avdija on a very fair extension last year, and they’ll probably get Kispert on something similar this offseason.

Projection: Four years, $52 million, no options

#16 Alperen Sengun – Houston Rockets

The Rockets have a star in Sengun. He’s an excellent scorer, rebounder and passer. Sengun can function as an offensive hub, or as a complementary player. Having him signed long-term will make everything a bit easier for Houston to build the roster, because Sengun allows for them to go in so many different directions.

Projection: Five years, $224,895,000 (25% of the cap), no options; Designated Rookie language to bump the extension to five years, $269,874,000, no options

#17 Trey Murphy III – New Orleans Pelicans

Murphy is part of the future (and present!) in New Orleans. He’s a great fit on the wing in between Zion Williamson and Herb Jones, because his shooting. Murphy can also slide up to play as a small-ball four, or slide over to the two in bigger lineups. Injuries are a slight concern, but nothing to be overly concerned about with inking Murphy to a long-term deal.

Projection: Five years, $140 million, no options

#18 Tre Mann – Charlotte Hornets

After getting caught in the roster crunch in Oklahoma City, Mann played really well for Charlotte. He can play on- or off-ball, which is big for a backcourt mate with LaMelo Ball. The Hornets will probably wait on signing Mann to an extension, because they’d like to see everyone on the court together first.

Projection: No extension

#19 Kai Jones – LA Clippers

Jones caught on with the Clippers late in the season. He seems to have things sorted out in his personal life, after some off-court issues saw him get waived by the Hornets ahead of last season.

#20 Jalen Johnson – Atlanta Hawks

The Hawks have been aggressive about signing their players to extensions over the years. Johnson should be no different. Despite suffering some injuries, Johnson blossomed in Year 3. Atlanta is facing some long-term salary crunch, but that should be relieved via trades this summer. That should free up flexibility to get Johnson signed to a long-term deal.

Projection: Five years, $125 million, no options

#21 Keon Johnson – Brooklyn Nets

Johnson was waived by the Phoenix Suns after being traded late last offseason. He played this past year on a two-way deal with the Nets.

#22 Isaiah Jackson – Indiana Pacers

Jackson has been in and out of the Pacers rotation as Myles Turner’s backup. With Jalen Smith a potential free agent, Indiana may want to get Jackson locked in long-term. He’s a terrific athlete, good rebounder and good shot blocker. Look for Aaron Nesmith’s team-friendly extension from last to be a guide here.

Projection: Four years, $45 million, no options

#23 Usman Garuba – Golden State Warriors

Garuba is coming off a season where he spent most of the year on a two-way with the Warriors before a late conversion. This came after being traded and ultimately waived while on his rookie scale deal. There are rumors he may head overseas next, but Garuba himself said no such decision has been made.

#24 Josh Christopher – Out of the NBA

Christopher spent part of last season on a two-way deal with the Utah Jazz. He’s finished the season in the G League.

#25 Quentin Grimes – Detroit Pistons

Grimes put together two really nice seasons to start his career. Year 3 was a kind of a mess. Grimes shooting fell off, and he was traded to the Pistons before being shut down with an injury. With Detroit’s roster in flux under Trajan Langdon, Grimes will probably play out the year before restricted free agency next summer.

Projection: No extension

#26 Bones Hyland – LA Clippers

After a promising rookie season, Hyland hasn’t found the same kind of traction the last two years. He’s been unable to crack the Clippers rotation, so he’s more of a trade candidate this summer than he is an extension candidate.

Projection: No extension

#27 Cam Thomas – Brooklyn

Thomas has become a terrific scorer, either off the bench or as a starter. A high-usage bench scorer is probably Thomas’ best role in the NBA, and one he can capably fill for more than a decade. But the Nets seem to have big plans for potential cap space in 2025. That doesn’t mean Thomas is leaving Brooklyn, but he won’t get extended.

Projection: No extension

#28 Jaden Springer – Boston Celtics

Springer hasn’t shown enough to get extended. He’s flashed at moments, but that’s all it’s been. Boston acquired him as a flyer to add some tradable salary and to see if he can pop in their schemes. No chance of an extension happening here.

Projection: No extension

#29 Day’Ron Sharpe – Brooklyn Nets

Sharpe is a terrific offensive rebounder. He’s also shown nice touch around the basket too. At worst, Sharpe is a solid backup center. But, like Cam Thomas, the Nets aren’t putting any extra salary on the books for 2025-26 unless they have to.

Projection: No extension

#30 Santi Aldama – Memphis Grizzlies

Aldama has become a good rotation big. He’s a good scorer, with nice touch on his jumper. He’s a better rebounder than he gets credit for, and he improved as a rim protector last season. The Grizzlies roster and cap sheet are pretty stuffed though. That will probably see them hold off on adding any more guaranteed long-term money for now.

Projection: No extension

Keith SmithJune 12, 2024

2024 NBA free agency is right around the corner. This isn’t considered to be a blockbuster free agent class, but there are several impact players available. In these rankings, we took a similar approach to the one many teams use when it comes to ranking available players. The tiers are:

  • All-Star: These aren’t all necessarily All-Stars, but they have the ability to be an All-Star
  • Starters: These players are either starters or they produce at a starter-level of impact
  • Rotation: These are solid players that should be in a team’s regular season rotation

All potential free agents have been ranked, including those with pending options.

ALL-STAR TIER

  1. LeBron James – Los Angeles Lakers, PF (PLAYER)
    Yes, he's going to be 40 years old. Yes, he's going to be in Year 22. Doesn't matter. LeBron James is still playing at an All-NBA level. He's getting the max. The only question? Will it be from the Lakers or someone else?
  2. Paul George – LA Clippers, SF (PLAYER)
    There was a point when it felt like George wouldn't even hit the market. He may still extend, as he can do so up through June 30. But it's now starting to look likely George may be the best player with a chance of actually changing teams.
  3. Tyrese Maxey – Philadelphia 76ers, PG (RFA)    
    Maxey is a free agent in name only. He's going to re-sign with Philadelphia on a five-year max deal worth either 25% and possibly up to 30% of the cap.
  4. Pascal Siakam – Indiana Pacers, PF (UFA)
    Siakam is a virtual lock to re-sign with the Pacers. The real concern is will it be a four- or five-year max? Four is a lot more palatable. Five could get a little rough by that final season. No matter, Siakam will stay in Indiana.
  5. DeMar DeRozan – Chicago Bulls, SF (UFA)
    It feels like DeRozan is more likely to extend or re-sign with the Bulls than he is to actually leave. However, if Chicago doesn't give him a good enough offer, DeRozan would be in demand around the league as a scoring wing option.
  6.  OG Anunoby – New York Knicks (PLAYER)
    The Knicks presumably traded a lot for Anunoby with an understanding that they'd re-sign him. He's not going to come cheap, however. Anunoby will be looking for something in the range of $35-$40 million. That's pricey, but worth it.
  7. James Harden – LA Clippers, PG (UFA)
    Harden is very likely to re-sign with the Clippers. The questions are for how many years and how much money? He's still an offensive force, even if he's slipping. That keeps him in All-Star consideration and near the top of this list.
  8. Immanuel Quickley – Toronto Raptors, PG (RFA) 
    If a cap space team wanted to offer Quickley a max contract, the Raptors might blink. Otherwise, Toronto will re-sign Quickley and install him as their point guard of the future. He was THE get in the OG Anunoby trade.

STARTER TIER

  1. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope – Denver Nuggets, SG (PLAYER)
    Caldwell-Pope will probably opt out, but he's likely not leaving Denver. Look for Caldwell-Pope and the Nuggets to sign a long-term deal that keeps him in Denver for at least a few more years.
  2. Miles Bridges – Charlotte Hornets, PF (UFA)
    What happens with Bridges will largely depend on how teams feel about his off-court issues. If they can get past that, Bridges is a talented combo forward. Someone is going to pay him, and probably very handsomely.
  3. Isaiah Hartenstein – New York Knicks, C (UFA)
    Hartenstein has only been even a semi-starter for one season. But he's shown that he can be a productive staring center. He defends, rebounds and he's a good passer. He's also a solid finisher with nice touch. A big payday is coming.
  4. Malik Monk – Sacramento Kings, SG (UFA)
    Monk is one of the best free agents who may actually change teams this summer. He's become a plug-and-play guy who can start or coming off the bench. He's going to get a big contract from someone this summer.
  5. Nicolas Claxton – Brooklyn Nets (UFA)
    Claxton is the best defender of the FA center group. He's an All-Defense level of rim protector, and he can hold his own on switches. If he was a bit more refined offensively, he'd top this list. As it is, Claxton is looking at a very large contract.
  6. D'Angelo Russell – Los Angeles Lakers, PG (PLAYER)
    Russell is in an interesting spot. He's not going to be a top target for any of the cap space teams, but some of them could turn to him. He can score and pass. Put the right defense around him, and he's a solid starting point guard.
  7. Kelly Oubre Jr. – Philadelphia 76ers, SF (UFA)
    It wasn't that Oubre had a bounce-back season for the Sixers, because he had been good for the Hornets, Warriors and Suns. But Oubre did prove he can contribute to a winning team in a big way. He won't be on a minimum again.
  8. Klay Thompson – Golden State Warriors, SF (UFA)
    Thompson has slipped. He can't defend the quicker guards anymore. He's more of a 3/4 now than he is a guard. But Thompson still put up 18 PPG on 39% shooting from deep. That has value. But does it still have value to the Warriors?
  9. Tobias Harris – Philadelphia 76ers, PF (UFA)
    Harris isn't a max or near-max guy, as he was on his previous contract. But he's also not a minimum player, as many have suggested. Someone will get a scoring forward on a fair contract this summer. It just won't be the Sixers.
  10. Tyus Jones – Washington Wizards, PG (UFA)
    Jones first year as a starter went pretty well. He put up career-highs nearly across the board. Jones is a low-end starter and a high-end backup. He'll have plenty of offers, should he choose to leave a starting job in Washington.
  11. Jonas Valaciunas – New Orleans Pelicans, C (UFA)
    Valanciunas is still hanging in there as a productive starter. However, Valanciunas is best as part of a platoon now. He can't hold down the role for more than half of a game. But he's still a good fit for anyone who needs a starting five.
  12. Patrick Williams – Chicago Bulls, PF (RFA)
    Williams is still an enigma. He's efficient. He rebounds. He's an above-average defender. But he's been hurt in two of four seasons. His role has never scaled beyond fourth or fifth option. Will someone take a chance that there's more?
  13. Bruce Brown – Toronto Raptors, SG (TEAM)
    It sounds like Toronto will pick up Brown's option. After that, the Raptors are expected to explore trades for the versatile guard/wing.
  14. Buddy Heild – Philadelphia 76ers, SG (UFA)
    Hield dipped a bit with the Sixers, compared to his play with the Pacers, especially in the playoffs. But he's still one of the best shooters on the market this summer. He's almost 32, so deals might be a bit shorter in length.
  15. Gary Trent Jr. – Toronto Raptors, SG (UFA)
    Trent is one of the best 3&D options who might change teams this summer. He's also only 25 years old, so there's plenty left in his legs. With Toronto resetting, someone should get a nice player in Trent this offseason.
  16. Nicolas Batum – Philadelphia 76ers, PF (UFA)
    Batum has settled into a rolid role as a stretch four to end his career. He's been right around a 40% three-point shooter in each year since he left Charlotte. He can still defend too. But…how much longer does he want to play?
  17. Gary Harris – Orlando Magic, SG (UFA)
    Harris has been a solid 3&D guard for the Magic for a few years now. He's a tier lower than the players above him on this list. And Harris is now 30 years old. But for a chunk of the MLE, he'll be a nice pickup for someone.
  18. Caleb Martin – Miami Heat, SF (PLAYER)
    Martin dipped a bit last season from the previous two seasons but he's still a solid two-way wing. That's something teams pay for. Look for Miami to do what they can to keep him, because replacing him will be a challenge otherwise.
  19. Russell Westbrook – LA Clippers, PG (PLAYER)
    We're closing in on the end for Westbrook, but we aren't there yet. He's best as a backup, but could still be a starter somewhere. He'll probably return to the Clippers, but he might try to find a bigger role elsewhere.
  20. Markelle Fultz – Orlando Magic, PG (UFA)
    Fultz dealt with injuries again. He's abandoned any pretense of a three-point shot. But he does a nice job in the midrange game, and he's a solid defender. He'd be a low-end starter, but a pretty good backup, just not in Orlando.
  21. Isaac Okoro – Cleveland Cavaliers, SF (RFA)
    Okoro is only 23 years old and he's gotten better each season, despite an everchanging role. His ability to defend plus hitting open shots, should have a smart team pushing the Cavs with an offer sheet they might not match.
  22. Malik Beasley – Milwaukee Bucks, SG (UFA)
    Beasley is a starter level guy, and he shouldn't have to play on a minimum deal this season. As a reliable shooter, who stays healthy, Beasley is worth part of the MLE from a playoff team.
  23. Kyle Lowry – Philadelphia 76ers, PG (UFA)
    Lowry is squeezing all he can out of his career at this point. He seemed rejuvenated by landing at home in Philadelphia. Look for Lowry to return to the Sixers, likely on a minimum deal as a low-minutes starter or as Maxey's backup.
  24. Saddiq Bey – Atlanta Hawks, SF (RFA)
    Bey wasn't as efficient as his first half-season with the Hawks, but he was on his way to a nice payday. Now, a torn ACL will cost him a lot of next season. He might just sign the qualifying offer and rehab most of the year in Atlanta.

