Unless PATFO drafts two forwards and keeps Keldon, we're going to need a quality starter at forward position.
What's everyone's take on the situation?
Free agents:
Achiuwa - can't shoot, but he's done great in NY and could be Wemby's backup at C. I like lil' Precious as a backup C, but only in that role, and I don't want to invest more into backup C until Collins is moved.
Crowder - I hope not.
Okoro - I was high on him, but his shot disappeared in the playoffs. Would be a major upgrade to Champ, but would only want as a 1-2 year stopgap. Maybe could move to backup role longer term if you moved Keldon and got your starting SF through the draft this year or next.
Toppin - would be a solid bench forward, not good enough to start. I think would actually be an upgrade to Sochan at PF. Mabye you lose a little on individual perimeter D, but Toppin isn't a slouch on D (advanced stats are pretty similar to Sochan's), and he can actually shoot.
Harris - ugh, no. Wouldn't hate it on a cheap deal, but I think he'll command more.
Oubre - I wouldn't mind him, he was great in the playoffs. But I don't think Pop would take a player who didn't get over himself. Just seems like a bad fit, personality wise. Might drive Pop into retirement.
Batum - I guess he could be an option if we need two forwards and Wemby can convince him to play one more season. Would be great but how much is left in the tank?
Highsmith - could be a solid bench option. Solid defender, but much like Okoro his shot disappeared in the playoffs.
Patrick Williams - would be a solid choice if the price is right. Didn't develop as expected, but he still hasn't turned 23. If thinking long term, this seems to be the best fit - but I don't think he'll be cheap. Probably looking at 4/100 would be my guess? Not a bad contract, but not insignificant. You probably want to move off Keldon if you go this route, as Keldon minutes will dry up.
Hayward - washed. Thought would be ideal before he basically did nothing in OKC. Same question as Batum... how much is actually left in the tank? He was doing pretty well in CHA before being injured and then traded.
SlowMo - can't afford any more non-shooters.
Jones Jr - would be great if we could take him from Mavs, he's been amazing for them. My guess is that he'll be in high demand for contenders and we won't look all that appealing.
O'Neale - looks somewhat washed.
Prince - would be a solid bench option.
I didn't include Demar, Siakam and OG that will most likely stay with their teams.
As far as forwards that could be available for trade go, it's too early to tell.
Obviously Bridges, Cam Johnson and DFS are available for the right price. But what's the right price according to the Nets?
There's Markkanen and Ainge's ridiculous asking price that's not worth bothering with.
I wouldn't mind MPJ if Denver decides they need more depth and he's too expensive.
We'll see how NOLA situation plays out, Ingram is most likely the one that has to go. Never liked him as a player.
Kings are looking to move from Barnes, he'd be a solid veteran for us. Idk about their asking price.
Portland needs to move Grant, but his contract runs all the way up to 2028, not worth it.
Some others will surely become available.