The Free Agent Scouting Report Every NBA GM Should Read

You remember the first time you watched The Godfather? It was full of suspense and drama, wonderfully written and masterfully crafted. And yet, you found yourself waiting for the one big moment that would put it over the top.

Finally, when Michael orders the execution of Moe Greene, Tattaglia, Barzini, and the other heads of the N.Y. families, it creates the perfect climax to something that you knew was special all along.

What does that have to do with free agency in the NBA this summer? Nothing. I just like that movie a lot.

No, I'm kidding. Actually, I think it relates to it in this manner: Ever since LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh, Carmelo Anthony, Amar'e Stoudemire, Chris Paul, Deron Williams, Kevin Durant, and the rest of faces of the new generation of basketball in the NBA entered the league and began to dominate, you knew you were in for a special treat for the next 10-plus years.

This summer, now that arguably five of the league's top-20 players can be free agents, is the "baptism" moment for the NBA—it's the climax and peak everyone has been anticipating for close to three years.

In two short months, 61 meager days, 1,464 mere hours from now, that day will finally be upon us. So who will end up where? How will change the landscape of the league for the next 10 years?

Sadly, I'm not answering those questions today (I don't want to give away the secrets to my incredibly accurate psychic visions).

But I will break down the marquee free agents, examine their star power, find good situations where they could thrive, and give an overall scouting report of said-player. For a basketball nerd like me, this is heaven.

(Note: This won't include profiles of guys like Paul Pierce and Dirk Nowitzki, who could opt out to become free agents next year, because, as Charles Barkley so eloquently put it, "nobody that's sober is going to turn down $21 million.")

Let's begin with a big name free agent who probably won't make a lot of money this offseason, but will almost undoubtedly be a factor on a contending team next year...

Ray Allen

Star Power

Unless this is 2004, you're not getting much star power from Jesus Shuttleworth.

Still, any team would love to add a veteran player that just happens to be one of the best pure shooters in NBA history. He's proved the last two years in Boston that he's not washed-up and still probably has a decent year or two left in the tank.

Age Factor

He turns 35 this offseason, so don't expect to see any four or five year deals in Allen's future.

Still, Rasheed Wallace was 34 last offseason when he somehow squeezed a three-year deal out of Boston, so maybe someone will throw a package like that at Ray. But I wouldn't recommend it.

How He Could Help a Team

Three-point shooting. Three-point shooting. Three-point shooting.

Did I mentioned three-point shooting?

Currently, he's probably the second-best scoring option the Celtics have. Opposing defenses know this, but he still scored 16.3 points per game (19.4 in the playoffs so far).

Any team that has trouble spacing the floor would bring in Jesus with open arms. He's one of the two best players in the league at using multiple screens to get open and create his shot (the other being Rip Hamilton).

And don't forget the intangibles he brings, such as leadership. He's not a vocal player, but leads by example. Coupled with Pierce and Garnett, he's been a tremendous leader for the Celtics. He could easily do the same in a new uni next year.

How He Could Hurt a Team

He's not a good one-on-one scorer, nor is he effective at creating shots for others.

Defensively, he's slipped a bit, but what else can you expect when you've played in the Association for 14 years?

Style of Play He'd Best Fit

You name it, Ray can play it.

Put him on a team like Phoenix or Golden State, and he'll get wide open three's in transition all game. While it might not seem like a great idea for a 35-year-old to be playing run-and-gun, he's not at the point where he should play 35 minutes a game anymore.

Could he do it for 25 minutes for 65-70 games while saving up energy for the playoffs? You bet.

On a methodical, slow-it-down team like San Antonio, he can use the intricacies of a half-court offense to pick and choose his spots.

Or on a team that can play at multiple styles, like the Magic or Cavs, he'd mesh as well.

Ray could play for every team in the league, every style the league's ever seen...it doesn't matter.

How Much He'll Cost

This is interesting, especially with the "inevitable" lockout in 2011 that will alter player contracts in terms of both length and value.

For now, we'll play by the current rules. Any team that's not under the salary cap could use a mid-level exemption on Allen for something like a two-year, $10 million deal. That seems to make the most sense.

Then again, the fact that someone like Rasheed Wallace got a three-year deal last year might entice Allen to hold out for a similar contract.