ROTATION TIER

  1. Simone Fontecchio – Detroit Pistons, SF (UFA)
    Fontecchio put together a really solid second season in the NBA. So much so that Detroit is going to do what they can to keep him around. Look for an MLE-ish type of deal and that'll be good for the Pistons to keep the wing shooter.
  2. Luke Kennard – Memphis Grizzlies, SG (TEAM)
    Kennard may be the best shooter in the NBA. The challenge is that he can't stay healthy. The Grizzlies may decline their team option for Kennard, because of tax concerns. If so, someone will snag a shooter on the cheap.
  3. Andre Drummond – Chicago Bulls, C (UFA)
    Drummond is the best backup center available this offseason, mostly because he's overqualified for that role. He'd make sense on just about any team, especially those looking for a high-minute backup that can start when necessary.
  4. Monte Morris – Minnesota Timberwolves, PG (UFA)
    This was a lost season for Morris. He wasn't healthy with Detroit and didn't carve out a real role with Minnesota. Still, he's one of the best backup point guards in the NBA. He'll have no problem finding a contract to fill that role.
  5. Kyle Anderson – Minnesota Timberwolves, PF (UFA)
    A year after hitting a career-best 41% from behind the arc, Anderson cratered to 23%. He's also heading into his age-31 season. But he defends, can handle the ball and pass. And he's solid inside the arc. Good backup for the MLE.
  6. Derrick Jones Jr. – Dallas Mavericks, SF (UFA)
    Jones got back to being the guy he looked like in Miami with Dallas. He defended well and made just enough shots to keep team's honest. And he's got good chemistry with Luka Doncic. Look for the Mavs to try to keep him around.
  7. Sam Hauser – Boston Celtics, SF (TEAM)
    It's unlikely Boston will decline Hauser's minimum team option. The Celtics already have enough tax issues as it is. But if they do decline the deal, it's likely because they have a long-term agreement in place to keep Hauser in Boston.
  8. Eric Gordon – Phoenix Suns, SG (PLAYER)
    Despite the fact that he turns 36 years old next season, Gordon remains one of the more reliable bench scoring/shooting options in the NBA. He may choose to stay with the Suns, out of wanting to run it back.
  9. Jose Alvarado – New Orleans Pelicans, PG (TEAM)
    Alvarado probably won't even hit free agency. The Pelicans are close enough to the tax line that picking up his option and dealing with free agency next summer is the way. He's a key backup for New Orleans, so he'll stick around.
  10. Moritz Wagner – Orlando Magic, C (TEAM)
    Wagner has graduated from being a top-tier irritant. He's still that, but Wagner is now much more. He hasn’t fully scrapped the jumper, but Wagner has improved as a finisher around the rim. And he's a good defender and rebounder too.
  11. Drew Eubanks – Phoenix Suns, C (PLAYER)
    Eubanks had a kind of disappointing season for the Suns. He wasn't as good as he was in his last year in Portland. That could have him on the move. Eubanks is a good backup, because he can defend the rim and finish. That's solid.
  12. Gordon Hayward – Oklahoma City Thunder, SF (UFA)
    It all went wrong for Hayward in OKC. He didn't play much, never got comfortable and didn't carve a role. But Hayward showed with Charlotte that he can still do a little bit of everything…when healthy. Who pays what for that? Who knows?
  13. Taurean Prince – Los Angeles Lakers, PF (UFA)
    Prince has become a really solid shooter. That has value as a combo forward. He's probably more of a backup or spot starter than regular starter, but Prince should get a raise off the Bi-Annual amount he played for last season.
  14. Obi Toppin – Indiana Pacers, PF (RFA)
    Toppin had a really nice season for the Pacers. He's better than most backup fours, and Siakam is going to re-sign. Maybe a team can put together an offer sheet to make the Pacers blink? If you believe in the shooting, it's worth it.
  15. Precious Achiuwa – New York Knicks, PF (RFA)
    Achiuwa got back to being an energy/hustle guy who rebounded, played defense and ran the floor for the Knicks. That's his best role. Embracing that should see him get a nice deal as a backup four and small-ball backup five.
  16. Royce O’Neal – Phoenix Suns, SF (UFA)
    The Suns are likely to do what it takes to keep O'Neale around. He played a key role after coming over from Brooklyn and he's the closest thing to a 3&D weapon that Phoenix has. Look for him to get a decent, short-term deal in July.
  17. De’Anthony Melton – Philadelphia 76ers, SG (UFA)
    After putting together a strong season two years ago, Melton missed most of last season with back issues. If healthy, Melton could be a nice combo guard as a starter or off the bench.
  18. Isaiah Joe – Oklahoma City Thunder (TEAM)
    The Thunder are likely to pick up their team option for Joe. He's been really good as their primary shooter off the bench for a couple of seasons now. Next year will be Joe's year to cash in through free agency.

2024 NBA Free Agent Trackers

All PositionsPoint GuardsShooting Guard  |  Small Forward  |  Power Forward  |  Center 

Keith SmithJune 12, 2024

Spotrac’s Free Agent by Position Series

Point Guards   |   Shooting Guards   |   Small Forwards   |   Power Forwards   |   Centers

2024 NBA free agency is right around the corner. This isn’t considered to be a blockbuster free agent class, but there are several impact players available. In these rankings, we took a similar approach to the one many teams use when it comes to ranking available players. Each position was broken down into tiers. The tiers are:

  • All-Star: These aren’t all necessarily All-Stars, but they have the ability to be an All-Star
  • Starters: These players are either starters or they produce at a starter-level of impact
  • Rotation: These are solid players that should be in a team’s regular season rotation
  • Fringe: These are players at the end of the bench or Two-Way players largely in the G League

Players were then ranked within their tiers. All potential free agents have been ranked, including those with pending options.

STARTER TIER

  1. Isaiah Hartenstein – New York Knicks (UFA)
    Hartenstein has only been even a semi-starter for one season. But he's shown that he can be a productive staring center. He defends, rebounds and he's a good passer. He's also a solid finisher with nice touch. A big payday is coming.

  2. Nicolas Claxton – Brooklyn Nets (UFA)
    Claxton is the best defender of the FA center group. He's an All-Defense level of rim protector, and he can hold his own on switches. If he was a bit more refined offensively, he'd top this list. As it is, Claxton is looking at a very large contract.

  3. Jonas Valaciunas – New Orleans Pelicans (UFA)
    Valanciunas is still hanging in there as a productive starter. However, Valanciunas is best as part of a platoon now. He can't hold down the role for more than half of a game. But he's still a good fit for anyone who needs a starting five.

ROTATION TIER

  1. Andre Drummond – Chicago Bulls (UFA)
    Drummond is the best backup center available this offseason, mostly because he's overqualified for that role. He'd make sense on just about any team, especially those looking for a high-minute backup that can start when necessary.

  2. Moritz Wagner – Orlando Magic (TEAM)
    Wagner has graduated from being a top-tier irritant. He's still that, but Wagner is now much more. He hasn’t fully scrapped the jumper, but Wagner has improved as a finisher around the rim. And he's a good defender and rebounder too.

  3. Drew Eubanks – Phoenix Suns (PLAYER)
    Eubanks had a kind of disappointing season for the Suns. He wasn't as good as he was in his last year in Portland. That could have him on the move. Eubanks is a good backup, because he can defend the rim and finish. That's solid.

  4. Xavier Tillman Sr. – Boston Celtics (UFA)
    Tillman hasn't had a big impact in Boston, but he shouldn't go overlooked as a backup big option. Tillman is both a strong defender and quick enough to hold up in switches. If his jumper ever develops, he'll be even more highly rated.

  5. Mason Plumlee – LA Clippers (UFA)
    There isn't much upside with Plumlee, but he's a good backup. You're going to get competitive defense, good passing and finishing. Nothing will excite you, but you know you have your backup center spot filled with Plumlee.

  6. Goga Bitadze – Orlando Magic (UFA)
    Bitadze seems to be flying under the radar a bit. He either started for Orlando or didn't play much. As a starter, Bitadze showed terrific rebounding, improved finishing and improving defense. He's going to be a steal for a smart team.

  7. Jalen Smith – Indiana Pacers (PLAYER)
    Smith's role fluctuated a lot. He may not be in Indiana's long-term plans, so he may opt out. If so, Smith could be a nice get as a backup big. Something really enticing: Smith shot 42% on 144 three-point attempts. That's great, if it's real.

  8. Kevin Love – Miami Heat (PLAYER)
    Love is nearing the end of his career, but he's still a productive regular season backup five. He can still rebound and pass. The shot is a little shaky, and the defense makes him unplayable in the playoffs. But he can eat some regualr season innings.

  9. Jaxson Hayes – PLAYER (RFA)
    Sometimes bigs take a while to develop, but we're hitting "now or never" time with Hayes. He'll have highlight dunks and he can rebound some. But he's lost defensively. And those glimpses of an outside shot are mere memories now.

  10. Richaun Holmes – Washington Wizards (PLAYER)
    Holmes is very likely to opt in with the Wizards. He won't see more than minimum offers at this point in his career. If he can get some minutes in Washington, he could play well enough to be a trade target by the deadline.

  11. Luke Kornet – Boston Celtics (UFA)
    Kornet has put up two good years in a row as Boston's third center. He's no longer the "Unikornet" outside shooter, but he is a good finisher. And he's a good rim protector. As a third big, teams can do a whole lot worse than Kornet.

  12. Alex Len – Sacramento Kings (UFA)
    Each year, the Kings try to upgrade at backup center. Each year, they turn back to Len. He's a rugged defender and rebounder. That one year as a jump-shooter will always be a "What if…?", but Len is a decent backup five as it is.

  13. James Wiseman – Detroit Pistons (RFA)
    Wiseman remains a lottery ticket. He's only 23 and the talent is there. Can someone pull it out of him on a nightly basis? If so, Wiseman would be a steal. The size, skill and youthful potential will get Wiseman another chance to figure it out.

  14. Chimezie Metu – Detroit Pistons (TEAM)
    Metu has turned himself in a rotation-level center. He's dropped the idea of being a stretch option, and that's helped him a lot. Decent finishing and a willingness to attack the glass on both ends will get Metu a minimum deal somewhere.

  15. Dario Saric – Golden State Warriors (UFA)
    It never quite went how it was supposed to for Saric. Weird roles and injuries kept him from becoming what we all hoped. But he's done a nice job as a small-ball backup five. He can stretch the floor and provide some playmaking for the minimum.

  16. Daniel Theis – LA Clippers (UFA)
    Theis is an ideal third center for a good team. He stays ready, despite not having a consistent role. He can shoot, he's solid in pick-and-roll and he does fine defensively. He'll get another deal, because Theis knows his role and plays it well.

