Updated: May 12, 2005
Redd and Allen head a deep free-agent class
Now that the season is over, next year has become this year for the 22 teams no longer in the playoffs.
Who will have the cap space to make a difference in this summer's free-agent market?
Assuming there's a $45 million cap (it could be as high as $50 million, depending on what happens with the CBA), the Atlanta Hawks will have roughly $24 million in cap room. The Cleveland Cavaliers and Seattle SuperSonics will have $21 million, the Charlotte Bobcats roughly $20 million. The Los Angeles Clippers and New Orleans Hornets will have about $11 million. The Milwaukee Bucks have cleared about $9 million. Will they really want or be able to use it? The Sonics likely will spend all of their room re-signing their own free agents. The Cavs will use roughly half of theirs in an attempt to re-up Zydrunas Ilgauskas. And the Bobcats likely will save much of their cap space for summer 2007.
That leaves the Hawks, Cavs (roughly $10 million to $12 million), Hornets, Clippers and Bobcats as the players in the free-agent market. Since only one of those teams, the Cavs, is in any position to compete for the playoffs (though the Clippers are getting close), the free-agent destinations for top veterans will be very limited.
This year's list of free agents isn't top-heavy, but it's deep. Ray Allen, Michael Redd, Shareef Abdur-Rahim, Antoine Walker and Ilgauskas top the list of unrestricted veterans. Of that group, Allen and Abdur-Rahim are the most likely to bolt for new teams.
The restricted free-agent class looks much better, but remember, going after restricted free agents in the summer is always a dicey proposition. Only two top restricted free agents changed teams last summer. The Nuggets stole Kenyon Martin from the New Jersey Nets (the Nets eventually agreed to a sign-and-trade) and the Phoenix Suns pried Quentin Richardson away from the Clippers.
Here's Insider's second look at the free-agent class of 2005. Although the names on the board may leave fans breathless, there's little chance most of these guys will leave home.
Top 20 2005 Free Agents
Key: (R) = Restricted free agent | (PO) = Player Option | (TO) = Team Option
1. Michael Redd, SG, Bucks (PO)
Redd
The skinny: On July 1, 2005, Redd might be the hottest free agent on the market. He's making just $3 million in Milwaukee this year and tried to bolt the team two summers ago when he signed a three-year offer sheet with the Dallas Mavericks. Since then, he has become one of the league's best shooters and an All-Star. He'll command a huge raise and the Bucks are prepared to pay it. There has been a lot of talk all season that Redd will bolt the Bucks for the Cavs. However, the day before the trade deadline, Redd gave strong indications to the Bucks that he will re-sign with them as long as they give him a big deal. Still, look for the Cavs to make a big push this summer. The opportunity to return to his home state and play with LeBron might trump the extra year and bigger raises the Bucks can offer.
2. Ray Allen, SG, Sonics
Allen
The skinny: Of the top-tier guys on the list, Allen has the best shot of leaving. He tried to hammer out a big extension with the Sonics all season, to no avail. The two sides essentially bickered over the last year of a five-year deal being guaranteed. Allen has threatened to bolt if the Sonics don't up their offer … but where would he go? Cleveland is a possibility. If the Cavs don't land Michael Redd, Allen would be an attractive option. Allen hasn't ruled out a return to Milwaukee either, though that doesn't appear likely. The Clippers could have interest, though it's unclear whether Allen would reciprocate. The rest of the teams with money will look for someone younger. All this means that if the Cavs don't come through, Allen's options will be limited to either signing with Seattle for less money or working out a sign-and-trade with the Sonics. Under the last two scenarios, the Sonics get something back in return.
3. Samuel Dalembert, PF/C, 76ers (R)
The skinny: Of all the talented big men from the class of 2001, Dalembert is the most coveted. His breakout performance in April 2004 (12.3 ppg, 12.4 rpg, 4.8 bpg) got teams drooling. This year, his performance has been all over the board, from stunning to awful. However, most NBA scouts blame coach Jim O'Brien more than Dalembert for the center's inconsistent numbers. In the playoffs, Dalembert redeemed himself to an extent, averaging an NBA high 12.8 rpg in the first round against the Pistons. Dalembert has the size, athleticism and work ethic to be a force somewhere down the road. Good centers don't come along too often. When they're on the free-agent market, teams are usually willing to overpay to get them. The Sixers told everyone as the trade deadline came and went that he's untouchable and that they plan to re-sign him this summer … but at what price? Sixers GM Billy King is a big fan, but O'Brien isn't. How much do you pay a guy the coach doesn't like? And given how far the Sixers are over the luxury tax, can they afford to pay him big money? King says yes. We'll see. The Hawks are willing to throw near-max numbers at him. The Cavs and Sonics also are interested. As are teams willing to do a sign-and-trade, such as the Dallas Mavericks and New York Knicks. Dalembert is going to get paid somewhere. … the question is whether it will be in Philly.
