Ranking The 5 Best NBA Free Agents At Every Position

As the NBA offseason approaches, basketball enthusiasts eagerly await the flurry of activity that free agency brings. It’s a time when teams seek to bolster their lineups, aiming to acquire the missing pieces necessary for a championship run or to reinvigorate their franchise’s fortunes. The landscape of the league can change dramatically with the signing of a single free agent, making this period an exhilarating and pivotal moment in professional basketball.

It is time to delve into the world of NBA free agency and rank the top five available players at every position. From dominant centers to lightning-quick point guards, versatile forwards to sharpshooting shooting guards, the talent pool is deep and diverse. Each position presents its own unique set of skills and demands, and our rankings aim to showcase the cream of the crop in each category.

Ranking the free agents take into account various factors, including a player’s performance, statistics, versatility, leadership qualities, and potential for future growth. We consider their contributions to their previous teams, their impact on the court, and the potential impact they can bring to their new team. It’s important to note that free agency is a rapidly evolving landscape, and player movement can reshape the rankings in a matter of hours. However, at this moment in time, these five individuals stand out as the most coveted free agents at their respective positions. We have already predicted where some of the top free agents will end up this summer, but let’s go deeper and rank the top-25 players among their positions.

Point Guards

5. Russell Westbrook

Even at his age and decline in skills, Russell Westbrook is still a highly valuable free agent due to his exceptional talent, versatility, and track record of success in the NBA. As a dynamic point guard, Westbrook possesses a rare combination of athleticism, scoring ability, and playmaking skills. Despite a putrid season with the Los Angeles Lakers, Westbrook made his mark felt with the Clippers by averaging 23.6 PPG, 7.6 RPG, and 7.4 APG in the playoffs against the Phoenix Suns.

He consistently fills up the stat sheet, showcasing his ability to impact the game in multiple facets. Additionally, Westbrook’s intensity and relentless work ethic make him a fierce competitor and leader on the court. As a result, expect title-contending teams such as the Miami Heat to be in the running for Russell Westbrook while the Los Angeles Clippers will try to retain him on a team-friendly deal.

Most Realistic Destinations: Miami Heat, Los Angeles Clippers

4. D’Angelo Russell

Will D’Angelo Russell re-sign with the Los Angeles Lakers? There is no doubt that the player is a valuable free agent due to his exceptional scoring ability and playmaking skills. As a skilled point guard, Russell possesses a smooth shooting stroke and a knack for creating his own shot. Russell posted 17.8 PPG and 6.2 APG this season so he is clearly an above-average talent at his position, especially when he shot 39.6% from the three-point line. His ability to navigate through defenses and find open teammates makes him a dual threat on the court.

Russell has demonstrated the potential to be a high-impact scorer and a primary playmaker, capable of leading an offense effectively. Furthermore, at just 27 years old, he has room for growth and development, making him an enticing long-term investment for teams in need of backcourt firepower. If the Lakers can’t find a deal for an All-Star player, Russell will likely be returning to the team. Otherwise, the Toronto Raptors are rumored to be interested in the former No. 2 overall pick.

Most Realistic Destinations: Los Angeles Lakers, Toronto Raptors

3. Fred VanVleet

Fred VanVleet is a highly valuable free agent due to his exceptional skills as a point guard. Known for his tenacity, basketball IQ, and clutch performances, VanVleet has emerged as a reliable leader and playmaker for the Toronto Raptors over the past few years. The guard made the All-Star Team in the 2021-22 season and posted 19.3 PPG and 7.2 APG this past season with the same franchise. His ability to control the tempo, distribute the ball effectively, and knock down timely three-pointers (37.3% career 3-PT FG) makes him a valuable asset for any team.

Additionally, VanVleet’s defensive prowess and ability to disrupt opposing guards add another dimension to his game. As a proven winner with playoff experience, VanVleet brings a winning mentality and championship pedigree, making him an attractive target for teams looking to bolster their backcourt and add a resilient competitor to their roster. Unless the Raptors can bring him back, the Houston Rockets will be willing to pay the 29-year-old star to be their best player.

