Kori Ellis
07-20-2005, 01:27 PM
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 Wednesday, 24 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)
Shareef Abdur-Rahim, Nets (either 6 years, $38 million or 5 years, $28 million)
Udonis Haslem, Heat (5 years, $32-34 million)
Dan Gadzuric, Bucks (6 years, $36 million)
Stromile Swift, Rockets (5 years, $28-29 million)
Antonio Daniels, Wizards (5 years, $28-29 million)
Jerome James, Knicks (5 years, $28-29 million)
Kyle Korver, Sixers (6 years, $25-27 million)
Kwame Brown, Lakers (3 years, $22-24 million)
Donyell Marshall, Cavs (4 years, $21 million)
Raja Bell, Suns (5 years, $20-25 million)
Willie Green, Sixers (6 years, $20 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), and the Sonics ($10 million) are all under the cap. With two days left until the player movement moratorium is lifted (unless it's pushed back to August 1st as some in the league are suggesting), 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. Dalembert is planning a visit to the Hawks on Monday, July 25. GM Billy King is still adamant that the Sixers will match any offer.
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: A team source said the Nets are very close to an agreement with Abdur-Rahim on a six-year contract worth roughly $38 million. To make the deal work under cap rules, the Portland Trail Blazers, who own Abdur-Rahim's rights, would have to agree to sign him to the contract and then trade him to the Nets using a $5 million trade exception that the Nets own. In return, the Nets would send a future first-round pick to the Blazers. If the Nets are unable to get the Blazers to agree to a sign-and-trade, Abdur-Rahim has agreed to sign with the Nets for their mid-level exception at five years for about $28 million, according to the team source. So, either way, it looks like the Nets will get their hands on Abdur-Rahim.
6. Stromile Swift, PF/C, Grizzlies
The skinny: Free-agent forward Stromile Swift has reached an agreement to sign with the Houston Rockets, according to reports Monday. Swift's agent, Andy Miller, said Swift was excited about joining a front line that includes All-Stars Tracy McGrady and Yao Ming. Miller would not disclose terms, but the Houston Chronicle reported that the contract would be worth about $30 million over five years -- consistent with the midlevel salary exception available to the Rockets, who are over the salary cap.
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, Cavs, Nuggets, Blazers and Celtics -- are interested, but none of them has more than the mid-level to make something happen. The Cavs are bringing in Jaric on Thursday, July 21, but would probably have to do a sign-and-trade with the Clippers to afford Jaric at this point. 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: Daniels surprised a lot of people on Tuesday by agreeing to a five year, $29 million dollar deal with the Wizards. The Wizards offered Daniels the contract after Donyell Marshall announced that he'd come to terms with the Cavs.
11. Kyle Korver, SF, 76ers (R)
The skinny: Korver has agreed to return to the Philadelphia Sixers, Korver's agent, Jeff Schwartz, told ESPN Insider Chad Ford on Tuesday. Schwartz told ESPN Insider that Korver's deal is for six years. A source close to the situation said that the contract is worth roughly $25 million with unlikely bonuses that could get the deal's value up to $27 million.
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. It looks like the Magic may be the front runners for Watson, though the Hawks, Blazers, Jazz, Sonics and Rockets 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 agreed to a four year deal worth around $21 according to reports. The move means that the Cavs have between $1 and $3.5 million left under the cap depending on where the salary cap comes in.
14. Sarunas Jasikevicius, PG, Maccabi Tel Aviv
The skinny: Jasikevicius seems to have narrowed the field down to three contenders -- the Pacers, Jazz and Cavs. Given the Cavs' signing of Marshall, they may not be able to afford Jasikevicius anymore. 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. Expect a decision in the next few days.
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 and will offer him part of their mid-level exception if they can work out a sign-and-trade with Abdur-Rahim. 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: With most of the top swingmen off the board, it's pretty surprising that Wallace hasn't garnered more interest this summer. He had an excellent year for the Bobcats last season, and has great size and athleticism for his position. Defensively, he ranked in the top 10 in steals last year. His jump shot will never be a thing of beauty, but Wallace is versatile and would be a great fit on a team still trying to fill a void at the two or three. However, most teams assume that the Bobcats would match any offer for Wallace. They are way under the cap and have to sign somebody. But the truth is that Bernie Bickerstaff isn't inclined to overpay. They want lots of cap room going into next summer and might be willing to let Wallace leave if the alternative is eating up an inordinate amount of their cap flexibility next season.