  17. Neemias Queta – Boston Celtics (TEAM)
    Queta has loads of potential. He's an outstanding rebounder. He has good physical tools defensively, but needs reps to figure it out. He's also got to refine his touch a big. He'll probably be back in Boston for another year of development.

  18. Mohamed Bamba – Philadelphia 76ers (UFA)
    Bamba has the size and skill to be a stretch five. He's just never put it together for anything more than brief periods. He's also 26 years old now, so the prospect shine is gone. But for the minimum, he can be a decent backup five.

  19. Sandro Mamukelashvili – San Antonio Spurs (RFA)
    Sleeper alert! Mamukelashvili is consistent minutes as a backup away from breaking out. He can really rebound and pass for a center. The jumper is a work in progress, but he's got a funky set of moves around the rim. Keep an eye on him.

  20. Mike Muscala – Oklahoma City Thunder (UFA)
    Muscala is what he is: He's a stretch five who can give you good minutes in a pinch. Because he knows his role, he's an ideal third center. A contender will have Muscala on their bench for depth purposes next season.

FRINGE TIER (UNRANKED AND PRESENTED IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)

  1. Udoka Azubuike – Phoenix Suns (UFA / TWO-WAY)
    Azubuike could be a good backup center. He's never fully had the chance due to role and injuries. But he's shown some rebounding ability and some defensive tools too. He's a foul machine, but someone might give him a backup deal.

  2. Ibou Badji – Portland Trail Blazers (RFA / TWO-WAY)
    Badji is very raw, but he's huge. He's probaby going to have to do another two-way deal, but he's worth continuing to work with in the G League. The size and athleticism make Badji worth trying to develop.

  3. Bismack Biyombo – Oklahoma City Thunder (UFA)
    Biyombo might have another year or two left at the end of the bench for a contender. He's well-liked and he can give a team a few minutes here and there as a rebounder and defender. It all comes down to if he wants to keep playing or not.

  4. Moses Brown – Portland Trail Blazer (UFA)
    As a second-year guy, it looked like Brown was heading towards being a good backup or low-end starter. But he never built on that season. Now, he might be best off heading overseas for a year or two. The skill is there, but the shine is off him as a prospect.

  5. Thomas Bryant – Miami Heat (PLAYER)
    Injuries wrecked things for Bryant, just as he was looking like a solid starting center. Bryant has never developed enough as a defender to offset any fall-off offensively. That's put him in a spot where he's chasing backup roles.

  6. Colin Castleton – Philadelphia 76ers (RFA / TWO-WAY)
    Castleton has nice touch in the paint. He's also a very good rebounder and decent shot-blocker too. If he had more range, Castleton would be a nice backup five. Another year of a development on a two-way will do him good.

  7. Luka Garza – Minnesota Timberwolves (RFA)
    Garza has flashed as a potential backup five in the NBA, but he's not quite there. He's like a 4A guy in baseball: Too good for the minors, but not quite good enough for the majors. He may return to Minnesota as deep center depth.

  8. Taj Gibson – Detroit Pistons (UFA)
    Gibson is so well thought of, that he keeps getting deals. He helps young bigs improve by making them work in practice. If Gibson is open to that, he might get another deal. But his on-court, in-game impact will be minimal if at all.

  9. Harry Giles III – Los Angeles Lakers (UFA / TWO-WAY)
    It's been great to see Giles battle his way back to the NBA. But the years injuries have taken their toll. He just doesn't seem to have it in him to hold up to what the NBA needs for even a backup role.

  10. Jay Huff – Denver Nuggets (RFA / TWO-WAY)
    Huff does a great job in the G League. He blocks shot, rebounds and scores efficiently, including a nice three-point shot. That has translated to the NBA yet. He's got one more year of two-way eligibility before probably heading overseas.

  11. Damian Jones – Cleveland Cavaliers (UFA)
    Jones has never done more than flash on occasion in the NBA. Someone might bring him in as a deep frontcourt option, but that's about it. There's no real upside left here.

  12. DeAndre Jordan – Denver Nuggets (UFA)
    If Jordan wants to continue to be the sage veteran presence for a contender, he can be that again next season. And he'll even throw in a handful of produtive games here and there as a backup. But Jordan is in that wise-vet stage of his career now.

  13. Boban Marjanovic – Houston Rockets (UFA)
    There might not be a more popular teammate in the league than Marjanovic. He also practices hard and stays ready when his number is sporadically called. Someone will have him on their bench, if Marjanovic wants to keep going.

  14. JaVale McGee – Sacramento Kings (UFA)
    McGee is in the same spot as so many others on this list. He's a great locker room guy and a beloved teammate. His on-court impact is fairly minimal, but someone will sign him just because he's a terrific veteran presence to have around.

  15. Olivier Sarr – Oklahoma City Thunder (RFA / TWO-WAY)
    Sarr had put together a nice season in the G League, but unfortunately suffered a torn Achilles in the G League Finals. He's likely to miss the entirety of next season, as he rehabs from the injury.

  16. Jericho Sims – New York Knicks (TEAM)
    The Knicks will likely pick up Sims option, because he's a cost-effective third center to have around. There's not much upside here, but Sims is solid enough that New York should keep him.

  17. Tristan Thompson – Cleveland Cavaliers (UFA)
    Thompson can still bang and defend a bit on the interior. But there's not much else here. He could find another team to bring him to play an enforcer type of role in limited minutes.

  18. Oscar Tshiebwe – Indiana Pacers (RFA / TWO-WAY)
    Tshiebwe could lead the NBA in rebounding some day. He's that good at attacking the glass. The issue is that there isn't a whole lot else where. He was an inconsistent finisher and defender. He'll get another two-way to keep developing.

  19. Malik Williams– Toronto Raptors (RFA)
    Williams showed a knack for blocking shots and rebounding the G League. He's not a strong finisher around the rim however, and his jumper needs work. But there's potential there for a two-way contract next season.

  20. Cody Zeller – New Orleans Pelicans (UFA)
    Zeller didn't play much and didn't show much when he did play. He might get another deal as a deeper center option for a good team. Maybe some consistency would come back with regular minutes. But we're closing in on the end for Zeller.

2024 NBA Free Agent Trackers

All PositionsPoint GuardsShooting Guard  |  Small Forward  |  Power Forward  |  Center 

Keith SmithJune 09, 2024

Spotrac’s Free Agent by Position Series

Point Guards   |   Shooting Guards   |   Small Forwards   |   Power Forwards   |   Centers

2024 NBA free agency is right around the corner. This isn’t considered to be a blockbuster free agent class, but there are several impact players available. In these rankings, we took a similar approach to the one many teams use when it comes to ranking available players. Each position was broken down into tiers. The tiers are:

  • All-Star: These aren’t all necessarily All-Stars, but they have the ability to be an All-Star
  • Starters: These players are either starters or they produce at a starter-level of impact
  • Rotation: These are solid players that should be in a team’s regular season rotation
  • Fringe: These are players at the end of the bench or Two-Way players largely in the G League

Players were then ranked within their tiers. All potential free agents have been ranked, including those with pending options.

ALL-STAR TIER

  1. LeBron James – Los Angeles Lakers (PLAYER)
    Yes, he's going to be 40 years old. Yes, he's going to be in Year 22. Doesn't matter. LeBron James is still playing at an All-NBA level. He's getting the max. The only question? Will it be from the Lakers or someone else?

  2. Pascal Siakam – Indiana Pacers (UFA)
    Siakam is a virtual lock to re-sign with the Pacers. The real concern is will it be a four- or five-year max? Four is a lot more palatable. Five could get a little rough by that final season. No matter, Siakam will stay in Indiana.

STARTER TIER

  1. Miles Bridges – Charlotte Hornets (UFA)
    What happens with Bridges will largely depend on how teams feel about his off-court issues. If they can get past that, Bridges is a talented combo forward. Someone is going to pay him, and probably very handsomely.

  2. Tobias Harris – Philadelphia 76ers (UFA)
    Harris isn't a max or near-max guy, as he was on his previous contract. But he's also not a minimum player, as many have suggested. Someone will get a scoring forward on a fair contract this summer. It just won't be the Sixers.

  3. Patrick Williams – Chicago Bulls (RFA)
    Williams is still an enigma. He's efficient. He rebounds. He's an above-average defender. But he's been hurt in two of four seasons. His role has never scaled beyond fourth or fifth option. Will someone take a chance that there's more?

  4. Nicolas Batum – Philadelphia 76ers (UFA)
    Batum has settled into a rolid role as a stretch four to end his career. He's been right around a 40% three-point shooter in each year since he left Charlotte. He can still defend too. But…how much longer does he want to play?

ROTATION TIER

  1. Kyle Anderson – Minnesota Timberwolves (UFA)
    A year after hitting a career-best 41% from behind the arc, Anderson cratered to 23%. He's also heading into his age-31 season. But he defends, can handle the ball and pass. And he's solid inside the arc. Good backup for the MLE.

  2. Taurean Prince – Los Angeles Lakers (UFA)
    Prince has become a really solid shooter. That has value as a combo forward. He's probably more of a backup or spot starter than regular starter, but Prince should get a raise off the Bi-Annual amount he played for last season.

  3. Obi Toppin – Indiana Pacers (RFA)
    Toppin had a really nice season for the Pacers. He's better than most backup fours, and Siakam is going to re-sign. Maybe a team can put together an offer sheet to make the Pacers blink? If you believe in the shooting, it's worth it.

  4. Precious Achiuwa – New York Knicks (RFA)
    Achiuwa got back to being an energy/hustle guy who rebounded, played defense and ran the floor for the Knicks. That's his best role. Embracing that should see him get a nice deal as a backup four and small-ball backup five.

  5. Jae Crowder – Milwaukee Bucks (UFA)
    Crowder can't really defend wings anymore. He's lost too much footspeed. He's a touch small to defend most fours. That leaves him in a weird combo forward spot coming off the bench. He'll get another job for the minimum somewhere.

  6. Bol Bol – Phoenix Suns (UFA)
    A look at the numbers would make you wonder why Bol doesn't have an established role. But if you watch him play, you can see how up and down the Bol experience is. He's just never put it together. Talent gets him another deal.

  7. Jeff Green – Houston Rockets (TEAM)
    Heading into his age-38 season, Green is still plugging along. The Rockets don't really need him, but they love having him around their young core. That will probably see Green's option picked up for another year off the bench.

  8. Haywood Highsmith – Miami Heat (UFA)
    If you believe in Highsmith's three-point shooting, he should be an MLE candidate. If you're a little shaky, he should get a chunk of the MLE. Can Miami match that, given tax/apron concerns? Highsmith could be the next to leave Miami.

  9. Trendon Watford – Brooklyn Nets (RFA)
    Watford can play. He's a good finisher, a good passer and fairly solid defensive. The shooting volume is low, but the jumper looks like he should take more. Restricted free agency will hurt him, but Watford should get a nice deal.

  10. Tristan Vukcevic – Washington Wizards (TEAM)
    Vukcevic got a late-season taste of the NBA. We don't know enough, but there's potential there. The Wizards may decline this option and sign Vukcevic to a long-term deal. They didn't bring him over to see him bounce after 10 games.

  11. Davis Bertans – Charlotte Hornets (PLAYER)
    Bertans can still shoot. But he's no longer the high-volume sniper that he was early in his career. The Hornets will probably clear this deal off their books, but someone else will give Bertans a deal to be a stretch four off their bench.

  12. Keita Bates-Diop – Brooklyn Nets (PLAYER)
    Bates-Diop's season was a disappointment. He never replicated what he showed with the Spurs. He may just pick up his option to guarantee some money. If not, a team could still get a nice player for a minimum deal.

  13. J.T. Thor – Charlotte Hornets (TEAM)
    It's been baby steps for Thor. He's shown some promise, but the development has been a little slow. The Hornets might give him one more year to see if all comes together. Otherwise, he'll battle for a backup forward spot elsewhere.

  14. Marcus Morris Sr. – Cleveland Cavaliers (UFA)
    At various points last season, it looked like Morris was done as a productive player. At other points, including in the playoffs, Morris showed he has something left. Someone will give him a minimum deal for some forward depth.

