NBA Offseason Overview
As the NBA offseason looms, various player situations remain murky, particularly due to unrestricted free agency or lingering team and player options. It’s an appropriate moment to evaluate some of the most promising point guards available in the free-agent market this year. Notably, player positions are categorized based on Basketball-Reference‘s classifications, so some notable names like James Harden and Kyrie Irving will appear listed in the shooting guard section rather than point guard.
Key Point Guards in Free Agency
Fred VanVleet, Houston Rockets
- Current Status: Team option
- Option Value: $44,886,930
VanVleet’s performance has been on a downward trajectory since he achieved All-Star status in 2022. Despite his role as a key facilitator for the Rockets, his scoring has plummeted, with averages falling beneath 14 points and shooting percentages dropping below 38%. Considering the tight cap situation this offseason, the Rockets might find it beneficial to decline his hefty option and seek a more favorable arrangement. However, recent discussions have extended the deadline for his option, signaling mutual interest in continuing their partnership—possibly at a reduced rate. A logical outcome could see VanVleet trade his expensive contract for a more sustainable long-term deal.
Chris Paul, San Antonio Spurs
- Current Status: Unrestricted free agent
The veteran point guard enjoyed his time with the Spurs, but with San Antonio failing to reach the playoffs, his priorities may shift. At 40 years old, retirement could be on his mind as he weighs options, including staying near his family in California. A natural fit could be a reunion with LeBron James at the Lakers, especially after Los Angeles acquired Luka Dončić this past season.
Tyus Jones, Phoenix Suns
- Current Status: Unrestricted free agent
Last summer’s decision for Jones to sign with the Suns for a starting role didn’t pan out as the team missed the playoffs, potentially affecting his worth this offseason. With his minimum salary from the previous contract, Jones has nowhere to go but up as he showcases his skill as a reliable ball-handler and proficient 3-point shooter (41.4%). Demand for skilled players like him is high; fitting into a supportive role behind a developing point guard on a contending team, such as the Portland Trail Blazers, could be beneficial.
Josh Giddey, Chicago Bulls
- Current Status: Restricted free agent
While Giddey demonstrates potential All-Star talent according to his basic stats, deeper analysis highlights troubling deficiencies in shooting and defense. Nevertheless, the Bulls seem to value his contributions highly. This raises the question of whether they will make a proactive offer to secure him instead of allowing him to navigate the uncertainties of restricted free agency, which could inflate his market value.
Ty Jerome, Cleveland Cavaliers
- Current Status: Unrestricted free agent
Jerome turned heads with a surprisingly effective season on one of the top Eastern Conference teams, significantly elevating his market value. However, the Cavaliers also face roster challenges as they may not retain his full Bird rights. The expectation is that Jerome might seek a more lucrative offer elsewhere, potentially serving as a strong sixth man, especially on teams seeking significant contributions from their bench, like the Toronto Raptors.
Best of the Rest
Malcolm Brogdon, Washington Wizards
- Current Status: Unrestricted free agent
Though Brogdon displays high efficiency when healthy, his injury history raises eyebrows among teams, likely leading to less lucrative offers despite interest from multiple suitors. A situation with the Lakers, acting as a backup for Dončić, could arise.
D’Angelo Russell, Brooklyn Nets
- Current Status: Unrestricted free agent
At this stage in his career, Russell’s inconsistencies are well-known, revealing significant holes in both his scoring and defense. While he has offensive capabilities, Orlando might consider him only if the price aligns.
Dennis Schröder, Detroit Pistons
- Current Status: Unrestricted free agent
Schröder is known for his speed and scoring ability, but as he ages, questions about his shooting precision and defensive capacity continue to grow. He’s expected to land a contract, though likely for a duration of no more than a couple of years on modest terms.