Teams Most Likely to Sign With

It could be Boston, but I think its window for a title closes after this year. If he wants to compete for another ring, he might look elsewhere.

If he does, someone like San Antonio immediately springs to mind. The Spurs love using their mid-level exemption on veteran players (see Antonio McDyess this year), and Allen would fill a need for a shooter who could stretch the floor.

If Carlos Boozer bails on Utah, the Jazz will have cap space to throw around. Would they be willing to commit a two or three-year deal to an aging Allen when they've desperately coveted a shooter for years? Throw that in with a top-10 pick in the draft, and things look good for Utah, don't they?

Teams That Make No Sense to Sign With

I've heard that Allen would look good in a Bulls uniform, but I don't see Ray fitting in Chicago's long-term plans. I know they could use another scorer on the wing, but they'd be better off trying to find value through a marquee free agent or the draft.

The Thunder have cap space as well, but it seems far-fetched that they'd abandon their need for a big man to court Allen.

Scouting Report

Strengths: A terrific outside shooter...knows how to use screens to get open...sets up his defender better than any other player in the league...a dead-eye free throw shooter, one of the best of this generation...can occasionally exploit an over-zealous defender off the dribble...runs the floor extremely well...gritty veteran with proven leadership skills...overall, just a winner.

Weaknesses: Age 34, his best days are behind him...not a good one-on-one scorer...doesn't create for others off the dribble...not a skilled passer...can't defend at a consistently high level anymore...susceptible to being posted up by bigger guards...if his shot isn't falling, he can struggle to find ways to contribute.

Clutch Quotient/Postseason Prowess

Come on, this is Ray Allen. The same man who looked dead for the first two rounds of the '08 playoffs, only to average 20.3 points and 3.7 three-pointers in the Finals.

He keyed one of the biggest comebacks in NBA Finals history with his Game Four against L.A. in 2008.

And don't forget last year's first-round performance against the Bulls, including one game where he went for 50. Fifty!

But most of all, he passes this test: whenever the Cavs play the Celtics and Allen puts up a shot, I hold my breath. And I'm willing to bet that a majority of you do as well.

Off-the-Court

A great ambassador for himself, his city, his team, and the NBA. Any organization would be lucky to have a class-act like Ray Allen on board.

Rudy Gay

Star Power

Be honest, if you're a Heat, Knicks, Bulls, or Nets fan and your premier signing this offseason is Rudy Gay, you're going to be disappointed, aren't you?

It's no offense to Rudy. But in a star-studded free agent class like this, he just doesn't have the appeal that even a second-tier player like Carlos Boozer or Manu Ginobili (if he didn't re-sign) has.

And the fact that he didn't make a great leap in a contract year worries me (we'll get to that as the report progresses).

Age Factor

At only 23, his best years are clearly ahead of him. At times, he still looks a bit lost on the floor and doesn't dominate like he could.

Maybe this is an alpha dog issue—he could just not have it in his blood. Or maybe he simply hasn't been in the league long enough to understand how and when to take over.

You hear this word in the draft a lot: upside. Players get drafted because they could develop into something great.

Well, Gay could get signed to a big deal because he still could turn himself into a premier scorer. But that clock is ticking...fast.

How He Could Help a Team

Anybody that lacks athleticism or explosiveness from the wing should give Gay a look.

He's got a unique frame at 6'9", 220 lbs. I tried hard to think of a player to compare him with, but no one springs to mind...maybe a Danny Granger-type with a little more size but not as good of a shooter?

He does create match-up problems with most other small forwards because of his size and length.

How He Could Hurt a Team

It's also tough to find ways that he can help, simply because he's not great at one thing. He's a below-average three-point shooter, not a great rebounder for his size, and can disappear at times.

The easiest scenario he could be a detriment is if a team offered him max money. He's not worth it, and it would be near impossible to live up to those expectations (see: Iguodala, Andre).

Style of Play He'd Best Fit

This one's pretty easy. Put him in and up-and-down, run-and-gun offense and let him go to work.

He's not burning anybody in the half-court with his one-on-one game, but in transition, he can be a load to handle.

