Post by GP on Nov 30, 2007 5:10:02 GMT -5
In this first of three editions of the BBS free agent rundown, we'll take a look at the most favorable position in FBB, the guards. The highlight will be the top guards on the market while the spotlight of some guys under the radar. Let's start with the position that is arguably the most stacked position in the FA pool, the shooting guards:
Best Available 2-Guards:[/i]
1- Kobe Bryant, 33-- Last team: NY Knicks
At 33, Bryant is still putting up MVP type numbers and leading his teams to championship after championship. Bryant concluded another strong season this year with a Finals appearance with the Knicks as well as making another All-Star game as well as 1st team defensive and league honors. And with two rings in possession, there is no reason why he should leave a good situation like there is in the Big Apple.
Salary Demand: Max Dollars
Potential Suitors: NY Knicks, Cleveland, Phoenix
Most Likely Going To: NY Knicks. Because they have the most money they can possibly offer with their bird rights and want to retain one of the league's most coveted players.
2- Dwayne Wade, 30-- Last team: Sonics
Like Bryant, Wade is stil savoring another Finals appearance but also taking in his second ring as well. Wade enjoyed another phenomenal season making another All-Star game and getting 1st team All-League Honors. But with the sale of many tools from last season's championship team, will Wade be back in a Sonics uniform this season?
Salary Demand: Max Dollars
Potential Suitors: Seattle, Cleveland, Phoenix, Chicago
Most Likely Going To: Seattle. But don't be too sure Pig has him just yet. The Cavs and Suns are both rebuilding teams looking for a franchise type guy to reestablish their teams. Also don't count out Chicago as Wade is a hometown guy and would be a nice complement to youngster Billy Walker.
3- Baron Davis, 32-- Last Team: Pistons
Davis still remains of BBS most dynamic threats and scorers despite his age. In any other free agent class, Davis may be at the top but is bumped down to No. 3 in this case. He also seems to be a lock to return with the Pistons since he has a great running mate in Chris Paul and a strong supporting cast.
Salary Demand: Max Dollars
Potential Suitors: Detroit, Orlando, Phoenix, Cleveland, Chicago
Most Likely Going To: Detroit. I don't see any scenario that Davis does not return to the Motor City. GM Aaron Reilley usually never loses top free agents and this year should not be an exception with Davis. However teams that should ante up for Davis are former team the Magic, with a hole at shooting guard, as well as other teams mentioned before, like the Suns, Cavs and Bulls.
4- Tracy McGrady, 32-- Last Team: Spurs
Although not much of a great scorer anymore, McGrady is still a balanced scorer and lockdown defender. At 32, the former HS star should still get max money is a competitive FA class but surely does not meet the likes of Wade, Bryant and Davis. The Spurs seem to need him back the most and should net him as long as he is not lowballed an offer.
Salary Demand: Max Dollars or close to
Potential Suitors: San Antonio, Cleveland, Phoenix, Washington
Most Likely Going To: San Antonio. I don't see why Vernon would not give max dollars or close to retain McGrady. If for some reason he does not, again Cleveland, Phoenix and Washington could be in the mix for T-Mac.
5- Marquis Daniels, 29-- Last Team: Raptors
One of the league's most underrated players is also one its most underrated No. 2 scorers. Last season, Daniels played fourth fiddle to the likes of Greg Oden, OJ Mayo and Kevin Durant. This year, Daniels should cash in somewhere with another team since the Raptors have not expressed much interest in resigning former Auburn standout.
Salary Demand: 9-12M range
Potential Suitors: Washington, Orlando, Phoenix, Toronto
Most Likely Going To: Washington. GM Jah is a huge fan of Daniels. (Just look at the three seasons spent with him from 2007-2009). With renewed cap room, the Wiz should be able to nab him from the Raptors at a good price. Should DJ decide to pony up the money, Daniels could return since Richard Jefferson seems to be a goner this year. Also in the mix are Haberman in Orlando who still may be looking for an effective 2-guard and the Suns with their new management.
Bargain Bin:[/i]
1- Shannon Brown, 26--Last Team: Cleveland
Brown is the second Michigan State surprise in the BBS, (See: Marcus Taylor) in case you didn't know. The fifth year pro had his best season as a full-time starter last season with the Cavs averaging a shade over 20 points a game while shooting over 44 percent from the field.
