Kori Ellis
07-18-2005, 03:48 PM
Big men now dominate free agency
By Chad Ford
ESPN Insider
Three weeks into the free agent negotiation period and the field (especially at the shooting guard position) has narrowed greatly.
As of Monday, 18 free agents had agreed to terms with teams.
Ray Allen, Sonics (5 years, $80 million)
Michael Redd, Bucks (6 years, $85-90 million)
Larry Hughes, Cavs (5 years, $65-70 million)
Zydrunas Ilgauskas, Cavs (5 years, $55-60 million)
Bobby Simmons, Bucks (5 years, $47 million)
Cuttino Mobley, Clippers (5 years, $42 million)
Udonis Haslem, Heat (5 years, $32-34 million)
Dan Gadzuric, Bucks (6 years, $36 million)
Jerome James, Knicks (5 years, $28-29 million)
Kwame Brown, Lakers (3 years, $22-24 million)
Raja Bell, Suns (5 years, $20-25 million)
Brian Scalabrine, Celtics (5 years, $15 million)
Fabricio Oberto, Spurs (3 years, $7.5-9 million)
Arvydas Macijauskas, Hornets (3 years, salary undisclosed)
Robert Horry, Spurs (terms undisclosed)
Luke Walton, Lakers (terms undisclosed
Chris Andersen, Hornets (terms undisclosed)
Bostjan Nachbar, Hornets (terms undisclosed)
Several teams still have significant cap room to spend this summer. With a projected $49.5 million cap, the Hawks ($23.5 million), Bobcats ($18 million), Hornets ($11 million), Clippers ($10 million), Sonics ($10 million), and Cavs ($6 million) are all under the cap. With five days left until the player movement moratorium is lifted, here's Insider's updated look at the free-agent class of 2005.
Top 25 2005 Free Agents
Key: R = Restricted free agent | PO = Player Option | TO = Team Option
1. Joe Johnson, G, Suns (R)
The skinny: The talk all week has been that Johnson is set to sign a max, five-year offer with the Hawks once the moratorium ends. There is equally loud talk that the Suns, who own his restricted free agency rights, will step up to the plate and match the offer, meaning Johnson will be back in a Suns uniform next season, albeit at a cost that far exceeds what the Suns wanted to pay for him. It doesn't hurt the Hawks to try anyway. Signing Johnson would put yet a fourth max player on the Suns' payroll, something the cost-conscious Robert Sarver doesn't want to do.
2. Samuel Dalembert, PF/C, 76ers (R)
The skinny: Print reports that Dalembert and the Sixers have agreed to a six-year deal in excess of $70 million are untrue. The Sixers have been meeting with Dalembert's agent but have been unable to strike a deal. Philly apparently has drawn a line in the sand millions away from a max-type offer. Dalembert, who's had a rocky four years, with four different coaches in just the last two years, isn't impressed. The Hawks and Sonics are both big fans of Dalembert and have the money to offer big dollars. Other teams, like the Knicks, are willing to do sign-and-trades.
3. Tyson Chandler, PF/C, Bulls (R)
The skinny: Chandler is younger than Dalembert and has produced at about the same rate or better, especially when he's been healthy. He's a better rebounder than Dalembert and a superior overall defender. The fact that he's a legit 7-foot-2 and has a tremendous work ethic also helps his cause. But questions about his back and his lack of an offensive game have raised questions about his value in free agency. It's also widely believed that the Bulls will match any offer for him. He's a favorite of Chicago GM John Paxson and the Bulls know they can't afford to lose both Chandler and Eddy Curry this summer. If Paxson has to choose, Chandler is the guy. The problem for Chandler is getting a team such as Atlanta or Seattle to make a move for him. While those teams have shown polite interest, neither has been willing to offer the big deal it would take for Chicago to think twice. Meanwhile, Chandler continues to wait for the Bulls to make a big offer. He is hoping Dalembert will cut a lucrative deal, setting the market. As it stands right now, both remain in limbo. If the Bulls' offer does not rise significantly this summer, look for Chandler to sign his one-year tender offer and become an unrestricted free agent next summer.
4. Eddy Curry, C, Bulls (R)
The skinny: Curry visited the Hawks last week and got a red carpet welcome. Curry is hoping that the vist spurs the Bulls into action. He's still waiting for an offer from the Bulls. While Bulls GM John Paxson maintains that the team wants to re-sign Curry, the GMs Insider spoke with all believe the Bulls are posturing. The Bulls don't want him back if he's going to command a big salary and are hoping they can work out a sign-and-trade that gets them something back in return. The Hawks have targeted Curry this summer, sources say, because GM Billy Knight believes that Curry is the one attainable free agent center out there right now. Knight is convinced that the Sixers and Bulls would match any offer he might make for Dalembert or Chandler, but Curry is a different story. Given his health problems and rocky relationship with the Bulls, the Hawks feel like the Bulls would be unwilling to match or, at the very least, would be amenable to a sign-and-trade that could send Al Harrington to Chicago.
