There are some big names testing the waters this year.....always curious to see how many will actually change teams...Many teams' fortunes could turn this upcoming season....
CENTERS
1. Erick Dampier, Warriors
Key Stats
GP: 74 MIN: 32.5 PPG: 12.3
RPG: 12.0 BLK: 1.9 APG: 0.8
Analysis: Dampier's stock has increased following a terrific 2003-04 season. He was one of the league's strongest rebounders and was an intimidator in the paint. His name has been linked to trade rumors, particularly as the key component in a deal with the L.A. Lakers for Shaquille O'Neal's services. But, a sign-and-trade is highly unlikely, given Shaq's asking price.
2. Marcus Camby, Nuggets (Agrees to re-sign with the Nuggets -- Terms undisclosed)
Key Stats
GP: 72 MIN: 30.0 PPG: 8.6
RPG: 10.1 BLK: 2.6 APG: 1.8
Analysis: Camby said that the Nuggets would have the first opportunity to re-sign him and he held true to his word. Camby is a good center, but isn't great. He can rebound, block shots and score points, but he is also prone to injury. By agreeing to sign with Denver, Camby certainly believes this team is heading in the right direction and he wants to stay on board for the ride.
3. Mark Blount, Celtics
Key Stats
GP: 82 MIN: 29.3 PPG: 10.3
RPG: 7.2 BLK: 1.3 APG: 0.9
Analysis: Blount was healthy all season long and his stock increased, despite the C's shortcomings last season. They made the playoffs, but with a losing record. Blount was a consistent performer and should be a quality pickup for a team lacking height in the middle. However, the fact that Blount ranks third among free agent centers goes to show that the position lacks depth and true talent.
4. Vlade Divac, Kings
Key Stats
GP: 81 MIN: 28.6 PPG: 9.9
RPG: 5.7 BLK: 1.0 APG: 5.3
Analysis: Divac is getting old, and isn't the player he used to be. But, he's still a good player, a good defender and an above-average passer. His role changed last season because of the addition of Brad Miller, who was awarded a lot of Divac's minutes. However, he should be a quality acquisition for a team looking for a solid role player.
5. Etan Thomas, Wizards
Key Stats
GP: 79 MIN: 24.1 PPG: 8.9
RPG: 6.7 BLK: 1.6 APG: 0.9
Analysis: Thomas made small strides last season. He's getting better, but he still has a long way to go. He's a fairly good scorer in the post, but isn't aggressive on the boards. He started a lot of games for the Wizards, which in turn helped increase his value. Is he a full-time starter? Maybe not, but he does have ability. He was routinely averaging in double figures down the stretch last season.
POWER FORWARDS
1. Kenyon Martin, Nets
Key Stats
GP: 65 MIN: 34.6 PPG: 16.7
RPG: 9.5 BLK: 1.3 APG: 2.5
Analysis: The Nets' run is done, and Martin is the first to likely jump ship. He's a terrific defensive player who has an ability to get inside the head of the player he is guarding. Plus, he's skilled offensively. He plays at an all-star level and brings a lot of intensity with him. He does play on emotion, which isn't always a good thing.
2. Rasheed Wallace, Pistons
Key Stats
GP: 68 MIN: 35.1 PPG: 16.0
RPG: 6.8 BLK: 1.8 APG: 2.3
Analysis: Rasheed Wallace got his ring. Whether or not he stays with Detroit to fill his fingers with more remains to be seen. He's a great player who needs to play with a level head in order to be effective. If he's with a solid coach, like Larry Brown, in a solid system, like Detroit's system, he'll be okay. If he finds himself in a volatile situation, similar to his days with Portland, he'll self implode.
3. Mehmet Okur , Pistons
Key Stats
GP: 71 MIN: 22.3 PPG: 9.6
RPG: 5.9 BLK: 0.9 APG: 1.0
Analysis: Mehmet Okur has been generating a lot of free-agent buzz. He's a player whose game could explode if in the right system. Okur hasn't had the opportunity to play consistent minutes in Detroit, but his time is now. He will certainly look to sign with a team that will guarantee him an opportunity to show what he can do. After that, it'll be put up or shut up.