4. Tyson Chandler, PF/C, Bulls (R)
Chandler
The skinny: Chandler had another up-and-down season for the Bulls. He has stayed healthy, was terrific on the boards again and showed signs that he's an emerging shot blocker. But his offensive game has really stagnated. He still hasn't developed any semblance of a low-post game, getting most of his shots off offensive rebounds and a nice little 10-foot jumper. However, he was very good in the playoffs, which will surely help his stock. Bulls GM John Paxson loves Chandler. He's got a great work ethic both off and on the court that Paxson admires. But what will he pay him? Chandler's history with injuries and his limited offensive potential may keep Paxson from throwing the bank at him. That gives an opening for a team like Cleveland or Atlanta to think about throwing a max-type deal his way. In the end, however, it probably would be fruitless. Paxson has said he'll match any deal for Chandler, and I believe it. He's too important to the Bulls' future, and he has the potential to turn into a Ben Wallace-type defensive force (except Chandler is five inches taller) as long as he remains healthy.
5. Larry Hughes, G, Wizards
The skinny: Hughes picked a great time to have a career year. He's averaged career highs in points, rebounds, assists and steals and was well on his way toward an All-Star berth before suffering a midseason injury. There's no question the Wizards want him back and will be willing to pay him. Hughes just turned 26 and seems to be in the prime of his career. The Wizards likely will have competition from the Bucks (if Redd doesn't re-sign), the Cavs and possibly the Clippers. But at the end of the day, the Wizards can offer the most money and seem inclined to do it.
6. Joe Johnson, G, Suns (R)
Johnson
The skinny: People talk about Redd and Allen as the league's premier shooters, but what about Johnson? He ranked second in the league in 3-point percentage this season and seventh in 3-pointers made. Yes, he gets a lot of open shots considering that most defenses are preoccupied trying to contain Amare Stoudemire, Shawn Marion and Steve Nash – but Johnson has proven repeatedly that he can take over a game when needed. The Suns want him back and own his restricted rights. Suns GM Bryan Colangelo told Insider several weeks ago that the team is prepared to match any offer for him. However, Johnson hasn't sounded so sure, and for good reason. The Suns have been trying to stay out of luxury-tax land, and paying Johnson a starting salary of $7-8 million per year will put them dangerously close to the threshold. Once the Suns extend Stoudemire to a max deal, their cap position could get out of control quickly starting in summer 2006. The Cavs will strongly consider Johnson if Redd doesn't sign with them. He's also likely to get some love from the Bobcats and possibly the Clippers. The Suns are hoping that the interest is limited and that they can re-sign him to a more modest deal. If a bidding war breaks out, the Suns might not be able to keep up.
7. Stromile Swift, PF/C, Grizzlies
The skinny: Swift took the Grizzlies' one-year tender offer last summer so he'd be an unrestricted free agent this summer. Expect him to take advantage of it. He has never quite performed up to expectations in Memphis. Still, Swift has the athleticism, shot blocking and rebounding skills many teams covet. He might never be a great offensive player or a particularly smart player, but on an up-tempo team that likes to get out and run, he could be very, very good. Look for the Hawks, Hornets, Bucks and possibly the Cavs and Sonics to show interest.
8. Eddy Curry, C, Bulls (R)
The skinny: Curry is one of this crop's biggest enigmas. He's a talented low-post scorer who still seems to be growing as a player. But questions about his work ethic on and off the court have haunted him (how can a guy his size play 20-plus minutes and grab just one rebound?). The relationship between Curry and the Bulls has waxed and waned considerably over the past three seasons. There were several points this year when it seemed like a lock that Curry would be back in a Bulls' uniform next season. Right now, that scenario is less than certain. Curry had a heart problem toward the end of the season that forced him to miss the playoffs. The Bulls are still having tests run. If there's anything even remotely serious, his value will plummet. If he gets a clean bill of health, things will be more interesting. The Bulls like Curry, but owner Jerry Reinsdorf doesn't sound ready to commit to a huge guaranteed deal for him. If Curry can persuade a team such as Atlanta or Seattle to roll the dice and offer him a big deal, will the Bulls match? GM John Paxson says yes, but it might depend on how the collective-bargaining negotiations turn out. If Curry can get only a four-year deal somewhere else, the Bulls might be willing to take the risk.