Most Realistic Destinations: Toronto Raptors, Houston Rockets

2. Kyrie Irving

Kyrie Irving is a bonafide superstar due to his unparalleled offensive skills and ability to take over games. With his exceptional ball-handling, scoring prowess, and dazzling array of moves, Irving is a nightmare for opposing defenses. Even with the team inconsistencies the player had to deal with in Brooklyn and Dallas, Irving averaged an impressive 27.1 PPG, 5.1 RPG, and 5.5 APG on 37.9% 3-PT FG. His ability to create his own shot, finish at the rim, and knock down clutch shots still makes him one of the most electrifying players in the NBA.

Irving’s basketball IQ and playmaking ability also allow him to excel as a facilitator and set up his teammates for scoring opportunities. Moreover, his championship experience and proven ability to perform under pressure make him an enticing asset for any team looking to elevate their playoff aspirations. The Dallas Mavericks want to hold onto the superstar guard to pair him with Luka Doncic, but if the Lakers go all-in for a deal involving Kyrie, the 2016 NBA champion could be heading to the Lakers.

Most Realistic Destinations: Dallas Mavericks, Los Angeles Lakers

1. James Harden

James Harden might have no choice but to re-sign with the Philadelphia 76ers. Considering the fact that The Beard wants a max deal, there might be only two teams in the running: the Philadelphia 76ers and the Houston Rockets. The former is a team that makes sense for Harden because he has a new coach to play under and arguably the best two-way center in the world in Joel Embiid. It is not often a player of Harden’s offensive talents has a go-to big man to rely on.

The Houston Rockets might have cooled their interest in Harden, especially after the player had a horrific Game 6 and Game 7 against the Boston Celtics in the second round of the 2023 Playoffs, although it could be going both ways. Houston could be heading in a different direction, which means Harden could be forced to re-sign with the 76ers, a team that still has some elite talent in Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey.

Most Realistic Destinations: Philadelphia 76ers, Houston Rockets

Shooting Guards

5. Max Strus

Max Strus is a valuable free agent due to his impressive shooting ability and potential for growth, even if he faced some criticism for failing to show up in the NBA Finals. As a sharpshooter, Strus has showcased his knack for knocking down three-pointers with consistency and efficiency. The shooting guard is posting 37.1% from deep over his career and has a ton of confidence from the perimeter.

His shooting stroke, combined with his size and athleticism, makes him a valuable asset in today’s perimeter-oriented NBA. Additionally, Strus has shown flashes of versatility and defensive potential, making him a well-rounded player. At just 27 years old, he has room to further develop his skills and make a significant impact on both ends of the court. For a reasonable long-term deal, the Detroit Pistons and Orlando Magic are two teams needing perimeter shooting and could acquire the player to shore up their backcourt.

Most Realistic Destinations: Detroit Pistons, Orlando Magic

4. Caris LeVert

Caris LeVert is a highly valuable free agent due to his versatile skill set and ability to impact the game in multiple ways. As a dynamic scorer, LeVert possesses the ability to create his own shot and attack the rim with explosiveness. His length and athleticism also make him a threat on the defensive end, capable of guarding multiple positions when he is locked in. This season with the Cleveland Cavaliers, LeVert averaged 12.1 PPG, 3.8 RPG, and 3.9 APG while coming off the bench for the majority of the season.

Despite injury setbacks earlier in his career, LeVert has proven his resilience and potential to be a key contributor on a contending team. His combination of scoring, playmaking, and defensive prowess make him an enticing free agent for teams in need of a versatile wing player. We saw how LeVert averaged 17.0 PPG in the 2021-22 season, so he can return to that figure if he joins a team like the Detroit Pistons who need more scoring. Otherwise, expect the Cavaliers to try to retain their 6th man.

Most Realistic Destinations: Cleveland Cavaliers, Detroit Pistons

3. Jordan Clarkson

Jordan Clarkson will be targeted by many teams this summer due to his scoring prowess and instant offensive impact. As a dynamic scorer, Clarkson has the ability to heat up quickly and provide an immediate spark off the bench or as a scoring option in a starting lineup. His ability to create his own shot, attack the basket, and knock down outside jumpers makes him a valuable asset in today’s NBA.

