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NBA: The Best 2016 Free Agent For Every Team

By Ryan Blackburn

May 1, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; A general view of the Air Canada Centre prior to Indiana Pacers playing Toronto Raptors in game seven of the first round of the 2016 NBA Playoffs at Air Canada Centre. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports
May 1, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; A general view of the Air Canada Centre prior to Indiana Pacers playing Toronto Raptors in game seven of the first round of the 2016 NBA Playoffs at Air Canada Centre. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports /
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May 1, 2016; Miami, FL, USA; Miami Heat guard Dwyane Wade (right) greets Charlotte Hornets guard Nicolas Batum (left) after game seven of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at American Airlines Arena. The Heat won 106-73. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
May 1, 2016; Miami, FL, USA; Miami Heat guard Dwyane Wade (right) greets Charlotte Hornets guard Nicolas Batum (left) after game seven of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at American Airlines Arena. The Heat won 106-73. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports /

Charlotte Hornets – Nicolas Batum

The Hornets ended their season in disappointing fashion after losing to the Miami Heat in seven games, losing 106-73 in a game that wasn’t even that close. Nicolas Batum played in five of the games, dealing with a nagging ankle injury that ultimately limited his overall effectiveness.

Even still, Batum was a revelation in Charlotte. He became the first option in the Queen City and put up 14.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game, showcasing his versatility and skill. This was Batum’s best season as a professional, and he truly excelled in his role.

Steve Clifford and the Hornets made Batum their focal point on offense, and he was allowed to freelance and create offense in a variety of ways as the first option. Kemba Walker may have scored the most, but he was one of the main beneficiaries of Batum’s presence in the lineup.

Charlotte should do everything it can to get Batum back. They put up a fight against a veteran team, and the development of Frank Kaminsky and the possible addition of another piece could make Charlotte very dangerous. They have a multitude of free agents to worry about, including Jeremy Lin, Courtney Lee and Marvin Williams, but Batum should be their first priority.

Next: Chicago Bulls