5. Shareef Abdur-Rahim, PF, Blazers
The skinny: The Nets are running out of patience with the Blazers and Shareef Abdur-Rahim. The two teams have been in talks for the past week about a sign-and-trade that would put Abdur-Rahim in New Jersey. The Nets are trying to use their $4.9 million trade exception to acquire him. While that amount is no more than the mid-level exception that every team over the cap owns, a sign-and-trade would allow Abdur-Rahim to get an extra year and larger bonuses each year. The difference could amount (depending on where the cap comes in) to an extra $9 to $11 million over the course of the deal. The Blazers were holding out for a No. 1 and lately have been trying to get the draft rights to the Nets' second round pick this year, Serbian center Mile Ilic. So far the Nets have refused to budge, offering only a future second-round pick. The team's trade exception expires July 29, so there is a growing sense of urgency. If the Nets can't land Abdur-Rahim with their trade exception, they would be willing to pay him their mid-level. However, his agent, Aaron Goodwin, is holding out hope that if the Blazers can't work out a deal with the Nets, they might be able to get one done with the Kings, Rockets or Clippers.
6. 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. The Grizzlies drafted Hakim Warrick in part because they know Swift is gone. 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. The Nets also have strong interest in Stromile Swift and will try to work out a sign-and-trade with the Grizzlies for Swift if they don't get things with Abdur-Rahim resolved in the next few days. If that falls through, it looks like the Rockets are Swift's next choice.
7. Antoine Walker, F, Celtics
The skinny: A number of teams have shown interest in Walker this summer, including the Kings, Rockets and Knicks. However, all three teams have only the mid-level to offer to Walker and he's obviously looking for more. The Sonics have also shown some interest in Walker and they have enough money under the cap to offer him a bigger deal. However, it's unclear how serious they are. The Celtics haven't made a big offer, so Walker's stuck. He can try to work out a sign-and-trade with Boston, but as of Tuesday, Celtics GM Danny Ainge said there had been no sign-and-trade negotiations. Walker may have to get a third team involved to get a sign-and-trade that's amenable to Ainge.
8. Marko Jaric, PG, Clippers (R)
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 Wolves, Nuggets, Blazers and Celtics -- 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 their first choice is Lithuania's Sarunas Jasikevicius. With the Clippers agreeing to terms with Cuttino Mobley, they might be willing to deal. Mike Dunleavy told Jaric in his exit interview that he'd have to accept Shaun Livingston would be the Clippers' full-time point guard and Jaric would spend most of his time at the two. That's something Jaric has bristled at in the past, but he has warmed to the idea, partly because he loves L.A. and partly because the Clippers appear to be on the verge of the playoffs.
9. Vladimir Radmanovic, F, Sonics (R)
The skinny: With Ray Allen re-signed, the Soncis have made a push to bring back Radmanovic. He was the leading contender to win the Sixth Man Award before breaking his leg and missing the last six weeks of the season, was a critical component in the Sonics' unexpected run this year and has a lot of fans around the league. However, Radmanovic wants starter money (a starting salary at $8-9 million per year) and a starting role in Seattle. That's too much for them to swallow. At this point, the Hornets and Bobcats look like his best options. Then again, it's unclear whether either team is serious about spending money this summer. One other option is that the Sonics decide to sign a big man with the rest of the money under the cap. They've been pursuing Dalembert, Chandler and Walker. To do it, they'd have to renounce their free agents. If that happens, Radmanovic would become an unrestricted free agent and would be free to sign anywhere he chooses.
10. Antonio Daniels, PG, Sonics (PO)
The skinny: It looks like Daniels has narrowed his choices down to the Lakers and Blazers. It would appear that the Lakers would be a no-brainer. Phil Jackson loves big guards and the Lakers, now that they've agreed to trade Chucky Atkins, could offer him a starting position. However, two things are holding him back. One, the Lakers want Daniels to sign a two-year deal. This has been the Lakers mantra all summer as they try to protect potential max cap space during the summer of 2007 so that they can make a run at Yao Ming in free agency. Daniels, who turned 30 in March, wants more job security, and feels he can get it from his other suitors. Two, new Blazers head coach Nate McMillan loved Daniels in Seattle and has been pushing to get him to come aboard as a tutor for Sebastian Telfair. The Jazz, Heat, Magic and Cavs have also shown interest in Daniels.
