Day 1 of this year's free agency started off with a bang within the first five minutes. It's crazy how teams can negotiate complex contract negotiations so quickly. In all seriousness, free agency shapes the league, and the moves teams make today will have a massive impact on the league. Here are my thoughts on the deals from the first two days:
Steph Curry, 4-yr. $215M with the Golden State Warriors
Curry is 33 years old, and this extension will pay him until he is 38. I'm fine with locking up your best player if he is at the level of Curry, but I'd love to see some urgency in the franchise. He is only going to get worse from where he was last year, and I don't agree with the decision of waiting on rookies to develop. Now is the time to go.
Luka Doncic, 5-yr. $207M with the Dallas Mavericks
If there was a draft with all the players currently in the NBA, I’d take Luka a Doncic and I wouldn’t think twice about it. He’s one of the best players at his age we’ve ever seen, and this was the easiest extension from a team perspective this offseason.
Trae Young, 5-yr. $207M with the Atlanta Hawks
Not much to say here, as it was clear the Hawks would offer this deal to Young as soon as they were allowed to. They now lock into Young as their primary creator for the foreseeable future.
Kevin Durant, 4-yr. $198M with the Brooklyn Nets
I ranked Durant as the best player in the league in my player rankings, and he gets a massive contract extension here. It seems as if all the major stars are signing extensions now that the rules for them have been updated. Durant will now be getting paid about $55 million during his age 37 season, which will almost certainly look bad then. None of that matters if the Nets win a championship while this deal is still good, which is the bet they are making. I think anyone would make the same bet to lock up Durant.
Joel Embiid, 4-yr. $196M with the Philadelphia 76ers
This is a no brainer for the Sixers to go out and sing this deal. Despite the injuries, Embiid is clearly one of the better players in the sport, and you always lock up that guy if you can. Sixers fans should be very happy to keep Embiid for the long-term future.
Jimmy Butler, 4-yr. $185M with the Miami Heat
I didn't necessarily see this coming, but the Heat lock into their franchise player for the long haul. It's interesting that they do this now, as this contract will look really bad by the time we get to the end of it. The Heat put an emphasis on really competing the next couple of seasons with this deal.
Kawhi Leonard, 4-yr. $176M with the Los Angeles Clippers
Theres a lot of ways this contract could’ve gone, but ultimately Kawhi lands a four year contract that will allow him to extend after year 2. It’s a pretty team friendly deal considering the Clippers will get a look at Kawhi after he comes back from injury before making a decision on his extension.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, 5-yr. $172M with the Oklahoma City Thunder
Keep the best player on your team happy. This was a needed move for the Thunder, and they can always trade him for a massive haul if they so choose.
John Collins, 5-yr. $125M with the Atlanta Hawks
The Hawks had to offer this deal to Collins in order to lock him up for the duration of his prime. I don't necessarily think the value is excellent here, but this was a necessary move for Atlanta to make. Don't get me wrong, Collins is a very good player, but $25 million per year is a big amount to pay for 5 years.
Chris Paul, 4-yr. $120M with the Phoenix Suns
No, it was not a surprise when Paul opted out of his contract yesterday. He signs a very lucrative deal with the Phoenix Suns that will pay him when he's 40 years old. This long-term deal makes perfect sense for Paul, as he capitalizes on his spectacular season from last year. This is another deal that will look ugly by the end, so the Suns are putting an emphasis on winning now with this one.
Julius Randle, 4-yr. $117M with the New York Knicks
The Knicks lock in their best player for the long run with this contract. I still think Randle is a fairly overrated player, and I think nearly $30 million annual value is an overpay. A lot of others seem to think this is a good deal, so time will tell who's evaluation is right on Randle. Nonetheless, he is still a very good player that the Knicks needed to keep for now, I just wouldn't have extended him right now.
Jarrett Allen, 5-yr. $100M with the Cleveland Cavaliers
This may be my least favorite deal of the day. I really don't understand why the Cavaliers would lock into paying a center $20 million per year over the next five years. What makes it worse is that they just drafted a player in Evan Mobley who I think is one of the better center prospects of the past decade. The game is moving towards players like Mobley and away from guys like Allen. The Cavs drafted someone who could give them a major advantage in terms of scheme flexibility every night at the center position, but instead choose to go in a different direction. In a vacuum I don't think Allen is worth nearly that much money, and the Evan Mobley factor makes it even worse for me. I absolutely hate this deal.
Terry Rozier, 4-yr. $97M with the Charlotte Hornets
Rozier got what? I get that Rozier had a pretty good year last year, but paying him at the level of a top-50 player is not what I would've done with future cap space. I don't understand who Charlotte thought they were competing against when doing this deal. Rozier is not a good enough player that you should overpay him early to retain him. I am just really confused all around here. Great deal for Rozier, but for the Hornets I am confused.
Miami Heat receive Kyle Lowry and Sign him for 3-yr. $90M
Toronto Raptors receive Goran Dragic, Precious Achuiwa, ?
Who's ready for a defense with Lowry, Butler, and Bam? I already know I am going to love watching this team play, no matter who fills out the other two starting spots. Lowry is a really nice fit on this team, as he can really play on and off the ball on both ends of the floor. He also provides another element of defensive scheme versatility, which will make this team better in the playoffs. He can also take on some of the creation load, as the Heat mightily struggled offensively in the playoffs. All around a great move for them. As for the Raptors, their incentive was to get anything for Lowry, as he was about to walk away for nothing. Good piece of business by getting a young player and Dragic, who is still a very good guard. I expect Dragic to be a really fun sixth man next season.
Duncan Robinson, 5-yr. $90M with the Miami Heat
Really great deal for one of the best stories in the NBA right now. Robinsons gets paid on a contract that will give him less than $20 million per year, which isn't a bad price for him. I am ready to see what the offense looks like with Lowry added into the mix, as I think that opens up some small-small actions that may not have been as successful before. The defense is still a concern, and I wonder how that will factor into his playoff minutes. If Robinson struggles to get into closing lineups deeper into the playoffs because of how much he gets attacked, this could potentially look like an overpay in the future.
Norman Powell, 5-yr. $90M with the Portland Trail Blazers
Powell is a good starter in the league right now, and this is about how much those players usually get paid. Powell is already 28, so the years is a bit of an issue here for me. I don't think he will be worth nearly this amount of money by the end of his contract, especially when you consider how reliant Powell is on his athleticism to succeed. Anyway, I do ike the deal in the short term because of the defense and rim pressure Powell brings.