4. Brian Skinner, Bucks
Key Stats
GP: 56 MIN: 28.2 PPG: 10.5
RPG: 7.3 BLK: 1.1 APG: 0.9
Analysis: Skinner was a having a good season with Milwaukee prior to going down with an injury early on. However, he came back strong and transformed himself into a potential double-double guy. He can score, rebound and block shots, and in Milwaukee, he got an opportunity to start. As a result, his stock is high right now, and he's taking full advantage of it in free agency this summer.
5. Stromile Swift, Grizzlies
Key Stats
GP: 77 MIN: 19.8 PPG: 9.4
RPG: 4.9 BLK: 1.5 APG: 0.5
Analysis: The No. 2 overall pick in the 2000 Draft can be classified as a bust. He was touted as a 6-9 guard at one point in time, but has essentially found an uncomfortable spot on the Grizzlies' bench. He does have potential, and could thrive in the right system. He runs the court well and has all the physical tools. Now, it's just a matter of realizing his potential.
SMALL FORWARD
1. Darius Miles, Blazers
Key Stats
GP: 79 MIN: 26.3 PPG: 10.9
RPG: 4.5 BLK: 0.8 APG: 2.1
Analysis: Darius Miles struggled with Cleveland, which made an attempt to transform Miles into a point guard. When he was traded to the Blazers, coach Mo Cheeks provided him the opportunity to play at his natural position, which is small forward. Miles is raw, but has potential to be an explosive scorer. He simply needs to be in the right system.
2. Hedo Turkoglu, Spurs
Key Stats
GP: 80 MIN: 25.9 PPG: 9.2
RPG: 4.5 BLK: 0.4 APG: 1.9
Analysis: When Turkoglu departed Sacramento for San Antonio, many felt he would have the opportunity to further his game and reach new heights. However, Turkoglu was somewhat disappointing. He has the ability to be an explosive scorer and rebounder, but proved to be too inconsistent last season. He's young, though, and could still develop into an all-star performer.
3. Bruce Bowen , Spurs
Key Stats
GP: 82 MIN: 32.0 PPG: 6.9
RPG: 3.1 BLK: 0.4 APG: 1.4
Analysis: Many experts consider Bowen to be the league's top one-on-one defender. His ability to defend is a valuable commodity. He's known for his defense, but he is also a fairly good three-point shooter. He attempted 229 threes in the 2002-03 season, connecting on 44 percent. He attempted 212 last season while nailing 36 percent last season.
4. Rodney White, Nuggets
Key Stats
GP: 72 MIN: 13.7 PPG: 7.5
RPG: 2.3 BLK: 0.3 APG: 0.8
Analysis: The No. 9 overall pick in the draft never really lived up to the expectations in Detroit or Denver. However, he never really had an opportunity to play full-time. It'll be interesting to see, if given an opportunity, if White can play well with consistent minutes. Many experts seem to believe he has some skills.
5. Morris Peterson, Raptors
Key Stats
GP: 82 MIN: 26.2 PPG: 8.3
RPG: 3.2 BLK: 0.2 APG: 1.4
Analysis: Peterson was lost during the Kevin O'Neill tenure. It wasn't so much that his playing time was reduced (it was slightly). He simply wasn't counted on to score points, and he played with the knowledge that he could be traded at any time. He averaged 14.0 points in 2001-02 and 14.1 in 2002-03, so he can provide scoring if a team is willing to give him the green light.
SHOOTING GAURD
1. Kobe Bryant, L.A. Lakers
Key Stats
GP: 65 MIN: 37.6 PPG: 24.0
RPG: 5.5 BLK: 0.4 APG: 5.1
Analysis: Bryant could just be the closest thing to Michael Jordan. The only issue with Bryant is his inability to trust his teammates, which is something Jordan learned along the way. Bryant, on occasion, will try to take the game into his own hands. Sometimes he's successful, and sometimes he's not. The Pistons where able to expose a weakness in that mentality in the NBA Finals by forcing Bryant into taking off-balanced shots and turning the ball over.
