2018 NBA free agency: Ranking top available players at every position
Center
DeMarcus Cousins. 1. player. 69. . Unrestricted Free Agent.
How the Pelicans’ 2017-18 season goes will determine whether or not Cousins hits free agency. If things go well alongside Anthony Davis and the coaching staff can handle his abrasive personality, I wouldn’t be surprised to see him return. If he decides to test the market, he’ll easily be the best big man available. He’s arguably the NBA’s best offensive center and will only be 26 next offseason.
DeAndre Jordan. 2. player. 77. . Player Option for 2018-19.
One of the NBA’s premier big men, DeAndre Jordan is an excellent scorer and rebounder at the center position. He also has a history of being a big-time shot blocker, but took a step back in that category last season. There’s some belief he’ll stay in Los Angeles, but I wouldn’t be surprised to see him test the market with the way this season is unfolding. That is, if they don’t trade him first.
3. player. 169. . Restricted Free Agent. . Clint Capela
I find it hard to believe the Rockets will let Clint Capela walk next offseason. The only way I see that happening is if they prioritize re-signing players such as Paul over their young big man. It seems unlikely, but crazier things happen in the NBA all the time. If he does hit the market, he’ll be one of the most intriguing options available with the potential to reel in a huge contract.
. Brook Lopez. 4. player. 20. . Unrestricted Free Agent
At 29 years of age, Brook Lopez is still a plus starter at center. He’s developed a 3-point shot, and is more than capable of putting up big points on a nightly basis. His defense is average and he isn’t the type of rim protector most teams are looking for, but he can inject some offense into any lineup in need of more size. If he continues to shine for the Lakers, his stock will increase significantly.
Jusuf Nurkic has been a huge part of the Portland Trail Blazers’ turnaround since he was acquired in a trade for Mason Plumlee. Don’t expect him to be going anywhere as a restricted free agent.
Next: Big names most likely to be dealt before deadline
Other notable pending free agents: Jusuf Nurkic, Portland Trail Blazers (restricted free agent); Enes Kanter, New York Knicks (player option for 2018-19); Greg Monroe, Phoenix Suns (unrestricted free agent); Nerlens Noel, Dallas Mavericks (unrestricted free agent)