Salary Demand: 7-9M range
Potential Suitors: Cleveland, Phoenix, Orlando, Houston, Washington
Most Likely Going To: Cleveland. New GM Aar cannot afford not to keep Brown as his team in shambles as it is. If Brown does choose to explore other teams, and he may because of his low loyalty, look for the Magic, Suns and possibly the Rockets to be all in the conversation.
2- Deshawn Stevenson, 30-- Last Team: 76ers
In his 10th season, Stevenson like Brown had his best season in BBS last year with Philly. The former HS star has also become a very good defensive player as the past season he has averaged nearly 2 steals a game. GM Andy seems to want Stevenson back but may have to move either him or Green to SF if he returned.
Salary Demand: 6-9M range
Potential Suitors: Philadelphia, Orlando, Washington, Houston
Most Likely Going To: Orlando. GM Aaron Haberman had Stevenson a season before and seems to be pleased with his swingman's play. The Sixers also may not want to invest much money into Stevenson since they are 22 mil over the cap as of now. Also the Wizards and Rockets could turn in offers for 6'6 guard as well.
3- Michael Redd, 30-- Last Team: Jazz
Perhaps should be one of the best available shooting guards, but has never really upped his scoring average past 21 points per game. In any case, Redd should still be a nice number 2 or 3 option for a team out there. GM Mark seems to want Redd back but like Philly may have to shift Martell Webster to the 3 to play both.
Salary Range: 6-8M range
Potential Suitors: Utah, Phoenix, Cleveland, Chicago
Most Likely Going To: Phoenix. In a shocker, I don't think Redd will be back in a Jazz uniform this year. Not because I don't think the money will be there but I think Redd will explore somewhere like Phoenix or Chicago.
Best Available 1-Guards:[/i]
1- Tony Parker, 28-- Last Team: NY Knicks
Parker checks in here as the second big Knicks free agent. He is also by far the best point guard available in free agent crop. And at only 28, Parker will demand max money to even think of heading to another team. It seems pretty clear that GM Outlawz wants Parker back and should get his wish.
Salary Range: Max Dollars
Potential Suitors: NY Knicks, Cleveland, Phoenix, Chicago, Washington, Orlando, Houston, Golden State etc
Most Likely Going To: NY Knicks. There will be alot of teams bidding on Parker but he should return to New York like Bryant. But if Bryant does sign will that deter Parker? If it does, look for teams like Cleveland, Washington and Chicago to scoop him up quick.
2- TJ Ford, 27-- Last Team: Washington
After another solid season last year, Ford seems to be due for another pay raise. Who will give it to him will be the question. The Wizards obviously want the former Longhorns' star back but could they be outmuscled by other teams?
Salary Range: Near Max dollars or close to
Potential Suitors: Washington, Cleveland, Phoenix
Most Likely Going To: Washington. Ford has spent the past five seasons with the Wiz' and I'm sure all he's looking for is his pay day. However if he does not like the offer, the Cavs and Suns would love to make Ford their new point guard.
3- Jose Calderon, 29-- Last Team: Dallas
After a downer year last season, Calderon is looking for a fresh start this season. Will that be with the Mavs, who he had tough time getting minutes with? Calderon seems to be able to be an effective point guard getting over 9 assists a game year before and still has the ratings to get paid.
Salary Range: 7-9M, possibly higher
Potential Suitors: Dallas, Cleveland, Phoenix, Washington
Most Likely Going To: Cleveland. They are in dire need of a point guard and should overpay if Ford and Parker resign. Calderon should be a nice fit if they choose to play an up-tempo offense.
4- Mike Conley, 22-- Last Team: Chicago
The most intriguing and best potential of most players listed here is Conley. The former Ohio State guard tested the free agent waters despite his supposed high loyalty to the Bulls. The question remains how much will GM Dave ante up for Conley espicially with Julian Wright at point guard as well?
Salary Range: 9-12M, possibly more
Potential Suitors: Chicago, Cleveland, Washington, Golden State
Most Likely Going To: Chicago. I won't take a gamble on this one. Conley should be back in the Windy City, simply because I believe the most money will be there. Cleveland and Washington are also possibilties but are distanced by Chicago by alot.
5- Mike Bibby, 33-- Last Team: Celtics
In his 12th season, Bibby is the elder statesman of the best point guards available. Last year, Bibby had his worse season statiscally for the C's but still is an effective point guard in the league. Yet Bibby will in all likelihood be saying bye to Beantown this year with two younger and more efficient guards on the roster in Delonte West and Kirk Hinrich on the roster.
