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2017 NBA free agency tracker: Grades for every deal so far

By Gerald Bourguet

Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images
Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images /
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2017 NBA free agency tracker
TORONTO, ON – MAY 23: Patrick Patterson #54 of the Toronto Raptors dribbles the ball in the second half of Game Four of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Cleveland Cavaliers during the 2016 NBA Playoffs at the Air Canada Centre on May 23, 2016 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images) /

Patrick Patterson: 3 years, $16.4 million (Oklahoma City Thunder)

What a summer general manager Sam Presti is having. As if fleecing the Indiana Pacers with a meager offer of Victor Oladipo and Domantas Sabonis for Paul George wasn’t enough, the Oklahoma City Thunder will now be replacing Taj Gibson with Patrick Patterson — arguably a better player, and on a much more team-friendly contract.

After watching the one-man Russell Westbrook show last season, the Thunder knew their MVP needed help and three-point shooting to space the floor. George supplies the superstar talent on the wing along with defense and three-point shooting, while Patterson shores up the 4-spot with defense, versatility and three-point shooting (37.2 percent last year).

For a little over $5 million a season, this is a stellar signing to round out OKC’s starting five. The Thunder still aren’t good enough to be considered legitimate title contenders, but could this team string together a playoff run deep enough to convince PG-13 to re-sign next summer? Smart signings like Patterson could very well make it possible.

Bourguet Grade: A

HoopsHabit Grade: A