Predicting where the NBA's top 20 free agents will play in 2024–25
By Dalton Sell
One of the busiest and most exciting times in the association is approaching. In the coming weeks, NBA free agency will begin, and there is no shortage of interesting names set to be on the market.
Everyone will have their eyes on the stars, such as LeBron James and Paul George, but there will be a plethora of other recognizable names available, like D'Angelo Russell, Pascal Siakam, Buddy Hield, and many more. Without further ado, let's predict where the top free agents from ESPN's top 20 list from Kevin Pelton (subscription required) will be playing when the 2024-25 NBA season begins.
20. Markelle Fultz - Brooklyn Nets
It'll be a fascinating off-season for the Brooklyn Nets, a franchise that has fully embraced the desire to contend but just missed the playoffs. If they keep that same mindset and want to make another run at the postseason in 2024-25, they will have to make a few tweaks around the edges of the roster.
The most prominent question mark for Brooklyn is center, but they also have plenty of uncertainty at the point guard slot. Backup Dennis Smith Jr. is set to hit free agency, and while they have a veteran in Dennis Schroder under contract, he's not exactly a franchise point guard. As they look to bolster their depth at the position, perhaps they could look into Markelle Fultz.
Fultz's story as a No. 1 pick who never really found his footing is well-known. However, over the past couple of years with the Orlando Magic, he's developed into a quality floor general capable of playing tough defense. For a team in need of some help at point guard, Fultz could be an option, especially as their starting job is seemingly up for grabs.
Fultz could likely be had for cheap, given that he just had a down year with the Magic due to playing a smaller role and dealing with injuries. After showing promise in his rookie year in limited spurts, there wouldn't be much controversy if the Magic want to promote Anthony Black, the sixth overall pick in last year's draft, to take the reigns at backup point guard.
Brooklyn could offer him an opportunity to showcase what he brings to the table, especially if the Magic make a move that will be featured later on this list.