Chicago Bulls Receive Lonzo Ball and Sign him for 4-yr. $85M
New Orleans Pelicans receive Tomas Satoransky, Garrett Temple, 2nd Round Pick
I am very intrigued by the fit of Lonzo Ball and Zach LaVine. That's a fairly big back court with a lot of playmaking. You pair LaVine's advantage creation ability with someone like Lonzo, who is adept at attacking a slanted floor. Teams should no longer be able to blitz pick and rolls so easily with a great extra passer in Lonzo Ball likely to be positioned one pass away. The shooting needs to stabilize a little for Lonzo for this backcourt to work really well, but it should be fun. I also like the versatility Lonzo brings defensively, which is much needed for anyone who is paired with LaVine. As for the Pelicans, they get a couple of pieces back in the deal who will actually help them win games. I think both Satoransky and Temple are underrated players, and their plus passing and defense will fit well in New Orleans.
Chicago Bulls Receive DeMar DeRozan, Sign him for 3-yr. $85M
San Antonio Spurs Receive Thaddeus Young, Al-Farouq Aminu, 1st-round pick, 2022 2nd, 2025 2nd
I loved the Chicago offseason until this move. I really don't understand why they would do this. DeRozan will give them a little more creation and decision-making, which will allow LaVine to play more off the ball. My issue is that you're paying 31 year old DeRozan over $28 million per year. I don't think DeRozan is that helpful if the goal is to make it past the first round of the playoffs. He can't shoot and can't defend. He doesn't play well off the ball. I just hate this deal all around. The Bulls still need a wing stopper and more shooting, and this only worsened both of those issues. To pile onto that, they gave up two of their better defensive players in the sign and trade, along with a protected first. All around terrible for Chicago in my opinion.
Evan Fournier, 4-yr. $78M with the New York Knicks
The Knicks biggest problem in last seasons playoffs was that they relied on Julius Randle to be the primary creator for their offense, which is something he isn't good enough to do. This signing will help, but does not pully address that issue. Something that is important is that he will help the floor spacing, which is something that gave the Knicks a ton of trouble last season. Fournier is also a decent ball handler, passer, and defender. I like the fit, but I don't love it for that price. It is also important to note that this deal has a team option on the last year, and all the other deals have been 3 year deals. It is interesting, as the better free agent class is two years out. This could be looking way to far out, but the Knicks would be set up well for a massive sign and trade for Zion Williamson, with a bunch of matching salary on expiring contracts.
Marcus Smart, 4-yr. $77M with the Boston Celtics
I think Smart is one of the more underrated players in the league because what he excels at doesn't necessarily show up on the box score. He is a phenomenal defensive guard, and arguably one of the best in the league. He also deserves a lot of praise for how much he has improved as a playmaker and a shooter. I think Smart is a great piece to have on any competitive team, so I love the extension here from Boston.
Tim Hardaway Jr., 4-yr. $74M with the Dallas Mavericks
This price is a little bit steep for my liking for Hardaway. He performed very well in the playoffs last season, but a lot of that was just because of unsustainable shot making. He isn't going to shoot as well as he did next season. This is a lot of money to pay for someone who doesn't necessarily shift a defense too much or provide a ton extra on the defensive side of the ball. However, surrounding Luka with shooters is key. Hardaway can really shoot it and he can attack closeouts. The fit is great, just don't love the price. Hardaway is also 29, which makes the length of the deal very questionable. We'll see if the Mavericks have enough space for other pieces.
Mike Conley, 3-yr. $72.5M with the Utah Jazz
I really like this deal for Utah, especially if it is heavily front loaded. Conley had a fantastic season last year, and Utah needed to resign him to compete for next season. The get him on a deal that is not bad at all, but the end might get rough for someone who is already 33 years old. I still think a fully healthy Mike Conley could have potentially shifted the playoffs in the Western Conference.
Cavaliers Receive Lauri Markkanen and Sign him for 4-yr., $67M
Bulls Receive Derrick Jones Jr., Portland 2022 Lottery Protected 1st, Denver Protected 2023 2nd
Trail Blazers Receive Larry Nance Jr.
I think this is an exceptional move for two teams. It's an incredible piece of business for the Bulls. They receive a potential rotation player in Derrick Jones Jr., a likely first round pick, and a second round pick for a player that they weren't going to retain. The Blazers also did great. They get a versatile player who I thought was really good last ear when he was healthy. He should be used in a lot of ways to help the Blazers defense, which really struggled last season. As for the Cavs, I have no idea what they're doing. I think Nance is a lot better than Markannen, and I think this deal is a massive overpay. I think the theory of him is floor spacing, but he doesn't do anything else. I'm confused as to why they would give up assets to sign Markkanen to this contract.
Clippers Receive Eric Bledsoe
Grizzlies Receive Patrick Beverley, Rajon Rondo, Daniel Oturu
The Clippers had a bit of a roster crunch, and this trade gets them down a few players. Bledsoe is probably an upgrade on Patrick Beverley based on the scheme fit in my opinion, as he adds more defensive ability along with more size to switch. Offensively, I think Bledsoe provides more of an ability to attack the rim in the half court, which was something the Clippers need more of. Neither Rondo nor Oturu was going to be a part of the Clippers playoff rotation anyway, so I like this for the Clippers. As for the Grizzlies, I don't think any of the players they got are very valuable to them, but they have already flipped Beverley. I think they can move Rondo during the season or before the season starts, and they will get a look at Oturu to see if he an develop. This move was to clear some cap space for them next season. Weird but solid deal for both sides in my eyes.
Wizards Receive Spencer Dinwiddie and Sign him for 3-yr. $62M
Nets Receive 2024 2nd Round Pick, 2025 Pick Swap
My thoughts on this deal are a little up in the air because I don't know what the Wizards are sending out and I don't know the details of the contract. No matter what, the fit for Dinwiddie in Washington is great. He is a very good point guard, but the injuries are a problem. I think he is an upgrade over Russell Westbrook if the goal is to make it to the second round of the playoffs. The issue is that the Nets have all the leverage. The Wizards could have to give up a decent amount to make this happen, which is not something I love.
