2018 NBA free agency: Ranking top available players at every position
Shooting Guard
64. . Unrestricted Free Agent. . Avery Bradley. 1. player
One of the reasons for the Detroit Pistons’ sudden relevance in the East is the arrival of Avery Bradley from Boston. The defensive-minded guard has been a revelation in the Motor City, using his lockdown abilities and improving shooting to make a tremendous impact. At this current pace, Bradley will be one of the hottest commodities on the market — if the Pistons even let him go.
. Restricted Free Agent. . Zach LaVine. 2. player. 24
Coming off a torn ACL, Zach LaVine’s future seems shrouded in uncertainty right now. Despite that, we know what to expect from the uber-athletic guard when he is healthy. He’s a dynamic offensive talent who loves to play above the rim. If he can bounce back in a big way with the Chicago Bulls, we could see a number of clubs clawing at his door when 2018 free agency begins.
Unrestricted Free Agent. . Kentavious Caldwell-Pope. 3. player. 20.
The 2017-18 campaign is going to be a huge one for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope. Signed by the Lakers to a one-year deal, he now has one chance to prove he’s worth a max contract next offseason. Up to this point, he’s proven to be an exceptional 3-and-D player who can light it up at times. Can he take that next step as a consistent playmaker for Los Angeles?
118. . Restricted Free Agent. . Rodney Hood. 4. player
As expected, Rodney Hood is enjoying a breakout season of sorts following the departure of Gordon Hayward. Although he still hasn’t quite lived up to his full potential, his scoring and shooting efficiency have returned to 2015 form. If his defensive effectiveness can improve, we could even be looking at a possible max-deal talent come 2018. Maybe a change of scenery would bring out the best in Hood?
29. . Player Option for 2018-19. . Danny Green. 5. player
Danny Green may be getting up there in age, but he’s still one of the most dependable wing players in the NBA. A terrific 3-and-D player, he continues to make his presence felt for the Spurs despite a plethora of talent at the 2 and 3 positions. Don’t think for a second that, if Green decides to test the market in 2018, there won’t be plenty of teams eager to get him under contract.
Other notable pending free agents: J.J. Redick, Philadelphia 76ers (unrestricted free agent); Dwyane Wade, Cleveland Cavaliers (unrestricted free agent); Lou Williams, Los Angeles Clippers (unrestricted free agent)