Salary Range: 6-8M
Potential Suitors: Washington, Golden State, Portland, Seattle
Most Likely Going To: Washington. The Wizards should have money left over from the players they invest in, and should they have enough, Bibby may be a nice fit for them. Jah has shown a likeness for veteran players in the past, and Bibby also fits that ideal. The Warriors may also show some interest in addition to west playoff teams like the Blazers and Sonics.
Bargain Bin:[/i]
1- Acie Law, 25-- Last Team: Hawks
Law was a shadow in one of the league's best and most surprising teams last season, the Atlanta Hawks. Now as a free agent, Law may be looking for a change in scenery. With Luke Walton the full-time starter, the Hawks may not have enough cash to entice Law to return.
Salary Range: 8-10M
Potential Suitors: Chicago, Atlanta, Phoenix, Cleveland, Golden State, Seattle, Portland
Most Likely Going To: Golden State. GM James will need a nice back-up for Rubio this season and Law may be his guy. The Warriors also have the money to spend on Law. Other teams might play in the mix for Law as well since he maybe the youngest point guard in the crop aside from Conley.
2- Chauncey Billups, 34-- Last Team: Minnesota
Possibly one of the most effective players in BBS history, Billups has made a living on shooting big shots in the league. Last season, Billups shot a 46% clip from the field and 40% from 3-PT land, which are lows from his career percentaes. Don't get it wrong though, Billups is still a strong shooter, ball handler and leader and should be paid by someone.
Salary Demand: 7-9M
Potential Suitors: Minnesota, Washington, Orlando, Golden State, Portland, Seattle, MLE Team
Most Likely Going To: Minnesota. There's no reason why KG would not want Billups back. Even if he does not start, Billups can be a super-sub at the 1 and 2 spots for the T-Wolves. Also look for the Wiz, Magic and Warriors to throw offers at the Colorado star.
3- Theo Papaloukas, 33-- Last Team: Chicago
This Greece star may be on his way of his Chicago. After seeing little playing time after being dealt from Boston following five seasons as the starter, Papaloukas is looking for a team to possibly start for again. He certainly has the potential to as well as he averaged nearly 9 assists per game a season ago.
Salary Demand: 6-8M
Potential Suitors: Washington, Chicago, Golden State, Seattle, Portland, MLE Team
Most Likely Going To: MLE Team. Although these teams may be in the race, they don't seem to have Paploukas on top of their to do list. Chicago is also experiencing a youth movement so should not be the logical choice while Golden State, Seattle, and Portland may look at other choices.
Best Available 2-Guards:[/i]
1- Kobe Bryant, 33-- Last team: NY Knicks
At 33, Bryant is still putting up MVP type numbers and leading his teams to championship after championship. Bryant concluded another strong season this year with a Finals appearance with the Knicks as well as making another All-Star game as well as 1st team defensive and league honors. And with two rings in possession, there is no reason why he should leave a good situation like there is in the Big Apple.
Salary Demand: Max Dollars
Potential Suitors: NY Knicks, Cleveland, Phoenix
Most Likely Going To: NY Knicks. Because they have the most money they can possibly offer with their bird rights and want to retain one of the league's most coveted players.
2- Dwayne Wade, 30-- Last team: Sonics
Like Bryant, Wade is stil savoring another Finals appearance but also taking in his second ring as well. Wade enjoyed another phenomenal season making another All-Star game and getting 1st team All-League Honors. But with the sale of many tools from last season's championship team, will Wade be back in a Sonics uniform this season?
Salary Demand: Max Dollars
Potential Suitors: Seattle, Cleveland, Phoenix, Chicago
Most Likely Going To: Seattle. But don't be too sure Pig has him just yet. The Cavs and Suns are both rebuilding teams looking for a franchise type guy to reestablish their teams. Also don't count out Chicago as Wade is a hometown guy and would be a nice complement to youngster Billy Walker.
3- Baron Davis, 32-- Last Team: Pistons
Davis still remains of BBS most dynamic threats and scorers despite his age. In any other free agent class, Davis may be at the top but is bumped down to No. 3 in this case. He also seems to be a lock to return with the Pistons since he has a great running mate in Chris Paul and a strong supporting cast.
Salary Demand: Max Dollars
Potential Suitors: Detroit, Orlando, Phoenix, Cleveland, Chicago
Most Likely Going To: Detroit. I don't see any scenario that Davis does not return to the Motor City. GM Aaron Reilley usually never loses top free agents and this year should not be an exception with Davis. However teams that should ante up for Davis are former team the Magic, with a hole at shooting guard, as well as other teams mentioned before, like the Suns, Cavs and Bulls.