  15. P.J. Tucker – LA Clippers (PLAYER)
    Tucker is going to pick up his option. If he opts out, he's unlikely to see $11 million total the rest of his career. We're really close to the end of the line, and Tucker is more of tradable salary than a real rotation guy at this point.

FRINGE TIER (UNRANKED AND PRESENTED IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)

  1. Thanasis Antetokounmpo – Milwaukee Bucks (UFA)
    Antetokounmpo tore his Achilles in a workout shortly after the season. He's unlikely to get signed, as he'll be rehabbing all season long.

  2. Dominick Barlow – San Antonio Spurs (RFA)
    Barlow has been dominant on the G League level, and has flashed in the NBA. Restricted free agency will allow the Spurs to control the process. Look for him to be back in San Antonio for at least one more season.

  3. Greg Brown III – Dallas Mavericks (RFA / TWO-WAY)
    Brown is a good shot blocker and pretty good rebounder. He's also a solid finisher around the rim. The issue is Brown is a bit undersized and his jumper hasn't come around yet. He'll probably do another year on a two-way deal.

  4. Jamal Cain – Miami Heat (RFA / TWO-WAY)
    For a little bit, it looked like Cain was the Heat's next G League development success story. He's not quite there yet though. Look for him to do one more year on a two-way with Miami before moving to the NBA permanently.

  5. Vlatko Cancar – Denver Nuggets (TEAM)
    Cancar missed all of last season after a torn ACL last summer. The Nuggets will pick up this option and Cancar may be part of the rotation as a backup forward next season. That's how things were trending before his injury.

  6. Robert Covington – Philadelphia 76ers (UFA)
    Between injuries and age, we may be closing in on the end of the line for Covington. He can't get after defensively on the perimeter anymore. That limits his value, as he's not the volume shooting weapon he once was either.

  7. Moussa Diabate – LA Clippers (RFA / TWO-WAY)
    Diabate remains and interesting prospect. He can really, really rebound. He's also a decent shot blocker. Diabate is also a solid finisher. Another year of seasoning on a two-way contract is probably in order for the big man.

  8. Danilo Gallinari – Milwaukee Bucks (UFA)
    We're just about at the end for Gallinari. He simply can't move enough to defend very well. Maybe a team gives him a deal in hopes he can provide some floor spacing, but Gallo may be finishing up his career playing overseas.

  9. Usman Garuba – Golden State Warriors (UFA)
    Garuba denied that he's continuing his career by signing in Spain. That will leave the door open for another NBA deal, but it'll be a minimum deal and a battle for a roster spot. Gabuba may yet end up in Spain when all is said and done.

  10. Anthony Gill – Washington Wizards (UFA)
    After several years of solid play in Europe, Gill had a nice run in the NBA. If he shot it better, Gill might even have a shot at a bigger NBA role. As it stands, he's a vet minimum guy, or he could head back overseas for a bigger deal.

  11. James Johnson – Indiana Pacers (UFA)
    Johnson is a locker-room presence at this point. The Pacers have enjoyed having him around, and the toughness he adds. If they have an open roster spot, Johnson might be back. Otherwise, it's been a really nice career.

  12. Kai Jones – LA Clippers (TEAM)
    The Clippers are going to pick up their option on Jones. They'll want to see if they can finally tap all that untapped potential. Jones seems to be committed to making the most of his second chance, which is great to see.

  13. Isaiah Mobley – Cleveland Cavaliers (RFA / TWO-WAY)
    Mobley has done a nice job in two G League seasons. He even showed some signs of developing into a stretch big. That development will probably continue for at least one more year on a two-way deal.

  14. Markieff Morris – Dallas Mavericks (UFA)
    Unlike his brother Marcus, Markieff Morris hasn't flashed much. He's a respected veteran voice though, and Morris adds toughness. That could keep him on a roster again next season for the veteran minimum.

  15. Pete Nance – Cleveland Cavaliers (RFA / TWO-WAY)
    Nance had a nice G League season. He's developing into a jack-of-all-trades forward. The Cavs would probably like another year to keep working with Nance on a two-way contract.

  16. Drew Peterson – Boston Celtics (RFA / TWO-WAY)
    Peterson has potential a stretch four. He can also really, really pass the ball. That opens things up beyond just being a spot-up shooter. Another year honing his skills in the G League will be good for Peterson.

  17. Micah Potter – Utah Jazz (RFA / TWO-WAY)
    Potter has done well in the G League. He's a pretty solid scorer around the basket, and he can really step out and shoot it. If he held up better defensively, he'd be in the NBA. As it stands, another two-way is in Potter's future.

  18. Jeremiah Robinson-Earl – New Orleans Pelicans (TEAM)
    Unless the Pelicans really need to cut salary for tax purposes, or they really need a roster spot, Robinson-Earl will be back. He's shown signs of being a solid backup big in the NBA. New Orleans can use the frontcourt depth.

  19. Luka Samanic – Utah Jazz (UFA)
    Samanic saw his most extensive NBA minutes last season and he didn't do much with them. He's not a shooter and he didn't finish well either. Samanic may be headed back to Europe for more money and a bigger role.

  20. Adama Sanogo – Chicago Bulls (RFA / TWO-WAY)
    Sanogo is a terrific rebounder and really solid around the rim. If he was a better rim protector, he'd probably get an NBA deal. But it'd be smart for a team to give Sanogo another two-way deal to develop in the G League.

  21. Thaddeus Young – Phoenix Suns (UFA)
    We might at at the end of the line for Young. He does space the floor anymore, and his quickness is just about gone. Teams love his approach and leadership, so maybe he finds another deal. But we're closing in on retirement time.

2024 NBA Free Agent Trackers

All PositionsPoint GuardsShooting Guard  |  Small Forward  |  Power Forward  |  Center 

Keith SmithJune 04, 2024

Spotrac’s Free Agent by Position Series

Point Guards   |   Shooting Guards   |   Small Forwards   |   Power Forwards   |   Centers

2024 NBA free agency is right around the corner. This isn’t considered to be a blockbuster free agent class, but there are several impact players available. In these rankings, we took a similar approach to the one many teams use when it comes to ranking available players. Each position was broken down into tiers. The tiers are:

  • All-Star: These aren’t all necessarily All-Stars, but they have the ability to be an All-Star
  • Starters: These players are either starters or they produce at a starter-level of impact
  • Rotation: These are solid players that should be in a team’s regular season rotation
  • Fringe: These are players at the end of the bench or Two-Way players largely in the G League

Players were then ranked within their tiers. All potential free agents have been ranked, including those with pending options.

ALL-STAR TIER

  1. Paul George – LA Clippers (PLAYER)
    There was a point when it felt like George wouldn't even hit the market. He may still extend, as he can do so up through June 30. But it's now starting to look likely George may be the best player with a chance of actually changing teams.

  2. DeMar DeRozan – Chicago Bulls (UFA)
    It feels like DeRozan is more likely to extend or re-sign with the Bulls than he is to actually leave. However, if Chicago doesn't give him a good enough offer, DeRozan would be in demand around the league as a scoring wing option.

  3. OG Anunoby – New York Knicks (PLAYER)
    The Knicks presumably traded a lot for Anunoby with an understanding that they'd re-sign him. He's not going to come cheap, however. Anunoby will be looking for something in the range of $35-$40 million. That's pricey, but worth it.

STARTER TIER

  1. Kelly Oubre Jr. – Philadelphia 76ers (UFA)
    It wasn't that Oubre had a bounce-back season for the Sixers, because he had been good for the Hornets, Warriors and Suns. But Oubre did prove he can contribute to a winning team in a big way. He won't be on a minimum again.

  2. Klay Thompson – Golden State Warriors (UFA)
    Thompson has slipped. He can't defend the quicker guards anymore. He's more of a 3/4 now than he is a guard. But Thompson still put up 18 PPG on 39% shooting from deep. That has value. But does it still have value to the Warriors?

  3. Caleb Martin – Miami Heat (PLAYER)
    Martin dipped a bit last season from the previous two seasons but he's still a solid two-way wing. That's something teams pay for. Look for Miami to do what they can to keep him, because replacing him will be a challenge otherwise.

  4. Isaac Okoro – Cleveland Cavaliers (RFA)
    Okoro is only 23 years old and he's gotten better each season, despite an everchanging role. His ability to defend plus hitting open shots, should have a smart team pushing the Cavs with an offer sheet they might not match.

  5. Saddiq Bey – Atlanta Hawks (RFA)
    Bey wasn't as efficient as his first half-season with the Hawks, but he was on his way to a nice payday. Now, a torn ACL will cost him a lot of next season. He might just sign the qualifying offer and rehab most of the year in Atlanta.

ROTATION TIER

  1. Simone Fontecchio – Detroit Pistons (UFA)
    Fontecchio put together a really solid second season in the NBA. So much so that Detroit is going to do what they can to keep him around. Look for an MLE-ish type of deal and that'll be good for the Pistons to keep the wing shooter.

  2. Derrick Jones Jr. – Dallas Mavericks (UFA)
    Jones got back to being the guy he looked like in Miami with Dallas. He defended well and made just enough shots to keep team's honest. And he's got good chemistry with Luka Doncic. Look for the Mavs to try to keep him around.

  3. Sam Hauser – Boston Celtics (TEAM)
    It's unlikely Boston will decline Hauser's minimum team option. The Celtics already have enough tax issues as it is. But if they do decline the deal, it's likely because they have a long-term agreement in place to keep Hauser in Boston.

  4. Gordon Hayward – Oklahoma City Thunder (UFA)
    It all went wrong for Hayward in OKC. He didn't play much, never got comfortable and didn't carve a role. But Hayward showed with Charlotte that he can still do a little bit of everything…when healthy. Who pays what for that? Who knows?

  5. Royce O’Neal – Phoenix Suns (UFA)
    The Suns are likely to do what it takes to keep O'Neale around. He played a key role after coming over from Brooklyn and he's the closest thing to a 3&D weapon that Phoenix has. Look for him to get a decent, short-term deal in July.

  6. Naji Marshall – New Orleans Pelicans (UFA)
    If Marshall's 39% shooting from behind the arc is real, then he should get the MLE from someone. If teams aren't sold, then he's probably getting half that or less. At the very least, he's proven he can be a solid wing/combo forward.

  1. Joe Ingles – Orlando Magic (TEAM)
    Ingles was everything Orlando wanted. He gave them veteran leadership, was a terrific ball-mover and a lights-out shooter. The Magic would love to have him back, but not for what he makes on his option. It's a decline-and-re-sign situation.

  2. Torrey Craig – Chicago Bulls (PLAYER)
    Craig has put together back-to-back seasons where he's hit better than 39% from deep. He's finally become the 3&D player everyone wanted. That should get him a non-minimum deal this summer, if teams can get past their priors.

  3. Doug McDermott – Indiana Pacers (UFA)
    It was a weird year for McDermott. He was still efficient, despite a lesser role in San Antonio. Then he got back to Indiana and couldn't make a shot. Given his age and one-skill game, we're probably in the minimum phase of his career.

  4. Cedi Osman – San Antonio Spurs (UFA)
    Osman quietly had a nice season for the Spurs. He shot it pretty well, and he tried on defense. Someone could get a regular season rotation wing on the cheap with Osman this summer.

  5. Jae’Sean Tate – Houston Rockets (TEAM)
    Tate's shot has never developed enough for him to become the 3&D wing we all hoped for. He can still play, but he's a defense, hustle, run the floor guy. Watch his option, as Houston has a very crowded forward rotation.

  6. Yuta Watanabe – Memphis Grizzlies (PLAYER)
    There were reports after the season that Watanabe plans to opt out and to return home to play in Japan. If so, the NBA loses a forward who can play. But after six NBA seasons, Watanabe may just want to finish his career at home.

  7. Oshae Brissett – Boston Celtics (PLAYER)
    Brissett may not find a better role than the one he has in Boston, even if he finds a bigger role. He plays with tremendous energy, so that helps on a night when a contender is flat. In a bigger role, Brissett's flaws become magnified a bit.

