The NBA offseason has slowed down. Way down.
That doesn’t mean the action is over, there are still a few things worth keeping an eye on. There are still four restricted free agents — Jonathan Kuminga (still seeking a sign-and-trade that nets him around $30 million per season), Josh Giddey, Cam Thomas, and Quentin Grimes. Additionally, a handful of veterans can receive contract extensions, including Luka Doncic (who is expected to re-sign with the Lakers, with minimal drama), Kevin Durant, Trae Young, and De’Aaron Fox.
And, there are still some open roster spots to fill. Here are the 10 best free agents still available, although at this point expect each of them to sign for the veteran minimum or some small exception a team still has available
Note: Not on this list is Malik Beasley, who is an unrestricted free agent but no team will go near him in light of the ongoing gambling investigation hanging over him.
1) Al Horford
There’s not much drama here as Horford is expected to sign with the Warriors. The only reason he is still available may be the ongoing Kuminga restricted free agency, which has the Warriors holding off on other moves until that is finished.
Horford is the kind of high-IQ two-way player that should thrive with the Warriors and Steve Kerr’s system. He can score inside, knock down corner 3-pointers, and is still a quality defender at age 37. Because of that age his minutes have to be monitored during the season, but that’s a small price for the quality minutes he gives when on the court (and he can be trusted to play in the postseason).
2) Russell Westbrook
So far, no teams have signed up for the Russell Westbrook roller coaster for next season. Last season, he averaged 13.3 points and 6.1 assists per game for the Nuggets, and had good chemistry with Nikola Jokić. However, those solid numbers belie the ups and downs of the season. When he is on his game, his energy is infectious and he still comes up with dynamic, athletic plays that can be game-changing. Unfortunately, those can be followed by head-scratchingly bad decisions that could…
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