There’s no guarantee we’ll see a superstar swap teams during 2017 NBA Free Agency, but these big-name players are most likely to be wearing a different jersey next season.
As you probably already know, a number of superstars are set to hit the open market this offseason. While that doesn’t necessarily mean 2017 NBA Free Agency is going to be a feeding frenzy, it certainly opens the door for some big shifts in the league’s landscape.
The reason so many big names will be available is because of the ever-rising salary cap. With most stars building player options into their contracts, it provides an opportunity for them to cash in on a rising max year after year. That’s why players such as Kevin Durant and Blake Griffin could theoretically be available come July.
Unfortunately, as we all know, that doesn’t mean much movement should be expected. Typically, these declined player options are nothing more than a formality. More often than not, a re-signing is inevitable. However, as we saw last offseason, superstars can opt to swap jerseys if the situation is right. I’m sure Durant can attest to that.
So how much activity can we expect during 2017 NBA Free Agency? It’s unclear at this point, but we can speculate on the stars who may actually try to find themselves a new home.
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With that in mind, let’s take a look at the five superstars most likely to take their talents elsewhere this offseason. That doesn’t necessarily mean the odds are in favor of them leaving–just that they stand the best chance of moving on in 2017.