The NBA has confirmed that the salary cap will increase dramatically next season, which means that free agents this summer can expect a huge pay day. This year has a particularly deep free agent class, and consists of several all-stars and household names. Contract years usually result in an increased level of production, as players are quite literally playing for their jobs. This article will take a look at five players who are setting themselves up for a huge deal this summer. One guy not on this list is Wesley Matthews, who was playing at a career level and was certainly going to be paid handsomely, but tore his Achilles and whose future is uncertain.
1. LaMarcus Aldridge, Portland Trail Blazers
Like Matthews, LaMarcus Aldridge will be an unrestricted free agent next season, and like Matthews, Aldridge is playing at a career level. Averaging 23 points and 10 rebounds per game, he is the backbone of this Blazers team. He also showed his desire to play through pain after tearing a tendon in his left thumb, delaying surgery on it to continue playing for this team. While he is a free agent, Aldridge has made it clear he hopes to return to Portland, where he has spent his entire career. This means he could be more likely to take a pay cut, but Portland will certainly do itself a favor if they offer him a max contract. If they don’t, other teams won't hesitate on Aldridge. Who wouldn't love to have a dominant post presence as LaMarcus Aldridge?
2. Jimmy Butler, Chicago Bulls
Butler is only making $2 million this season, which is a massive bargain for the Bulls. Butler, a first-time all-star, has become one of the best two-way players in the league. He is an elite defender who has shown this year he can score in a variety of ways as well. Before getting injured, he was averaging 20 points, six rebounds, and three assists per game, while keeping the Bulls afloat amidst a series of key injuries. He is a restricted free agent, but there is no doubt many teams will be calling and offering him astronomical deals. With shooting guards beginning to take over the NBA, every team needs a stopper, and one who can contribute offensively as well. Butler fits that mold, and should be in for a big pay day.
3. Kawhi Leonard, San Antonio Spurs
Another similar situation as Butler’s is that of Leonard, who recently emerged as a go-to scorer on a championship team. The NBA Finals MVP has dealt with injuries for the past few years, but when he is healthy he is as dominant as they come. He rebounds, shoots threes, and was most recently seen locking down LeBron James in the finals. Another restricted free agent, the Spurs must re-sign him. Tony Parker, Manu Ginobili, and Tim Duncan don’t have much tread left on the tires (probably), and Leonard is the future of the Spurs. It’s pretty clear they will match any offer sheet thrown Kawhi’s way, and that too should be a huge amount.
4. DeAndre Jordan, Los Angeles Clippers
Jordan has a very specific role on the Clippers, and performs it impeccably well. He is an elite rim protector and finisher, and a leading candidate for Defensive Player of the Year. Though his offensive game doesn’t expand much past dunks and layups, he still leads the league in field goal percentage and recognizes his strengths and weaknesses. He averages over 2 blocks per game, and rebounds the ball at an elite rate. There aren’t many dominant big men left in the league, and having one is a commodity. The Clippers have made it clear in the past how dedicated they are to him, and his recent play has demonstrated why. If he keeps it up down the stretch, and continues to be a dominant force on an improving team, he will be offered a lot of money this summer.
5. Khris Middleton, Milwaukee Bucks
A surprising inclusion on this list, Middleton has become the primary offensive weapon on a playoff team. He has scored in double figures in 17 straight games, and the Bucks have needed his offense after trading away Brandon Knight. Middleton is only 23 years old, and is only making $900,000 this season. He hits shots in the clutch and can shoot the long ball consistently well. He is a restricted free agent as well, so the Bucks will have to match any offer sheets to keep him if he chooses to sign one. His level of play has been elevated over the last few months, and if he keeps it up teams will be throwing money his way.
Honorable Mention
Marc Gasol, Memphis Grizzlies
LeBron James and Kevin Love, Cleveland Cavaliers (both have made it clear they intend to return to Cleveland)
Paul Millsap, Atlanta Hawks
Draymond Green, Golden State Warriors