Clarkson’s versatility as a combo guard allows him to play both on and off the ball, providing flexibility to teams in need of scoring punch. Additionally, his experience and playoff background add valuable intangibles to his value as a free agent. Clarkson averaged 20.8 PPG, 4.0 RPG, and 4.4 APG on 33.8% 3-PT FG so expect teams such as the Miami Heat and Houston Rockets to go after the explosive offensive guard.

Most Realistic Destinations: Miami Heat, Houston Rockets

2. Bruce Brown

Bruce Brown has proven to be an elite role player due to his tenacious defense, versatility, and high basketball IQ. As a relentless defender, Brown has the ability to guard multiple positions and disrupt opponents with his physicality and anticipation. That showed itself in the NBA playoffs this year when Brown averaged 12.0 PPG and 4.0 RPG on 51.1% shooting from the field for the championship Denver Nuggets.

As great as Brown was defensively, his versatility extends to the offensive end, where he can contribute as a playmaker and finisher at the rim. Brown’s ability to make smart decisions with the ball and contribute in various facets of the game makes him a valuable asset for any team. That is why Brown is on course to get paid the largest sum of money of his career, most likely coming from either the Minnesota Timberwolves or Dallas Mavericks.

Most Realistic Destinations: Minnesota Timberwolves, Dallas Mavericks

1. Austin Reaves

Austin Reaves is going to get paid this summer ladies and gentlemen. No shooting guard is more valuable than Reaves due to his well-rounded skill set and potential for growth. As a versatile guard, Reaves has shown an ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game this season with the Los Angeles Lakers. He possesses solid ball-handling skills, a smooth shooting stroke, and the ability to finish at the rim. After averaging 13.0 PPG, 3.0 RPG, and 3.4 APG in the regular season, Reaves posted 16.9 PPG, 4.4 RPG, and 4.6 APG in the playoffs.

Reaves has demonstrated an aptitude for playmaking, making smart decisions, and setting up his teammates effectively. Moreover, his competitiveness and defensive effort make him a valuable asset on both ends of the court. There is no secret that the Lakers want to match any contract offer Reaves gets up to $100 million, which means the player could stay with the team. However, if Kyrie Irving comes knocking on Rob Pelinka’s door, Reaves could be used as a trade asset.

Most Realistic Destinations: Los Angeles Lakers, Dallas Mavericks

Small Forwards

5. Kenyon Martin Jr.

A player with impressive athleticism, defensive versatility, and untapped potential, Kenyon Martin Jr. can be a solid forward option for many teams in the NBA. As a young prospect (22 years old), Martin Jr has showcased his ability to impact the game with his high-flying dunks, shot-blocking prowess, and relentless energy on the court. He possesses the agility and quickness to guard multiple positions effectively, making him a valuable asset on the defensive end.

Additionally, Martin Jr has shown glimpses of offensive potential, with the ability to finish at the rim and knock down mid-range jumpers. With the Houston Rockets, a team that could bring him back on a long-term deal, Martin Jr averaged 12.7 PPG and 5.5 RPG. With his combination of physical tools and room for growth, Martin Jr represents an intriguing option for teams including the Dallas Mavericks looking to invest in a promising young talent with the potential to develop into a key contributor.

Most Realistic Destinations: Houston Rockets, Dallas Mavericks

4. Dillon Brooks

Despite the internet memes constantly mentioning the prospect of Dillon Brooks playing in China, the player is good enough to be in the NBA and he will be a part of an NBA franchise next year. Brooks averaged 14.3 PPG in the regular season with the Memphis Grizzlies, even if he only shot 32.6% from deep. More importantly, Brooks played some hellacious defense against some of the NBA’s top stars which is why he was named to the All-Defensive Second Team.