9. Shareef Abdur-Rahim, PF, Blazers
The skinny: Abdur-Rahim is an enigma. Every year, he puts up great stats for whatever team he's on, but he's never played on a team with a winning record. Never. The chances of his returning to Portland are slim. He knows that Zach Randolph is the Blazers' future star at the four and doesn't want to keep playing out of position on one of the NBA's most dysfunctional franchises. At 28, Abdur-Rahim still has plenty of juice left. But who's going to offer him the cash? Most of the teams with money are already set at his position or are looking for someone young. A number of veteran teams – including the Nets, Timberwolves and Heat – would love to get their hands on him, but all they can offer is a mid-level exception. The Blazers might be willing to do a sign-and-trade, but given how screwed up things in Portland are right now, who knows what the team will do?
10. Zydrunas Ilgauskas, C, Cavs
The skinny: It's pretty rare when an All-Star-caliber center appears on the unrestricted market. Ilgauskas has issues. He turns 30 in June and, despite having played relatively injury-free basketball the past few seasons, he has a history of foot injuries that would scare away any team doctor. However, his ability to score in the paint and block shots makes him a coveted commodity in a league that lacks big guys. The Cavs want to re-sign him, but for no more than a four-year deal that pays him roughly $44 million. If Ilgauskas pushes for more, the Cavs might wait him out this summer. Like Rahim, he doesn't have many potential suitors among the teams that have cap room, and the Cavs have no interest in a sign-and-trade, closing off that avenue. If Ilgauskas has to choose between taking $5 million in the mid-level exception and taking $10 million from the Cavs, what do you think he'll choose?
11. Bobby Simmons, G/F, Clippers
The skinny: Simmons stands to be one of the more coveted free agents on the market because he's an unrestricted free agent, plays for the Clippers and shouldn't break a bank account to get signed. Simmons has been improving throughout the season. In February, he averaged 20 ppg while shooting 50 percent from the field and 57 percent from 3. He's versatile, a great rebounder for his size and one of the league's best free-throw shooters. He's a hardworking kid who doesn't turn 25 until mid-June, so what isn't there to like about him? The Clippers want him back badly, but they are likely to get some serious competition from the Bobcats, the Hornets and possibly the Cavs.
12. Marko Jaric, PG, Clippers (R)
13. Kwame Brown, PF/C, Wizards (R)
The skinny: Despite all of Kwame's problems, teams are still interested. In fact, now that the Wizards have suspended him, the interest might go up. Before, many GMs felt that Washington would match any offer for Brown. Not anymore. Despite his problems, Brown still has upside. There aren't a lot of athletic, 7-foot 23-year-olds on the market. A team such as Atlanta, desperate to turn around its fortunes, might just send a significant contract his way. Brown played high school ball in Atlanta and still has a fan base there. Given the load of cash the Hawks have to work with, they might be able to afford him, Dalembert and a point guard such as Earl Watson.
14. Vladimir Radmanovic, F, Sonics (R)
15. Antoine Walker, F, Celtics
The skinny: Walker's reemergence in Boston was supposed to pay off for him this summer. However, after the Celtics tanked in the first round (and Walker was less than stellar), he seems to be right back where he was in Atlanta. Walker put up decent numbers all season, but many teams are writing them off as meaningless. His abysmal plus/minus numbers for the Hawks, among the worst in the league, haven't helped his cause. In Walker's defense, he was a spark for the Celtics, helping Paul Pierce be happy again and making GM Danny Ainge look like a genius for about a month. But the effect was short-lived. What happens this summer? No teams with cap room will show serious interest in Walker. The Celtics might be willing to re-sign him, but not for anything near the $14 million he makes this season. Cut that number to less than half, and the Celtics might start talking. Walker might have no choice but to take it or a bigger pay cut for another team's mid-level exception (the Knicks and Sixers come to mind) .
16. Antonio Daniels, PG, Sonics (PO)
The skinny: Daniels is another contender for the Sixth Man Award and likely will try to bolt Seattle this summer. He has posted two solid seasons with the Sonics, is one of the best point-guard defenders in the league and has improved his jump shot to the point that defenders have to at least guard him. He has become increasingly comfortable as a point guard the past two seasons and should become a solid starter on a team such as the Rockets, who are looking for more size and leadership at the position.
17. Kyle Korver, SF, 76ers (R)
Korver
The skinny: Korver has turned himself into one of the NBA's sweetest long-range shooters and should get a lot of attention from teams willing to use their mid-level exceptions. The Sixers want to keep him and can match any offer up to the mid-level. However, if a team offers more, the Sixers cannot match (they own only Korver's early Larry Bird rights). That's unlikely, especially with his poor performance in the playoffs.