2. Quentin Richardson, L.A. Clippers
Key Stats
GP: 65 MIN: 36.0 PPG: 17.2
RPG: 6.4 BLK: 0.3 APG: 2.1
Analysis: Richardson was banged up some last season, but still posted impressive offensive numbers. He could do very well in the right system. His ability to score points and hit the boards is something several teams would be interested in. He also has been mentioned in several trade rumors and could possibly be dealt in a sign-and-trade deal.
3. Stephen Jackson, Hawks
Key Stats
GP: 80 MIN: 36.8 PPG: 18.1
RPG: 4.6 BLK: 0.2 APG: 3.0
Analysis: Stephen Jackson's numbers exploded after the Hawks shipped Shareef Abdur-Rahim to the Blazers. Jackson, who established his game with the Spurs two seasons ago, is a bona fide scoring threat. He should be able to step in with any team and provide instant offense. His character has been called into question on occasion.
4. Manu Ginobili, Spurs
Key Stats
GP: 77 MIN: 29.4 PPG: 12.8
RPG: 4.5 BLK: 0.2 APG: 3.8
Analysis: Ginobili stepped right in two seasons ago and provided an instant spark for the Spurs. He's the gritty type of player who is all over the court. He appears to have endless energy when he's in the game. Ginobili showed a lot of improvement in his first two seasons as his stock continues to rise.
5. Brent Barry, Sonics
Key Stats
GP: 59 MIN: 30.6 PPG: 10.8
RPG: 3.5 BLK: 0.3 APG: 5.8
Analysis: Barry, the former dunk champion, will be entering his 10th season. He has established himself as a multi-faceted performer who can run the point or man the "two" position. Barry, who has averaged over 10 points a game during his career, could thrive as a starter or role player. Many teams have expressed an interest in him.
POINT GAURD
1. Steve Nash, Mavericks (Agrees to deal with Suns -- 5 years, $65 million)
Key Stats
GP: 78 MIN: 33.5 PPG: 14.5
RPG: 3.0 BLK: 0.1 APG: 8.8
Analysis: Nash developed a name for himself in Dallas, but first gained noticed after a gritty performance in the 2000 Olympics while playing for Canada. He's an above-average floor leader who can knock down the shot, set up teammates and run the offense with great skill. The Suns nabbed him quickly and he should fit in well.
2. Jamal Crawford, Bulls
Key Stats
GP: 80 MIN: 35.1 PPG: 17.3
RPG: 3.5 BLK: 0.4 APG: 5.1
Analysis: Crawford is a talented point guard who has had an interesting time of it in Chicago. He wasn't happy when the Bulls selected Jay Williams and cast him aside two seasons ago, but Williams' tragic motorcycle injury thrust Crawford back into the starting lineup. The bottom line is that he is a consistent performer, but he has the tendency to work his way into the doghouse from time to time.
3. Derek Fisher, L.A. Lakers
Key Stats
GP: 82 MIN: 21.6 PPG: 7.1
RPG: 1.9 BLK: 0.0 APG: 2.3
Analysis: It'll be interesting to see how he performs without Shaquille O'Neal and Kobe Bryant around. Fisher, a skilled perimeter shooter, was able to get a lot of good looks at the hoop because defenses swarmed around O'Neal and Bryant. The bottom line is that he can hit the outside shot and is a proven clutch performer. He could thrive in an expanded offensive role.
4. Troy Hudson, T-Wolves
Key Stats
GP: 29 MIN: 17.3 PPG: 7.5
RPG: 1.2 BLK: 0.0 APG: 2.4
Analysis: Kevin Garnett paid Hudson a nice compliment after Minnesota was eliminated from the playoffs by saying the point guard's injury played a part in the team's demise. With Cassell banged up, the T-Wolves could have used a healthy Hudson, who averaged over 14 points a game in 2002-03.
5. Rafer Alston, Heat
Key Stats
GP: 82 MIN: 31.5 PPG: 10.2
RPG: 2.8 BLK: 0.2 APG: 4.5
Analysis: The New York City playground legend is proving that he has the skills to warrant a significant pay increase this offseason. His ability to hit three-pointers certainly increases his value around the league. The last time he failed to hit at least one three-point shot in a game was on Jan. 5 against the Pacers. In an era when perimeter shooters are few, "Skip" could provide his new team with an added spark off the bench.
