Post by tyfreak on Jun 13, 2014 1:09:33 GMT
Today we are gonna be taking a look at the top ten upcoming Free Agency class. This class is loaded with great role players, aging vets, and young potential stars. With the unique situation of expansion looming, it only strengthens this class. * = Expansion player fully depending on missing out in the playoffs
1) Brook Lopez* - Brook Lopez is playing for an expansion team, so if 76ers do advance to the playoffs, Lopez will remain a 76er. Lopez is a lethal offensive weapon for anyone that needs a legitimate post scorer. Right now he is averaging 25.8 Points per game, 9.6 Rebounds, and shown he can protect the rim getting 2.9 Blocks per game. Lopez is known as an offensive force, however he has been consistent on the defensive end of the court throughout his career. Lopez is the real deal, and expect him to earn a hefty paycheck. 
2) Yao Ming - What kind've list would it have been without Chinese Sensation Yao Ming? Yao Ming although 33, has aged well thus far in his career. His scoring is a bit down this season, but playing with Wade and CP3 you can see why. Yao Ming although no defensive stud, isn't a liability on defensive. Yao Ming will likely be going for his last big contract.
3) Andrew Bynum - Andrew Bynum has been fairly dominant since the beginning of this league. He has shown he can score inside, rebound, and lock down the paint. Right now he is averaging 2.7 blocks per game, which is down from his 3.2 last season. Since being drafted he has 1992 career blocks, most in the league history which is quite a feat considering he was drafted two years into the league. He is still pretty young at 26 years old so don't be surprised if someone throws the max his way.
4) Kris Humphries - Kris Humphries has been a consistent threat in the low post for the duration of his career. His is averaging 15.3 Points, 13 Rebounds, and 2.9 Blocks per game. He's been quietly having a nice career down in Sacramento. He doesn't have the name value of some other guys mentioned on this list, but one thing is certain: He's a damn good player. Could be a very under the radar player come Free Agency.
5) LaMarcus Aldridge - LaMarcus has been very dependable since being drafted second overall, averaging 26 points per game this season. The best fit for LaMarcus would preferably be a team that has a hog at center able to grab boards and lock down the paint. LaMarcus could still work on his defense and rebounding, but LaMarcus can certainly put a team over the top if all you are lacking is an offensive stud. At 28 it is quite possible he has reached his peak. You know what you are getting with Aldridge
6) Paul George - There is nothing to say other than Paul George is a young stud who still has potential to grow. Unless Celtics go on another one of those disappear of an offseason vacations, he should remain in Boston as he is a Restricted Free Agent. Paul George is making his defensive presence known as he is averaging 1.3 Steal and 1.2 blocks. His scoring is a bit down this season, but he has shown he can score as he averaged 19 points last season. Be surprised if you see anything other than a max contract for Paul George
7) Rudy Gay - Many General Managers around the league questioned the contract Rudy Gay was given, however he has found his niche in this league. He is averaging 22 Points, 6 Rebounds shooting 47% from the field and a career best 42% from beyond the arc. Rudy Gay has likely reached his peak, but he is still a second tier Small Forward. He is also averaging 1.2 Steal per game and 1.4 blocks per game, which is a very good number, especially for a SF.
8) Andre Iguodala - Andre, who is one half of perhaps the best backcourt in the league will be testing Free Agency waters. Andre can do it all, averaging 20 points, 5.7 Rebounds, and 4 assists per game along with 1.3 steal per game. A few years into his career it was looking like at best Iggy would be a lockdown defender, however his offensive game has really developed the past few seasons. It will be interesting to see if Iggy remains with the Bucks or if he walks. I imagine if Bucks keep up the season he will stay put. They have a great core that should remain competitive for seasons if all goes well.
9) John Wall - John Wall is on the brink of becoming a star, and I see no reason why he can't become one. This season he is averaging 22 points along with 8.3 Assists per game. Wall was questioned about his shooting, but he has proven everyone wrong thus far and he is even hitting 44% of his shots from downtown. The scary thing about John Wall is he isn't close to reaching his prime. If he can continue working hard, he should be in contention for the best Point Guard in the league. 
10) Chris Paul - Chris Paul or as many refer to CP3, is probably one of the most dominant players in league history. CP3 does it all, he scores, assists, doesn't turn the ball over, and is a force on the defensive end as well getting 2.5 steals per game. Chris Paul is a MVP candidate year in and year out, so expect him getting paid like one. With career numbers of 20 Points, 9.6 Assists, and 2.5 steals per game, Grizzlies would be extremely foolish to let Chris Paul walk in Free Agency. He has stated he wants to play for a winner, so perhaps he will bolt if Memphis doesn't turn it around like they did last season.
That's all the time we have for today, folks. Their are so many people who could have easily made this list, which only shows how good this Free Agency class is. This offseason could possibly change the landscape of the league