  8. Kenyon Martin Jr. – Philadelphia 76ers (UFA)
    After a few interesting years with the Rockets, Martin never found a place with the Clippers or the Sixers. He simply doesn't shoot it well enough to play regular rotation minutes. Until the shot improves, he's a minimum guy.

  9. Reggie Bullock – Houston Rockets (UFA)
    We're nearing the end for Bullock. He can still shoot, but he doesn't do a lot else. And the shot isn't quite deadly enough to be an every-game designated shooter. It's minimums from here on out for the veteran wing.

  10. Lamar Stevens – Memphis Grizzlies (UFA)
    Stevens showed promise with the Cavs, flashed a bit with the Celtics, but didn't play much. A late-season run with the Grizzlies was good to see, but not enough to get Stevens more than a minimum deal next season.

  11. Kessler Edwards – Sacramento Kings (RFA)
    We've hit the "Maybe he'll figure it out" portion of the list. Edwards can shoot it a little bit. He's got decent size for a wing. But we're running out of time for him to figure it out in the NBA. He'll get one more shot, but that's probably it.

  12. Cameron Reddish – Los Angeles Lakers (PLAYER)
    We’re five years into unrealized potential with Reddish. He looked good at moments for the Lakers, but he just can't shoot. Reddish doesn't do anything else at quite high enough of a level to offset that. But he's still youngish, so...maybe?

  13. Jordan Nwora – Toronto Raptors (UFA)
    When he's had chances to play, on bad teams or due to injury, Nwora has flashed some scoring skills. That'll keep him around at the end of someone's bench, but this time it will be for the veteran minimum.

  14. Emoni Bates – Cleveland Cavaliers (RFA / TWO-WAY)
    This is a belief in Bates' former top prospect status. He played limited NBA minutes, and was up-and-down in the G League. But he's got great size and he's very skilled. One more year on a two-way and he might put it all together.

FRINGE TIER (UNRANKED AND PRESENTED IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)

  1. Brandon Boston Jr. – LA Clippers (RFA)
    Boston hasn't quite figured it out yet. He's still somewhat young, which the Clippers are in short supply of. So, he'll probably be back, but don't expect much. There's too many other wings ahead of him in the pecking order.

  2. Henri Drell – Chicago Bulls (RFA / TWO-WAY)
    Drell was ok in the G League, but didn't really standout. He's not a shooter, so that limits what he can do offensively. He may be best served to head back overseas rather than playing on another two-way in his age-24 season.

  3. Keyontae Johnson – Oklahoma City Thunder (RFA / TWO-WAY)
    Johnson's story of overcoming a heart condition is great. What's also exciting is how well he played in the G League. 19.7 PPG on 53/40/80 shooting splits is good stuff. Johnson might be on a two-way again, but could be a standard guy.

  4. Braxton Key – Denver Nuggets (RFA / TWO-WAY)
    Key was an overpowering scorer in the G League. His issue is that he hasn't shown enough as a shooter to earn a standard NBA deal. Key has one more year of two-way eligibility left and he'll probably use it.

  5. Seth Lundy – Atlanta Hawks (RFA / TWO-WAY)
    Lundy didn't do much for the Hawks this season, but he played well in the G League. He can score and shoot on the minor-league level. He's already 24, so prospect status is waning. Look for another two-way year for Lundy.

  6. Justin Minaya – Portland Trail Blazers (RFA / TWO-WAY)
    Minaya got to play a lot when the Trail Blazers season went south. Unfortunately, he didn't do much with that time. As a 25-year-old, Minaya might be best heading overseas for a bigger deal next season.

  7. Chuma Okeke – Orlando Magic (RFA)
    We'll never know what Okeke could have been, had he not torn his ACL right before entering the draft. What we do know is that he doesn't shoot it well enough to play an NBA role. He might be best off heading overseas to play more.

  8. Jermaine Samuels Jr. – Houston Rockets (RFA / TWO-WAY)
    Samuels is a bit older for a two-way guy, but he had a really strong season in the G League. The other challenge is that Houston has a ton of forwards already. Maybe Samuels is back on another two-way unless Houston goes younger.

  9. Admiral Schofield – Orlando Magic (UFA / TWO-WAY)
    Schofield is well-liked and works hard. But he's undersized for a forward and he's 27 years old. Schofield is also out of two-way eligibility. It'll be a non-guaranteed camp deal or an overseas contract for Schofield.

  10. Jalen Slawson – Sacramento Kings (RFA / TWO-WAY)
    Slawson can do a little bit of everything. He's a pretty tough defender and he's fairly athletic. Yet, as with so many fringe guys, Slawson just doesn't shoot it very well. But he'll get at least another two-way contract.

  11. Cole Swider – Portland Trail Blazers (RFA / TWO-WAY)
    Unlike a lot of his fellow fringe guys, Swider can shoot. And he can shoot quite well too. But that's pretty much all he does. Miami may give it one more year on a two-way in hopes that he's the next Duncan Robinson or Max Strus.

  12. Jacob Toppin – New York Knicks (RFA / TWO-WAY)
    Toppin put together a pretty solid all-around year in the G League. The Knicks might give him one more year to see if he can improve his shot. Otherwise, he'll bounce around the G League or head overseas for a big role.

  13. Ishmail Wainright – Phoenix Suns (RFA / TWO-WAY)
    Wainright has a great story of a guy who battled for his NBA chance. But he'll be 30 years old at the start of next season. That's not worth giving him another two-way deal. He's probabably heading back overseas.

  14. T.J. Warren – Minnesota Timberwolves (UFA)
    Warren did ok in his late-season comeback with the Wolves. But it looks like a few years of foot issues have sapped him of his quickness and lift. Warren may get a camp deal to prove himself, otherwise he'll be waiting for a call.

  15. Dylan Windler – Atlanta Hawks (UFA / TWO-WAY)
    Windler somehow set the G League record with a 33-rebound game this year. Beyond that, he never really got his shot going. And he's never gotten and stayed healthy. It could be over before it ever really started for Windler.

2024 NBA Free Agent Trackers

All PositionsPoint GuardsShooting Guard  |  Small Forward  |  Power Forward  |  Center 

Keith SmithMay 26, 2024

Spotrac’s Free Agent by Position Series

Point Guards   |   Shooting Guards   |   Small Forwards   |   Power Forwards   |   Centers

2024 NBA free agency is right around the corner. This isn’t considered to be a blockbuster free agent class, but there are several impact players available. In these rankings, we took a similar approach to the one many teams use when it comes to ranking available players. Each position was broken down into tiers. The tiers are:

  • All-Star: These aren’t all necessarily All-Stars, but they have the ability to be an All-Star
  • Starters: These players are either starters or they produce at a starter-level of impact
  • Rotation: These are solid players that should be in a team’s regular season rotation
  • Fringe: These are players at the end of the bench or Two-Way players largely in the G League

Players were then ranked within their tiers. All potential free agents have been ranked, including those with pending options.

STARTER TIER

  1. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope – Denver Nuggets (PLAYER)
    Caldwell-Pope will probably opt out, but he's likely not leaving Denver. Look for Caldwell-Pope and the Nuggets to sign a long-term deal that keeps him in Denver for at least a few more years.

  2. Malik Monk – Sacramento Kings (UFA)
    Monk is one of the best free agents who may actually change teams this summer. He's become a plug-and-play guy who can start or coming off the bench. He's going to get a big contract from someone this summer.

  3. Bruce Brown – Toronto Raptors (TEAM)
    It sounds like Toronto will pick up Brown's option. After that, the Raptors are expected to explore trades for the versatile guard/wing.

  4. Buddy Heild – Philadelphia 76ers (UFA)
    Hield dipped a bit with the Sixers, compared to his play with the Pacers, especially in the playoffs. But he's still one of the best shooters on the market this summer. He's almost 32, so deals might be a bit shorter in length.

  5. Gary Trent Jr. – Toronto Raptors (UFA)
    Trent is one of the best 3&D options who might change teams this summer. He's also only 25 years old, so there's plenty left in his legs. With Toronto resetting, someone should get a nice player in Trent this offseason.

  6. Gary Harris – Orlando Magic (UFA)
    Harris has been a solid 3&D guard for the Magic for a few years now. He's a tier lower than the players above him on this list. And Harris is now 30 years old. But for a chunk of the MLE, he'll be a nice pickup for someone.

  7. Malik Beasley – Milwaukee Bucks (UFA)
    Beasley is a starter level guy, and he shouldn't have to play on a minimum deal this season. As a reliable shooter, who stays healthy, Beasley is worth part of the MLE from a playoff team.

ROTATION TIER

  1. Luke Kennard – Memphis Grizzlies (TEAM)
    Kennard may be the best shooter in the NBA. The challenge is that he can't stay healthy. The Grizzlies may decline their team option for Kennard, because of tax concerns. If so, someone will snag a shooter on the cheap.

  2. Eric Gordon – Phoenix Suns (PLAYER)
    Despite the fact that he turns 36 years old next season, Gordon remains one of the more reliable bench scoring/shooting options in the NBA. He may choose to stay with the Suns, out of wanting to run it back.

  3. De’Anthony Melton – Philadelphia 76ers (UFA)
    After putting together a strong season two years ago, Melton missed most of last season with back issues. If healthy, Melton could be a nice combo guard as a starter or off the bench.

  4. Isaiah Joe – Oklahoma City Thunder (TEAM)
    The Thunder are likely to pick up their team option for Joe. He's been really good as their primary shooter off the bench for a couple of seasons now. Next year will be Joe's year to cash in through free agency.

  5. Alec Burks – New York Knicks (UFA)
    Burks mostly disappeared after being traded to the Knicks, before reemerging in the playoffs. Burks can still provide some shooting, scoring and ballhandling off the bench. That'll get him another deal this summer.

  6. Gary Payton II – Golden State Warriors (PLAYER)
    Payton is one of the better defensive guards…when he's healthy. Look for Payton to possibly opt out and re-sign with the Warriors on a smaller per-year contract, but spread over a few extra seasons.

  7. Lonnie Walker IV – Brooklyn Nets (UFA)
    Walker had a weird season. He was still a solid shooter and scorer, but he couldn't stick in the Nets rotation. He'll move on to a team that needs some scoring punch off their bench.

  8. Aaron Wiggins – Oklahoma City Thunder (TEAM)
    Oklahoma City is likely to pick up their team option for Wiggins. He's become a key rotation player for the Thunder off the bench. Look for the Thunder to bring him back next season on his team-friendly deal.

  9. Josh Richardson – Miami Heat (PLAYER)
    Richardson was putting together a solid season for the Heat, before missing back half of the year due to injury. Because of that, Richardson may pick up his option to run it back in Miami.

  10. Josh Okogie – Phoenix Suns (UFA)
    After a successful first season with the Suns, Okogie struggled in his second year in Phoenix. He had injuries and his rotation spot was uncertain. He's likely to opt in to try to find the forumla that made him successful a year ago.

  11. Evan Fournier – Detroit Pistons (TEAM)
    Fournier fell out of the rotation in New York and had little impact the last two seasons. Given the state of the Pistons, they'll decline his option. From there, it's about Fournier finding a team that needs some bench shooting/scoring.

  12. Justin Holiday – Denver Nuggets (UFA)
    Holiday went from veteran depth to key rotation guy for the Nuggets this season. If a team needs some shooting off their bench, Holiday is worth a look. He's like a minimum guy from here on out.

  13. Max Christie – Los Angeles Lakers (RFA)    
    Christie could pop as a 3&D player with regular minutes. The Lakers will probably look to keep Christie on a team-friendly deal, but if roster spots or the tax become issues, he could pop loose for another team's benefit.

  14. Talen Horton-Tucker – Utah Jazz (UFA)
    Horton-Tucker is an ok scorer and playmaker, but he can't shoot and he's not much of a defender. He won't make anything near what he made last year, but Horton-Tucker will get a look as a still young-ish guard.

  15. Shake Milton – New York Knicks (UFA)
    After being a rotation guard for Philadelphia, Milton never found his footing with Minnesota, Detroit or New York last season. He'll have offers for the minimum, but likely not more.

