Now that the 2014-2015 NBA season is officially over, it is time for many players to figure out what the future holds for next season. Over the past couple of weeks, some players’ contracts hit their expiration dates while other players decided to opt out of their existing contracts. All of these players will now become free agents, meaning they will be able to sign with any team that wants them. NBA free agency officially begins at midnight tonight so let’s take a look at some of the biggest names out there who are currently without a team.
LeBron James – Obviously the biggest player in free agency is LeBron. He decided to forego the player option on his contract for next season, which would have guaranteed him $21.6 million. But if you’re waiting for LeBron to take his talents to a city near you, don’t hold your breath. He does not plan on meeting with other teams and will most likely end back up with the Cavaliers, just with a better contract.
Kevin Love – Like his teammate LeBron, forward Kevin Love also decided to opt out of the final year of his contract with the Cavaliers. While there is a good chance he could also stay in Cleveland after the free agency period is over, Love will definitely be talking to other teams so anything is possible.
LaMarcus Aldridge – The Portland Trail Blazers’ star player will be one of the most heavily pursued players in free agency this year. After spending his entire 9-year NBA career in Portland, LaMarcus Aldridge will be looking for a new contract and a new home. While his career has blossomed with the Trail Blazers, sources say he does not plan on going back. During free agency, he plans on meeting with the Lakers, Rockets, Spurs, Mavericks, Suns, Raptors, and Knicks.
Kawhi Leonard – As the 2015 Defensive Player of the Year, forward Kawhi Leonard is one of the most valuable players entering free agency tomorrow. Having just completed his rookie contract, Leonard will be looking for a deal that matches the skills and talent he’s shown on the court over the past four years. The Spurs will undoubtedly make resigning him a priority. And while many other teams will be looking to go after him, Leonard probably won’t be leaving San Antonio any time soon.
Marc Gasol – No need to worry, Grizzlies fans. While center Marc Gasol is currently a free agent, he more likely than not will be back in Memphis next season. Though a slew of teams expressed interest in him, including the Lakers, Knicks, and the Bucks, Gasol has decided not to meet with anyone other than his former team. All signs are pointing to Gasol getting a max contract with the Grizzlies, meaning the man is about to get PAID.
Dwyane Wade – On Monday, D. Wade decided to opt out of the final year of his contract with the Miami Heat, which would have paid him $16.1 million next season. After twelve years with the Heat, Pat Riley does not want to see one of his best players go but he also wants to be smart with the salary cap. Wade wants more money. Can he find another team that is willing to pay him what he believes he’s worth?
Other big names to look out for during free agency are Jimmy Butler, Draymond Green, DeAndre Jordan, Tim Duncan, Brook Lopez, Danny Green, Paul Millsap, and Brandon Knight. NBA fans, stay tuned…Baller Alert will keep you up to date on the biggest free agency moves once all the madness begins at midnight. Which baller do you think would be a great addition to your favorite NBA team?