CENTERS
1. Erick Dampier, Warriors
Key Stats
GP: 74 MIN: 32.5 PPG: 12.3
RPG: 12.0 BLK: 1.9 APG: 0.8
Analysis: Dampier's stock has increased following a terrific 2003-04 season. He was one of the league's strongest rebounders and was an intimidator in the paint. His name has been linked to trade rumors, particularly as the key component in a deal with the L.A. Lakers for Shaquille O'Neal's services. But, a sign-and-trade is highly unlikely, given Shaq's asking price.
2. Marcus Camby, Nuggets (Agrees to re-sign with the Nuggets -- Terms undisclosed)
Key Stats
GP: 72 MIN: 30.0 PPG: 8.6
RPG: 10.1 BLK: 2.6 APG: 1.8
Analysis: Camby said that the Nuggets would have the first opportunity to re-sign him and he held true to his word. Camby is a good center, but isn't great. He can rebound, block shots and score points, but he is also prone to injury. By agreeing to sign with Denver, Camby certainly believes this team is heading in the right direction and he wants to stay on board for the ride.
3. Mark Blount, Celtics
Key Stats
GP: 82 MIN: 29.3 PPG: 10.3
RPG: 7.2 BLK: 1.3 APG: 0.9
Analysis: Blount was healthy all season long and his stock increased, despite the C's shortcomings last season. They made the playoffs, but with a losing record. Blount was a consistent performer and should be a quality pickup for a team lacking height in the middle. However, the fact that Blount ranks third among free agent centers goes to show that the position lacks depth and true talent.
4. Vlade Divac, Kings
Key Stats
GP: 81 MIN: 28.6 PPG: 9.9
RPG: 5.7 BLK: 1.0 APG: 5.3
Analysis: Divac is getting old, and isn't the player he used to be. But, he's still a good player, a good defender and an above-average passer. His role changed last season because of the addition of Brad Miller, who was awarded a lot of Divac's minutes. However, he should be a quality acquisition for a team looking for a solid role player.
5. Etan Thomas, Wizards
Key Stats
GP: 79 MIN: 24.1 PPG: 8.9
RPG: 6.7 BLK: 1.6 APG: 0.9
Analysis: Thomas made small strides last season. He's getting better, but he still has a long way to go. He's a fairly good scorer in the post, but isn't aggressive on the boards. He started a lot of games for the Wizards, which in turn helped increase his value. Is he a full-time starter? Maybe not, but he does have ability. He was routinely averaging in double figures down the stretch last season.
POWER FORWARDS
1. Kenyon Martin, Nets
Key Stats
GP: 65 MIN: 34.6 PPG: 16.7
RPG: 9.5 BLK: 1.3 APG: 2.5
Analysis: The Nets' run is done, and Martin is the first to likely jump ship. He's a terrific defensive player who has an ability to get inside the head of the player he is guarding. Plus, he's skilled offensively. He plays at an all-star level and brings a lot of intensity with him. He does play on emotion, which isn't always a good thing.
2. Rasheed Wallace, Pistons
Key Stats
GP: 68 MIN: 35.1 PPG: 16.0
RPG: 6.8 BLK: 1.8 APG: 2.3
Analysis: Rasheed Wallace got his ring. Whether or not he stays with Detroit to fill his fingers with more remains to be seen. He's a great player who needs to play with a level head in order to be effective. If he's with a solid coach, like Larry Brown, in a solid system, like Detroit's system, he'll be okay. If he finds himself in a volatile situation, similar to his days with Portland, he'll self implode.
3. Mehmet Okur , Pistons
Key Stats
GP: 71 MIN: 22.3 PPG: 9.6
RPG: 5.9 BLK: 0.9 APG: 1.0
Analysis: Mehmet Okur has been generating a lot of free-agent buzz. He's a player whose game could explode if in the right system. Okur hasn't had the opportunity to play consistent minutes in Detroit, but his time is now. He will certainly look to sign with a team that will guarantee him an opportunity to show what he can do. After that, it'll be put up or shut up.