18. Earl Watson, PG, Grizzlies
Watson
The skinny: Watson remains one of the most underrated point guards in the league and should generate significant interest this summer. He has played backup to Jason Williams most of his career, but his player efficiency ratings make him, at the very least, Williams' equal. He's one of the best defensive point guards in the league, and he keeps turnovers to a minimum. He won't score a lot of points due to a faulty jumper, but he definitely can run a team. Teams such as the Bobcats, Bucks, Blazers, Cavs, Hawks, Jazz, Rockets and Magic all should have interest, and Watson should be available. GM Jerry West loves him, but with the Grizzlies' payroll spiraling out of control, it's likely they won't be able to re-sign Watson, who can get a deal elsewhere starting at four or five million per. Given Watson's desire to be a starter, it's unlikely that he would choose to re-up with Memphis even if the Grizzlies could afford him.
19. Sarunas Jasikevicius, PG, Maccabi Tel Aviv
The skinny: Jasikevicius is the best point guard in Europe and has led his team to three straight Euroleague Championships. The former Maryland star is an incredible passer, has deep range on his jumper and plays with lots of emotion and grit. If he were more athletic, a better defender and four or five years younger (he's 29 now) he'd be near the top of the list. But as it stands, he'd be a great mid-level pick-up for a team trying to compete for a championship.
20. Donyell Marshall, F, Raptors
Marshall
The skinny: Marshall became one of the most coveted guys on the trading block last fall and will likely get a lot of interest (for the mid-level exception) from the same teams that pursued him then: the Bulls, Rockets, Heat and Sixers. [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Best of the rest[/font]
Player/Team Option: Shaquille O'Neal, C, Heat (PO); Damon Jones, PG, Heat (PO); Darius Songaila, F, Kings (PO);Keith Van Horn, F, Mavericks (PO); Cuttino Mobley, SG, Kings (PO); Jalen Rose, SG, Raptors (PO); Grant Hill, SF, Magic (PO); Jamal Mashburn, SF, Hornets (PO); Bonzi Wells, SG, Grizzlies (TO); Eddie Jones, SG, Heat (PO); Nick Van Exel, PG, Blazers (TO); Bobby Jackson, PG, Kings (TO); Devean George, SF, Los Angeles Lakers (PO); Predrag Drobnjak, C, Hawks (TO); Austin Croshere, F, Pacers (PO); Clifford Robinson, F, Nets (TO)
Note: It's very unlikely most of the players on the above list will exercise their player options – that's why they weren't listed on the Top-20 list. The only exceptions could be Mobley, Damon Jones and Songaila, who might opt out in an attempt to get more money elsewhere.
Unrestricted: Damon Stoudamire, PG, Blazers; Gary Payton, PG, Celtics; Jerome James, C, Sonics; Latrell Sprewell, SG, Timberwolves; Jeff McInnis, PG, Cavs; Dan Dickau, PG, Hornets; Dale Davis, C, Warriors; Kerry Kittles, SG, Clippers; Glenn Robinson, SF, Spurs; Jahidi White, C, Bobcats; Bo Outlaw, F, Grizzlies; Ervin Johnson, C, Timberwolves; Raja Bell, G/F, Jazz; Mark Madsen, F, Timberwolves; Tyronn Lue, PG, Rockets; Darrell Armstrong, PG, Mavericks.
Restricted: Udonis Haslem, F, Heat; Gerald Wallace, G/F, Bobcats; Dan Gadzuric, C, Bucks; Zaza Pachulia, C, Bucks; Reggie Evans, F, Sonics; Ronald Murray, G, Sonics; Luke Walton, F, Lakers; Jason Kapono, F, Bobcats; Willie Green, G, Sixers; Matt Bonner, F, Raptors
European Free Agents: Maceo Baston, PF, Maccabi Tel Aviv; Arvydas Macijauskas, SG, TAU Vitoria; Anthony Parker, SG/SF, Maccabi Tel Aviv; Travis Hansen, SG/SF, TAU Vitoria; Nikola Vujcic, C, Maccabi Tel Aviv; Jose Manuel Calderon, PG, Tau Vitoria; Dimitris Diamantidis, PG, Panathinaikos; Demos Dikoudis, SF, CSKA Moscow
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Redd and Allen head a deep free-agent class
Now that the season is over, next year has become this year for the 22 teams no longer in the playoffs.
Who will have the cap space to make a difference in this summer's free-agent market?
Assuming there's a $45 million cap (it could be as high as $50 million, depending on what happens with the CBA), the Atlanta Hawks will have roughly $24 million in cap room. The Cleveland Cavaliers and Seattle SuperSonics will have $21 million, the Charlotte Bobcats roughly $20 million. The Los Angeles Clippers and New Orleans Hornets will have about $11 million. The Milwaukee Bucks have cleared about $9 million. Will they really want or be able to use it? The Sonics likely will spend all of their room re-signing their own free agents. The Cavs will use roughly half of theirs in an attempt to re-up Zydrunas Ilgauskas. And the Bobcats likely will save much of their cap space for summer 2007.