  16. Garrison Mathews – Atlanta Hawks (TEAM)
    Mathews can really shoot it. He was terrific in the designated shooter role, just don't ask him to do much else. Given the Hawks need for affordable role players, Mathews likely has his option picked up by Atlanta.

  17. Vit Krejic – Utah Jazz (RFA / TWO-WAY)    
    Krejci is the rare two-way guy who is not a "fringe" free agent. He can really play, and could have been converted if Atlanta didn't have roster issues late in the year. Look for him to get a standard deal and to crack a rotation.

FRINGE TIER (UNRANKED AND PRESENTED IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)

  1. Jules Bernard – Washington Wizards (RFA / TWO-WAY)    
    Bernard has good size and flashed in both the NBA and the G League this season with shooting and playmaking. At the very least, he should get another look as a two-way player, but he could contend for a standard roster spot.

  2. Charlie Brown Jr. – New York Knicks (UFA / TWO-WAY)
    Brown is no longer two-way eligible. That means it's NBA or bust. Unfortunately, he hasn't shown enough to get a guaranteed NBA spot. It'll be the G League or overseas for him next season.

  3. David Duke Jr. – San Antonio Spurs (RFA / TWO-WAY)    
    Duke shot it better this season and improved as a playmaker. He's got another year of two-way eligibility, so he'll get another chance to prove himself. Duke isn't there yet, but he's coming along as a combo guard.

  4. Trent Forrest – Atlanta Hawks (UFA)
    Forrest got the NBA callup last season, but he might not stick on a standard deal. He's a non-shooter and that's usually a no-go at the guard position, unless you bring other elite skills. Forrest may be headed overseas.

  5. Javonte Green – Chicago Bulls (UFA)
    Green did a great job to fight his way back to the NBA. He'll get a camp look, because he's a good athlete and a great teammate. If Green shot it a bit better, he'd be on a standard contract as a backup wing.

  6. Kevon Harris – Orlando Magic (RFA / TWO-WAY)    
    Harris spent almost the entire season in the G League, where he was pretty productive. Something just hasn't clicked yet for him to get a real NBA look, even when Orlando had other guards out. He's probably moving on.

  7. Nate Hinton – Houston Rockets (RFA / TWO-WAY)    
    Hinton is a competitive defender and a solid playmaker, but he's an inconsistent shooter. He's got another year of two-way eligibility, and he may use it to stick on an NBA roster. Beyond that, Hinton may be looking overseas.

  8. DaQuan Jeffries – New York Knicks (TEAM)
    Jeffries is too good for the G League, but not quite there as an NBA rotation guy. As it is, the Knicks like having him around quite a bit. If they don't need the roster spot and don't have tax concerns, Jeffries might be back.

  9. Keon Johnson – Brooklyn Nets (RFA / TWO-WAY)    
    As a former first-round pick, Johnson still carries a bit of shine. He did a nice job in the G League last season as an all-around player. He'll get another shot as a camp invite or on his final season of two-way eligibility.

  10. Johnny Juzang – Utah Jazz (RFA / TWO-WAY)    
    Juzang flashed in some late season minutes. He's got a knack for scoring, and he's not a bad shooter. Juzang will get another two-way, at least. He could maybe even earn a standard deal after a camp contract.

  11. Damion Lee – Phoenix Suns (PLAYER)
    Lee missed the entire season with a right knee injury. As such, he's likely to pick up his option. If he can make it back, he'll give the Suns a knockdown shooter off their bench.

  12. Wesley Matthews – Atlanta Hawks (UFA)
    We might be at the end of the line for the veteran 3&D wing. Matthews has slowed considerably as a defender, and his shot c

  13. Xavier Moon – Los Angeles Clippers (UFA / TWO-WAY)
    Moon is a dominant scorer in the G League. In the NBA, his lack of size of works against him. Moon might return to the G League or he could find a lucrative deal overseas, where his size isn't as much of a deterrent.

  14. Sviatoslav Mykhailiuk – Boston Celtics (UFA)
    Mykhailiuk stays ready and he's a good shooter with good size. He's also a better passer than many realize. He could return to Boston in the same depth role, or Mykhailiuk could cash in with a big deal in Europe.

  15. Trevelin Queen – Orlando Magic (RFA / TWO-WAY)    
    Queen is too athletic for most G League defenders to keep him from scoring. His NBA issue is that he can't shoot. He's got one year of two-way eligibility left, and he might use it to stick on an NBA roster for another run.

  16. Lester Quinones – Golden State Warriors (RFA)    
    The Warriors have tried really hard to make Quinones into a 3&D guy. His shot simply does fall consistently enough. He could get another year of work on a two-way, with a potential callup later in the season again.

  17. Jared Rhoden – Detroit Pistons (RFA / TWO-WAY)    
    Rhoden should have gotten more of a look after the Pistons season fell apart. He's a good scorer and a pretty good shooter. He also gets on the boards. There's a player in there for Rhoden and he should get a real shot to show it.

  18. Jerome Robinson – Golden State Warriors (UFA / TWO-WAY)
    Washington scores in bunches in the G League. He's had only limited NBA opportunities though, and he's now 24 years old. He could get another two-way deal or cash in with a big deal overseason.

  19. Dereon Seabron – New Orleans Pelicans (RFA / TWO-WAY)    
    Seabron hasn't seen much NBA time, but in two G League seasons, he's been an overpowering scorer. He shot more threes and shot them better this season. He could get a camp deal or another two-way contract.

  20. Garrett Temple – Toronto Raptors (UFA)
    We're closing in on the end for the longtime veteran combo guard. Temple doesn't have a lot left, but could fill an end-of-bench veteran role.

  21. Stanley Umude – Detroit Pistons (TEAM)
    Umude should have played more when the Pistons were struggling. He's a potential 3&D guy, and he shot it well this season in the NBA. Umude could get caught up in Detroit's cap space pursuits. That is a win for another team.

  22. Lindy Waters III – Oklahoma City Thunder (TEAM)
    Waters will likely return to the Thunder. He's been on and off the roster the last two years, but OKC likes him a lot. Look for his option to be picked up and then the Thunder will figure it out from there with roster spots.

  23. Nate Williams Jr. – Houston Rockets (RFA / TWO-WAY)    
    Williams showed some stuff in limited NBA minutes last season. He was more up and down in the G League, but he's definitely worth another look on a two-way deal.

  24. Alondes Williams – Miami Heat (RFA / TWO-WAY)    
    Williams was able to develop as a playmaker in the G League last season. The Heat might bring him back for another year of two-way work, because Williams has real combo guard potential.

  25. Isaiah Wong – Indiana Pacers (RFA / TWO-WAY)    
    Wong didn't get any real NBA shot, and his G League season was kind of shaky. He needs to shoot it better to get another two-way deal. As it stands, Wong needs a lot more seasoning in the minors before he's ready for the NBA

2024 NBA Free Agent Trackers

All PositionsPoint GuardsShooting Guard  |  Small Forward  |  Power Forward  |  Center 

Keith SmithMay 20, 2024

Spotrac’s Free Agent by Position Series

Point Guards   |   Shooting Guards   |   Small Forwards   |   Power Forwards   |   Centers

2024 NBA free agency is right around the corner. This isn’t considered to be a blockbuster free agent class, but there are several impact players available. In these rankings, we took a similar approach to the one many teams use when it comes to ranking available players. Each position was broken down into tiers. The tiers are:

  • All-Star: These aren’t all necessarily All-Stars, but they have the ability to be an All-Star
  • Starters: These players are either starters or they produce at a starter-level of impact
  • Rotation: These are solid players that should be in a team’s regular season rotation
  • Fringe: These are players at the end of the bench or Two-Way players largely in the G League

Players were then ranked within their tiers. All potential free agents have been ranked, including those with pending options.

ALL-STAR TIER

  1. Tyrese Maxey – Philadelphia 76ers (RFA)    
    Maxey is a free agent in name only. He's going to re-sign with Philadelphia on a five-year max deal worth either 25% and possibly up to 30% of the cap.

  2. James Harden – LA Clippers (UFA)
    Harden is very likely to re-sign with the Clippers. The questions are for how many years and how much money? He's still an offensive force, even if he's slipping. That keeps him in All-Star consideration and near the top of this list.

  3. Immanuel Quickley – Toronto Raptors (RFA) 
    If a cap space team wanted to offer Quickley a max contract, the Raptors might blink. Otherwise, Toronto will re-sign Quickley and install him as their point guard of the future. He was THE get in the OG Anunoby trade.

STARTER TIER

  1. D'Angelo Russell – Los Angeles Lakers (PLAYER)
    Russell is in an interesting spot. He's not going to be a top target for any of the cap space teams, but some of them could turn to him. He can score and pass. Put the right defense around him, and he's a solid starting point guard.

  2. Tyus Jones – Washington Wizards (UFA)
    Jones first year as a starter went pretty well. He put up career-highs nearly across the board. Jones is a low-end starter and a high-end backup. He'll have plenty of offers, should he choose to leave a starting job in Washington.

  3. Russell Westbrook – LA Clippers (PLAYER)
    We're closing in on the end for Westbrook, but we aren't there yet. He's best as a backup, but could still be a starter somewhere. He'll probably return to the Clippers, but he might try to find a bigger role elsewhere.

  4. Markelle Fultz – Orlando Magic (UFA)
    Fultz dealt with injuries again. He's abandoned any pretense of a three-point shot. But he does a nice job in the midrange game, and he's a solid defender. He'd be a low-end starter, but a pretty good backup, just not in Orlando.

  5. Kyle Lowry – Philadelphia 76ers (UFA)
    Lowry is squeezing all he can out of his career at this point. He seemed rejuvenated by landing at home in Philadelphia. Look for Lowry to return to the Sixers, likely on a minimum deal as a low-minutes starter or as Maxey's backup.

ROTATION TIER

  1. Monte Morris – Minnesota Timberwolves (UFA)
    This was a lost season for Morris. He wasn't healthy with Detroit and didn't carve out a real role with Minnesota. Still, he's one of the best backup point guards in the NBA. He'll have no problem finding a contract to fill that role.

  2. Jose Alvarado – New Orleans Pelicans (TEAM)
    Alvarado probably won't even hit free agency. The Pelicans are close enough to the tax line that picking up his option and dealing with free agency next summer is the way. He's a key backup for New Orleans, so he'll stick around.

  3. Patrick Beverley – Milwaukee Bucks (UFA)
    Beverley isn't the defender he once was. He's also hit the point where he's known as much for his antics as his play on the floor. But he can still hit shots and defend better than most. He'll get another minimum deal from someone.

  4. Spencer Dinwiddie – Los Angeles Lakers (UFA)
    Dinwiddie's stint with Lakers went about the same as his last couple of seasons have gone. He's become mostly a three-point shooter as he's aged. Someone will offer him a deal as a backup.

  5. Reggie Jackson – Denver Nuggets (PLAYER)
    Jackson will likely pick up his player option. He's not going to make that much anywhere else. He'll be back with Denver as a solid backup for Jamal Murray, or he'll be traded to fill a roster hole elsewhere.

  6. Kris Dunn – Utah Jazz (UFA)
    Dunn got his career on track with two good years in Utah. He's one of the better defensive lead guards in the game. More importantly, he's shot well for two seasons. Dunn should get a nice contract for a team looking for a third guard.

  7. Cameron Payne – Philadelphia 76ers (UFA)
    Payne is a fine backup point guard. You could do better, but you could do a whole lot worse. He'll have offers for the minimum from a lot of different teams. We'll see if anyone goes a little further to get him locked into their rotation.

  8. Dennis Smith Jr. – Brooklyn Nets (UFA)
    After almost washing out of the NBA, Smith has done a nice job getting his career going. He can't shoot, but he's learned to use his athleticism to get downhill and on defense. You could do a lot worse at backup point guard than Smith.

  9. Dalano Banton – Portland Trail Blazers (TEAM)
    Beware good stats on a bad team! But Banton has shown he can play before putting up numbers as Portland played out the string. As such, the Blazers will pick up his option to keep him around on a very friendly contract.

  10. Delon Wright – Portland Trail Blazers (UFA)
    Wright is in the journeyman stage of his career. He can still play, so he'll probably keep getting backup point guard jobs. But he's going to get part of the MLE or minimums from here on out. And that’s fine value for where Wright is at.

