It has been less than one week since free agency began in the NBA and many players have found new homes, while others are staying put. The biggest departures include LaMarcus Aldridge, who is now with the San Antonio Spurs, and DeAndre Jordan, who signed with the Dallas Mavericks. But there are many players who remain on the market and could be scooped up at any moment.
1. LeBron James
After losing his fourth NBA Finals, James opted out of his contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers. It seems unlikely that James would leave Cleveland a second time, especially considering how busy the Eastern Conference Champions have been in the offseason. A brief and, apparently, unappetizing meeting with the Los Angeles Lakers led Kevin Love to re-sign with the Cavs. Tristan Thompson, Iman Shumpert, Timofey Mozgov, and Matthew Dellavedova also followed suit and were quickly re-signed. All moves must be pleasing to James, who remains a free agent. The Cavs are reportedly seeking a deal with the Brooklyn Nets that would bring Joe Johnson to Cleveland. His contract may have something to do with James' reluctance to re-sign.
2. Josh Smith
Smith has had trouble maintaining a home over the past several seasons, but his play has continued to be effective. The former Detroit Piston and Atlanta Hawk proved to be a vital piece for the Houston Rockets last season. His versatility can create several mismatches on the offensive side of the court. After he cashed in on a deal with the Pistons, Smith could be up for another big pay check
3. Aaron Brooks
Brooks rose to the occasion last season in his role as a backup point guard to Derrick Rose. The 30 year-old started 21 games for the Chicago Bulls and played in all 82 games of the regular season, averaging 11.6 points per game. Brooks made nearly 40 percent of his shots from three-point range. There are a number of free agent point guards on the market and Brooks is not suited for a starting role, but could provide quality minutes off the bench as he did last season. With Rose's health still a primary concern, the Bulls would be wise to re-sign Brooks.
4. Jason Terry
Another point guard on the market, Terry excelled as a starter in the postseason for the Rockets, who were without Patrick Beverley for their run to the Western Conference Finals. The 37 year-old Terry increased his value and took full advantage of a prime situation in a contract year. He was a crucial part of the Rockets' roster last season and proved he still has the ability to start in the NBA after 16 years in the league.
5. Gerald Green
The Phoenix Suns have reportedly re-signed free agent guard Brandon Knight. A team littered with guards last season underwent some serious remodeling around the trade deadline and is now left with few prominent guards. Gerald Green has shown explosive talent ever since being drafted in 2005. The Suns would be wise to re-sign the former Slam Dunk Champion, but Green could also be an effective bench player on another team.
6. Enes Kanter
After a trade landed him with the Oklahoma City, Kanter became a valuable member of the Thunder lineup. An injury to Serge Ibaka coupled with the departure of Kendrick Perkins increased Kanter's value and he now appears likely to re-sign with the Thunder. But, should a deal fall through, a team lacking strength down low could pounce on the 23 year-old forward. Kanter averaged 15.5 points and 8.9 rebounds last season.
7. Jeremy Lin
After drafting D'Angelo Russell in the NBA Draft, the Lakers are ready to part ways with Lin. The 26 year-old did not shine in the spotlight in Hollywood, but remains a serviceable point guard. After emerging with the New York Knicks, Lin cashed in with the Lakers and is now out to re-establish himself. He is sure to find a new home and the right fit could bring Lin City back to prominence.
8. Amar'e Stoudemire
Lack of production with the Dallas Mavericks will likely land Stoudemire on the fourth team of his 13-year career. The 32 year-old averaged 11.5 points per game and 5.6 rebounds per game last season with the Mavericks and New York Knicks. Stoudemire averaged over 20 minutes, a number that decreased as he moved to the bench in Dallas. Yet, he is still a productive forward, even if only off the bench, and there are a number of teams around the league who could utilize his services. The Los Angeles Clippers are reportedly seeking Stoudemire to aid the loss of DeAndre Jordan.