That leaves the Hawks, Cavs (roughly $10 million to $12 million), Hornets, Clippers and Bobcats as the players in the free-agent market. Since only one of those teams, the Cavs, is in any position to compete for the playoffs (though the Clippers are getting close), the free-agent destinations for top veterans will be very limited.
This year's list of free agents isn't top-heavy, but it's deep. Ray Allen, Michael Redd, Shareef Abdur-Rahim, Antoine Walker and Ilgauskas top the list of unrestricted veterans. Of that group, Allen and Abdur-Rahim are the most likely to bolt for new teams.
The restricted free-agent class looks much better, but remember, going after restricted free agents in the summer is always a dicey proposition. Only two top restricted free agents changed teams last summer. The Nuggets stole Kenyon Martin from the New Jersey Nets (the Nets eventually agreed to a sign-and-trade) and the Phoenix Suns pried Quentin Richardson away from the Clippers.
Here's Insider's second look at the free-agent class of 2005. Although the names on the board may leave fans breathless, there's little chance most of these guys will leave home.
Top 20 2005 Free Agents
Key: (R) = Restricted free agent | (PO) = Player Option | (TO) = Team Option
1. Michael Redd, SG, Bucks (PO)
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Redd
The skinny: On July 1, 2005, Redd might be the hottest free agent on the market. He's making just $3 million in Milwaukee this year and tried to bolt the team two summers ago when he signed a three-year offer sheet with the Dallas Mavericks. Since then, he has become one of the league's best shooters and an All-Star. He'll command a huge raise and the Bucks are prepared to pay it. There has been a lot of talk all season that Redd will bolt the Bucks for the Cavs. However, the day before the trade deadline, Redd gave strong indications to the Bucks that he will re-sign with them as long as they give him a big deal. Still, look for the Cavs to make a big push this summer. The opportunity to return to his home state and play with LeBron might trump the extra year and bigger raises the Bucks can offer.
2. Ray Allen, SG, Sonics
Allen
The skinny: Of the top-tier guys on the list, Allen has the best shot of leaving. He tried to hammer out a big extension with the Sonics all season, to no avail. The two sides essentially bickered over the last year of a five-year deal being guaranteed. Allen has threatened to bolt if the Sonics don't up their offer … but where would he go? Cleveland is a possibility. If the Cavs don't land Michael Redd, Allen would be an attractive option. Allen hasn't ruled out a return to Milwaukee either, though that doesn't appear likely. The Clippers could have interest, though it's unclear whether Allen would reciprocate. The rest of the teams with money will look for someone younger. All this means that if the Cavs don't come through, Allen's options will be limited to either signing with Seattle for less money or working out a sign-and-trade with the Sonics. Under the last two scenarios, the Sonics get something back in return.
3. Samuel Dalembert, PF/C, 76ers (R)
Dalembert
The skinny: Of all the talented big men from the class of 2001, Dalembert is the most coveted. His breakout performance in April 2004 (12.3 ppg, 12.4 rpg, 4.8 bpg) got teams drooling. This year, his performance has been all over the board, from stunning to awful. However, most NBA scouts blame coach Jim O'Brien more than Dalembert for the center's inconsistent numbers. In the playoffs, Dalembert redeemed himself to an extent, averaging an NBA high 12.8 rpg in the first round against the Pistons. Dalembert has the size, athleticism and work ethic to be a force somewhere down the road. Good centers don't come along too often. When they're on the free-agent market, teams are usually willing to overpay to get them. The Sixers told everyone as the trade deadline came and went that he's untouchable and that they plan to re-sign him this summer … but at what price? Sixers GM Billy King is a big fan, but O'Brien isn't. How much do you pay a guy the coach doesn't like? And given how far the Sixers are over the luxury tax, can they afford to pay him big money? King says yes. We'll see. The Hawks are willing to throw near-max numbers at him. The Cavs and Sonics also are interested. As are teams willing to do a sign-and-trade, such as the Dallas Mavericks and New York Knicks. Dalembert is going to get paid somewhere. … the question is whether it will be in Philly.
4. Tyson Chandler, PF/C, Bulls (R)
Chandler
The skinny: Chandler had another up-and-down season for the Bulls. He has stayed healthy, was terrific on the boards again and showed signs that he's an emerging shot blocker. But his offensive game has really stagnated. He still hasn't developed any semblance of a low-post game, getting most of his shots off offensive rebounds and a nice little 10-foot jumper. However, he was very good in the playoffs, which will surely help his stock. Bulls GM John Paxson loves Chandler. He's got a great work ethic both off and on the court that Paxson admires. But what will he pay him? Chandler's history with injuries and his limited offensive potential may keep Paxson from throwing the bank at him. That gives an opening for a team like Cleveland or Atlanta to think about throwing a max-type deal his way. In the end, however, it probably would be fruitless. Paxson has said he'll match any deal for Chandler, and I believe it. He's too important to the Bulls' future, and he has the potential to turn into a Ben Wallace-type defensive force (except Chandler is five inches taller) as long as he remains healthy.