  11. Aaron Holiday – Houston Rockets (UFA)
    Holiday had a terrific season as a the backup point guard for the Rockets, which allowed the team to bring Amen Thompson along slowly. Holiday should get a deal to return, but this time as the third point guard in a deep guard group.

  12. Jordan McLaughlin – Minnesota Timberwolves (UFA)
    For whatever reason, McLaughlin hasn't every fully seized a rotation role. He's had one for moment, but never kept it. The offensive production is impressive, so someone might get a steal here for a minimum deal or a bit more.

FRINGE TIER (UNRANKED AND PRESENTED IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER)

  1. Amari Bailey – Charlotte Hornets (RFA / TWO-WAY) 
    Bailey was fine in the G League. He's got decent size for the position. In order to breakthrough in the NBA, he'll need to shoot it a lot better. He's likely headed back to the G League or overseas.

  2. J.D. Davison – Boston Celtics (RFA / TWO-WAY) 
    In two years, Davison has seen minimum NBA run. He's an overwhelming athlete in the G League, and an much-improved playmaker. The challenge is that Davison can't shoot. Until that improves, he won't crack an NBA roster.

  3. Jeff Dowtin – Philadelphia 76ers (TEAM)
    Dowtin put together a nice run for the Sixers, after a bunch of other guys were injured. He also had a solid season in the G League. If he's not a cap space casualty, Dowtin would be back as deep bench depth on a friendly contract.

  4. Malachi Flynn – Detroit Pistons (RFA) 
    Flynn put up the most unlikely 50-point game in NBA history. But before and after that, there just hasn't been enough improvement. He's also 26 years old now. This is probably a third-guard on a minimum type of situation, at best.

  5. Jordan Ford – Sacramento Kings (RFA / TWO-WAY) 
    Ford's size works against him, but he shot it really well in the G League this season. He's still more scorer than playmaker, but there's potential there. Another G League season is likely in his future.

  6. Collin Gillespie – Denver Nuggets (RFA / TWO-WAY) 
    Gillespie got healthy, after missing his entire rookie season due to injury. He showed he can shoot and score. The Nuggets like him, so he may be back on the big roster as the third point guard.

  7. Jacob Gilyard – Brooklyn Nets (RFA / TWO-WAY) 
    Gilyard had quite the season for a two-way guy. He played a lot because Memphis was hit with so many injuries. Gilyard is tiny, but he can shoot from deep and he can run an offense. He'll be a third guard or on a two-way somewhere.

  8. Jordan Goodwin – Memphis Grizzlies (RFA / TWO-WAY) 
    Goodwin had every opportunity to breakthrough as an NBA guy last year, and he just didn't take it. He's got good size, but he shot terribly with both Phoenix and Memphis. Still, he showed enough previously to get another NBA shot.

  9. Ashton Hagans – Portland Trail Blazers (RFA / TWO-WAY) 
    Hagans was just ok in late-season minutes for Portland. He did a nice job in the G League though. Another two-way deal would be good for Hagans, even if he's now aged out of prospect status.

  10. Quenton Jackson – Indiana Pacers (RFA / TWO-WAY) 
    If Jackson could shoot, he'd be a lot more interesting as a two-way guy. He's got terrific size for the position, he has a nice feel for the game and he's a competitive defender. But as a non-shooter, it's hard to see him making it in the NBA.

  11. Saben Lee – Phoenix Suns (UFA / TWO-WAY)
    Lee has taken it as far as he can as a two-way guy, as he's no longer eligible for a two-way deal. He's still more scorer than shooter or playmaker. That works against him. An overseas deal may be next up for Lee.

  12. Kira Lewis Jr. – Utah Jazz (RFA / TWO-WAY) 
    Despite initial promise in his rookie season, Lewis never really got there. As a former first-round pick, he'll need to rebuild his value in the G League or overseason. But he only need to look at teammate Kris Dunn to see the path.

  13. Skylar Mays – Los Angeles Lakers (UFA / TWO-WAY)
    Mays is too good for the G League, but not quite good enough to snag a full NBA roster spot. He's out of two-way eligibility, so it's a camp deal and battling for a spot, or heading overseas for a bigger deal and role.

  14. Patty Mills – Miami Heat (UFA)
    We might be at the end of the line for Mills, who has had a great career. He'll be 36 years old next season, so it's a minimum deal or nothing. Maybe a big summer with Australia could propel him for more, but it's unlikely.

  15. Daishen Nix – Minnesota Timberwolves (RFA / TWO-WAY) 
    Nix is tough, he's a pretty good scorer and an improving playmaker. He just can't shoot. On the plus side, he's only 22 years old. So, there's some potential left. He's only got one year of two-way eligibility remaining though.

  16. Trequavion Smith – Philadelphia 76ers (RFA / TWO-WAY) 
    Smith can fill it up as a scorer. He's only just started to figure out the playmaking part of being a point guard. At 21 years old, Smith would be perfect for another year on a two-way as a developmental player.

  17. Isaiah Thomas – Phoenix Suns (UFA)
    Thomas did well to battle back into the NBA. Now, who knows? He's 35 years old, he's still small and the athleticism is starting to wane. Maybe Thomas earned another look. If not, it's been one heck of a run.

  18. Duane Washington Jr. – New York Knicks (RFA / TWO-WAY) 
    Washington scores in bunches in the G League. He's had only limited NBA opportunities though, and he's now 24 years old. He could get another two-way deal or cash in with a big deal overseason.

  19. TyTy Washington Jr. – Milwaukee Bucks (RFA / TWO-WAY) 
    As a former first-round pick, Washington has some cache that others in this range don't. The challenge is that he hasn't shown it in the NBA. He's likely back on another two-way deal somewhere next season.

  20. Brandon Williams – Dallas Mavericks (RFA / TWO-WAY) 
    Williams uses his athleticism to overwhelm players on the G League level to score. He's not a great shooter though. That, plus his lack of size, holds him back from breaking through with an NBA role.

2024 NBA Free Agent Trackers

All PositionsPoint GuardsShooting Guard  |  Small Forward  |  Power Forward  |  Center 

Keith SmithMay 12, 2024

The 2024 NBA Draft order is almost fully set after the Draft Lottery saw some excitement. The Atlanta Hawks jumped from the 10th overall pick to the first overall pick. The Houston Rockets (via the Brooklyn Nets) jumped from the ninth overall pick to the third overall pick. And the San Antonio Spurs run of draft luck continued, as they not only jumped from the fifth overall pick to the fourth overall pick, but they also got the Toronto Raptors pick, when it slid down to the eighth overall pick.

The only remaining draft pick item is whether or not the New Orleans Pelicans will take the Los Angeles Lakers pick at 17th overall, or if the Pelicans will defer that pick to the 2025 NBA Draft. New Orleans has until June 1 to make the decision. Most expect the Pels to defer, given the projected strength of the 2025 draft class compared to this current one.

As the Pelicans decision won’t have any meaningful impact on our projections here, it’s time to update the projections.

A few notes:

  • We are using the NBA’s official projections for the salary cap and tax lines. Some are projecting greater growth than the 3.5% represented here, but we will always use the official projections from the league.
    • Salary Cap of $141,000,000
    • Luxury Tax of $171,315,000
    • First Apron of $178,655,000
    • Second Apron of $189,485,000
  • Max salary tiers grow with the cap. They are as follows:
    • 0-6 Years of Service: $35,250,000
    • 7-9 Years of Service: $42,300,000
    • 10+ Years of Service: $49,350,000
  • A projection has been made on all 2024-25 player and team options. Similarly, a projection was made on all partial and non-guaranteed contracts. And, finally, a projection made on renouncing free agents has also been made for cap space teams.
  • No trades, extensions or signings have been projected. Essentially, rosters are as they stand at the time of publication.
  • With the advent of the new CBA, the landscape has changed around the NBA. There used to be three basic categories of teams each summer: Cap Space teams, Non-Taxpayer Mid-Level Exception teams and Taxpayer Mid-Level Exception teams. Each season there would also be a handful of “swing” teams that could fall in one bucket or another.

In this new world, we have a fourth category: Second Apron teams. These are the NBA’s most expensive teams that the new CBA was largely designed to punish.

Under the new CBA, if you are at or over the second apron, you lose access to the Taxpayer MLE. In addition, the trade rules tighten up for these teams. Salary-matching in trades is limited to 100%, they aren’t allowed to aggregate salaries together in trades, they can’t participate in sign-and-trade deals, they can’t send out cash in trades (no more buying draft picks!) and they won’t be able to use TPEs.

Essentially, Second Apron teams are going to limited to re-signing their own free agents, making trades where they take back the same money as they send out (or less) buy trading one player out, signing their own draft picks and signing players to minimum salaries.

With all that said, here is the updated projected spending power for each NBA team in 2024 free agency!

Cap Space Teams (6)

  1. Detroit Pistons: $64.4 million

  2. Philadelphia 76ers: $61.3 million

  3. Utah Jazz: $38.3 million

  4. Oklahoma City Thunder: $35.3

  5. Orlando Magic: $25.2 million

  6. San Antonio Spurs: $21.3 million

This is the smallest group of teams we can confidently project to have cap space in a decade of doing this exercise. As more and more teams prioritize extensions and trades, cap space (and the number of impact free agents) has dried up. Still, as we write every time we talk about cap space, having this kind of room doesn’t just mean signing free agents. Cap space can also be used to facilitate trades, either for yourself or others.

The Pistons jumped up to the top of the list after a series of moves where they shed some long-term money to create even more cap flexibility. As it stands now, the only non-Rookie Scale player Detroit projects to have on their roster is Isaiah Stewart, who is starting a four-year, $60 million Rookie Scale extension. Simone Fontecchio will probably get a qualifying offer, as the third-year NBA player is the closest thing this roster has in terms of age and experience. Dropping back in the draft from the first pick to the fifth pick increased Detroit’s spending power by over $4 million. That makes for yet another year of massive amounts of cap space for Troy Weaver to work with.

The Sixers have been bandied about as having double-max cap space and the like for months now. For a while, that seemed extremely unlikely. It’s still not really a thing, but they can get close. There’s a world where the only salary commitments Philadelphia has on the books are Joel Embiid at $51.4 million and Tyrese Maxey’s cap hold at $13 million. That would see the Sixers able to create nearly $65 million in space. That’s still not double-max cap space, but it’s really, really close. We’re going to stay a bit more conservative and project the 76ers to also keep Ricky Council IV and their draft pick, and that will put them at just over $61 million in space.

Utah made some moves to clear out a little long-term salary, or at least salary questions, at the deadline. That sees the Jazz set up to have over #38 million million in cap space. Danny Ainge is talking about going star-hunting this summer. If that fails, a large chunk of that will probably be reserved to do a renegotiation-and-extension with Lauri Markkanen. Even after that, Utah should still have a nice amount left over after to do some more work with.

Oklahoma City hasn’t seen enough from Gordon Hayward post-trade deadline to keep him on the books. They should hit the summer with only a few open roster spots and about $35 million to spend. That’s terrifying for the rest of the league, considering how well this extremely young team is already performing.

Orlando comes in fifth in cap space projections by virtue of having a roster full of players on rookie scale contracts and team-friendly deals. This includes all of the Magic’s best players. In the recent past, Orlando has eschewed cap space to re-sign or extend their own players. That seems poised to change, as the Magic are finally in position to really push the rebuild forward with an impact addition or two. And they need to do that before they have to start extending players like Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero in coming years. In order to create meaningful space, Orlando will have to move on from one, or both, of Markelle Fultz and Jonathan Isaac. Both players have been extremely injury prone during their Magic tenure. One thing to keep an eye on: Orlando could let both go for cap space (renouncing Fultz and waiving Isaac), then bring them back on new deals at lower numbers, but with additional years added on. Fow now, we’re projecting Fultz is renounced as a free agent, but Isaac sticks around for the final season of his contract.

San Antonio could stay over the cap, if they wanted to keep their non-guaranteed and partially-guaranteed players. But having over $21 million to spend, along with two more lottery picks, puts the Spurs in position to add talent as they attempt to climb up in the Western Conference standings.