How Much He'll Cost

Another interesting scenario here. Let's say LeBron re-signs with the Cavs, Wade goes to the Bulls, Johnson and Bosh end up in N.Y., and Amar'e goes to Miami (these scenarios don't make a lot of sense, but bear with me).

Does a team like Miami, who only inks one marquee free agent, throw max money at Gay to try to create a dynamic duo-type of situation? We saw last year with Detroit that NBA GMs get giddy with cap space, and they'll throw it at anything that walks.

Gay probably deserves something in the four-year, $32-$35 million range. What he actually gets, no one knows...

Teams Most Likely to Sign With

Believe it or not, I think someone like the Clippers could come into play.

They have young talent in Griffin and Gordon. Why not throw Gay in the mix and turn into a more athletic (though not as good as shooting) version of the '07 Warriors? They even have Baron Davis (version 3.0) running the show.

If not L.A., then I think re-signing with Memphis would be his best bet. They have a solid nucleus that could turn into an alternate version of the OKC Thunder within a few years.

Teams That Make No Sense to Sign With

Chicago...again. They need an athletic wing player, but I don't think it'd be worth tying up a majority of their cap space.

Same goes for Gotham City. A kid with relatively shaky confidence shouldn't be brought in as a big-name free agent that is supposed to help save basketball in New York. Too much pressure.

Scouting Report

Strengths: Incredibly athletic...a consistent 17-18 point scorer...his field goal percentage has basically increased each year in the league...deadly in transition...can finish in traffic...solid mid-range game.

Weaknesses: Doesn't do one thing great...not a great rebounder for his size...a weak three-point shooter...takes too many outside shots...doesn't dominate when he should...seems to avoid being the alpha dog.

Clutch Quotient/Postseason Prowess

He's never made the playoffs, so it's unfair to give an answer on this.

Off-the-Court

There were issues with Gay going back to his UConn days. My biggest question with him is "how bad does he want it?"

Sometimes you can tell if a player has been given too much too soon. That might be the case with Gay...but I hope not, because he has tremendous talent and could be a legit top-two guy on a contending team.

Carlos Boozer

Star Power

Like Rudy Gay, something about Boozer's name just lacks the appeal of a big-time star.

Then again, when you're competing against LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh, it's probably difficult for any fan base to accept anyone else.

Age Factor

Statistically, Boozer is probably past the prime of his career. ESPN.com writer Bill Simmons had a list of bigs in yesterday's column that peaked within their first seven years; the only notable player that didn't was Hakeem Olajuwon.

Boozer's best years were from 2006-2008, when he averaged 21.0 points and 11.0 rebounds on 55 percent shooting.

But he wasn't far from matching that production this year, at 19.5 points and 11.2 rebounds on 56 percent shooting. Carlos still has anywhere from three to four years left as a double-double threat every night.

How He Could Help a Team

If you want a relatively athletic forward than is one of the strongest pick-and-roll players in the league, then Boozer's your guy.

If you want an aggressive rebounder and someone that's never averaged less than 2.2 offensive boards per game, then Boozer's your guy.

If you want a strong post-up player than can also consistently step back in the 15-18 foot mid-range game, then Boozer's your guy.

If you want a guy that's not afraid to do a lot of the dirty work inside but doesn't need the ball in his hands a lot to be effective, then Boozer's your guy.

How He Could Hurt a Team

The encouraging part of Boozer's game is that he has no real weaknesses to consistently exploit. Injuries might be your primary concern—he's missed over 30 games three times in his eight-year career.

Karma is another concern too—if you stab a blind guy in the back (metaphorically, that is), the karma gods don't let you walk away. At least, as a Cavs fan, that's what I keep telling myself.

Style of Play He'd Best Fit

Any offense that can utilize the pick-and-roll appropriately. Ideally, he'd play with an elite passing point guard.

But in terms of run-and-run or a slow-it-down type of offense, Boozer has the potential to be effective in both.

How Much He'll Cost

Boozer's last deal netted him $12 million in the final year, and it's hard to see anybody willingly exceed that figure, considering that his best years will definitely be behind him by 2012-2013.

He will look for longevity in his deal, and I think something in the five-year, $55-60 million range would be appropriate.

Of course, when the Knicks panic after LeBron re-signs and Wade goes to Chicago, they'll probably throw a five-year, $75 million offer at him.