5. Larry Hughes, G, Wizards
Hughes
The skinny: Hughes picked a great time to have a career year. He's averaged career highs in points, rebounds, assists and steals and was well on his way toward an All-Star berth before suffering a midseason injury. There's no question the Wizards want him back and will be willing to pay him. Hughes just turned 26 and seems to be in the prime of his career. The Wizards likely will have competition from the Bucks (if Redd doesn't re-sign), the Cavs and possibly the Clippers. But at the end of the day, the Wizards can offer the most money and seem inclined to do it.
6. Joe Johnson, G, Suns (R)
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Johnson
The skinny: People talk about Redd and Allen as the league's premier shooters, but what about Johnson? He ranked second in the league in 3-point percentage this season and seventh in 3-pointers made. Yes, he gets a lot of open shots considering that most defenses are preoccupied trying to contain Amare Stoudemire, Shawn Marion and Steve Nash – but Johnson has proven repeatedly that he can take over a game when needed. The Suns want him back and own his restricted rights. Suns GM Bryan Colangelo told Insider several weeks ago that the team is prepared to match any offer for him. However, Johnson hasn't sounded so sure, and for good reason. The Suns have been trying to stay out of luxury-tax land, and paying Johnson a starting salary of $7-8 million per year will put them dangerously close to the threshold. Once the Suns extend Stoudemire to a max deal, their cap position could get out of control quickly starting in summer 2006. The Cavs will strongly consider Johnson if Redd doesn't sign with them. He's also likely to get some love from the Bobcats and possibly the Clippers. The Suns are hoping that the interest is limited and that they can re-sign him to a more modest deal. If a bidding war breaks out, the Suns might not be able to keep up.
7. Stromile Swift, PF/C, Grizzlies
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Swift
The skinny: Swift took the Grizzlies' one-year tender offer last summer so he'd be an unrestricted free agent this summer. Expect him to take advantage of it. He has never quite performed up to expectations in Memphis. Still, Swift has the athleticism, shot blocking and rebounding skills many teams covet. He might never be a great offensive player or a particularly smart player, but on an up-tempo team that likes to get out and run, he could be very, very good. Look for the Hawks, Hornets, Bucks and possibly the Cavs and Sonics to show interest.
8. Eddy Curry, C, Bulls (R)
Curry
The skinny: Curry is one of this crop's biggest enigmas. He's a talented low-post scorer who still seems to be growing as a player. But questions about his work ethic on and off the court have haunted him (how can a guy his size play 20-plus minutes and grab just one rebound?). The relationship between Curry and the Bulls has waxed and waned considerably over the past three seasons. There were several points this year when it seemed like a lock that Curry would be back in a Bulls' uniform next season. Right now, that scenario is less than certain. Curry had a heart problem toward the end of the season that forced him to miss the playoffs. The Bulls are still having tests run. If there's anything even remotely serious, his value will plummet. If he gets a clean bill of health, things will be more interesting. The Bulls like Curry, but owner Jerry Reinsdorf doesn't sound ready to commit to a huge guaranteed deal for him. If Curry can persuade a team such as Atlanta or Seattle to roll the dice and offer him a big deal, will the Bulls match? GM John Paxson says yes, but it might depend on how the collective-bargaining negotiations turn out. If Curry can get only a four-year deal somewhere else, the Bulls might be willing to take the risk.
9. Shareef Abdur-Rahim, PF, Blazers
Abdur-Rahim
The skinny: Abdur-Rahim is an enigma. Every year, he puts up great stats for whatever team he's on, but he's never played on a team with a winning record. Never. The chances of his returning to Portland are slim. He knows that Zach Randolph is the Blazers' future star at the four and doesn't want to keep playing out of position on one of the NBA's most dysfunctional franchises. At 28, Abdur-Rahim still has plenty of juice left. But who's going to offer him the cash? Most of the teams with money are already set at his position or are looking for someone young. A number of veteran teams – including the Nets, Timberwolves and Heat – would love to get their hands on him, but all they can offer is a mid-level exception. The Blazers might be willing to do a sign-and-trade, but given how screwed up things in Portland are right now, who knows what the team will do?