Cap Space – Non-Taxpayer MLE Swing Teams (2)

  1. Charlotte Hornets

  2. Toronto Raptors

Charlotte is in a bit of a weird spot. For another season, the Miles Bridges question hangs over this team. He signed the qualifying offer, so Bridges will be an unrestricted free agent next summer. Signs are pointing toward Bridges and the Hornets wanting to sign a new contract. If that happens, the Hornets will operate as an over-the-cap team. After dropping in the lottery, if Charlotte moves on from some players (including Bridges), they can create about $33.8 million in cap space. Keep an eye on this situation, especially with a fresh start in ownership, the front office and the coaching staff.

We’re now projecting the Raptors to forgo cap space this summer. This over-the-cap projection accounts for picking up Bruce Brown’s team option. Once Toronto signed Kelly Olynyk to his extension, that signaled they’ll probably stay over the cap and pursue upgrades via trades and value signings. If the Raptors were to decline Brown’s option, and waive/renounce other players (except for Immanuel Quickley), they could create $29.8 million in cap space. Keeping Brown, and others, is probably the better path forward, so we’ve updated this projection accordingly.

Non-Taxpayer MLE Teams (6)

This is usually the largest group of teams we have, and it may well still end up that way. But for now, we can confidently project only six teams to be in range of using the full Non-Taxpayer MLE.

  1. Brooklyn Nets

  2. Houston Rockets

  3. Indiana Pacers

  4. New York Knicks

  5. Sacramento Kings

  6. Washington Wizards

All six of these teams have two things in common: They look to have only handful of roster spots to fill and they have plenty of clearance under the first apron. That puts all of these teams in range to use the full Non-Taxpayer MLE without tripping into any hard cap issues.

In addition, unlike the swing teams, there isn’t a reasonable path to cap space for any of these teams. Indiana would be the closest, but they’d be punting on some valuable players to create cap space. That seems highly unlikely. Houston and Washington could have been swing Cap Space-Non-Taxpayer teams, but both took on money for next season in trades that has them likely to stay over the cap.

Non-Taxpayer MLE – Taxpayer MLE Swing Teams (3)

This group is close to tripping into the luxury tax, or even over the first apron. Most of that is related to pending free agents that these teams could re-sign. And for a handful, they are close enough to the first apron, that the hard cap would become an issue if they used the Non-Taxpayer MLE.

  1. Chicago Bulls

  2. Cleveland Cavaliers

  3. New Orleans Pelicans

The Bulls, Cavaliers and Pelicans are all going to have free agent decisions to make. If they re-sign, or extend, those players to expected-value contracts, they’ll be butting up against the tax or even the first apron. That will take them out of range of using the Non-Taxpayer MLE.

The lone exception here is if Chicago were to lose DeMar DeRozan. If that happened, the Bulls would have more than enough room to use the full Non-Taxpayer MLE. That situation could resolve itself early, however, if DeRozan and the Bulls can reach an agreement on an extension.

Taxpayer MLE Teams (5)

The addition of the second apron has created a smaller-than-usual window for teams to be in position to use the Taxpayer MLE, but without creating issues against the second apron hard cap.

  1. Atlanta Hawks

  2. Dallas Mavericks

  3. Golden State Warriors

  4. Miami Heat

  5. Portland Trail Blazers

The Hawks are in a tricky spot. As it stands, they have a pretty small window to work within. And that’s before re-signing Saddiq Bey. But Atlanta also seems pretty likely to move off some long-term salary this summer. That could free up some much-needed flexibility. But dancing around the tax and the first apron is still pretty likely too. This only increased after jumping from the 10th overall pick up to the first overall pick. That added over $7 million to the Hawks books (from $5.5 to $12.6 million) for this upcoming season.

The Mavericks project to be around $13 million under the second apron, but they also only have a few roster spots to fill. That leaves enough room to use the Taxpayer MLE to add a player, with enough wiggle room to stay under the hard cap that would be created at the second apron.

We’ve moved the Warriors into this group. They continue to publicly indicate that they are going to get under the second apron, if not out of the tax entirely this summer. That would mean moving on from Chris Paul (he’s got a fully non-guaranteed $30 million contract) and re-signing Klay Thompson for roughly half what he makes now. That’s not really unrealistic, so we’ll take Golden State at their word and move them out of the second apron group.

Miami is always active and chasing upgrades. But they’ll be doing so while dancing around the first apron. It’s unlikely they’ll end up over the second apron, but it’s something to keep an eye on.

It might be a surprise to see the rebuilding Trail Blazers in this spot, but they took on a good amount of salary in the Damian Lillard trade, and the subsequent Jrue Holiday trade. Portland also re-signed Jerami Grant to a big contract too. And, somewhat surprisingly, the Blazers didn’t make any big moves at the trade deadline. As it stands, Portland sits just over the luxury tax line. That won’t be a thing for long, as a rebuilding team can’t pay the tax. But it will limit what kind of spending power Portland has this summer. Instead of free agent signings, look for the Trail Blazers to keep retooling their roster through trades.

Second Apron Teams (8)

This is our largest group of teams for 2024 offseason projections. This is a direct result of two things. First, the second apron exists now, and some teams are over or up against it. Second, several teams took the “gap year” (or maybe better put the “get your books in order year”) to load up. That’s got us in a spot where almost one-third of the league will be unable to add a free agent for more than the minimum this summer.

  1. Boston Celtics

  2. Denver Nuggets

  3. LA Clippers

  4. Los Angeles Lakers

  5. Memphis Grizzlies

  6. Milwaukee Bucks

  7. Minnesota Timberwolves

  8. Phoenix Suns

All eight of these teams are already over or right up against the second apron. Or they will be once they re-sign some key free agents. From there, this group will be limited to re-signing their own free agents, making trades where they take in similar (but not more) money, signing their own draft picks and signing players to minimum contracts.

Something to keep an eye on: Some of this group underwhelmed in the postseason (Clippers, Lakers, Bucks, Suns). That means they could look to move a player or two to start the process of cleaning up their cap sheet. But most of these teams are contenders, or could be contenders with better health or a roster move or two. That’s going to keep most, if not all, of them in a position to remain pretty expensive.

 

Keith SmithMarch 18, 2024

We already covered the NBA’s 10 Best Value Contracts in a previous piece. Now, it’s time to look at some of the worst value contracts in the league. Full disclosure: Opposite of the best contracts, it’s getting harder and harder to find 10 bad or even questionable contracts. More and more these deals trend towards a “Kind of get it, but don’t like it” thought vs being a truly bad deal.

A few notes:

  • Unlike the Best Values, you will see max contracts and max extensions here. Some of them are just sort of mind-boggling in terms of long-term committed salary.
  • No rookie scale contracts will appear here. Even if we think the pick was bad, the contract is what it is with rookie scale deals.
  • This is a worst value list, so role and production vs contract factor in greatly. The same is true of not only the size of the contract (both per year and in total), but the length of the contract too. And the player’s age is a major factor as well.
  • No expiring contracts, nor contracts that are turning into expiring deals next season will be here. So, you won’t find Ben Simmons or Lonzo Ball on this list. As history has taught us, once a contract is an expiring contract, it always has some level of trade value.
  • This list factors in right now and looking forward. In all cases, total money will include this season, plus what’s remaining on the deal.

Got all that? On to the list!

Honorable Mentions

It was hard enough to find 10 contracts we felt deserved to be here. This time around, we’re not going to include any honorable (dishonorable, maybe?) mentions. They’d all be a stretch, as you’ll see when we get to the final few deals we are including.

On to the 10 Worst Values Contracts!

10 Worst Values Contracts

1. Bradley Beal – Phoenix Suns

Four years, $207.7 million (player option in 2026-27)

This contract was questionable when it was signed, and it’s only gotten worse. Beal isn’t worth an AAV of over $50 million per season. His production isn’t at that level, and he also can’t stay healthy. In addition, the player option here makes this even worse, as Beal has control over what happens in what will be his age-33 season. If that wasn’t enough, he still has his no-trade clause.

2. Jordan Poole – Washington Wizards

Four years, $123 million

It’s kind of funny that the players at the top of this list were effectively traded for each other. Poole’s track record of good health and the fact that he makes nearly $85 million less than Beal is why he comes in below him on the list. But don’t get it twisted, Poole’s production doesn’t match his contract. And, we’ve discovered again, that he’s better in a bench role. $30.75 million AAV is an awfully big contract for a reserve.

3. Zach LaVine – Chicago Bulls

Four years, $178.1 million (player option in 2026-27)

Continuing a trend of shooting guards on tough contracts, we have LaVine. This one is mostly about health. LaVine has missed a lot of this season, and he’s now built a history of knee/leg/foot issues. That’s scary considering how much money he’s owed. And, last but not least, he apparently still wants a trade. That’s a whole lot of negatives going on.

4. Andrew Wiggins – Golden State Warriors

Four years, $109 million (player option in 2026-27)

Wiggins has fallen off since the 2022 NBA Finals. After playing a huge role in the Warriors title that year, Wiggins has missed a lot of time due to off-court matters. We wouldn’t hold that against him as much if he was productive when he did play, but he hasn’t been. That’s a tough combo to swallow. And Golden State still has three more fully guaranteed years left after this one, and Wiggins will turn 30 years old midway through next season. That’s tough to deal with.

5. Khris Middleton – Milwaukee Bucks

Three years, $95 million (player option in 2025-26)

Middleton’s deal would be fine, if he wasn’t visibly breaking down. He’s suffered through three consecutive injury-plagued seasons now. Middleton has also slipped considerably as a defender. As an offensive player, he’s now best as a complementary guy vs being a primary one. That’s good because the Bucks have stars to carry the load. But it doesn’t make Middleton’s contract look any better.

6. Jerami Grant – Portland Trail Blazers

Five years, $160 million (player option in 2027-28)

Grant’s contract is fine right now. It’s probably fine next year too. It’s the final three seasons at over $102 million where things might turn sideways. Grant recently turned 30 years old. That means he’ll be a 34-year-old wing that relies on athleticism at the end of this contract. That’s very worrisome.

7. Draymond Green – Golden State Warriors

Four years, $100 million (player option in 2026-27)

If Green could be relied on to be on the floor, this contract would probably be fine. But between getting himself in consistent trouble with the league, and a mounting injury history, it’s unlikely Green will play many more than half of the maximum games he could on this deal. In addition, he’s openly talked about how retirement is looming. That’s not great for a Warriors team that needs Green to play, and play well, through the life of this contract.

8. Nikola Vucevic – Chicago Bulls

Three years, $60 million

This is where it starts getting really hard to find truly bad contracts. Vucevic’s deal isn’t really all that bad. It’s just sort of…unnecessary. Vucevic is still a nightly double-double guy, but his efficiency is starting to slip. A lot of that is Vucevic being more reliant on his jumper than ever. If that continues, and there aren’t any signs it won’t, the Bulls are under water with this deal.

9. Karl-Anthony Towns – Minnesota Timberwolves

Five years, $257 million (player option in 2027-28) (includes four-year, $221 million extension)

The last two contracts on this list are extensions that don’t seem likely to age very well. Towns is still a terrific offensive weapon, but it’s never been clearer that he can’t anchor the defense for a contender. That means he has to play power forward, and Towns isn’t the same matchup nightmare there as he is as center. In addition, this season is the second in a row where Towns has missed considerable time with a leg injury. Last season it was a calf injury, this year it’s a torn meniscus. That’s worrisome for a guy who hasn’t even started his $221 million long-term extension yet.

10. Damian Lillard – Milwaukee Bucks

Four years, $207.3 million (player option in 2026-27) (includes two-year, $112.9 million extension)

Lillard is still performing at a high level…most of the time. However, the occasional 3-for-17 clunkers are creeping in more and more often. And Lillard’s defense has gone from bad to really bad. Neither of those things are likely to reverse, as Lillard will be 34 years old at the start of next season. And, look, we get it. Lillard got this contract based mostly on past performance. That’s how it works for the late-career max guys. But that doesn’t mean the Bucks won’t be working around this contract when Lillard is making well over $50 million when he’s 35 and 36 years old.

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