Ranking the 5 best available power forwards in 2023 NBA free agency

April 17, 2023; Sacramento, California, USA; Sacramento Kings forward Harrison Barnes (40) celebrates after a basket against the Golden State Warriors during the first quarter in game two of the first round of the 2023 NBA playoffs at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports /

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Oct 31, 2022; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Charlotte Hornets forward center PJ Washington (25) dribbles the ball during the second half against the Sacramento Kings at the Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Sam Sharpe-USA TODAY Sports /

4. PJ Washington, Charlotte Hornets

PJ Washington is a restricted free agent this summer, giving the Charlotte Hornets the right to match any offer for the power forward. As the Hornets try to accelerate their rebuild with a top draft pick, it will be interesting to see what they do about Washington.

The forward was reportedly offered a four-year extension last summer in the range of $50 million to $52 million. He turned it down.

Washington then had a career year and may have even been the brightest light in Buzz City this season. Despite some substandard shooting, Washington averaged a career-high 15.7 points per game, starting in 73 contests.

Some of his other stats took a step back, though. Besides shooting, his rebounding down and his fouling was up. He also didn’t seem as impressive as he has in the past in terms of blocking shots.

Part of his efficiency issue may have stemmed from playing the role of a small ball center from time to time, which he’s ill-suited to do. That can make his general numbers even more impressive at power forward, which is where he should expect to play going forward.

The Charlotte front office has indicated that they’re interested in trying to hang on to the players they drafted and developed – despite the questionable results – and Washington would certainly fit that rubric. His versatility could make him a keeper, but the Hornets may not match if a power forward-needy team decides to break the bank with an offer sheet.

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