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; 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
ESPN Insider
Three weeks into the free agent negotiation period and the field (especially at the shooting guard position) has narrowed greatly.
As of Wednesday, 24 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)
Shareef Abdur-Rahim, Nets (either 6 years, $38 million or 5 years, $28 million)
Udonis Haslem, Heat (5 years, $32-34 million)
Dan Gadzuric, Bucks (6 years, $36 million)
Stromile Swift, Rockets (5 years, $28-29 million)
Antonio Daniels, Wizards (5 years, $28-29 million)
Jerome James, Knicks (5 years, $28-29 million)
Kyle Korver, Sixers (6 years, $25-27 million)
Kwame Brown, Lakers (3 years, $22-24 million)
Donyell Marshall, Cavs (4 years, $21 million)
Raja Bell, Suns (5 years, $20-25 million)
Willie Green, Sixers (6 years, $20 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), and the Sonics ($10 million) are all under the cap. With two days left until the player movement moratorium is lifted (unless it's pushed back to August 1st as some in the league are suggesting), 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. Dalembert is planning a visit to the Hawks on Monday, July 25. GM Billy King is still adamant that the Sixers will match any offer.
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: A team source said the Nets are very close to an agreement with Abdur-Rahim on a six-year contract worth roughly $38 million. To make the deal work under cap rules, the Portland Trail Blazers, who own Abdur-Rahim's rights, would have to agree to sign him to the contract and then trade him to the Nets using a $5 million trade exception that the Nets own. In return, the Nets would send a future first-round pick to the Blazers. If the Nets are unable to get the Blazers to agree to a sign-and-trade, Abdur-Rahim has agreed to sign with the Nets for their mid-level exception at five years for about $28 million, according to the team source. So, either way, it looks like the Nets will get their hands on Abdur-Rahim.
6. Stromile Swift, PF/C, Grizzlies
The skinny: Free-agent forward Stromile Swift has reached an agreement to sign with the Houston Rockets, according to reports Monday. Swift's agent, Andy Miller, said Swift was excited about joining a front line that includes All-Stars Tracy McGrady and Yao Ming. Miller would not disclose terms, but the Houston Chronicle reported that the contract would be worth about $30 million over five years -- consistent with the midlevel salary exception available to the Rockets, who are over the salary cap.
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, Cavs, Nuggets, Blazers and Celtics -- are interested, but none of them has more than the mid-level to make something happen. The Cavs are bringing in Jaric on Thursday, July 21, but would probably have to do a sign-and-trade with the Clippers to afford Jaric at this point. 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: Daniels surprised a lot of people on Tuesday by agreeing to a five year, $29 million dollar deal with the Wizards. The Wizards offered Daniels the contract after Donyell Marshall announced that he'd come to terms with the Cavs.
11. Kyle Korver, SF, 76ers (R)
The skinny: Korver has agreed to return to the Philadelphia Sixers, Korver's agent, Jeff Schwartz, told ESPN Insider Chad Ford on Tuesday. Schwartz told ESPN Insider that Korver's deal is for six years. A source close to the situation said that the contract is worth roughly $25 million with unlikely bonuses that could get the deal's value up to $27 million.
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. It looks like the Magic may be the front runners for Watson, though the Hawks, Blazers, Jazz, Sonics and Rockets 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 agreed to a four year deal worth around $21 according to reports. The move means that the Cavs have between $1 and $3.5 million left under the cap depending on where the salary cap comes in.
14. Sarunas Jasikevicius, PG, Maccabi Tel Aviv
The skinny: Jasikevicius seems to have narrowed the field down to three contenders -- the Pacers, Jazz and Cavs. Given the Cavs' signing of Marshall, they may not be able to afford Jasikevicius anymore. 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. Expect a decision in the next few days.
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 and will offer him part of their mid-level exception if they can work out a sign-and-trade with Abdur-Rahim. 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: With most of the top swingmen off the board, it's pretty surprising that Wallace hasn't garnered more interest this summer. He had an excellent year for the Bobcats last season, and has great size and athleticism for his position. Defensively, he ranked in the top 10 in steals last year. His jump shot will never be a thing of beauty, but Wallace is versatile and would be a great fit on a team still trying to fill a void at the two or three. However, most teams assume that the Bobcats would match any offer for Wallace. They are way under the cap and have to sign somebody. But the truth is that Bernie Bickerstaff isn't inclined to overpay. They want lots of cap room going into next summer and might be willing to let Wallace leave if the alternative is eating up an inordinate amount of their cap flexibility next season.
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; 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