Richaun Holmes, 4-yr. $55M with the Sacramento Kings
That's all Holmes got? I really don't understand how Holmes didn't get more money from somewhere. I think he's significantly better than Jarrett Allen. He has ore versatility on defense and is much belter offensively in the pick and roll. This confuses me because the number is so low.
Robert Williams, 4-yr. $54M with the Boston Celtics
I think the Celtics sign Williams to a really nice value contract here. Williams is a starting caliber center to me right now, and the fact that the Celtics locked him up for four years on a deal that will pay him less than he is worth right now is a bargain in my eyes. Williams is a versatile defender who can protect the rim, finish lobs, and also make some plays as a passer. I think he is a fantastic fit for where the Celtics are going and he fits well on their timeline. This is a great extension.
Gary Trent Jr., 3-yr. $54M with the Toronto Raptors
Trent didn't have the greatest of seasons last year, but he still gets paid. He isn't as good defensively yet as some thought he would be, but he still has potential on that end pf the floor and he can really soot the ball. Trent still needs to fill out some other areas of his game, but I don't think this is a bad deal considering the upside play.
New Orleans Pelicans Receive Devonte Graham and Sign him for 4-yr. $47M
Charlotte Hornets Receive a 2022 lottery protected first round pick
So... New Orleans moves from Lonzo Ball to a combination of Garrett Temple, Tomas Satoransky, and Devonte Graham? Don't get me wrong, all of them are very good role players, but the Pelicans are competing for Zion Williamson to stay with their team. I'd rather throw some more money at Lonzo and call it a day. They had some cap space if they wanted and ended up doing nothing with it. Graham will finally give this team some spacing, but they will still lack defensively and with primary creation. This transaction does not move the needle very much in my eyes, and it hurts to give up a first for Devonte Graham.
Derrick Rose, 3-yr. $43M with the New York Knicks
Rose is an older guard, but this is not bad value for someone who is low end starter quality. Rose still creates a ton of offense off the dribble, which is something the Knicks still need more of. The defense and shooting isn't great, but Rose fills a much needed role for this team. This contract could get ugly by the end of it with Rose being 33, but the Knicks believe in their core enough to give him this deal (I personally don't believe in this Knicks core at all, but that's a topic for another day).
Doug McDermott, 3-yr. $42M with the San Antonio Spurs
McDermott getting paid this much is a little confusing to me. He is a wing that can shoot and do it on the move, but doesn't provide that much other positive equity. He doesn't defend, give you anything off the dribble, and isn't a plus passer. Paying him this much on a per year basis is confusing to me.
Timberwolves Receive Patrick Beverley
Grizzlies Receive Jarrett Culver, Juancho Hernangomez
The Grizzlies flip Beverley in this deal and send him to Minnesota for a couple of young players. I don't think either Culver or Hernangomez are necessarily going to be rotation caliber players, but they unload someone they don't want for a couple of shots at young guys. Culver is still young, and if the scoring ability really develops he could be a good player in this league. The Timberwolves get Beverley, and I am a little confused as to why they would want him. He is on an expiring deal, and while he does help their point of attack defense, he isn't going to provide the necessary off ball gravity that is needed to maximize Karl-Anthony Towns. I'm confused about this move for Minnesota.
Josh Hart, 3-yr. $38M with the New Orleans Pelicans
I think I am higher on Josh Hart than most people, so I think this is a great value signing for them. I like the defense, rebounding, and solid shooting that Hart provides, and think he is a great fit for this Pelicans team. I think the rebounding is actually a very important skill he has for the construct of this team, as it should allow for better usage of smaller lineups built around Zion Williamson if Griffin decides that is the pathway (which he will at some point, right?). I think Hart for this low of an annual average value is a very good deal.
Alex Caruso, 4-yr. $37M with the Chicago Bulls
This is arguably my favorite deal of the day. Caruso getting paid under $10 million annually is an absolute robbery in my eyes. He also complements the other guards very well. He can play with any of LaVine/Lonzo/White in the backcourt. The Bulls now have a backcourt of the future with a bunch of complimentary skillsets. Caruso will provide the most value on defense, but he is also capable of spotting up and cutting offensively. The other three guards will take on more of the on-ball duties offensively, while Caruso will help out with the other teams best guard defensively. Point of attac defense will also be very important for the Bulls because they have Vucevic at center, which is another reason why I love this signing. I can't get over how good this was for Chicago. As for the Lakers, I have no idea why they let Caruso walk. They could've offered him the same deal or better and chose not to. Very strange.
Kelly Olynyk, 3-yr. $37M with the Detroit Pistons
In a vacuum, is Kelly Olynyk worth this much money? Absolutely not. Is he worth this much on a developing team who needs floor spacing and offensive versatility? Maybe. I think this is a solid signing because Olynyk will give more space to Cade Cunningham early in his career to operate. An underrated part of this move is that it will also help out Killian Hayes, especially in lineups off the bench next season. I'd have rather signed him on a two year deal rather than a three year one, but the contract should be easy to move if necessary in the last year.
Daniel Theis, 4-yr. $36M with the Houston Rockets
I think this is a really nice deal for the Rockets, and a good example of a team getting a starting caliber center at a low price. Theis is going to be cost controlled over the next four seasons, and I think he does provide a lot of value to this team. He is a plus passer and defender, sets really good screens, and has a high motor. He'll help with the defense, but can also come off the bench and make an impact if Christian Wood develops defensively. He can also be a really nice option off the bench if the Rockets get one of the mobile big men in the 2022 draft class.
T.J. McConnell, 4-yr. $35.2M with the Indiana Pacers
McConnel is a very good back up point guard, and the Pacers lock him in for the next four seasons. It is very important for NBA teams to have 48 minutes of good guard play, and McConnell was great in providing that off the bench last season. He is a backup guard, however, which makes me a little less high on this deal. I don't think I would ever want to pay a backup guard $9 million unless they were essentially as good as a starter. There are just too many replacement level options at the position. I think the money could've been spent better elsewhere, especially since the Pacers desperately need shooting and let McDermott walk.
Nerlens Noel, 3-yr. $32M with the New York Knicks
I love this deal for New York. Lock in a center who is playing near a starters level for the next 3 seasons. Noel gives you a little bit of scheme versatility and is a good rim runner. I don't know if he is a high level playoff player, but I also don't think the Knicks are going to be in that situation the next 3 season. Noel was a big part of the Knicks defensive success last year, and this feels like a good deal for them.