Brooks will receive heavy interest from the Houston Rockets, a franchise that wants to start winning games since signing former Boston Celtics head coach Ime Udoka. The player wants a deal for over $12 million per season, so if the Rockets do offer a three or four-year deal worth that much, Brooks could be in Houston’s starting lineup next year. Otherwise, expect a team like the Dallas Mavericks to pounce on Brooks because Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving need a player who will defend at a high level.

Most Realistic Destinations: Houston Rockets, Dallas Mavericks

3. Kelly Oubre Jr.

The 27-year-old Kelly Oubre Jr is not only an athletic forward with scoring ability, but he has a solid all-around game. Oubre Jr. is a valuable free agent due to his combination of athleticism, scoring ability, and defensive potential. With his high-flying dunks and explosive drives to the rim, Oubre Jr. brings an exciting element to any team’s offense. He has shown the ability to create his own shot and knock down outside jumpers, making him a versatile scoring threat.

Defensively, Oubre Jr.’s length and athleticism allow him to disrupt passing lanes and guard multiple positions effectively. Additionally, his energy and intensity on both ends of the court make him a valuable asset in setting the tone for a team. As a young player with room for growth, Oubre Jr. represents an intriguing option for teams looking to add a dynamic wing player to their roster who posted 20.3 PPG and 5.2 RPG this season. Expect the Charlotte Hornets and Houston Rockets to battle for the talented player’s signature.

Most Realistic Destinations: Charlotte Hornets, Houston Rockets

2. Josh Hart

Josh Hart had a very good season with the New York Knicks, averaging 9.8 PPG and 7.8 RPG as the starting small forward. This summer, Hart will be a valuable free agent due to his versatility, tenacious defense, and rebounding prowess. As a versatile wing player, Hart has the ability to contribute in multiple ways on both ends of the court. Defensively, he is a relentless perimeter defender who can guard multiple positions effectively.

Hart’s hustle and high motor make him a valuable rebounder, often grabbing boards over bigger opponents. Offensively, he can knock down three-pointers, attack the rim, and make plays for his teammates. Furthermore, his toughness and competitiveness make him a valuable presence in the locker room. As a result, Hart represents an enticing option for teams seeking a hard-nosed and well-rounded wing player. The Knicks probably want to re-sign him, but the Mavericks need him more than the Knicks do which is why they are a threat to steal him away.

Most Realistic Destinations: New York Knicks, Dallas Mavericks

1. Khris Middleton

There is heavy interest from both the Milwaukee Bucks and Khris Middleton that a deal will get done this summer. While that is good news for both parties, that doesn’t mean that a team like the Sacramento Kings won’t be in the mix. Despite only appearing in 33 games this season, Khris Middleton is a trustworthy sidekick to Giannis Antetokounmpo and one of the best two-way players in the league. Without Middleton, the Bucks would not have won the 2020-21 NBA championship.

Even if the Bucks are the frontrunners to sign Middleton to another long-term deal, the Sacramento Kings will be hunting for a player to form a Big Three alongside De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis. The Bucks can’t afford to stall on re-signing the player because even if the prospect of having Giannis on the team is a selling point, nobody can predict what could happen in free agency.

Most Realistic Destinations: Milwaukee Bucks, Sacramento Kings

Power Forwards

5. Christian Wood

Christian Wood, despite the fact that he has not found a home just yet, is an intriguing free agent due to his combination of athleticism, scoring ability, and versatility. As a skilled big man, Wood possesses the ability to score both inside and outside the paint. He can finish with authority at the rim, stretch the floor with his shooting, and create mismatches with his mobility and agility. Through 67 games, Wood averaged 16.6 PPG, 7.3 RPG, and 1.1 BPG with the Dallas Mavericks.

Wood’s rebounding prowess and shot-blocking ability make him a force on the defensive end as he will average at least 1.0 BPG in his sleep. Even if the game has moved away from big men, Wood will demand a long-term deal from teams needing more size including the Atlanta Hawks and Brooklyn Nets. The hopes of being an All-Star could be gone for good, but Wood needs to find a home.