11. Kyle Korver, SF, 76ers (R)
The skinny: Now that it appears that Joe Johnson, Michael Redd, Ray Allen and Macijauskas are locked up, Korver stands as the best shooter left on the board. Seven of the top eight 3-point shooting teams in the league made the playoffs last season. It's clear that shooting now comes at a premium. Korver tied for the league lead in 3-pointers made (226) and posted better than average numbers in rebounds and steals. The Sixers used him primarily as a spot-up shooter in their system, but it's clear that Korver has potential to be more. Add in his durability and better-than-expected defense and it's surprising the Heat and Cavs haven't made a stronger run at him. The fear is that under the new rules for "early bird" free agents (players with just two years experience), the Sixers will just match any offer. However, with Jim O'Brien gone (as well as the heavy emphasis on 3-point shooting) and Samuel Dalembert looking pretty expensive for the Sixers, Korver might be worth the risk.
12. Earl Watson, PG, Grizzlies
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 with that faulty jumper, but he definitely can run a team. Teams like the Hawks, Bobcats, Bucks, Blazers, Cavs, Jazz, Rockets and Magic all have shown interest. Memphis won't be able to re-sign Watson unless Jerry West finds a taker for Jason Williams (who is being shopped hard by the Grizzlies). Given Watson's desire to be a starter, it's unlikely he would choose to re-up with Memphis unless Williams is traded.
13. Donyell Marshall, F, Raptors
The skinny: Marshall became one of the most coveted guys on the trading block this past fall and likely will get a lot of interest (for the mid-level exception) from the same teams that pursued him then: the Bulls, Rockets and Heat. The Wizards and Nets have also shown interest in Marshall. In fact Marshall met with the Wizards over the weekend and couple be a nice replacement for Kwame Brown.
14. Sarunas Jasikevicius, PG, Maccabi Tel Aviv
The skinny: Two international free agents, Fabricio Oberto and Arvydas Macijauskas, have already found homes. But how is it that the best veteran player in Europe, Jasikevicius, hasn't? Oberto is older and Macijauskas is less athletic. Neither player has led his team to three straight Euroleague Championships. Jasikevicius, a former Maryland star, is an incredible passer, has deep range on his jumper, and plays with emotion and grit. Given his asking price (three years, around $10 million), he'd be a great pickup for a team trying to compete for a championship. The Cavs have shown the most interest, but have waffled between him, Antonio Daniels, Marko Jaric and Damon Stoudamire. The Pacers, Blazers and Sonics have also shown interest, but it's becoming clear that the market isn't quite as hot for him as we thought going into the summer. If teams don't act quickly, he may just decide to sign a long-term deal in Europe. That would be a shame. While Jasikevicius may not ever be a superstar in the NBA the way he is in Europe, he has the intangibles to be the type of player who helps a team win a title.
15. Damon Stoudamire, PG, Blazers
The skinny: The Cavs have been showing a lot of interest in Blazers free agent Damon Stoudamire. The team is looking for another point guard to platoon with Eric Snow. Snow is a bigger, defense-minded guard so the Cavs are trying to go the opposite direction with his backup. Stoudamire might be a good choice. He's a good perimeter shooter, can push the ball up the floor and is coming off one his better seasons in recent memory. Then again, he's 31 years old and has had more than his fair share of legal problems the past few years.
16. Gary Payton, PG, Celtics
The skinny: It has become evident that the Celtics are unlikely to bring back Payton next season. He still has some juice in the tank and would be a solid addition to a team that needs some veteran help at the point. Don't be surprised if the Sonics make a run at him should they decide to spend some money this summer and re-sign their free agents. The Wolves and the Heat also are options for Payton.
17. Damon Jones, PG, Heat
The skinny: Jones ranked third in three pointers made last season and fifth in three point field goal percentage. He's a perfect fit in the Heat's offense and would be crazy to go elsewhere. There's no where in the league where he'll get more open looks than Miami. The word is that the Heat are getting closer to getting a deal done with Jones. The Heat will, however, have to use most of their mid-level exception to lock up Jones.
18. Dan Dickau, PG, Hornets
The skinny: With Chris Paul headed to New Orleans, Dickau has to search for a new home. Dickau was unexpectedly solid for the Hornets this season, averaging 13.3 ppg and 5.2 apg.