Talen Horton-Tucker, 3-yr. $32M with the Los Angeles Lakers
I haven't seen much from Horton-Tucker to believe he is worth this much money, but the Lakers have seen more of him than I have. Committing this much to a player who has barely played is risky, but could pay off if he can legit handle the ball and create. I'd still rather have given that money to Caruso (or just paid both).
Will Barton, 2-yr. $32M with the Denver Nuggets
Barton is 30 years old and signs a short-term deal to come back to Devner. He is probably their fourth best player and is someone that can create his own offense. He has dealt with a lot of injuries the past couple of years, which is why I'm surprised he didn't go for a longer deal. I think this is a good signing for Denver, as an advantage creator who can also defend competently is an important role player for any team. I'm hoping to see a fully healthy Will Barton year this season.
Reggie Bullock, 3-yr. $30.5M with the Dallas Mavericks
Bullock will provide the Mavericks with some real shooting and plus defense for a wing. I think he will slide right into the Mavericks closing lineup right now. Bullock, DFS, Kleber, Porzingis, Brunson, and Hardaway will all be options for them to close games. Bullock gives them more defensive ability, and he also opens up some bigger lineup options. Using your MLE is not bad at all for a wing that does what he does.
Alec Burks, 3-yr. $30M with the New York Knicks
I thin Burks is a little underrated as a player, and signing a solid rotation caliber wing for this little is great for the Knicks. They also lock him into a longer term deal at a good price. Burks was a very goof option off the bench as a floor spacer who also had a little juice off the dribble. The defense isn't bad either, but the decision-making can be questionable at times. I still think this is a bargain at $10 million per year.
Kelly Oubre Jr., 2-yr. $25M with the Charlotte Hornets
I really like this signing for the Hornets. I'm thinking about units with Washington, Oubre, and Bridges in the frontcourt that give LaMelo spacing and multiple lob targets to operate with. Just like Bridges, Oubre is an excellent athlete and a very good cutter from the corners. Oubre will also give the Hornets some much needed defense on the wings. I think he should be a starter for them next season, and I think the price the Hornets got him on is really good.
Reggie Jackson, 2-yr. $22M with the Los Angeles Clippers
Reggie Jackson had an exceptional playoffs for the Clippers last year. He was great shooting the ball, held up as an individual creator, and did not get played off the floor defensively. He was relied on far too much than I would've liked, but to get him back on a relatively good deal is big for the Clippers. They are going to need his creation, especially if Kawhi is going to miss a lot of the season.
Zach Collins, 3-yr. $22M with the San Antonio Spurs
Huh? This is a very confusing deal in my opinion. Collins was an okay player who hasn't really played the past two seasons. He also plays the center position, which has the most replacement level talent in the league. The Spurs are going to end up giving Collins north of $7 million per year, but I can't imagine who they were negotiating against to get to that figure. Very strange move.
Khem Birch, 3-yr. $20M with the Toronto Raptors
The Raptors resign the player who could potentially be their starting center. If I were them, I'd still consider playing smaller with Barnes or Siakam at the 5 and bringing Birch off the bench, but either way the Raptors retain their guy. Birch played really well with the Raptors last season, and he does fill the need the Raptors had at his position. I don't mind the dollar amount, but I certainly wouldn't have given Birch 3 years on that price.
Danny Green, 2-yr. $20M with the Philadelphia 76ers
I love the move from the Sixers to bring Green back on a relatively small deal. He is still a very high level 3 and D wing who provides a lot of value to any team trying to win a championship. He should be a part of their closing lineup again next season.
Cameron Payne, 3-yr. $19M with the Phoenix Suns
I think this is a great deal for the Phoenix Suns. This locks Payne in as their backup point guard for most of Chris Paul's contact. Payne was awesome in the playoffs, operating as an advantage creator off the bench who was much better on defense than I expected. He is a one of the better backups in the league at this point, and getting him at just over $6 million per year is a great number.
JaMychal Green, 2-yr. $17M with the Denver Nuggets
Green is a solid backup 5 that can give some versatility as a four in moments. He is a smart player that can shoot or pass, and should be a part of the Nuggets playoff rotation. Getting a rotation level playoff player for $8.5 million per year is a good deal the Nuggets.
Furkan Korkmaz, 3-yr. $15M with the Philadelphia 76ers
Love the deal for the Sixers. Korkmaz helps off the bench in a major way with the spacing. He can shoot really well on the move and can pass the ball as well. He also isn't terrible defensively because he is really big for the position. I think getting him for $5 million per year is an absolute steal.
David Nwaba, 3-yr. $15M with the Houston Rockets
I don't hate this move for the Rockets. Nwaba is a solid wing who can get after it defensively. The shooting is still the problem with him, but the Rockets are really going to need help defensively. The number is low enough that there isn't a ton of downside here if he doesn't get a lot of minutes with the young roster.
P.J. Tucker, 2-yr. $15M with the Miami Heat
Now this is fun. The Heat can roll out monster defensive lineups with Tucker/Lowry/Butler/Bam. That group can switch everything, and they could slide either Duncan Robinson or Tyler Herro into that group to close out games. Either one of those will give them more creation/spacing. Miami should be a fantastic defensive team next year. As for the Bucks, I think they really made a mistake. They could've offered Tucker the same or more, but chose not to because of cap concerns. I hate that they have won a championship and are still concerned with their luxury tax bill.
Patty Mills, 2-yr. $12M with the Brooklyn Nets
This is a great signing for the Nets. Mills is a veteran guard who can really shoot it and isn't bad defensively. His movement shooting will help the Nets, especially during the regular season. I think this is definitely an upgrade over Landry Shamet, although I am not sure how much Mills can play in the playoffs because of his size.
Rudy Gay, 2-yr. $12M with the Utah Jazz
I love this signing for the Jazz. It gives them the lineup optionality that I think they really need. They can now roll with small lineups with Gay as the center off the bench against certain teams. He will slide right into the Georges Niang role, but I think his mobility will allow him to shoulder more playoff minutes.
