As we make our way through NBA free agency, things with the top players available are starting to take shape. That does ruin a lot of the drama and speculation for fans and analysts, but it does give the second-tier free agents things to talk about.
In a lot of ways, these players will form the backbone of a playoff/championship team. Stars are always going to carry a team to a championship. Those players who are a step below them will always play a significant role in key spots. (E.g. Mike Miller in Game 5 of the NBA Finals)
Here are the best players available, as well as the likeliest scenario for where they will end up playing.
Jeremy Lin, PG
One of the most unique players available this offseason, Lin doesn't have the pedigree that a lot of superstars do, yet he is enough of a draw to command big dollars this offseason.
Reports have surfaced that the Rockets have offered Lin a contract. It also says that the Knicks are inclined to match any offer the star point guard receives to keep him in New York.
That seems to be the best fit for Lin, as his personality and style of play fit well with what the Knicks are doing. It would be more interesting if he left, but that is not in the cards.
Prediction: Stays With New York
Brook Lopez, C
Like Lin, Lopez is a restricted free agent and the Nets will have a chance to match any offer he receives.
There has not been a lot of talk about Lopez signing anywhere right now, though he has been mentioned as a potential trade piece in a deal that would bring Dwight Howard to Brooklyn.
The Nets aren't going to have the cap space, nor will they find a third team to help facilitate a deal; somehow the Nets could find a way to simply re-sign Lopez.
He was hurt a lot of last year, but it's surprising that there is not more talk surrounding Lopez. He is just 24 years old with a strong track record of success as a seven-foot center. There aren't a lot of those players in the NBA right now.
Prediction: Stays With Brooklyn
Jamal Crawford, G
Despite being past his prime, Crawford has proven to be a very productive and durable player into his early 30s.
Crawford has more than his share of suitors, but David Aldridge reports that the Clippers are the favorites to land his services.
Source says free agent guard Jamal Crawford still weighing options, but Clippers are in the lead at the moment.
— David Aldridge (@daldridgetnt) July 5, 2012
As far as giving him a chance to win and having playing time available, the Clippers are the best fit for Crawford. He can't be the No. 1 or No. 2 option for a playoff team, but as a No. 3 on a team he is more than capable of holding his own.
Prediction: Signs With Clippers
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