It’s pretty crazy to think that just a few weeks ago, the topic of discussion in NBA circles was the Cleveland Cavaliers winning the NBA Finals. Now, on just July 12th, we are almost completely finished with the free agency season, and our attention turns back to the action on the court. However, we can’t just let this period go by without at least discussing what happened. The NBA may move at the speed of the next breaking news story, but let’s take a look at the best five free agent signings of this offseason.
Kevin Durant: Two Years, $54.5 million with the Golden State Warriors
There is no sugar coating this one, Kevin Durant signing with the Warriors was not only the biggest move of free agency, but it was also the best move. The Warriors had been courting him for at least a year now, and continued their pursuit even after the two teams squared off in the Western Conference Finals. Durant ultimately decided that he could be part of a dynasty in Golden State, rather than trying to overcome them again in OKC or anywhere else. Durant now will have to adapt to a new system, but he is a superstar joining forces with other superstars. In no situation could this deal be a bad one, especially since he has a player option after the first year, the money is reasonable for Golden State, and he now becomes part of what other teams should fear as a “Super Death Lineup.” Look out, NBA.
Pau Gasol: Two Years, $30 million with the San Antonio Spurs
Every year, the Spurs make a move or two that continues to solidify their status among the class of the NBA. This year, that move is bringing in Pau Gasol, who clearly showed he is still a force to be reckoned with in Chicago. Gasol seems like a perfect complementary piece for the juggernaut that the Spurs are building around Kawhi Leonard and LaMarcus Aldridge, and can adapt to San Antonio’s system like he has throughout his career. Even with the retirement of Tim Duncan, don’t expect the Spurs to get much worse in 2016-2017.
Joe Johnson: Two Years, $22 million with the Utah Jazz
Joe Johnson was once a force to be reckoned with, as one of the best shooting guards in the league. Now, in the twilight of his career, he will serve as a valuable role player and veteran presence for a young Utah Jazz team. The Jazz crumbled down the stretch last season and squandered an opportunity to make the playoffs in the last week. Johnson’s leadership and clutch shot making could have changed that, and now he gets the chance to make the postseason with yet another team. Young players like Rodney Hood and Dante Exum can benefit from his leadership, and finally get over the hump and into the playoffs.
Festus Ezeli: Two Years, $15 million with the Portland Trail Blazers
The Kevin Durant signing meant that many of the Warriors’ reserves wouldn’t be back next season. One of those casualties was Ezeli, an important backup center throughout the season, who admittedly had a pretty terrible playoffs. Ezeli at that price, with all the money being thrown around this offseason, is a steal for Portland. He is still young, has shown promise and is now heading to a team with a proven recent history of developing promising young players. He should have a more prominent role, and could be the steal of free agency with the Trail Blazers.
Brandon Jennings: One Year, $5 million with the New York Knicks
Another candidate for steal of the offseason has to be Brandon Jennings, who signed with the Knicks for a mere $5 million. Even without the boost in salary cap space, Jennings easily could have commanded more money in free agency. He is now almost two years removed from his Achilles injury, and has proven that he is a potent point guard who can both score and pass. On the Knicks he will only be a backup behind Derrick Rose, but that means he is only a game away from the starting role. Given the opportunity, Jennings can prove that he will be worth much more next year, and his bet on himself will pay off.