Milwaukee Bucks Receive Grayson Allen
Memphis Grizzlies Receive Sam Merrill, Two Future 2nd Round Picks
I love this trade for the Bucks. They get a rotation caliber guard that will help fill the gap when DiVincenzo misses some time at the beginning of the year with injury. They also get someone who can really shoot the ball, which will of course look good next to Giannis. Allen is also much better defensively than someone like Bryn Forbes, so he could potentially be a part of the playoff rotation. As for Memphis, they move off a player who probably wasn't going to play much because of better, younger pieces in the same position as Allen. In return, hey get a couple of pick and a flier on a young player. I like the deal for both sides.
Torrey Craig, 2-yr. $10M with the Indiana Pacers
Do the Pacers really need another player that can't shoot the ball? I love Craig defensively, but he really only fits with the right team. I don't think this is the right team, and the Pacers had other needs to fill with this money.
Jeff Green, 2-yr. $10M with the Denver Nuggets
I'm very surprised the Nuggets were able to get Green on such a low number. Now they have Jokic/JaMychal/Jeff as options to play at the 5 in the playoffs. Jeff provides defensive versatilty as well as some weakside rim protection. Offensively, he will fit nicely with Jokic because of his cutting and finishing ability. His signing cold mean the end of the Millsap era with the Nuggets, but Green is a much cheaper piece.
Cory Joseph, 2-yr. $10M with the Detroit Pistons
This is a fairly small deal, but Jospeh is an okay guard that can come in and help the Pistons out defensively. As long as he doesn't take minutes away from the young players that matter I have no real issues with this signing. Hayes and Lee will probably be bad again defensively next year, so Joseph should really help with that issue as a fourth guard.
Kendrick Nunn, 2-yr. $10M with the Los Angeles Lakers
This is excellent value for the Lakers. To get a player like Nunn on such a small contract is a great piece of business for a team that will be deep into the luxury tax. Nunn is a good offensive player that can create offense, especially against drop coverage. He will be a very important piece off the bench for the Lakers.
Hamidou Diallo, 2-yr. $10M with the Detroit Pistons
Diallo showed a little bit more ability to operate offensively last season in his expanded minutes with the Pistons, so they decide to bring him back. I think the amount the Pistons have paid him is too high for what his actual value is, but the Pistons are not conserving cap space in order to make winning moves. I am fine with this deal for them, and think Diallo can be a suitable rotation player if he continues to develop value offensively.
Bobby Portis, 2-yr. $9M with the Milwaukee Bucks
Big players that can really shoot the ball get paid. Portis was a rotation player on the Bucks championship team, which is a good enough reason for me to bring him back on a deal like this. He will provide much needed spacing around Giannis, and held up well enough defensively to keep him on the floor in big moments.
Moe Harkless, 2-yr. $9M with the Sacramento Kings
I didn't think Harkless was great last season, but the idea of him will always be interesting. I don't mind throwing this much money at a wing that can defend and kind of shoot it, but Harkless just hasn't been good enough the past couple of years to be a consistent rotation piece.
Kemba Walker, 2-yr. $8M with the New York Knicks
I was critical of the Knicks offseason until this move. Kemba Walker makes a ton of sense for this team and will open up a lot for the roster. He is exactly what they need from the standpoint of being able to consistently create advantages. They also get Walker on an incredibly cheap contract after his buyout. I think his struggles were overblow a little last year, and I really hope he can stay healthy in New York. This opens up a lot for Randle as a screener and off ball player as well, and same can be said for R.J. Barrett.
George Hill, 2-yr. $8M with the Milwaukee Bucks
I think this is a great signing for Milwaukee. Hill was bad last year, but I'm not sure what to think off his decline after an excellent previous season for the Bucks. Hill can still shoot the ball and defend at the point of attack, I just think he was being asked to do too much for the Sixers. I still think he will be a very valuable player off the bench for the Bucks, who do really need someone in the backup point guard role.
Terence Davis, 2-yr. $8M with the Sacramento Kings
Davis is a solid young player that will get another shot with the Kings this season. He was sent away from Toronto after getting himself in some legal troubles, but he is still a perfectly acceptable role player. He is still a young player and has athleticism to build on, and if he can keep his head right eh should be a rotation player for a long time.
Alex Len, 2-yr. $7.6M with the Sacramento Kings
I don't know how much this deal is for, which makes it difficult to write about. Len is a solid center, and I will think this is a great deal if he is signed for the minimum. However, if he is signed for over the minimum I would question why the Kings would do that. Centers are the most dispensable position, and players similar to Len are always available for minimum deals.
Didi Louzada, 4-yr. $7.2M with the New Orleans Pelicans
I don't know much about Louzada, but the Pelicans hopeful archetype for him is a 3 and D wing with some other creation upside. He was stashed away after being an early second round pick a couple of years ago, so it should be interesting to see if he can play early in his NBA career.
Mike Muscala, 2-yr. $7M with the Oklahoma City Thunder
I think the Thunder will be able to flip this contract into a piece because of how well Muscala shot the ball last season. I'd be very surprised if he finished this contract out.
Georges Niang, 2-yr. $6.7M with the Philadelphia 76ers
I assume the Sixers are using their BAE for this signing, which I don't have a problem with. Niang can shoot the ball and is a fine defender. He is also a plus ball mover. The issue is his mobility become a problem in the playoffs, but he won't have too big of a role anyways. Useful regular season guy for them.
Nicolas Batum, 2-yr. $6.3M with the Los Angeles Clippers
Batum was a huge piece for the Clippers last year, and resigning him is huge. He was a big reason for why the Clippers could roll out 5 man units that could play 5-out and switch a lot defensively. He covered up a lot of mistakes with excellent defensive rotations and some plus rim protection. He moved the ball very well on offense and was enough of a shooter to keep the defense in check. He also showed some vertical pop that we had not seen out of him in a while. He should be a part of their closing group again next season.
Sterling Brown, 2-yr. $6.2M with the Dallas Mavericks
I actually really like this deal for Dallas. They add a player with good physical tools who can shoot it and defend. I thought he was god last season in Houston, and am surprised there wasn't a little more interest in signing him. I think he will be a part of the Mavericks rotation next year.
Frank Jackson, 2-yr. $6.2M with the Detroit Pistons
I thought Jackson showed some stuff last year as a guard that can create some offense for himself, but the Pistons have three young guards who I’d rather give the ball too. I hope Jackson’s success doesn’t take precedence over their development.
