Honorable Mention: The Guards
Nicolas Batum, UFA
- Nicolas Batum is one of the most versatile players in the NBA. He can score in isolation, space the floor from beyond the arc, run the offense as a facilitator, and defend all three perimeter positions. Thus, it’s easy to understand why many are intrigued by the possibility of signing Batum. It’s also worth noting that Batum is a jack of all trades and a master of none. He’d be an outstanding addition, but a max contract may be a bit much.
Mike Conley, UFA
- Mike Conley has helped the Memphis Grizzlies reach the playoffs in a franchise record six consecutive seasons. Memphis won at least 50 games in three of the past four seasons. Though the Grizzlies haven’t been a one-man show, Conley is a proven postseason performer who lives for the big moments. On the downside, he’s also a 28-year-old point guard who missed much of the 2015-16 season with tendinitis in his achilles tendon.
Rajon Rondo, UFA
- 2015-16 marked the fourth time that Rajon Rondo has led the NBA in assists per game. He finished the season with averages of 11.9 points, 11.7 assists, 6.0 rebounds, and 2.0 steals, and made a career-best 62 3-point field goals on 36.5 percent shooting from beyond the arc. Rondo also has a history of injuries, and had a rocky relationship with many of his head coaches.
Dwyane Wade, UFA
- Two years ago, there would be no question about whether or not Dwyane Wade should receive a max contract. At 34 years of age, however, Wade is a more difficult player to project financially. He averaged 21.4 points on 46.9 percent shooting in the playoffs, and should be one of the New York Knicks’ primary offseason targets. Paying a 34-year-old on shaky knees max money simply isn’t the easiest move to make.
Next: Honorable Mention: The Big Men