19. Zaza Pachulia, C, Bucks (R)
The skinny: The Bucks have been very busy this summer, drafting Andrew Bogut, trading for Jiri Welsch, and coming to terms with free agents Michael Redd, Bobby Simmons and Dan Gadzuric. The team has also been trying to re-sign center Zaza Pachulia. However, sources say that it looks like the Hawks are prepared to throw more cash his way should they be unable to land a big-time center like Dalembert, Chandler or Curry via free agency. The Nuggets, Pacers, Raptors and Magic have also shown interest.
20. Ronald Murray, G, Sonics (R)
The skinny: Have NBA teams forgotten about Murray's magical run in November of 2003, when he averaged 20.8 ppg and 4.3 apg on 45 percent shooting with Ray Allen out of the lineup? Murray's numbers have been up and down since then, but he was so good, and so consistent, during that month that surely teams have to take a look. Even this season, when given more than 25 minutes on the floor, Murray averaged an impressive 16.1 ppg. His shooting percentage was terrible this year and he never seemed to get into the flow, but on a team desperate for a combo guard who can put the ball in the basket, Murray seems like he's worth the risk.
21. Reggie Evans, PF, Sonics (R)
The skinny: For a team looking for rebounding help, Evans is the man. His rebounds per minute were the best in the league last season. If only his offense and his defense were at the same level.
22. Brevin Knight, PG, Bobcats
The skinny: Maybe it's his size (5-10) or his age (30 in November) or his relatively lackluster career, but it's hard to figure out how the guy who ranked second in the league in assists last season playing just 29.5 mpg can't get a job. The Bobcats are interested in bringing him back to tutor rookie Raymond Felton, but we haven't heard much buzz anywhere else.
23. Keyon Dooling, G, Heat
The skinny: Dooling is an unrestricted free agent and with news that the Heat have agreed to terms with Haslem, it's unlikely they'll be able to pay him to stay. The Nets have shown the most interest in Dooling. They've been looking for a combo guard that can allow them to rest Jason Kidd more during the season.
24. Gerald Wallace, G/F, Bobcats
The skinny: Dooling is an unrestricted free agent and with news that the Heat have agreed to terms with Haslem, it's unlikely they'll be able to pay him to stay. The Nets have shown the most interest in Dooling. They've been looking for a combo guard that can allow them to rest Jason Kidd more during the season. If the Nets can land either Swift or Abdur-Rahim with their trade exception, look for the Nets to make Dooling with part of their mid-level exception.
25. Travis Hansen, G/F, Tau Ceramica
The skinny: Hansen spent one lackluster year on the Hawks before heading overseas last year. After a rocky start at TAU, Hansen turned it on in the last two months of the season and was great. He helped his team get all the way to the Euroleague Finals and did it in front of a host of NBA GMs and scouts. Hansen is a great athlete, plays tenacious defense, can play multiple positions and has turned himself into a very good 3-point shooter. The Nuggets and Rockets have shown the most interest, but you have to wonder why teams such as the Cavs (assistant GM Chris Grant drafted him in 2003), Heat, Bobcats, Magic and Jazz aren't in the mix.
Best of the rest
Player/Team Option: Bonzi Wells, SG, Grizzlies (TO); Nick Van Exel, PG, Blazers (TO)
Unrestricted: Latrell Sprewell, SG, Timberwolves; Jeff McInnis, PG, Cavs; Darius Songaila, F, Kings; Dale Davis, C, Pacers; Steven Hunter, C, Suns; Kerry Kittles, SG, Clippers; Casey Jacobsen, Hornets; Kareem Rush, SG, Bobcats; Othella Harrington, F, Bulls; Juan Dixon, G, Wizards; Robert Traylor, PF/C, Cavs; Glenn Robinson, SF, Spurs; Jahidi White, C, Bobcats; Bo Outlaw, F, Grizzlies; Ervin Johnson, C, Timberwolves; Nikoloz Tskitishvili, F, Warriors; Eddie Griffin, F, Timberwolves; Mark Madsen, F, Timberwolves; Tyronn Lue, PG, Rockets; Darrell Armstrong, PG, Mavericks; Clifford Robinson, F, Nets; Greg Buckner, G, Nuggets; Jon Barry, G, Rockets; Tom Gugliotta, F, Hawks; DeSagana Diop, C, Cavs; Dajuan Wagner, G, Cavs; Rick Brunson, PG, Clippers
Restricted: Jason Kapono, F, Bobcats; Willie Green, G, Sixers; Matt Bonner, F, Raptors; Steve Blake, PG, Wizards; Chris Duhon, PG, Bulls; Maurice Evans, G/F, Kings; Damien Wilkens, G, Sonics
European Free Agents: Maceo Baston, PF, Maccabi Tel Aviv; 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; Dimos Dikoudis, SF, CSKA Moscow
By Chad Ford
ESPN Insider
Three weeks into the free agent negotiation period and the field (especially at the shooting guard position) has narrowed greatly.
