Today, we'll take a look at the NBA's upcoming free agents by position, dividing them into three groups: bigs, guards, and wings. Some are likely to stay with their current team while others have the opportunity to pursue a new challenge.
NBA free agency has always been one of the most exciting periods of the offseason, with a lot of players changing teams or staying with their ballclubs while making a lot of money. Over the years, fewer stars changed teams and the initial excitement of the period lost its impact.
However, this year presents some big options when it comes to NBA players joining free agency. This class isn't the most stacked out there, but some notable names will be testing NBA free agency to see if they can get another big push or make some sacrifices to help the team collect titles.
Without further ado, here is our ranking of the NBA's upcoming free agents by position.
grown ups
Big men have gained importance in the NBA once again. Teams are realizing that having a capable senior roster can do wonders for them, and this year's free agency presents interesting options for teams trying to upgrade their frontcourt.
Players like the Brooklyn Nets' Nick Claxton, a great rebounder, can help the contender compete for big things next year. New Orleans Pelicans' Jonas Valanciunas is one of the toughest players in the league, and despite his age, his experience will be invaluable around the league.
Pascal Siakam has left the Toronto Raptors after spending his career with the Canadian team. He is now thriving with the Indiana Pacers, but it is unclear whether he will extend his tenure with his current team beyond this season. He's found a great team, and the Pacers should try to lock him up for the future.
- Pascal I'm sorry
- Jonas Valanciunas
- Nick Claxton
wings
When it comes to wings, this year's free agency class includes some interesting players. Some are past their peak, others are entering their peak phase, ready to hit the bank and get a big boost for the next few years.
One of the best NBA players to hit free agency is Los Angeles Clippers star Paul George, who has been a great addition to this team since his arrival in 2019. The veteran has given his all to the team, but after Kawhi Leonard agreed to an extension, it's not There are indications that PG13 will follow his teammate. Teams like the Philadelphia 76ers have been rumored to be interested in the veteran, and as the days go by, that possibility seems to be growing.
DeMar DeRozan is one of the best scorers of this generation and one of the main reasons why the Chicago Bulls are still in contention for a spot in the playoffs. The former Toronto Raptors and San Antonio Spurs player said he wants to stay with the Bulls, but his destination could be outside the United Center after this season.
Klay Thompson is another player who shows his desire to stay with his team, although things may change for him this summer. The Golden State Warriors dynasty is dead for a lot of people, and many believe several teams could exploit that to grab Thompson. The Orlando Magic have been mentioned as a potential destination for him, a project that could be attractive to the Splash Brother.
The latter two players have found themselves in a favorable position this season. First, OG Anunoby was traded to the New York Knicks, where he has thrived and is set to receive a big contract this offseason. On the flip side, Kelly Oubre Jr. was playing for the Philadelphia 76ers, even taking over when the two stars went out. These two will try to take advantage of this season and prepare themselves for the foreseeable future.
It doesn't look like Tobias Harris will be leaving the Philadelphia 76ers anytime soon, but should the team decide to let him go, he'll be ready to make an immediate impact elsewhere. He can handle the ball and shoot, and his talents will be appreciated by contenders in either conference.
Last but not least, LeBron James rounds out this segment of the NBA free agent rankings. The King shared his desire to remain with the Los Angeles Lakers, yet people kept wondering if he would leave the team depending on who Ronnie James takes in the upcoming 2024 draft. This will be one of the main storylines of the 2024 NBA offseason, with several teams poised to lure him away from Los Angeles to try to win another championship:
- LeBron James
- Paul George
- DeMar DeRozan
- Klay Thompson
- And Anunoby
- Kelly Oubre Jr
- Tobias Harris
guards
Tyrese Maxey has shown everyone that he has taken his game to the next level. The young guard has not hesitated to step up after the departure of James Harden, and even without Joel Embiid on the court, the lights have not been as bright for him. He's set to get a blockbuster deal this offseason and the 76ers don't plan on letting him go as a restricted free agent.
Two Clippers players, James Harden and Russell Westbrook, are in line for new deals this offseason. The two goalkeepers have shown that they are capable of sacrificing their games for their teams, which should make it easier for them to find a new home.
As for the latter two, D'Angelo Russell and Immanuel Quickley have had a similar journey this season. After being considered a poor product, these two have gone through some changes and put themselves in the right position for success. Some say Delo will leave the Lakers this offseason, while Quickley's next team remains a question mark:
- Therese Maxey (RFA)
- James Harden
- Russell Westbrook
- D'Angelo Russell
- Immanuel Quickley (RFA)