4- Tracy McGrady, 32-- Last Team: Spurs
Although not much of a great scorer anymore, McGrady is still a balanced scorer and lockdown defender. At 32, the former HS star should still get max money is a competitive FA class but surely does not meet the likes of Wade, Bryant and Davis. The Spurs seem to need him back the most and should net him as long as he is not lowballed an offer.
Salary Demand: Max Dollars or close to
Potential Suitors: San Antonio, Cleveland, Phoenix, Washington
Most Likely Going To: San Antonio. I don't see why Vernon would not give max dollars or close to retain McGrady. If for some reason he does not, again Cleveland, Phoenix and Washington could be in the mix for T-Mac.
5- Marquis Daniels, 29-- Last Team: Raptors
One of the league's most underrated players is also one its most underrated No. 2 scorers. Last season, Daniels played fourth fiddle to the likes of Greg Oden, OJ Mayo and Kevin Durant. This year, Daniels should cash in somewhere with another team since the Raptors have not expressed much interest in resigning former Auburn standout.
Salary Demand: 9-12M range
Potential Suitors: Washington, Orlando, Phoenix, Toronto
Most Likely Going To: Washington. GM Jah is a huge fan of Daniels. (Just look at the three seasons spent with him from 2007-2009). With renewed cap room, the Wiz should be able to nab him from the Raptors at a good price. Should DJ decide to pony up the money, Daniels could return since Richard Jefferson seems to be a goner this year. Also in the mix are Haberman in Orlando who still may be looking for an effective 2-guard and the Suns with their new management.
Bargain Bin:[/i]
1- Shannon Brown, 26--Last Team: Cleveland
Brown is the second Michigan State surprise in the BBS, (See: Marcus Taylor) in case you didn't know. The fifth year pro had his best season as a full-time starter last season with the Cavs averaging a shade over 20 points a game while shooting over 44 percent from the field.
Salary Demand: 7-9M range
Potential Suitors: Cleveland, Phoenix, Orlando, Houston, Washington
Most Likely Going To: Cleveland. New GM Aar cannot afford not to keep Brown as his team in shambles as it is. If Brown does choose to explore other teams, and he may because of his low loyalty, look for the Magic, Suns and possibly the Rockets to be all in the conversation.
2- Deshawn Stevenson, 30-- Last Team: 76ers
In his 10th season, Stevenson like Brown had his best season in BBS last year with Philly. The former HS star has also become a very good defensive player as the past season he has averaged nearly 2 steals a game. GM Andy seems to want Stevenson back but may have to move either him or Green to SF if he returned.
Salary Demand: 6-9M range
Potential Suitors: Philadelphia, Orlando, Washington, Houston
Most Likely Going To: Orlando. GM Aaron Haberman had Stevenson a season before and seems to be pleased with his swingman's play. The Sixers also may not want to invest much money into Stevenson since they are 22 mil over the cap as of now. Also the Wizards and Rockets could turn in offers for 6'6 guard as well.
3- Michael Redd, 30-- Last Team: Jazz
Perhaps should be one of the best available shooting guards, but has never really upped his scoring average past 21 points per game. In any case, Redd should still be a nice number 2 or 3 option for a team out there. GM Mark seems to want Redd back but like Philly may have to shift Martell Webster to the 3 to play both.
Salary Range: 6-8M range
Potential Suitors: Utah, Phoenix, Cleveland, Chicago
Most Likely Going To: Phoenix. In a shocker, I don't think Redd will be back in a Jazz uniform this year. Not because I don't think the money will be there but I think Redd will explore somewhere like Phoenix or Chicago.
Best Available 1-Guards:[/i]
1- Tony Parker, 28-- Last Team: NY Knicks
Parker checks in here as the second big Knicks free agent. He is also by far the best point guard available in free agent crop. And at only 28, Parker will demand max money to even think of heading to another team. It seems pretty clear that GM Outlawz wants Parker back and should get his wish.
Salary Range: Max Dollars
Potential Suitors: NY Knicks, Cleveland, Phoenix, Chicago, Washington, Orlando, Houston, Golden State etc
Most Likely Going To: NY Knicks. There will be alot of teams bidding on Parker but he should return to New York like Bryant. But if Bryant does sign will that deter Parker? If it does, look for teams like Cleveland, Washington and Chicago to scoop him up quick.
2- TJ Ford, 27-- Last Team: Washington
After another solid season last year, Ford seems to be due for another pay raise. Who will give it to him will be the question. The Wizards obviously want the former Longhorns' star back but could they be outmuscled by other teams?