As of Monday, 18 free agents had agreed to terms with teams.
Ray Allen, Sonics (5 years, $80 million)
Michael Redd, Bucks (6 years, $85-90 million)
Larry Hughes, Cavs (5 years, $65-70 million)
Zydrunas Ilgauskas, Cavs (5 years, $55-60 million)
Bobby Simmons, Bucks (5 years, $47 million)
Cuttino Mobley, Clippers (5 years, $42 million)
Udonis Haslem, Heat (5 years, $32-34 million)
Dan Gadzuric, Bucks (6 years, $36 million)
Jerome James, Knicks (5 years, $28-29 million)
Kwame Brown, Lakers (3 years, $22-24 million)
Raja Bell, Suns (5 years, $20-25 million)
Brian Scalabrine, Celtics (5 years, $15 million)
Fabricio Oberto, Spurs (3 years, $7.5-9 million)
Arvydas Macijauskas, Hornets (3 years, salary undisclosed)
Robert Horry, Spurs (terms undisclosed)
Luke Walton, Lakers (terms undisclosed
Chris Andersen, Hornets (terms undisclosed)
Bostjan Nachbar, Hornets (terms undisclosed)
Several teams still have significant cap room to spend this summer. With a projected $49.5 million cap, the Hawks ($23.5 million), Bobcats ($18 million), Hornets ($11 million), Clippers ($10 million), Sonics ($10 million), and Cavs ($6 million) are all under the cap. With five days left until the player movement moratorium is lifted, here's Insider's updated look at the free-agent class of 2005.
Top 25 2005 Free Agents
Key: R = Restricted free agent | PO = Player Option | TO = Team Option
1. Joe Johnson, G, Suns (R)
The skinny: The talk all week has been that Johnson is set to sign a max, five-year offer with the Hawks once the moratorium ends. There is equally loud talk that the Suns, who own his restricted free agency rights, will step up to the plate and match the offer, meaning Johnson will be back in a Suns uniform next season, albeit at a cost that far exceeds what the Suns wanted to pay for him. It doesn't hurt the Hawks to try anyway. Signing Johnson would put yet a fourth max player on the Suns' payroll, something the cost-conscious Robert Sarver doesn't want to do.
2. Samuel Dalembert, PF/C, 76ers (R)
The skinny: Print reports that Dalembert and the Sixers have agreed to a six-year deal in excess of $70 million are untrue. The Sixers have been meeting with Dalembert's agent but have been unable to strike a deal. Philly apparently has drawn a line in the sand millions away from a max-type offer. Dalembert, who's had a rocky four years, with four different coaches in just the last two years, isn't impressed. The Hawks and Sonics are both big fans of Dalembert and have the money to offer big dollars. Other teams, like the Knicks, are willing to do sign-and-trades.
3. Tyson Chandler, PF/C, Bulls (R)
The skinny: Chandler is younger than Dalembert and has produced at about the same rate or better, especially when he's been healthy. He's a better rebounder than Dalembert and a superior overall defender. The fact that he's a legit 7-foot-2 and has a tremendous work ethic also helps his cause. But questions about his back and his lack of an offensive game have raised questions about his value in free agency. It's also widely believed that the Bulls will match any offer for him. He's a favorite of Chicago GM John Paxson and the Bulls know they can't afford to lose both Chandler and Eddy Curry this summer. If Paxson has to choose, Chandler is the guy. The problem for Chandler is getting a team such as Atlanta or Seattle to make a move for him. While those teams have shown polite interest, neither has been willing to offer the big deal it would take for Chicago to think twice. Meanwhile, Chandler continues to wait for the Bulls to make a big offer. He is hoping Dalembert will cut a lucrative deal, setting the market. As it stands right now, both remain in limbo. If the Bulls' offer does not rise significantly this summer, look for Chandler to sign his one-year tender offer and become an unrestricted free agent next summer.
4. Eddy Curry, C, Bulls (R)
The skinny: Curry visited the Hawks last week and got a red carpet welcome. Curry is hoping that the vist spurs the Bulls into action. He's still waiting for an offer from the Bulls. While Bulls GM John Paxson maintains that the team wants to re-sign Curry, the GMs Insider spoke with all believe the Bulls are posturing. The Bulls don't want him back if he's going to command a big salary and are hoping they can work out a sign-and-trade that gets them something back in return. The Hawks have targeted Curry this summer, sources say, because GM Billy Knight believes that Curry is the one attainable free agent center out there right now. Knight is convinced that the Sixers and Bulls would match any offer he might make for Dalembert or Chandler, but Curry is a different story. Given his health problems and rocky relationship with the Bulls, the Hawks feel like the Bulls would be unwilling to match or, at the very least, would be amenable to a sign-and-trade that could send Al Harrington to Chicago.
