Early Predictions For Where Top 2017 NBA Free Agents Will Sign

8. Otto Porter Jr., SF, Washington Wizards (Restricted)

Where he will sign: Washington Wizards

Let’s not pretend there won’t be significant interest in Otto Porter Jr. this upcoming offseason. He’ll be coming off a breakout 2016-17 campaign during which he asserted himself as a rising star out on the wing.

Even while playing alongside stars John Wall and Bradley Beal, Porter has blossomed as an offensive sparkplug. His effectiveness when shooting has skyrocketed, and he’s still playing tough defense on the other end. It’s all starting to come together for the former No. 3 overall pick.

That’s why the Wizards simply can’t afford to let him go, especially for nothing. Porter is a restricted free agent this offseason, so Washington will have the ability to match any offer he receives.

Chances are some team is going to be brave enough to sign him to a max offer sheet, forcing the Wizards’ hand.

It’ll take some financial maneuvering, but D.C. should be able to get him under contract. They don’t project to be significant players during free agency, so finding a way to keep Porter from walking away should be the Wizards’ top priority this offseason.