10. Zydrunas Ilgauskas, C, Cavs
Ilgauskas
The skinny: It's pretty rare when an All-Star-caliber center appears on the unrestricted market. Ilgauskas has issues. He turns 30 in June and, despite having played relatively injury-free basketball the past few seasons, he has a history of foot injuries that would scare away any team doctor. However, his ability to score in the paint and block shots makes him a coveted commodity in a league that lacks big guys. The Cavs want to re-sign him, but for no more than a four-year deal that pays him roughly $44 million. If Ilgauskas pushes for more, the Cavs might wait him out this summer. Like Rahim, he doesn't have many potential suitors among the teams that have cap room, and the Cavs have no interest in a sign-and-trade, closing off that avenue. If Ilgauskas has to choose between taking $5 million in the mid-level exception and taking $10 million from the Cavs, what do you think he'll choose?
11. Bobby Simmons, G/F, Clippers
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Simmons
The skinny: Simmons stands to be one of the more coveted free agents on the market because he's an unrestricted free agent, plays for the Clippers and shouldn't break a bank account to get signed. Simmons has been improving throughout the season. In February, he averaged 20 ppg while shooting 50 percent from the field and 57 percent from 3. He's versatile, a great rebounder for his size and one of the league's best free-throw shooters. He's a hardworking kid who doesn't turn 25 until mid-June, so what isn't there to like about him? The Clippers want him back badly, but they are likely to get some serious competition from the Bobcats, the Hornets and possibly the Cavs.
12. Marko Jaric, PG, Clippers (R)
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Jaric
The skinny: When Jaric has been healthy, he has looked solid. The pickings are slim at the point-guard position, which should bode well for Jaric. A number of teams – including the Utah Jazz, Orlando Magic, Sacramento Kings and Blazers – are interested, but none of them has more than the mid-level to make something happen. The Cavs have more to offer and are interested, but might be unwilling to lock up their cap space for 15 days while they wait for LA to match. The Clippers are inclined to keep him anyway, as long as the bidding doesn't get out of control for both Jaric and Simmons. Los Angeles has a nice young nucleus that should continue to improve as long as the players stay healthy.
13. Kwame Brown, PF/C, Wizards (R)
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Brown
The skinny: Despite all of Kwame's problems, teams are still interested. In fact, now that the Wizards have suspended him, the interest might go up. Before, many GMs felt that Washington would match any offer for Brown. Not anymore. Despite his problems, Brown still has upside. There aren't a lot of athletic, 7-foot 23-year-olds on the market. A team such as Atlanta, desperate to turn around its fortunes, might just send a significant contract his way. Brown played high school ball in Atlanta and still has a fan base there. Given the load of cash the Hawks have to work with, they might be able to afford him, Dalembert and a point guard such as Earl Watson.
14. Vladimir Radmanovic, F, Sonics (R)
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Radmanovic
The skinny: Radmanovic was the leading contender to win the Sixth Man Award before breaking his leg and missing the last six weeks of the season. He was a critical component in the Sonics' unlikely run this year and has a lot of fans around the league. He'd like to get out of Seattle and move to a team willing to give him a starting role. Although there are a number of teams that would be interested, Radmanovic's problem is the competition at his position going into the summer. According to a number of teams that Insider talked to, Redd, Allen, Hughes, Johnson and Simmons all rank higher on the boards of teams that have money to spend. If a number of other options fall through, teams such as Cleveland, Milwaukee and possibly Atlanta are interested. However, if those teams find help somewhere else, Radmanovic might be forced to take the mid-level exception. A number of teams would be interested in giving it to him, but at that point it's likely that the Sonics would match.
15. Antoine Walker, F, Celtics
Walker
The skinny: Walker's reemergence in Boston was supposed to pay off for him this summer. However, after the Celtics tanked in the first round (and Walker was less than stellar), he seems to be right back where he was in Atlanta. Walker put up decent numbers all season, but many teams are writing them off as meaningless. His abysmal plus/minus numbers for the Hawks, among the worst in the league, haven't helped his cause. In Walker's defense, he was a spark for the Celtics, helping Paul Pierce be happy again and making GM Danny Ainge look like a genius for about a month. But the effect was short-lived. What happens this summer? No teams with cap room will show serious interest in Walker. The Celtics might be willing to re-sign him, but not for anything near the $14 million he makes this season. Cut that number to less than half, and the Celtics might start talking. Walker might have no choice but to take it or a bigger pay cut for another team's mid-level exception (the Knicks and Sixers come to mind) .
16. Antonio Daniels, PG, Sonics (PO)
Daniels
The skinny: Daniels is another contender for the Sixth Man Award and likely will try to bolt Seattle this summer. He has posted two solid seasons with the Sonics, is one of the best point-guard defenders in the league and has improved his jump shot to the point that defenders have to at least guard him. He has become increasingly comfortable as a point guard the past two seasons and should become a solid starter on a team such as the Rockets, who are looking for more size and leadership at the position.