Salary Range: Near Max dollars or close to
Potential Suitors: Washington, Cleveland, Phoenix
Most Likely Going To: Washington. Ford has spent the past five seasons with the Wiz' and I'm sure all he's looking for is his pay day. However if he does not like the offer, the Cavs and Suns would love to make Ford their new point guard.
3- Jose Calderon, 29-- Last Team: Dallas
After a downer year last season, Calderon is looking for a fresh start this season. Will that be with the Mavs, who he had tough time getting minutes with? Calderon seems to be able to be an effective point guard getting over 9 assists a game year before and still has the ratings to get paid.
Salary Range: 7-9M, possibly higher
Potential Suitors: Dallas, Cleveland, Phoenix, Washington
Most Likely Going To: Cleveland. They are in dire need of a point guard and should overpay if Ford and Parker resign. Calderon should be a nice fit if they choose to play an up-tempo offense.
4- Mike Conley, 22-- Last Team: Chicago
The most intriguing and best potential of most players listed here is Conley. The former Ohio State guard tested the free agent waters despite his supposed high loyalty to the Bulls. The question remains how much will GM Dave ante up for Conley espicially with Julian Wright at point guard as well?
Salary Range: 9-12M, possibly more
Potential Suitors: Chicago, Cleveland, Washington, Golden State
Most Likely Going To: Chicago. I won't take a gamble on this one. Conley should be back in the Windy City, simply because I believe the most money will be there. Cleveland and Washington are also possibilties but are distanced by Chicago by alot.
5- Mike Bibby, 33-- Last Team: Celtics
In his 12th season, Bibby is the elder statesman of the best point guards available. Last year, Bibby had his worse season statiscally for the C's but still is an effective point guard in the league. Yet Bibby will in all likelihood be saying bye to Beantown this year with two younger and more efficient guards on the roster in Delonte West and Kirk Hinrich on the roster.
Salary Range: 6-8M
Potential Suitors: Washington, Golden State, Portland, Seattle
Most Likely Going To: Washington. The Wizards should have money left over from the players they invest in, and should they have enough, Bibby may be a nice fit for them. Jah has shown a likeness for veteran players in the past, and Bibby also fits that ideal. The Warriors may also show some interest in addition to west playoff teams like the Blazers and Sonics.
Bargain Bin:[/i]
1- Acie Law, 25-- Last Team: Hawks
Law was a shadow in one of the league's best and most surprising teams last season, the Atlanta Hawks. Now as a free agent, Law may be looking for a change in scenery. With Luke Walton the full-time starter, the Hawks may not have enough cash to entice Law to return.
Salary Range: 8-10M
Potential Suitors: Chicago, Atlanta, Phoenix, Cleveland, Golden State, Seattle, Portland
Most Likely Going To: Golden State. GM James will need a nice back-up for Rubio this season and Law may be his guy. The Warriors also have the money to spend on Law. Other teams might play in the mix for Law as well since he maybe the youngest point guard in the crop aside from Conley.
2- Chauncey Billups, 34-- Last Team: Minnesota
Possibly one of the most effective players in BBS history, Billups has made a living on shooting big shots in the league. Last season, Billups shot a 46% clip from the field and 40% from 3-PT land, which are lows from his career percentaes. Don't get it wrong though, Billups is still a strong shooter, ball handler and leader and should be paid by someone.
Salary Demand: 7-9M
Potential Suitors: Minnesota, Washington, Orlando, Golden State, Portland, Seattle, MLE Team
Most Likely Going To: Minnesota. There's no reason why KG would not want Billups back. Even if he does not start, Billups can be a super-sub at the 1 and 2 spots for the T-Wolves. Also look for the Wiz, Magic and Warriors to throw offers at the Colorado star.
3- Theo Papaloukas, 33-- Last Team: Chicago
This Greece star may be on his way of his Chicago. After seeing little playing time after being dealt from Boston following five seasons as the starter, Papaloukas is looking for a team to possibly start for again. He certainly has the potential to as well as he averaged nearly 9 assists per game a season ago.
Salary Demand: 6-8M
Potential Suitors: Washington, Chicago, Golden State, Seattle, Portland, MLE Team
Most Likely Going To: MLE Team. Although these teams may be in the race, they don't seem to have Paploukas on top of their to do list. Chicago is also experiencing a youth movement so should not be the logical choice while Golden State, Seattle, and Portland may look at other choices.