Dennis Schroder, 1-yr. $5.9M with the Boston Celtics
As much as I think Schroder has been perpetually overrated, this is a very good value signing for the Celtics. Schroder gives them someone who can pressure the rim and is an above average point of attack defender, which are two things the Celtics needed. I wouldn’t put Schroder in the closing lineup, but he’s a nice guy to have in the rotation.
Trey Lyles, 2-yr. $5M with the Detroit Pistons
Lyles hasn't been very good the past couple seasons, but he is cost controlled and can potentially provide some floor spacing on second units. Not a big shot to take with this team.
JaVale McGee, 1-yr. $5M with the Phoenix Suns
The Suns really needed a backup center, and McGee fits that role well. They went a little over the minimum to get someone that has been there and done that before, which isn't something I love. I think there are players out there they could've signed for a minimum deal that would've provided similar value. Using any portion of your MLE on a center always really frustrates me.
Robin Lopez, 1-yr. $5M with the Orlando Magic
This is a strange deal, as the rebuilding Magic already have two young centers in Wendell Carter Jr. and Mo Bamba. I'd rather give all the minutes to them, but as long as Lopez doesn't take away from their playing time I won't be mad. The money is what matters here, as I can't imagine any other team offered Lopez this much.
Lou Williams, 1-yr. $5M with the Atlanta Hawks
The Hawks always need a backup point guard, and they lock up a productive one from last season here. I like the signing, as I don't see who else on the market would've provided the same value. I'd be willing to pay a little over the minimum for the services of Williams as a ball handler off the bench.
Bruce Brown, 1-yr. $4.7M with the Brooklyn Nets
Brown is betting on himself here by taking his qualifying offer. He will become an unrestricted free agent after this year, and should get paid a lot. I think he may not have gotten great offers this year because of his uniqueness. His game is tailormade to fit into the Brooklyn Nets, and I really don't think he would be as valuable elsewhere. This is great for the Nets, as Brown gives them a different look that teams struggled to handle in the playoffs.
Ish Smth, 1-yr. $4.5M with the Charlotte Hornets
I have no idea why a team would pay above the minimum to sign a backup point guard who's as good as Ish Smith. No offense to him, I do think he is a solid backup, but the price for him should be a minimum. It doesn't make sense to me as to why the Hornets would pursue Smith on this deal.
Abdel Nader, 2-yr. $4.2M with the Phoenix Suns
Bringing Nader back on a minimum deal is a steal for the Suns. Nader was a competent wing last year, which gives more than minimum value in my eyes. He wasn't bad in the limited playoff minutes he got coming back from injury, and was solid within hi role in the regular season. He should be a rotation guy for them next year.
Gorgui Dieng, 1-yr. $4M with the Atlanta Hawks
Dieng is a good player that will help the Hawks center depth with Okongwu presumably being out for the beginner of the season. I think this money would've been better spent on a shot at a wing or a guard, but I'm not too mad with the signing because I think Dieng is a very slid player.
Tony Bradley, 2-yr. $3.8M with the Chicago Bulls
The Bulls get a competent backup center with this move. I am still a believer in Tony Bradley being a rotation level center, but no team has particularly gave him a chance. He should get that opportunity in Chicago with their lack of center depth.
Thanasis Antetokounmpo, 2-yr. $3.6M with the Milwaukee Bucks
Thanasis is a fine signing as a minimum value player who keeps your best player happy, brings great energy, and can actually spot some minutes here and there. I have no issues with the Bucks bringing him back on a minimum deal for the next two seasons.
Max Strus, 2-yr. $3.5M with the Miami Heat
I have always been a fan of Strus, and he is the exact type of player I would bet on with a minimum. He can shoot it and defend, and I think he does have role player upside in the league.
Gabe Vincent, 2-yr. $3.5M with the Miami Heat
Vincent is going to help fill out the roster for Miami. He isn't going to be in the rotation, but did play some last year due to injuries. He wasn't good, but wasn't awful. He's certainly a good enough player to be in the league right now.
Omer Yurtseven, 2-yr. $3.2M with the Miami Heat
Yurtseven played very well for the Heat in a couple Summer League games, and has earned this contract with his play. I don't think he has any starter upside, but he could be a decent backup as an offensive weapon at some point. I don't think the upside is really there because of the defense, but I don't mind taking a flier on him at all.
Andre Iguodala, 1-yr. $2.6M with the Golden State Warriors
The Warriors are getting back one of their most important players from the past decade in Iguodala. He hasn't been great the past couple of seasons, but should still be an awesome veteran to have around. He could still have some defensive juice, and the knowledge of the Golden State system should be very helpful. He could resurge as a rotation guy for them because the situation is great.
Blake Griffin, 1-yr. $2.6M with the Brooklyn Nets
Griffin was good in the Nets run last year, and bringing him back on a veterans minimum is obviously a good deal. He will be a part of their rotation again, but I hope Nash doesn't fall too in love with him. A lot of Griffin's limitations did show last year as the playoffs went on.
Trevor Ariza, 1-yr. $2.6M with the Los Angeles Lakers
I assume this will be on the veterans minimum, which would be a great deal for the Lakers. Ariza knows how to play, and has spent time in Los Angeles before. He fills the role of a 3 and D wing, which is something every team can use a ton off. I think there is a possibility Ariza is a part of the Lakers closing group next year.
Wayne Ellington, 1-yr. $2.6M with the Los Angeles Lakers
I love this signing for the Lakers. Ellington shot the ball exceptionally well last year, and surrounding LeBron James with shooters is always optimal. The Lakers especially need shooting with this iteration of their team because of the addition of Russell Westbrook. Ellington will be a nice guard pairing for units off the bench with Westbrook, but the backcourt defense would be very questionable there.
James Johnson, 1-yr. $2.6M with the Brooklyn Nets
This contract was signed for Johnson to guard one man, and that's Giannis Antetokounmpo. Johnson has always done a good job on Giannis, so I think this is a great signing. Fill the roster spot with a solid vet, and keep him on the bench for the most part until a specific matchup arises.
Dwight Howard, 1-yr. $2.6M with the Los Angeles Lakers
Again, I love this signing for the Lakers. They help themselves with someone who will be their backup center. Howard can fill the roll as a rim protector who can also run the floor alongside Russell Westbrook in second units. Howard also fit really well into the Laker during their title run a couple of seasons ago, and should be used in the same way.
