2018 NBA free agency: Ranking top available players at every position
Power Forward
1. player. 89. . Restricted Free Agent. . Jabari Parker
Jabari Parker’s final position on this list will depend on how the upcoming season plays out. He’s coming off his second torn ACL since entering the league, but obviously offers an abundance of upside as a former No. 2 overall pick. If he can bounce back strong and show that he’s beginning to tap into that potential, he could be one of the most coveted restricted free agents of 2018. If not, he may be forced to sign a discount deal for another opportunity to prove his worth.
2. player. 20. . Restricted Free Agent. . Julius Randle
There was a lot of uncertainty about what to expect from Julius Randle in 2017-18. He wasn’t even a starter to begin the year, and still isn’t. Despite that, he’s made a huge impact off the bench as a high-energy spark plug for the Lakers on both ends. There’s a decent chance he’s traded before February’s deadline, but figures to receive a huge pay raise in 2018 one way or another.
3. player. 38. . Restricted Free Agent. . Aaron Gordon
Now back at his natural power forward position, Aaron Gordon is enjoying a breakout season for the Orlando Magic. A terrific athlete for his size, the former lottery pick has all of the tools to be a star in this league. Although his development has been slow up to this point, don’t be surprised to see him garner plenty of attention when he hits restricted free agency in July.
Derrick Favors. 4. player. 118. . Unrestricted Free Agent.
A well-rounded threat at the power forward position, Derrick Favors has proven himself to be an outstanding presence in the Utah frontcourt. The only problem up to this point has been his history of injuries, which could scare some potential suitors away. Still, he offers enough offensive skills to warrant a lucrative contract on the open market — if the Jazz don’t trade him before then.
Thaddeus Young. 5. player. 100. . Player Option for 2018-19.
Thaddeus Young doesn’t fit the stretch-4 mold so many teams covet these days, but that doesn’t mean he can’t make his mark on offense. He’s an athletic, powerful forward who does a great job of using off-ball movement to create opportunities for himself. Young isn’t necessarily a hot commodity, but he’ll make someone happy if he decides against exercising his player option.
Other notable pending free agents: Dirk Nowitzki, Dallas Mavericks (team option in 2018-19); Trevor Booker, Brooklyn Nets (unrestricted free agent); Nikola Mirotic, Chicago Bulls (unrestricted free agent)