17. Kyle Korver, SF, 76ers (R)
Korver
The skinny: Korver has turned himself into one of the NBA's sweetest long-range shooters and should get a lot of attention from teams willing to use their mid-level exceptions. The Sixers want to keep him and can match any offer up to the mid-level. However, if a team offers more, the Sixers cannot match (they own only Korver's early Larry Bird rights). That's unlikely, especially with his poor performance in the playoffs.
18. Earl Watson, PG, Grizzlies
Watson
The skinny: Watson remains one of the most underrated point guards in the league and should generate significant interest this summer. He has played backup to Jason Williams most of his career, but his player efficiency ratings make him, at the very least, Williams' equal. He's one of the best defensive point guards in the league, and he keeps turnovers to a minimum. He won't score a lot of points due to a faulty jumper, but he definitely can run a team. Teams such as the Bobcats, Bucks, Blazers, Cavs, Hawks, Jazz, Rockets and Magic all should have interest, and Watson should be available. GM Jerry West loves him, but with the Grizzlies' payroll spiraling out of control, it's likely they won't be able to re-sign Watson, who can get a deal elsewhere starting at four or five million per. Given Watson's desire to be a starter, it's unlikely that he would choose to re-up with Memphis even if the Grizzlies could afford him.
19. Sarunas Jasikevicius, PG, Maccabi Tel Aviv
The skinny: Jasikevicius is the best point guard in Europe and has led his team to three straight Euroleague Championships. The former Maryland star is an incredible passer, has deep range on his jumper and plays with lots of emotion and grit. If he were more athletic, a better defender and four or five years younger (he's 29 now) he'd be near the top of the list. But as it stands, he'd be a great mid-level pick-up for a team trying to compete for a championship.
20. Donyell Marshall, F, Raptors
Marshall
The skinny: Marshall became one of the most coveted guys on the trading block last fall and will likely get a lot of interest (for the mid-level exception) from the same teams that pursued him then: the Bulls, Rockets, Heat and Sixers. [font=Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Best of the rest[/font]
Player/Team Option: Shaquille O'Neal, C, Heat (PO); Damon Jones, PG, Heat (PO); Darius Songaila, F, Kings (PO);Keith Van Horn, F, Mavericks (PO); Cuttino Mobley, SG, Kings (PO); Jalen Rose, SG, Raptors (PO); Grant Hill, SF, Magic (PO); Jamal Mashburn, SF, Hornets (PO); Bonzi Wells, SG, Grizzlies (TO); Eddie Jones, SG, Heat (PO); Nick Van Exel, PG, Blazers (TO); Bobby Jackson, PG, Kings (TO); Devean George, SF, Los Angeles Lakers (PO); Predrag Drobnjak, C, Hawks (TO); Austin Croshere, F, Pacers (PO); Clifford Robinson, F, Nets (TO)
Note: It's very unlikely most of the players on the above list will exercise their player options – that's why they weren't listed on the Top-20 list. The only exceptions could be Mobley, Damon Jones and Songaila, who might opt out in an attempt to get more money elsewhere.
Unrestricted: Damon Stoudamire, PG, Blazers; Gary Payton, PG, Celtics; Jerome James, C, Sonics; Latrell Sprewell, SG, Timberwolves; Jeff McInnis, PG, Cavs; Dan Dickau, PG, Hornets; Dale Davis, C, Warriors; Kerry Kittles, SG, Clippers; Glenn Robinson, SF, Spurs; Jahidi White, C, Bobcats; Bo Outlaw, F, Grizzlies; Ervin Johnson, C, Timberwolves; Raja Bell, G/F, Jazz; Mark Madsen, F, Timberwolves; Tyronn Lue, PG, Rockets; Darrell Armstrong, PG, Mavericks.
Restricted: Udonis Haslem, F, Heat; Gerald Wallace, G/F, Bobcats; Dan Gadzuric, C, Bucks; Zaza Pachulia, C, Bucks; Reggie Evans, F, Sonics; Ronald Murray, G, Sonics; Luke Walton, F, Lakers; Jason Kapono, F, Bobcats; Willie Green, G, Sixers; Matt Bonner, F, Raptors
European Free Agents: Maceo Baston, PF, Maccabi Tel Aviv; Arvydas Macijauskas, SG, TAU Vitoria; Anthony Parker, SG/SF, Maccabi Tel Aviv; Travis Hansen, SG/SF, TAU Vitoria; Nikola Vujcic, C, Maccabi Tel Aviv; Jose Manuel Calderon, PG, Tau Vitoria; Dimitris Diamantidis, PG, Panathinaikos; Demos Dikoudis, SF, CSKA Moscow
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