Markieff Morris, 1-yr. $2.6M with the Miami Heat
I am always for signing veterans that know how to play basketball to minimum deals. It is a very important piece to championship team building. Morris fits the mold as a tough defender who is smart on that end of the floor. The offense is questionable, which is the case for a lot of Heat players. I don't know if this necessarily fills a need, but it does give them another option to throw in the playoff rotation as a counter
Taj Gibson, 1-yr. $2.6M with the New York Knicks
Gibson is still a solid backup center for the Knicks, and he fits right into what Thibadeau likes to do. I have no problem with bringing him back on a 1 year minimum to be their third center behind Noel and Robinson.
Enes Kanter, 1-yr. $2.6M with the Boston Celtics
The Celtics already have Al Horford and Robert Williams, meaning that Enes Kanter should play zero minutes. I really hope he doesn't take any time away from Williams, and if he does I will hate this move. If he is just insurance in case one gets injured, I have no issues here.
Carmelo Anthony, 1-yr. $2.6M with the Los Angeles Lakers
I really don't like this for the Lakers. I don't think Carmelo Anthony is a good NBA player. The shot selection is really poor and the defense is awful. I don't think he should be in the Lakers rotation, but I feel like he will be because of his name. I'd rather see the Lakers go after other names if they need shooting.
Udonis Haslem, 1-yr. $2.6M with the Miami Heat
Can the Heat stop wasting a roster spot on someone that isn’t going to play and just put Haslem on the coaching staff please?
Victor Oladipo, 1-yr. $2.4M with the Miami Heat
Oladipo was not good at all last season, and he is staying in Miami on a minimum deal to prove his worth. Oladipo was a player who relied a lot on athleticism, and has not been the same since his numerous injuries. The shooting struggles have played a large part in this, as he always relied on quick twitch ability to get to the rim. He will need to morph his game into something else to become a valuable player again, and it'll be interesting to see if he can make that sacrifice.
Otto Porter Jr., 1-yr. $2.4M with the Golden State Warriors
I think this is a minimum deal, which is absolutely mind boggling to me. Yes, Porter has been unable to stay healthy, but he is a wing that can really shoot the ball and is a plus defender. I would throw my mid-level at him in a second. He's the exact type of player that fits perfectly on good teams, and I'd expect him to be a big part of the Warriors rotation if he stays healthy.
Kent Bazemore, 1-yr. $2.4M with the Los Angeles Lakers
Bazemore is a capable wing, and getting him on what will probably be a minimum is great. He can shoot the ball, which always works well with LeBron James and Russell Westbrook. He fills an immediate need for them, and should be in their rotation.
Andre Drummond, 1-yr. $2.4M with the Philadelphia 76ers
I think Drummond is drastically overrated by the common public because of their love for counting stats, but clearly the leagues opinion on him is more aligned with my own. He's clearly not a starting center to me, but I'd be willing to give him 15-20 minutes per game as a backup. As long as he stays within that role I think this is a good signing.
Austin Rivers, 1-yr. $2.4M with the Denver Nuggets
I'm not sure what the compensation is, but Rivers is a useful backup guard. I like the signing as someone who can help as the 4th or 5th guard in the rotation. Rivers can shoot and has some ability off the bounce to create. Very nice role player.
Solomon Hill, 1-yr. $2.4M with the Atlanta Hawks
Hill is a nice wing option, and I like the deal for the Hawks assuming he is around the minimum. Hill has some shooting and defensive ability, but isn't good enough at either to give him consistent minutes at this point. he is still the type of player I would be happy to have on my roster.
Hassan Whiteside, 1-yr. $2.4M with the Utah Jazz
The Jazz get their backup center after trading Derrick Favors for cap relief. I don't think Whiteside will help them in the playoffs, but he will fit nicely in their defensive scheme during the regular season. I have no problems with this signing, and maybe the Jazz organization can get Whiteside to become a much more disciplined player.
Tony Snell, 1-yr. $2.4M with the Portland Trail Blazers
Snell can shoot the ball and is a fine defender, so getting a wing like that on a minimum deal is good for the Blazers. They always need wings, so I think it's a good move to sign Snell on such a low risk contract.
Dewayne Dedmon, 1-yr. $2.4M with the Miami Heat
Dedmon showed some juice when he finally got signed last season, and the Heat smartly bring him back. Dedmon has a little bit of rim protection ability and is a decent shooter, which to me gives him value as a backup. He's a perfect example of not having to overpay for a backup center.
Cody Zeller, 1-yr. $2.3M with the Portland Trail Blazers
I'm not sure how much this deal is worth, but getting Zeller as your backup 5 is a good move. He isn't at the level of a starter at this point, but he is an above average defender and will really bolster the Blazers second unit defense (which was awful last season).
Rodney Hood, 1-yr. $2.2M with the Milwaukee Bucks
Hood was terrible last season, but he was coming off a torn achilles. It's up in the air if he can ever become a rotation player again, but I would definitely bet on him with a minimum contract. Worst case he's bad and you don't have to give him playing time, but the upside is a big wing with some shot creation and defense.
Elfrid Payton, 1-yr. $2.2M with the Phoenix Suns
As much as Payton got clowned on the Knicks because he was so destructive offensively, I think he is a really nice third guard to have on a minimum contract. His point of attack defense could certainly be useful in spots.
Nemanja Bjelica, 1-yr. $2M with the Golden State Warriors
I absolutely love this deal for Golden State. Bjelica is a player who I think is worth more than the minimum, which is what I presume the Warriors signed him for. Bjelica will fit beautifully into the Warriors offense as somene who can really pass and shoot. He can initiate a lot of DHO's, but can also be very useful as a screener. He can also play next to Draymond to space the floor and provide more plus passing and shooting. This is a great fit.
Rodney McGruder, 1-yr. $1.9M with the Detroit Pistons
I still think McGruder’s shooting and defense could be good enough to get him minutes in a competitive team, but I guess competitive teams disagree.
Malik Monk, 1-yr. $1.8M with the Los Angeles Lakers
I think this is for a minimum, which is shocking to me. Monk is 23 years old and showed some real juice at the end of last season as a scorer, and even as a playmaker. I have no idea why the Hornets wouldn't bring him back or why no one else would sign him to a larger deal. He will provide a lot of juice coming off the Lakers bench.