4. Brian Skinner, Bucks
Key Stats
GP: 56 MIN: 28.2 PPG: 10.5
RPG: 7.3 BLK: 1.1 APG: 0.9
Analysis: Skinner was a having a good season with Milwaukee prior to going down with an injury early on. However, he came back strong and transformed himself into a potential double-double guy. He can score, rebound and block shots, and in Milwaukee, he got an opportunity to start. As a result, his stock is high right now, and he's taking full advantage of it in free agency this summer.
5. Stromile Swift, Grizzlies
Key Stats
GP: 77 MIN: 19.8 PPG: 9.4
RPG: 4.9 BLK: 1.5 APG: 0.5
Analysis: The No. 2 overall pick in the 2000 Draft can be classified as a bust. He was touted as a 6-9 guard at one point in time, but has essentially found an uncomfortable spot on the Grizzlies' bench. He does have potential, and could thrive in the right system. He runs the court well and has all the physical tools. Now, it's just a matter of realizing his potential.
SMALL FORWARD
1. Darius Miles, Blazers
Key Stats
GP: 79 MIN: 26.3 PPG: 10.9
RPG: 4.5 BLK: 0.8 APG: 2.1
Analysis: Darius Miles struggled with Cleveland, which made an attempt to transform Miles into a point guard. When he was traded to the Blazers, coach Mo Cheeks provided him the opportunity to play at his natural position, which is small forward. Miles is raw, but has potential to be an explosive scorer. He simply needs to be in the right system.
2. Hedo Turkoglu, Spurs
Key Stats
GP: 80 MIN: 25.9 PPG: 9.2
RPG: 4.5 BLK: 0.4 APG: 1.9
Analysis: When Turkoglu departed Sacramento for San Antonio, many felt he would have the opportunity to further his game and reach new heights. However, Turkoglu was somewhat disappointing. He has the ability to be an explosive scorer and rebounder, but proved to be too inconsistent last season. He's young, though, and could still develop into an all-star performer.
3. Bruce Bowen , Spurs
Key Stats
GP: 82 MIN: 32.0 PPG: 6.9
RPG: 3.1 BLK: 0.4 APG: 1.4
Analysis: Many experts consider Bowen to be the league's top one-on-one defender. His ability to defend is a valuable commodity. He's known for his defense, but he is also a fairly good three-point shooter. He attempted 229 threes in the 2002-03 season, connecting on 44 percent. He attempted 212 last season while nailing 36 percent last season.
4. Rodney White, Nuggets
Key Stats
GP: 72 MIN: 13.7 PPG: 7.5
RPG: 2.3 BLK: 0.3 APG: 0.8
Analysis: The No. 9 overall pick in the draft never really lived up to the expectations in Detroit or Denver. However, he never really had an opportunity to play full-time. It'll be interesting to see, if given an opportunity, if White can play well with consistent minutes. Many experts seem to believe he has some skills.
5. Morris Peterson, Raptors
Key Stats
GP: 82 MIN: 26.2 PPG: 8.3
RPG: 3.2 BLK: 0.2 APG: 1.4
Analysis: Peterson was lost during the Kevin O'Neill tenure. It wasn't so much that his playing time was reduced (it was slightly). He simply wasn't counted on to score points, and he played with the knowledge that he could be traded at any time. He averaged 14.0 points in 2001-02 and 14.1 in 2002-03, so he can provide scoring if a team is willing to give him the green light.
SHOOTING GAURD
1. Kobe Bryant, L.A. Lakers
Key Stats
GP: 65 MIN: 37.6 PPG: 24.0
RPG: 5.5 BLK: 0.4 APG: 5.1
Analysis: Bryant could just be the closest thing to Michael Jordan. The only issue with Bryant is his inability to trust his teammates, which is something Jordan learned along the way. Bryant, on occasion, will try to take the game into his own hands. Sometimes he's successful, and sometimes he's not. The Pistons where able to expose a weakness in that mentality in the NBA Finals by forcing Bryant into taking off-balanced shots and turning the ball over.