Most Realistic Destinations: Atlanta Hawks, Brooklyn Nets

4. Cameron Johnson

Mikal Bridges of the Brooklyn Nets wants Cameron Johnson to return to the team, but we don’t know what will happen with the 27-year-old. Johnson averaged 15.5 PPG and 4.4 RPG on 40.4% 3-PT FG this season, in split time with the Brooklyn Nets and Phoenix Suns, so he could demand a three or four-year deal. Considering the fact the Nets have Mikal Bridges under contract until the 2025-26 season, bringing back a sharpshooter in his prime makes a ton of sense for the franchise.

The Nets need to find a way to move on from Ben Simmons’ albatross contract (over $30 million until the 2024-25 season), and if they do, they could be in great shape for the future even if they bring back Cameron Johnson. It is hard to imagine a situation where Bridges and Johnson aren’t on the same team because of how they have prospered together, so expect the Nets to battle the Pistons for the young player’s signature.

Most Realistic Destinations: Brooklyn Nets, Detroit Pistons

3. Kyle Kuzma

Kyle Kuzma is a valuable free agent due to his scoring versatility, rebounding ability, and potential for growth as a 27-year-old in his prime. As a skilled forward, Kuzma has shown the ability to put up points in a variety of ways, including scoring in the paint, hitting mid-range jumpers, and stretching the floor with his three-point shooting. This season, the former No. 27 overall pick averaged 21.2 PPG and 7.2 RPG on 33.3% 3-PT FG.

Kuzma’s length and athleticism also make him a capable rebounder, contributing on the boards on both ends of the court. If the player can post at least 20 PPG, he will demand a deal of at least $20 million per season to play a major role on a team. The Sacramento Kings and Dallas Mavericks both need a versatile forward who can score and since Harrison Barnes is also a free agent, the former team could be the frontrunners.

Most Realistic Destinations: Sacramento Kings, Dallas Mavericks

2. Jerami Grant

Over the past few seasons, Jerami Grant has evolved into an elite two-way player. His defensive abilities are exceptional, with the versatility to guard multiple positions and disrupt opposing offenses with his length and athleticism. Offensively, Grant has made significant strides, becoming a reliable scorer and three-point shooter. With the Portland Trail Blazers, Grant averaged 20.5 PPG and 4.5 RPG on 40.1% shooting from three.

His ability to attack the rim, finish with authority, and knock down outside shots also make him a valuable offensive weapon. As a result, the Portland Trail Blazers will likely re-sign the forward to keep the seemingly content Damian Lillard happy with the team. Grant is too good to not demand a deal worth at least $20 million per season which is why the Trail Blazers will likely battle the title-contending Dallas Mavericks for Grant’s signature. What happens with Grant will likely help determine what Damian Lillard does with regard to his own future.

Most Realistic Destinations: Portland Trail Blazers, Dallas Mavericks

1. Draymond Green

Draymond Green is the best power forward available in free agency even if he is 33 years old and past his best as an All-Star contributor. The Golden State Warriors want to retain Draymond because, without him, the team can’t compete for championships because the chemistry he built with Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson is invaluable. However, that doesn’t mean Green isn’t interested in meeting with other teams in free agency.

In all likelihood, Green will come back to Golden State because the franchise just traded Green’s “enemy” Jordan Poole for a veteran in Chris Paul. A potential lineup with Chris Paul, Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, Andrew Wiggins, and Draymond Green is an extremely complete “Death Lineup” that will certainly be intriguing to watch. Unless the Detroit Pistons cough up major money to Green, the player will likely be back in his quest for his 5th NBA championship.

Most Realistic Destinations: Golden State Warriors, Detroit Pistons, Sacramento Kings

Centers

5. Thomas Bryant

Thomas Bryant is an interesting free agent due to his combination of size, athleticism, and offensive skills. As a center, Bryant has shown the ability to score both inside the paint, from mid-range, and the three-point line. He is an efficient finisher around the rim and has developed a reliable jump shot, making him a versatile offensive threat. Playing for the Los Angeles Lakers and Denver Nuggets, Bryant shot 62.3% from the field and 44.1% from the three-point line.

