Every year, the NBA sees a flood of talent hitting the market, and 2023 is no exception. One player who has everyone buzzing is James Harden. At 34 years old, Harden still boasts impressive stats that would make any team salivate. Last season, he averaged 22.1 points, 10.2 assists, and 6.6 rebounds per game. He’s played over 960 regular-season games, making him a tried-and-true veteran who's been through it all, including winning an MVP in 2018. He brings a versatile skill set, capable of playing both as a shooting guard and a point guard. Harden’s experience and leadership make him a significant catch for any team looking to make a playoff push. I think anyone offering him a contract must consider his age, but with those numbers, he's likely to command a significant salary despite being in his mid-30s.
An equally interesting player on the market is Kyrie Irving. Though his off-court antics often overshadow his talent, no one can deny his ability when he's focused. At 31, Irving still performs at an elite level, averaging 27 points, 5.8 assists, and 4.4 rebounds per game last season. Let's not forget his role in the Cleveland Cavaliers’ 2016 championship win, where he hit the game-winning three-pointer in Game 7 of the Finals against the Golden State Warriors. However, the key question with Irving is consistency and team chemistry. His tendency to miss games for personal reasons is a risk teams must weigh against his undeniable talent.
Now, let's talk about Kristaps Porzingis. At 28, he's younger than both Harden and Irving, and stands an impressive 7'3". He averaged 20.2 points, 8.5 rebounds, and nearly 2 blocks per game. He’s a unicorn in the true sense of the term, blending size and skill in a way that’s rare in the NBA. Injuries have plagued his young career, limiting him to just 48 games last season, but his potential is sky-high. Any team investing in him must consider his injury history, but also his upside. With the right medical staff and load management, he could be the X-factor for any contender.
One name not always in the spotlight, but no less crucial, is Draymond Green. He’s a defensive stalwart who brings a different kind of value to the table. The 33-year-old veteran averaged 7.0 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 7.1 assists last season. Not jaw-dropping numbers in scoring, but his impact goes beyond the stat sheet. As a former Defensive Player of the Year, Green's ability to guard multiple positions and act as a playmaker makes him invaluable. His leadership and championship pedigree from his four rings with the Warriors make him a coveted asset for any team needing a defensive anchor and a floor general. His defensive versatility alone could push a team over the top.
Fred VanVleet is another intriguing option. Coming off a season where he averaged 19.3 points, 7.5 assists, and 4.0 rebounds, the 29-year-old guard shows he's ready for a bigger role. VanVleet was a key figure in the Toronto Raptors’ 2019 championship run. His knack for hitting big shots and his tenacity on defense add dimensions that contending teams would love to have. The Raptors relied on his leadership last season, and his performance shows he can handle that responsibility. VanVleet might not bring the same star power as some others on this list, but his efficiency and reliability make him a strong candidate for any team looking to solidify their backcourt.
Then there’s the 24-year-old rising star, Deandre Ayton, currently making waves as a free agent. Ayton's size and skills as a center are hard to ignore. Last season, he averaged 16.6 points and 10.4 rebounds per game. The former number-one overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft has only scratched the surface of his potential. Teams looking for a young cornerstone to build around should look no further. However, his willingness to fit into a system and contribute to a winning culture will be scrutinized. It’s a high-risk, high-reward scenario, but the upside is tremendous.
And let's not forget Brook Lopez. At 35, Lopez shows that age is just a number when you play smart. He averaged 15.7 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks per game last season while shooting nearly 37% from three-point land. As a big man who stretches the floor, he fits perfectly into modern NBA systems. His rim protection ability is still top-notch, making him a sought-after asset for teams looking to bolster their defense. Despite his age, Lopez’s skill set makes him incredibly valuable, particularly for teams in need of a veteran presence who can contribute on both ends of the floor.
I can't overlook Jerami Grant. At 29, Grant has developed into a fantastic two-way player. He averaged 20.5 points and 4.3 rebounds per game last season, showcasing his offensive growth. His defensive prowess is well-documented, often taking on the toughest assignments. Grant brings versatility, capable of playing both forward positions. His ability to both score and defend at a high level makes him one of the most attractive free agents available. Teams lacking a multi-dimensional wing defender should definitely consider him.
Lonzo Ball, though young and talented, poses a question mark due to his injury history. The 25-year-old guard averaged 13 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 5.1 assists in his last healthy season, displaying his all-around game. Injuries limited him to just 35 games last season, making teams wary of his ability to stay on the court. However, his playmaking and defensive skills are undeniable. Teams willing to take a calculated gamble might find themselves with a high-reward player if Ball can remain healthy.
With this crop of talent, the 2023 free agency is poised to be a seismic event. For a glimpse into who might headline future free agent classes, like the nba free agents 2024, the current market gives us a taste of the extravagant talent and calculated risks teams are willing to take. Decisions made this year will shape the NBA landscape for seasons to come, possibly bridging the gap for franchises on the cusp of greatness. This off-season promises to be filled with strategic moves and bold signings, each bringing its own set of drama and excitement.