Ranking top 10 NBA free agents: Who can Warriors land?
The Warriors got good and bad news Wednesday night and likely will have to enter free agency in an entirely different situation than they planned.Hours before drafting James Wiseman with the No. 2 overall pick, the Warriors learned that Klay Thompson sustained a lower right leg injury that turned out to be a torn right Achilles.The Warriors got their center of the future, but now must find a way to replace Thompson's production no that he's expected to miss a second consecutive season.While the $17.2 million trade exception is the Warriors' biggest chip, they also have the midlevel exception which could net them a quality veteran looking to chase a ring as their career winds down.There aren't as many big names in free agency as last season. No Kawhi Leonard hitting the open market. Anthony Davis is a free agent in name only. We know where he will be playing next season.But there are still several quality players entering free agency who could help the Warriors jump back into title contention next season.Here's a brief look at the top 10 (plus one) unrestricted free agents set to hit the market, and whether or not they could be coming to the Bay.
Harrell was exposed during the bubble playoffs. He was rendered ineffective against Nikola Jokic in the Clippers' Western Conference semifinals loss, and he was bullied during the regular season by Anthony Davis. It feels like a non-contender will work out a sign-and-trade that gets Harrell the big check he wants away from LA.
As for the 35-year-old Gasol, there have been rumors about him returning to play in Spain. But I think there will be a robust market for him. His playoff experience is invaluable. He's a good passer and can knock down triples. Whoever misses out on Ibaka will probably come Gasol's way. Gasol doesn't fit what the Warriors need after Thompson's injury, but it's good to keep him on the radar just in case.
Last year, Bertans became one of the best and most prolific shooters.
Shooting is a skill that gets paid and the 6-foot-10 forward will undoubtedly be in high demand. The Wizards would love to keep him around, but will they pay?
Even if he gets away from Washington, he's out of the Warriors' range. It's fun to think about, though.
Here's another veteran who will be in high demand this offseason.
The 34-year-old Millsap is coming off a season in which he posted career highs from 3-point range and the free-throw line. He still is a steady presence on the glass and a good defender.
The Portland Trail Blazers are expected to be among the contenders vying for his services. Before drafting Wiseman, Millsap felt like a guy who would be atop the Warriors' wish list.
But now, circumstances have changed.
Grant surprised a lot of people when he declined his $9.3 million player option to become an unrestricted free agent.
That means he's about to cash in.
The 26-year-old played a big role in the Nuggets getting to the Western Conference finals, with his defensive ability and versatility paying huge dividends.
Grant obviously believes there's a big payday out there. But if that never materializes, he could bet on himself and try to further boost his value in Golden State.
It's unlikely, but in an uncertain market, anything is possible.
A stellar playoff run reminded everyone of what Dragic brings to the table. He's a good passer who can score on all three levels and has a penchant to deliver in the big moments. He's also a selfless teammate.
Dragic would be the ideal bench guard for a Warriors team that still is in need of a secondary ball-handler who can both play alongside Steph Curry and initiate the offense when he sits.
Dragic will test the market but ultimately is expected to re-sign with Miami.
Ibaka will be one of the most sought-after free agents on the market as contenders look to add a versatile big who can reliably knock down 3-pointers, vacuum up rebounds and play solid defense.
The Warriors reportedly are interested in four free agent big men, but after drafting Wiseman it's hard to see the Warriors using their full exception on a guy like Ibaka when their now is a clear need at shooting guard.
After shooting an NBA-best 47.4 percent from 3-point range during the 2018-19 season, Harris followed that up by hitting on 42.4 percent of his attempts from long range this past season.
Harris undoubtedly would look good flanking Steph Curry in Klay Thompson's absence, but he's about to get paid handsomely to stay in Brooklyn.
Even if he does leave the Nets, Harris won't be heading to the Bay.
Gallinari played well in his one season in Oklahoma City, averaging 18.7 points and 5.2 rebounds per game while shooting 40.5 percent from 3-point range.
The 32-year-old forward has really come into his own over the last two years and should be able to secure one more lucrative multi-year contract. He has said he plans to prioritize winning, but there are a number of contenders who can supply better offers than the Warriors.
After Thompson's injury, the Warriors could use Gallinari's scoring punch and should try to sway him to take a pay cut to try and win a title alongside Steph Curry, Draymond Green and Andrew Wiggins.
VanVleet has had an impressive rise from Wichita State to Toronto Raptors playoff hero.
The 26-year-old guard is tough, durable and shoots at almost a 40 percent clip from 3-point range. Add all that to his ability to perform under the brightest lights and it's clear VanVleet is about to get P-A-I-D, and the Warriors don't have the cap space to make a competitive bid.
Anthony Davis declined his player option to become a free agent. All that does is allow him to sign the long-term contract of his choosing to remain with the Lakers. He didn't force his way to LA just to leave after one year.
He'll be wearing Purple and Gold. Don't think twice about this one.
