The off season in the NBA can be one of the most wild and exciting times for sports fans. Big name players such as LeBron James and MVP Finals winner Kevin Durant have the power to change teams and conferences, potentially shifting the balance of power in the NBA. Fans anticipate this time of year hugely, perhaps even more than some playoff games. Not only are big name players free agents, but this years crop of restricted free agents is one of the best its been in years.
This years class has impact players such as Marcus Smart. Clint Capela, Aaron Gordon and Julius Randle, just to name a few. These players have established great credibility and are looking to earn big pay days like the rest of the free agent class. Could a team like Indiana or Utah look at one of these players and feel they could build on the momentum last years playoff runs gave them and be serious contenders in 2019. Lottery teams like Brooklyn or Phoenix may try to get a big name to make there games more attractive. These are all questions that will be answered when teams can offer these players contracts from July 1st.
The restricted class is also pretty strong this year. Julius Randle had his best year, averaging 16 points and eight rebounds. Jusuf Nurkic of Portland also had a strong year averaging 14 points and 9 rebounds. Could he be the answer to the athletic big that John Wall has been lobbying for? So many questions remain in free agency. After the big names such as LeBron James and Paul George annouce their movements, teams will be lining up to offer guys like Smart and Gordon big contracts.
Multiple teams will have big decisions to make when it comes to restricted free agency. Division rivals, as well as strong relationships between players could swing a team to go after one player or another. The going home movement has also been big in the NBA. Since LrBron chose to return to Cleveland in 2014, it seems like more NBA players want to play for their hometown team. If the Mavs were to strike out again or DeAndre Jordan or Demarcus Cousins they will almost certainly pursue Dallas native Julius Randle or another Texan in Marcus Smart. The Clippers may also offer Aaron Gordon a chance to come home and fill the shoes of Blake Griffin.
Restricted free agents like Zach Levine and Jabari Parker will be interesting as they are both coming off major injuries. They are without questions two players who could really help a squad, should they be able to get healthy and prove their fitness this summer. Teams such as the Knicks or the Magic could be looking for an explosive guard like Lavine. Teams like Memphis or Charlotte may look towards Parker for so much needed help with scoring.
With free agency just days away, this summer is promising to be a wild one. There are so many free agents gearing up for big contracts the landscape of the NBA could be changed. Free agency is the time to add pieces to improve your roster. Teams striking out on big stars will most certainly look to restricted free agents. There are so lots of good players on the market, so get ready for another crazy summer in the NBA.
Which free agency move are you most excited about?
- Evan B
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