NBA FAN EDITORIAL |
May 22, 2002 |
Top 2002-03 Free Agents
By D. Biderman (dmiles21ebrand42)
D. Biderman is a fan contributor
and his views do not necessarily represent those of
Inside Hoops
This summer there are quite a
few free agents that could be the so-called "x" factor
for some teams. Organizations such as Boston, Chicago,
and San Antonio need a third player that can either
distribute the ball, or hit mid-range shots.
Here are the five most talented players that will be
either restricted or un-restricted free agents this
summer:
1) Michael Olowokandi:
After being selected first by the Los Angeles Clippers
in the 1998 draft, the Kandi-Man had been nothing but
a big bust. However, the Clippers front office new that
he would take a little while to develop into an all-star
caliber player. He had only played four years of organized
basketball prior to being drafted. This past season
has been his coming out party as a player. His statistics
have been increased quite a bit, not to mention his
presence on both ends of the court has become very intimidating.
He has got a ton of up-side to his game as well. Teams
like Boston, Dallas, and Orlando will be fighting like
dogs and cats to acquire him in the off-season.
2) Ricky Davis:
Ricky Davis has been in the league for four years, and
has already played for three different teams. Finally,
he has gotten the chance to show off his skill while
on the Cavaliers. Playing in all 82 games of the season,
he has shown his ability to stick around on a rotation.
His stats for the season were average (12 points, 3
rebounds, 2 assists per game) but his end of his season
run was very impressive. In the last 15 games of the
year he really showcased his talent. Scoring more than
20 points more than 10 times, he has major potential.
The Bucks, Jazz, and Heat should look to pick him up
over the summer.
3) Mike Bibby:
He has proven himself to be consistent in his ability to knock down jumpers, and distribute the ball to open teammates. Not to mention, his recent, stunningly sharp play in the playoffs. He has been the MVP for the Kings in the post-season so far. Although he doesn’t exactly have a lack of options on the court, not anyone could get the job done like he does. He’s a triple threat because of his ability to shoot on the arc, drive to the hoop, and dish the ball. Almost any team in the league excluding the Nets and Sonics are in need of a true point guard. Washington, Chicago, and New York should try their hardest to obtain him.
4) Bonzi Wells:
Wells has proven himself as a lights-out shooter while playing for the Portland Trailblazers. He has stepped up and made some big shots down the stretch for his team. He can split defenses with ease, and can shoot the trey like he is shooting a lay-up. He can also pass, rebound, and defend better than many players in the league. A complete package like Bonzi Wells can act like the glue to many teams in the league. His ability to play both the shooting guard and small forward makes him even more valuable. Denver and San Antonio could really use such a versatile player to fill the voids in their teams.
5) Rashard Lewis:
Although he came right out of high-school, it has only taken Lewis one season to get accustomed to the NBA lifestyle. He is like undiscovered gold. Too bad for the Sonics he was injured almost all throughout the playoffs. His upside is immeasurable, and he is a great team player. One of the most underrated players in the league, he will be a hot ticket during the free agency period. Every team in the league is going to try to pick him up. The only team that may not want him is the Dallas Mavericks because they are overrun with talented players.
Other free agents who deserve honorable mention are Raef LaFrentz, Keon Clark, Devean George, and Jeff McInnis. All of these players have a lot of talent, but are missing key components to their games.
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