5. Shareef Abdur-Rahim, PF, Blazers
The skinny: The Nets are running out of patience with the Blazers and Shareef Abdur-Rahim. The two teams have been in talks for the past week about a sign-and-trade that would put Abdur-Rahim in New Jersey. The Nets are trying to use their $4.9 million trade exception to acquire him. While that amount is no more than the mid-level exception that every team over the cap owns, a sign-and-trade would allow Abdur-Rahim to get an extra year and larger bonuses each year. The difference could amount (depending on where the cap comes in) to an extra $9 to $11 million over the course of the deal. The Blazers were holding out for a No. 1 and lately have been trying to get the draft rights to the Nets' second round pick this year, Serbian center Mile Ilic. So far the Nets have refused to budge, offering only a future second-round pick. The team's trade exception expires July 29, so there is a growing sense of urgency. If the Nets can't land Abdur-Rahim with their trade exception, they would be willing to pay him their mid-level. However, his agent, Aaron Goodwin, is holding out hope that if the Blazers can't work out a deal with the Nets, they might be able to get one done with the Kings, Rockets or Clippers.
6. 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. The Grizzlies drafted Hakim Warrick in part because they know Swift is gone. 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. The Nets also have strong interest in Stromile Swift and will try to work out a sign-and-trade with the Grizzlies for Swift if they don't get things with Abdur-Rahim resolved in the next few days. If that falls through, it looks like the Rockets are Swift's next choice.
7. Antoine Walker, F, Celtics
The skinny: A number of teams have shown interest in Walker this summer, including the Kings, Rockets and Knicks. However, all three teams have only the mid-level to offer to Walker and he's obviously looking for more. The Sonics have also shown some interest in Walker and they have enough money under the cap to offer him a bigger deal. However, it's unclear how serious they are. The Celtics haven't made a big offer, so Walker's stuck. He can try to work out a sign-and-trade with Boston, but as of Tuesday, Celtics GM Danny Ainge said there had been no sign-and-trade negotiations. Walker may have to get a third team involved to get a sign-and-trade that's amenable to Ainge.
8. Marko Jaric, PG, Clippers (R)
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 Wolves, Nuggets, Blazers and Celtics -- 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 their first choice is Lithuania's Sarunas Jasikevicius. With the Clippers agreeing to terms with Cuttino Mobley, they might be willing to deal. Mike Dunleavy told Jaric in his exit interview that he'd have to accept Shaun Livingston would be the Clippers' full-time point guard and Jaric would spend most of his time at the two. That's something Jaric has bristled at in the past, but he has warmed to the idea, partly because he loves L.A. and partly because the Clippers appear to be on the verge of the playoffs.
9. Vladimir Radmanovic, F, Sonics (R)
The skinny: With Ray Allen re-signed, the Soncis have made a push to bring back Radmanovic. He was the leading contender to win the Sixth Man Award before breaking his leg and missing the last six weeks of the season, was a critical component in the Sonics' unexpected run this year and has a lot of fans around the league. However, Radmanovic wants starter money (a starting salary at $8-9 million per year) and a starting role in Seattle. That's too much for them to swallow. At this point, the Hornets and Bobcats look like his best options. Then again, it's unclear whether either team is serious about spending money this summer. One other option is that the Sonics decide to sign a big man with the rest of the money under the cap. They've been pursuing Dalembert, Chandler and Walker. To do it, they'd have to renounce their free agents. If that happens, Radmanovic would become an unrestricted free agent and would be free to sign anywhere he chooses.
10. Antonio Daniels, PG, Sonics (PO)
The skinny: It looks like Daniels has narrowed his choices down to the Lakers and Blazers. It would appear that the Lakers would be a no-brainer. Phil Jackson loves big guards and the Lakers, now that they've agreed to trade Chucky Atkins, could offer him a starting position. However, two things are holding him back. One, the Lakers want Daniels to sign a two-year deal. This has been the Lakers mantra all summer as they try to protect potential max cap space during the summer of 2007 so that they can make a run at Yao Ming in free agency. Daniels, who turned 30 in March, wants more job security, and feels he can get it from his other suitors. Two, new Blazers head coach Nate McMillan loved Daniels in Seattle and has been pushing to get him to come aboard as a tutor for Sebastian Telfair. The Jazz, Heat, Magic and Cavs have also shown interest in Daniels.
