Ranking the 5 best available power forwards in 2023 NBA free agency
1. Harrison Barnes, Sacramento Kings
Harrison Barnes never lived up to the hype of his lottery pick status, but he’s just been solidly plugging away at a long career. He’s got one more opportunity to get his money, although he may be tempted to stay with the Sacramento Kings, even for less money.
De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis rightfully get the attention, but the Kings probably wouldn’t have busted int he upper echelon of the Western Conference – at least during the regular season – without Barnes, their veteran block. He averaged 15 points and 4.5 rebounds per game.
Those may not sound like mind-altering numbers, but it’s Barnes’ consistency that wins the day. Not only was he one of the league leaders in minutes once again this past season, but he played in all 82 games for the second time in his career.
His ability to shoot consistently across the court led to an offensive rating of 126.5 this season. It was the first time Barnes ranked in the top 20 in the metric during his decade-plus career.
The 31-year old is coming off a four-year, $85 million deal, which he signed with the Dallas Mavericks before being dealt to the Kings. He seems more attractive than Grant because his age could portend a cheaper contract, likely to be Barnes’ last big one of his career.
Barnes is believed to be open to a return to California’s capital next season. Don’t be surprised if one of those power forward-needy teams – Cleveland? – swoops in for the 3-and-D ace veteran.
dark. Next. Rankings free agent SFs
Power forward isn’t the most stacked free agency position this summer, at least on the surface. But there will be opportunities for franchises to cash in.