Semi Ojeleye, 1-yr. $1.8M with the Milwaukee Bucks
I guess this is the Tucker replacement, but Ojeleye is not even close to the same level as Tucker defensively. Maybe he can shoot it a tiny bit better, but I don't expect him to be in the rotation come playoff time. Still not a bad signing for the minimum.
Sam Dekker, 1-yr. $1.8M with the Toronto Raptors
If Dekker shoots the ball the way he did in Turkey, he's probably an NBA player. I always think the overseas market is not explored enough in NBA free agency, so good for the Raptors for identifying and pursuing Dekker.
Boban Marjanovic, 1-yr. $1.7M with the Dallas Mavericks
Boban won't necessarily be a consistent part of the rotation, but he provides something the Mavericks can throw out at the other team in certain situations. They may also roll out the massive zone they showed in the playoffs during next regular season, which would be fun to watch.
Isaac Bonga, 1-yr. $1.7M with the Toronto Raptors
Im fairly surprised more teams weren’t trying to sign Bong. he’s a legit good wing defender at this point, and he’s still only 21 years old. I would’ve been willing to sign him for part of my mid-level for multiple years if I were a team.
Utah Jazz Receive Eric Paschall
Golden State Warriors Receive a Protected Future 2nd Round Pick
The Warriors were really far over the luxury tax and save about $12 million dollars by dumping Paschall. I'm surprised they couldn't get more from him, but I think teams evaluations of Paschall's are similar to my own. I don't think of him as a rotation level player right now at all. He should open up a couple of different lineups in Utah, but I wouldn't rely on him playing heavy minutes. I have no issues with dumping his salary if he wasn't going to play actual minutes this season, but the compensation just wasn't good at all.
Keifer Sykes, 1-yr. $0.9M with the Indiana Pacers
Sykes is getting a shot at the league after a great performance in The Basketball Tournament. To my knowledge he is one of the only players (maybe the first?) to get an NBA deal after playing. I don't know a ton about Sykes, but he did play in the NBL last year and spent some time in Italy and Greece. It's a great story and will be interesting to monitor.
Saben Lee, 3-yr. $?M with the Detroit Pistons
Lee was a second round pick last season who showed real flashes of on ball potential. The hit rate on second rounders is incredibly low, so the Pistons getting someone that could turn into a rotation player is great for them. Lee is a great change of pace athlete, but still does have a lot to work on. I'm excited to see how he develops going into next year.
Willy Hernangomez, 3-yr. $?M with the New Orleans Pelicans
If this is for the minimum, I don't think this is terrible for the Pelicans. I think Hernangomez is an attempt to space next to Zion, as he can shoot the ball. The issue is that he gives you nothing defensively, which makes him almost unplayable. If the idea is to retain a third center who fits offensively with Zion, then that's okay. I still don't think Hernangomez has nearly enough upside to warrant a 3 year deal, but he's an NBA caliber player at the least. If it's for more than the minimum, I would really dislike the deal.
Justise Winslow, 2-yr. $?M with the Los Angeles Clippers
I love this signing for the Clippers. I still think Winslow can be a rotation player in this league, and he will get a true shot in LA. Winslow is still only 25 years old, and has proven to be a very good defensive player in the league. The offense has just never came along, and it was really terrible last season in Memphis. He should benefit a lot from the spacing that the Clippers have, and he should get opportunities with Kawhi expected to miss most of the season.
Jock Landale, 2-yr. $?M with the San Antonio Spurs
Landale is a skilled big man that was one of the better players in the NBL last season. He can shoot the three but also bang inside, and he should translate reasonably well offensively. The issue with him will be the defense, and I really don't think he can defend at an NBA level. Maybe he proves me wrong, but we will see. Still not a bad shot to take for the Spurs in my eyes.
Ishmail Wainright, 2-yr. $?M with the Toronto Raptors
I love the Raptors taking a shot on an overseas player who has performed exceedingly well in international competition. Wainright is an athletic wing who is a very good defender, and if the shot falls he is a clear NBA player to me. I would definitely take a shot at him on an NBA contract.
Mo Wagner, 2-yr. $?M with the Orlando Magic
I love this deal if it is not for more than the minimum. Wagner was out of the league for a little last season, but I think he is a very good third center to have on the roster. He has a nice offensive skillset, but the defense is a major issue that doesn't allow him to get consistent minutes.
Javonte Green, 2-yr. $?M with the Chicago Bulls
I've always thought Green could be potentially a part of an NBA rotation, and it appears he should get his chance this season with the Bulls. He's a solid wing defensively, but has always struggled to contribute on the offensive side of the ball. He's 28 years old, so it's now or never for him to crack an NBA rotation.
DeAndre Bembry, 1-yr. $?M with the Brooklyn Nets
Bembry can't shoot it at all, but he can defend wings and can handle the ball a little. He reminds me of a worse version of Bruce Brown, which is someone that was greatly valuable for the Nets. I like his signing as a low risk flier, but I would guess he isn't going to be a big part of the rotation.
Chris Chiozza, 1-yr. $?M with the Golden State Warriors
Chiozza is an undersized guard who can’t score efficiently enough to be a rotation player, and this is another example of a roster spot I’d rather see go to a younger player with more upside.
Bryn Forbes, ?-yr. $?M with the San Antonio Spurs
Forbes is a very good shooter who does a lot off of movement. He provides pretty much nothing else, which makes him a valuable rotation player in the regular season but doesn't give much playoff equity. That shouldn't matter too much for where the Spurs are at right now, so it's nice to see Forbes come back to San Antonio.
Raul Neto, ?-yr. $?M with the Washington Wizards
Neto was a big piece of the Wizards rotation, and this is a great move for Washington to retain him. He should slide right back into the role of a backup point guard, and his defensive ability could mean he can play in lineup with any of Beal/Dinwiddie/Holiday. The Neto signing is a great example of buying low on a quality backup guard.
Dwayne Bacon, ?-yr. $?M with the New York Knicks
Bacon has gotten some opportunities to show that he’s an NBA player, but he simply hasn’t done so in Charlotte. I don’t get this signing, I’d much rather use this roster spot on a higher upside young player.
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