11. Kyle Korver, SF, 76ers (R)
The skinny: Now that it appears that Joe Johnson, Michael Redd, Ray Allen and Macijauskas are locked up, Korver stands as the best shooter left on the board. Seven of the top eight 3-point shooting teams in the league made the playoffs last season. It's clear that shooting now comes at a premium. Korver tied for the league lead in 3-pointers made (226) and posted better than average numbers in rebounds and steals. The Sixers used him primarily as a spot-up shooter in their system, but it's clear that Korver has potential to be more. Add in his durability and better-than-expected defense and it's surprising the Heat and Cavs haven't made a stronger run at him. The fear is that under the new rules for "early bird" free agents (players with just two years experience), the Sixers will just match any offer. However, with Jim O'Brien gone (as well as the heavy emphasis on 3-point shooting) and Samuel Dalembert looking pretty expensive for the Sixers, Korver might be worth the risk.
12. Earl Watson, PG, Grizzlies
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 with that faulty jumper, but he definitely can run a team. Teams like the Hawks, Bobcats, Bucks, Blazers, Cavs, Jazz, Rockets and Magic all have shown interest. Memphis won't be able to re-sign Watson unless Jerry West finds a taker for Jason Williams (who is being shopped hard by the Grizzlies). Given Watson's desire to be a starter, it's unlikely he would choose to re-up with Memphis unless Williams is traded.
13. Donyell Marshall, F, Raptors
The skinny: Marshall became one of the most coveted guys on the trading block this past fall and likely will get a lot of interest (for the mid-level exception) from the same teams that pursued him then: the Bulls, Rockets and Heat. The Wizards and Nets have also shown interest in Marshall. In fact Marshall met with the Wizards over the weekend and couple be a nice replacement for Kwame Brown.
14. Sarunas Jasikevicius, PG, Maccabi Tel Aviv
The skinny: Two international free agents, Fabricio Oberto and Arvydas Macijauskas, have already found homes. But how is it that the best veteran player in Europe, Jasikevicius, hasn't? Oberto is older and Macijauskas is less athletic. Neither player has led his team to three straight Euroleague Championships. Jasikevicius, a former Maryland star, is an incredible passer, has deep range on his jumper, and plays with emotion and grit. Given his asking price (three years, around $10 million), he'd be a great pickup for a team trying to compete for a championship. The Cavs have shown the most interest, but have waffled between him, Antonio Daniels, Marko Jaric and Damon Stoudamire. The Pacers, Blazers and Sonics have also shown interest, but it's becoming clear that the market isn't quite as hot for him as we thought going into the summer. If teams don't act quickly, he may just decide to sign a long-term deal in Europe. That would be a shame. While Jasikevicius may not ever be a superstar in the NBA the way he is in Europe, he has the intangibles to be the type of player who helps a team win a title.
15. Damon Stoudamire, PG, Blazers
The skinny: The Cavs have been showing a lot of interest in Blazers free agent Damon Stoudamire. The team is looking for another point guard to platoon with Eric Snow. Snow is a bigger, defense-minded guard so the Cavs are trying to go the opposite direction with his backup. Stoudamire might be a good choice. He's a good perimeter shooter, can push the ball up the floor and is coming off one his better seasons in recent memory. Then again, he's 31 years old and has had more than his fair share of legal problems the past few years.
16. Gary Payton, PG, Celtics
The skinny: It has become evident that the Celtics are unlikely to bring back Payton next season. He still has some juice in the tank and would be a solid addition to a team that needs some veteran help at the point. Don't be surprised if the Sonics make a run at him should they decide to spend some money this summer and re-sign their free agents. The Wolves and the Heat also are options for Payton.
17. Damon Jones, PG, Heat
The skinny: Jones ranked third in three pointers made last season and fifth in three point field goal percentage. He's a perfect fit in the Heat's offense and would be crazy to go elsewhere. There's no where in the league where he'll get more open looks than Miami. The word is that the Heat are getting closer to getting a deal done with Jones. The Heat will, however, have to use most of their mid-level exception to lock up Jones.
18. Dan Dickau, PG, Hornets
The skinny: With Chris Paul headed to New Orleans, Dickau has to search for a new home. Dickau was unexpectedly solid for the Hornets this season, averaging 13.3 ppg and 5.2 apg.
