The 2023 NBA free agency is steaming up, and everyone seems to have their eyes on the players who might switch teams. One of the most talked-about free agents is James Harden. Clocking in at 34 years old, Harden still has enough juice left in the tank, leading the league in assists last season with an average of 10.7 per game. Many teams could use his offensive prowess, but can he keep up with the demanding playoff schedule? That’s a $47.4 million question, the price of his player option, and another year older for one of the top playmakers of the era.
Then there’s Kyrie Irving, the ultimate wild card. He’s like a high-risk, high-reward stock in the free agency market. In just 20 games last season with the Dallas Mavericks, he averaged 27 points and 6 assists. Kyrie brings immediate scoring and playmaking to any team, but his off-court controversies are a part of the package deal. Can he deliver consistency and peace of mind? That's something GMs are weighing every season, with a free-agent market value pegged around $36 million annually.
Another enticing prospect is Fred VanVleet. At the age of 29, VanVleet is in the midst of his prime. He has already shown flashes of brilliance, scoring a career-high 54 points in a game in 2021 and averaging 19.2 points per game last season. Given his productivity, he’s likely to command a multi-year contract, probably north of $80 million over four years. His defensive skills and leadership qualities make him a valuable asset to any contending team aiming for a deep playoff run.
We also have Khris Middleton, an all-star who had a down year due to injuries but still managed to average 15.1 points in limited minutes. When healthy, Middleton is a two-way player who can shoot 40% from the three-point line. If he opts out of his $40.4 million player option with the Milwaukee Bucks, he could be one of the most coveted free agents, potentially drawing numerous suitors offering contracts in the $30 million per year range.
NBA fans should also keep a close eye on the Boston Celtics' Grant Williams. At just 24 years old, Williams is epitomizing a modern-day versatile defender. Standing at 6’6” with a 6’9” wingspan, he can guard multiple positions and shot 39.5% from three-point range last season. With a Qualifying Offer of $8.3 million on the table, teams could be looking at a unique blend of youth, defense, and shooting should he become available.
And let’s not overlook the veteran, Draymond Green. With four NBA championships under his belt, Green brings experience, grit, and playmaking ability although his points per game have never been standout numbers (6.9 last season). What he lacks in scoring, he makes up for in basketball IQ and defensive intensity. If he declines his $27.6 million player option, he’ll become an unrestricted free agent, and any team looking for championship pedigree would find his resume appealing.
Lastly, Brook Lopez, a 35-year-old center who has expanded his range to become a reliable three-point shooter, knocking down 37.4% from beyond the arc last season. He’s a critical rim protector, averaging 2.5 blocks per game and providing veteran leadership. With an Expiring Contract of $13.9 million, Lopez is likely to draw a few multi-year offers that will keep him in the league for a few more seasons, a testament to his evolving game.
These individual player profiles highlight the varied temptations and risks in the 2023 NBA free agency. Just as the stock market fluctuates with high-stakes decisions, so does the landscape of the NBA. General managers need to be both cautious and aggressive as they navigate through these uncertain waters. Each player presents a unique package of skills, experience, and financial implications. To stay updated on player moves and free agency insights, check out arena plus.