5 Players That Might Be On The Move In Free Agency
NBA Free agency is one of the most exciting times of the year for basketball enthusiasts. Depending on the moves your favorite team makes, your excitement might soar or wane. Throughout the league's history, some of the most significant changes have occurred during free agency periods. Fortunately for us fans, there are several impactful players that are poised to switch teams this free agency.
Photo by Melissa Tamez/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
Nic Claxton
Nicolas Claxton finds himself in the final year of his two-year contract with the Nets, earning $17 million this season alone. As the offseason approaches, he's likely to attract big time offers from teams seeking a center to bolster their title odds.
Just a year ago, Claxton finished ninth in Defensive Player of the Year voting. However, this year, his game-by-game stats don’t look as appealing. Despite the downturn in his statistics, Claxton remains as impactful as ever. It's important to acknowledge the challenging situation he faces in Brooklyn, where the Nets seem unsure on what direction to take with this roster. Through 59 games, he's maintained averages of 2.1 blocks per game and 9.8 rebounds. Notably, the Nets exhibit a defensive rating of 120 without Claxton on the floor, compared to 116.9 with him.
While there are reports of the Nets aiming to retain him in free agency, Claxton is unrestricted, and a fresh start elsewhere may beckon. Perhaps destinations like Phoenix or Golden State could provide new opportunities. Only time will tell.
Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images
Malik Monk
Malik Monk's remarkable performance this season makes him a strong contender for the Sixth Man of the Year award, where he has my personal vote. His ability to step up and lead his team to victory, exemplified by his 39-point outing against the Minnesota Timberwolves, showcases his impact. With career-high statistics across the board, Monk is poised to command a significant contract in free agency, especially considering he is only making $10 million this season.
The Kings lack the bird rights to bring back Monk if he opts to sign elsewhere, leaving the decision entirely up to him. Given his playstyle and history of players with it, it's highly probable he'll seek out a lucrative deal wherever it presents itself.
Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images
Tobias Harris
Tobias Harris, a versatile 6’8” forward with scoring prowess at all levels, has provided consistent performances throughout his tenure in Philly. This season, averaging 17 PPG on nearly 50% shooting from the field, Harris enters unrestricted free agency, likely attracting substantial offers from contending teams. However, amidst fan discontent and turbulent team dynamics over the years, the 76ers might seek to part ways with Harris via sign-and-trade.
Buddy Hield
Known as one of the premier sharpshooters of his generation, Buddy Hield has lived up to his $94 million contract with the Kings. Hield is shooting an impressive 40% from deep on over 7 attempts per game this season. His unrestricted free agency status makes him a highly desirable asset for any team looking to enhance their chances at contention.
While the 76ers may struggle to retain Hield, considering other financial commitments such as Tyrese Maxey's likely max contract, his decision is up in the air and will place many teams on their heels as we await for the announcement when it comes.
Photo by Ezra Shaw | Getty Images Sport | Getty Images
Klay Thompson
The Golden State Warriors' struggles this season have been a surprise to many, with Klay Thompson, a cornerstone of their championship era, contributing to their challenges. Despite shooting below par prior to the All-Star break, Thompson's recent improvements hint at him having some left in the tank for other teams. Nonetheless, rumors suggest the Warriors might seek to transition away from their original championship core, including Thompson, amid changes in their front office.
Despite the struggles, Thompson's championship pedigree and potential could still attract respectable offers in free agency from teams willing to bet on his shot-making ability.