19. Zaza Pachulia, C, Bucks (R)
The skinny: The Bucks have been very busy this summer, drafting Andrew Bogut, trading for Jiri Welsch, and coming to terms with free agents Michael Redd, Bobby Simmons and Dan Gadzuric. The team has also been trying to re-sign center Zaza Pachulia. However, sources say that it looks like the Hawks are prepared to throw more cash his way should they be unable to land a big-time center like Dalembert, Chandler or Curry via free agency. The Nuggets, Pacers, Raptors and Magic have also shown interest.
20. Ronald Murray, G, Sonics (R)
The skinny: Have NBA teams forgotten about Murray's magical run in November of 2003, when he averaged 20.8 ppg and 4.3 apg on 45 percent shooting with Ray Allen out of the lineup? Murray's numbers have been up and down since then, but he was so good, and so consistent, during that month that surely teams have to take a look. Even this season, when given more than 25 minutes on the floor, Murray averaged an impressive 16.1 ppg. His shooting percentage was terrible this year and he never seemed to get into the flow, but on a team desperate for a combo guard who can put the ball in the basket, Murray seems like he's worth the risk.
21. Reggie Evans, PF, Sonics (R)
The skinny: For a team looking for rebounding help, Evans is the man. His rebounds per minute were the best in the league last season. If only his offense and his defense were at the same level.
22. Brevin Knight, PG, Bobcats
The skinny: Maybe it's his size (5-10) or his age (30 in November) or his relatively lackluster career, but it's hard to figure out how the guy who ranked second in the league in assists last season playing just 29.5 mpg can't get a job. The Bobcats are interested in bringing him back to tutor rookie Raymond Felton, but we haven't heard much buzz anywhere else.
23. Keyon Dooling, G, Heat
The skinny: Dooling is an unrestricted free agent and with news that the Heat have agreed to terms with Haslem, it's unlikely they'll be able to pay him to stay. The Nets have shown the most interest in Dooling. They've been looking for a combo guard that can allow them to rest Jason Kidd more during the season.
24. Gerald Wallace, G/F, Bobcats
The skinny: Dooling is an unrestricted free agent and with news that the Heat have agreed to terms with Haslem, it's unlikely they'll be able to pay him to stay. The Nets have shown the most interest in Dooling. They've been looking for a combo guard that can allow them to rest Jason Kidd more during the season. If the Nets can land either Swift or Abdur-Rahim with their trade exception, look for the Nets to make Dooling with part of their mid-level exception.
25. Travis Hansen, G/F, Tau Ceramica
The skinny: Hansen spent one lackluster year on the Hawks before heading overseas last year. After a rocky start at TAU, Hansen turned it on in the last two months of the season and was great. He helped his team get all the way to the Euroleague Finals and did it in front of a host of NBA GMs and scouts. Hansen is a great athlete, plays tenacious defense, can play multiple positions and has turned himself into a very good 3-point shooter. The Nuggets and Rockets have shown the most interest, but you have to wonder why teams such as the Cavs (assistant GM Chris Grant drafted him in 2003), Heat, Bobcats, Magic and Jazz aren't in the mix.
Best of the rest
Player/Team Option: Bonzi Wells, SG, Grizzlies (TO); Nick Van Exel, PG, Blazers (TO)
Unrestricted: Latrell Sprewell, SG, Timberwolves; Jeff McInnis, PG, Cavs; Darius Songaila, F, Kings; Dale Davis, C, Pacers; Steven Hunter, C, Suns; Kerry Kittles, SG, Clippers; Casey Jacobsen, Hornets; Kareem Rush, SG, Bobcats; Othella Harrington, F, Bulls; Juan Dixon, G, Wizards; Robert Traylor, PF/C, Cavs; Glenn Robinson, SF, Spurs; Jahidi White, C, Bobcats; Bo Outlaw, F, Grizzlies; Ervin Johnson, C, Timberwolves; Nikoloz Tskitishvili, F, Warriors; Eddie Griffin, F, Timberwolves; Mark Madsen, F, Timberwolves; Tyronn Lue, PG, Rockets; Darrell Armstrong, PG, Mavericks; Clifford Robinson, F, Nets; Greg Buckner, G, Nuggets; Jon Barry, G, Rockets; Tom Gugliotta, F, Hawks; DeSagana Diop, C, Cavs; Dajuan Wagner, G, Cavs; Rick Brunson, PG, Clippers
Restricted: Jason Kapono, F, Bobcats; Willie Green, G, Sixers; Matt Bonner, F, Raptors; Steve Blake, PG, Wizards; Chris Duhon, PG, Bulls; Maurice Evans, G/F, Kings; Damien Wilkens, G, Sonics
European Free Agents: Maceo Baston, PF, Maccabi Tel Aviv; 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; Dimos Dikoudis, SF, CSKA Moscow