Top NBA Free Agents Still on the Market: A Deep Dive into Available Talent
As the NBA free agency frenzy hits its mid-July lull, many of the league’s top players have already signed new deals. Whether securing contracts with their existing teams or finding new homes for fresh starts, the dust is settling. However, a few notable talents remain unsigned, despite possessing the skill sets and experience to contribute significantly to NBA rotations. These players may not be stars or guaranteed starters, but they have proven their value over time and deserve a place on an NBA roster. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at five of these free agents who could make an impact if given the opportunity.
1. Tyus Jones: The Undervalued Playmaker
Tyus Jones stands out as one of the most surprising names still available in free agency. Known for his smart decision-making, steady leadership, and hyper-efficient play, Jones has steadily improved throughout his NBA career. He was a crucial component of the Memphis Grizzlies’ success, filling in for the starting point guard role seamlessly when Ja Morant was out due to injury.
In his time with Memphis, Jones established himself as one of the top backup point guards in the league, leading the second unit with poise and precision. Last season, he took another step forward with the Washington Wizards, where he posted career-high averages in both points and assists. He also shot a personal best from the field and three-point range, making over 41% of his attempts from beyond the arc.
Despite his impressive numbers and the fact that he’s arguably starting-point-guard material, Jones remains unsigned. Teams looking for stability and smart play at the point guard position should seriously consider him. His unflashy but effective game makes him a perfect fit for teams in need of a floor general to facilitate their offense.
2. Gary Trent Jr.: A Misjudged Gamble
Gary Trent Jr. is another talented player who has yet to find a new home, though his situation may be more of his own doing. Trent turned down a contract from the Toronto Raptors worth approximately $15 million per year, opting to test the market in search of a deal closer to $25 million annually. Unfortunately for Trent, the market hasn’t valued him as highly as he expected, leaving him in an awkward position.
Trent is a high-volume shooter from three-point range, attempting around seven shots per game from beyond the arc and converting at a solid 39% clip. Over the last three seasons, he’s averaged between 13 and 18 points per game, showcasing his scoring ability. However, his asking price was too steep for most teams, and now Trent must come to terms with the reality that he overestimated his value.
Despite this miscalculation, Trent still holds considerable appeal. Teams in need of a reliable shooter and secondary scorer should find Trent to be an attractive option — provided he’s willing to adjust his contract expectations.
3. Luke Kennard: The Sharpshooter in Limbo
Luke Kennard’s situation is puzzling given his elite shooting ability. Kennard has consistently ranked among the NBA’s best three-point shooters, boasting a career percentage of 44% from beyond the arc. He has led the league in three-point percentage twice and has hit over 44% of his threes in four straight seasons.
Kennard’s release from the Memphis Grizzlies came as a financial decision, with the team declining his $14.8 million option to free up cap space. However, there are reports that Memphis may still want him back at a lower price. Whether he returns to Memphis or not, it’s surprising that a player with his shooting prowess hasn’t been scooped up yet.
With the growing importance of three-point shooting in today’s game, Kennard could command a significant role on many teams. His ability to space the floor and knock down shots with incredible accuracy makes him a valuable asset, especially for teams lacking consistent perimeter scoring.
4. Isaac Okoro: The Defensive Specialist on the Rise
Isaac Okoro is another player who remains unsigned, largely due to his restricted free-agent status with the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Cavaliers have the right to match any offer he receives, which may be why teams have been hesitant to extend offers to him. Still, it’s puzzling that Okoro hasn’t attracted more attention given his defensive prowess.
Okoro is an excellent defender, capable of guarding multiple positions on the wing. He has been a key part of Cleveland’s rise to becoming one of the NBA’s best defensive teams. Although his offensive game is still developing, Okoro has shown consistent improvement as a three-point shooter, hitting 39% of his shots from deep last season.
His offensive limitations may have deterred some suitors, but his value as a “3-and-D” player is undeniable. Teams in need of wing defense and three-point shooting should be looking closely at Okoro as a low-risk, high-reward signing.
5. Gordon Hayward: A Proven Scorer Seeking a Fresh Start
The final player on our list is Gordon Hayward, who is somewhat surprisingly still available. Hayward’s recent stint with the Oklahoma City Thunder was underwhelming, as he struggled to find his place in their rotation. However, his time in OKC shouldn’t erase what he’s capable of contributing as a player.
Before being traded to the Thunder, Hayward was averaging 15 points per game with the Charlotte Hornets, shooting efficiently and proving that he still has plenty left in the tank. As a secondary scoring option, Hayward can provide a reliable spot-up shooter and an off-ball mover who doesn’t need the ball in his hands to be effective.