Bryant’s rebounding ability is also solid for an offensive-minded center as he averaged 5.7 RPG to go along with his 9.8 PPG. Additionally, his positive energy and work ethic make him a valuable presence in the locker room. Despite injury setbacks and inconsistent playing time, Bryant’s youth and potential for growth make him an intriguing option for teams looking for a skilled and promising big man. The Denver Nuggets might want to re-sign him as a backup to Nikola Jokic or the New Orleans Pelicans might want a backup to Jonas Valanciunas.

Most Realistic Destinations: Denver Nuggets, New Orleans Pelicans

4. Mason Plumlee

A powerhouse center, Mason Plumlee has the ability to impact the game with his interior presence. As a center, Plumlee has proven to be a reliable rebounder, consistently battling for boards and providing second-chance opportunities for his team. His ability to set screens and finish at the rim makes him a valuable asset in the pick-and-roll game. In 79 games played, Plumlee averaged 10.8 PPG and 8.9 RPG with the Charlotte Hornets and Los Angeles Clippers.

Plumlee’s basketball IQ and passing ability allow him to contribute as a playmaker from the post while his defensive skills, including shot-blocking and interior defense, further solidify his value. With his veteran leadership and reliable production, Plumlee represents a valuable option for teams in need of a dependable and experienced big man. The Clippers need a big man to back up Ivica Zubac while the Nuggets need a backup to Nikola Jokic, so Plumlee will be on an NBA team next year.

Most Realistic Destinations: Los Angeles Clippers, Denver Nuggets

3. Jakob Poeltl

Jakob Poeltl is a capable center due to his exceptional defensive skills, rebounding prowess, and high basketball IQ. As a center, Poeltl’s rim protection is outstanding, as he possesses excellent timing and shot-blocking ability. He excels at altering shots and deterring opponents from attacking the paint. Furthermore, Poeltl’s strong rebounding instincts make him an asset on the glass, consistently grabbing crucial boards to secure possessions for his team.

Poeltl’s understanding of defensive rotations and positioning enhances his value as a defensive anchor. The big man averaged 12.5 PPG and 9.1 RPG with the San Antonio Spurs and Toronto Raptors, and the latter team will want to retain the big man because he is more than solid defensively and is a winning player. Even if he can’t shoot, Poeltl is an impactful center in the modern NBA.

Most Realistic Destinations: Toronto Raptors, New Orleans Pelicans

2. Brook Lopez

The Milwaukee Bucks most likely want to retain their All-Defensive First Team center because Lopez was a force inside the paint by averaging 15.9 PPG, 6.7 RPG, and 2.5 BPG on 37.4% from three. The center does everything well in terms of two-way play and would start for almost every NBA team. As a result, the Bucks will want to keep the 35-year-old at all costs.

However, there could be steep competition from the Houston Rockets. The Rockets need a center who can play both ends of the court and contribute to a winning culture. Lopez is clearly an above-average center who has a few more seasons left before retirement, so he is without a doubt the second-best center in the free-agent market. It will be very interesting to see where the former No. 10 overall pick ends up because it could play a big role in what the Milwaukee Bucks do next season.

Most Realistic Destinations: Milwaukee Bucks, Houston Rockets

1. Nikola Vucevic

Nikola Vucevic is not a defensive stalwart on Brook Lopez’s level, but he is an elite offensive player and rebounder who is a walking double-double. The former No. 16 overall pick averaged 17.6 PPG, 11.0 RPG, and 0.7 BPG on 52.0% from the field, 34.9% from the three-point line, and 83.5% from the free-throw line. Despite playing on a below-average Chicago Bulls team, Vucevic posted impressive numbers.

Since Vucevic is 32 years old and still in his prime, the Chicago Bulls won’t want to lose him. At the very least, a Big Three of DeMar DeRozan, Zach LaVine, and Nikola Vucevic will keep the Bulls afloat until a better deal comes along somewhere. If the Bulls don’t sign him, expect the Boston Celtics to go after Vucevic in an intelligent manner by moving some pieces around and creating a solid frontcourt lineup that already features Kristaps Porzingis and Robert Williams III.

Most Realistic Destinations: Chicago Bulls, Boston Celtics

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