2. Quentin Richardson, L.A. Clippers
Key Stats
GP: 65 MIN: 36.0 PPG: 17.2
RPG: 6.4 BLK: 0.3 APG: 2.1
Analysis: Richardson was banged up some last season, but still posted impressive offensive numbers. He could do very well in the right system. His ability to score points and hit the boards is something several teams would be interested in. He also has been mentioned in several trade rumors and could possibly be dealt in a sign-and-trade deal.
3. Stephen Jackson, Hawks
Key Stats
GP: 80 MIN: 36.8 PPG: 18.1
RPG: 4.6 BLK: 0.2 APG: 3.0
Analysis: Stephen Jackson's numbers exploded after the Hawks shipped Shareef Abdur-Rahim to the Blazers. Jackson, who established his game with the Spurs two seasons ago, is a bona fide scoring threat. He should be able to step in with any team and provide instant offense. His character has been called into question on occasion.
4. Manu Ginobili, Spurs
Key Stats
GP: 77 MIN: 29.4 PPG: 12.8
RPG: 4.5 BLK: 0.2 APG: 3.8
Analysis: Ginobili stepped right in two seasons ago and provided an instant spark for the Spurs. He's the gritty type of player who is all over the court. He appears to have endless energy when he's in the game. Ginobili showed a lot of improvement in his first two seasons as his stock continues to rise.
5. Brent Barry, Sonics
Key Stats
GP: 59 MIN: 30.6 PPG: 10.8
RPG: 3.5 BLK: 0.3 APG: 5.8
Analysis: Barry, the former dunk champion, will be entering his 10th season. He has established himself as a multi-faceted performer who can run the point or man the "two" position. Barry, who has averaged over 10 points a game during his career, could thrive as a starter or role player. Many teams have expressed an interest in him.
POINT GAURD
1. Steve Nash, Mavericks (Agrees to deal with Suns -- 5 years, $65 million)
Key Stats
GP: 78 MIN: 33.5 PPG: 14.5
RPG: 3.0 BLK: 0.1 APG: 8.8
Analysis: Nash developed a name for himself in Dallas, but first gained noticed after a gritty performance in the 2000 Olympics while playing for Canada. He's an above-average floor leader who can knock down the shot, set up teammates and run the offense with great skill. The Suns nabbed him quickly and he should fit in well.
2. Jamal Crawford, Bulls
Key Stats
GP: 80 MIN: 35.1 PPG: 17.3
RPG: 3.5 BLK: 0.4 APG: 5.1
Analysis: Crawford is a talented point guard who has had an interesting time of it in Chicago. He wasn't happy when the Bulls selected Jay Williams and cast him aside two seasons ago, but Williams' tragic motorcycle injury thrust Crawford back into the starting lineup. The bottom line is that he is a consistent performer, but he has the tendency to work his way into the doghouse from time to time.
3. Derek Fisher, L.A. Lakers
Key Stats
GP: 82 MIN: 21.6 PPG: 7.1
RPG: 1.9 BLK: 0.0 APG: 2.3
Analysis: It'll be interesting to see how he performs without Shaquille O'Neal and Kobe Bryant around. Fisher, a skilled perimeter shooter, was able to get a lot of good looks at the hoop because defenses swarmed around O'Neal and Bryant. The bottom line is that he can hit the outside shot and is a proven clutch performer. He could thrive in an expanded offensive role.
4. Troy Hudson, T-Wolves
Key Stats
GP: 29 MIN: 17.3 PPG: 7.5
RPG: 1.2 BLK: 0.0 APG: 2.4
Analysis: Kevin Garnett paid Hudson a nice compliment after Minnesota was eliminated from the playoffs by saying the point guard's injury played a part in the team's demise. With Cassell banged up, the T-Wolves could have used a healthy Hudson, who averaged over 14 points a game in 2002-03.
5. Rafer Alston, Heat
Key Stats
GP: 82 MIN: 31.5 PPG: 10.2
RPG: 2.8 BLK: 0.2 APG: 4.5
Analysis: The New York City playground legend is proving that he has the skills to warrant a significant pay increase this offseason. His ability to hit three-pointers certainly increases his value around the league. The last time he failed to hit at least one three-point shot in a game was on Jan. 5 against the Pacers. In an era when perimeter shooters are few, "Skip" could provide his new team with an added spark off the bench.