Teams Most Likely to Sign With

Personally, I don't think he should leave Utah. Him and Deron Williams can easily be the 21st century version of Stockton and Malone, and you can't underestimate how much it will help Boozer in the long-term that D-Will can consistently get him easy buckets.

Having Millsap do his share of the dirty work underneath only lightens Boozer's stress load.

But imagine this scenario. The Nets offer Boozer a Godfather deal, something like the aforementioned (but grossly overpaid) five-year, $70 million deal. Then they go balls out for Joe Johnson in free agency, and offer the Hawks Devin Harris, Yi Jianlian, and a protected future No. 1 for Johnson in a sign-and-trade.

With almost a guaranteed top-two pick, the Nets would be trotting out John Wall/Evan Turner, Joe Johnson, Terrence Williams, Carlos Boozer, and Brook Lopez as a starting five, with Courtney Lee, Chris Douglas-Roberts, Josh Boone, and veteran free agent (fill in the blank) coming off the bench.

Now THAT'S an offer, huh?

Teams That Make No Sense to Sign With

New York, but only if there's no LeBron or Wade. If one of those two lands there, then it's not a bad destination.

Scouting Report

Strengths: Can play with his back to the basket or facing up...strong mid-range game...relatively strong off the dribble...plays the pick-and-roll as well as any other big in the NBA...solid free throw shooter...a beast on the offensive boards...solid defender...isn't afraid of physical play.

Weaknesses: The karma gods will forever be against him (you're damned right this is a weakness)...a bit undersized as a power forward at only 6'9"...not a great athlete...injuries have been a concern.

Clutch Quotient/Postseason Prowess

One of my favorite Boozer series was the 2007 first-round matchup against the Rockets, when Boozer completely outplayed Yao Ming for the entire series, including the clinching Game Seven, when he put up 35 (13-for-23 FG, 9-for-12 FT) and 14.

He's a solid postseason player; he's just never really been on the big stage.

Off-the-Court

I'll forever hold this against him, but when you tell a blind man one thing, then go behind his back and do another, it doesn't speak highly of you. In my mind, he'll be forever known as the guy who just wanted to get paid...and that's unfortunate.

Amar'e Stoudemire

Star Power

Here we go, now the big guys are coming out!

Amar'e has all the name recognition you can imagine. He's been a featured player for the last five years, a multiple All-Star...roughly translated, he's the equivalent of a girl you'd bring home to mom.

Age Factor

He'll be entering his ninth NBA season in 2010-11, so much like Boozer, the question becomes is his best years behind him?

You have to think at 27, Amar'e still has the potential to be a force in the league for another five years. Then again, he does rely on his athleticism a lot, and if that starts to slip, can he find other ways to be dominant?

How He Could Hurt a Team

Well, unless the other team has a freakishly athletic 6'10" power forward to cover him, you'll probably have a mismatch on STAT every time down the floor.

Put him in an up-tempo offense, kick back, and watch him go to work. He runs the floor hard (when he wants to), attacks the rim with a ferocity that's rarely duplicated around the league, and has a smooth mid-range game as well.

How He Could Hurt a Team

If there are questions about a player's work ethic and attitude, that raises a red flag.

Amar'e is a great player, there's no denying that. But the fact that Phoenix has willingly be open to trade discussions about him at the last two deadlines is really suspicious to me.

Since I'm on the female analogies today, think of it like this: Amar'e is the really attractive girl that's been with the same guy for years, only she flirts with everyone and sight and her current boyfriend doesn't care at all. Now she's begging you to date her long-term. It seems tempting, but...

Style of Play He'd Best Fit

Unless you've never watched Stoudemire play at all (in that case, you're probably lost reading a majority of this anyways), you know it's in a fast-paced offense.

That's why I feared him coming to Cleveland. Can you imagine the looks on his face when the Cavs walked the ball up the court 40 times a game? He'd never get any easy hoops.

Similarly, as a fantasy hoops owner, I wanted to see him shipped to Golden State at the deadline. Imagine the value behind him playing in THAT offense.

How Much He'll Cost

Break out the check book...you might even have to put this one on your credit card.

If Amar'e moves, I can't see it being in anything but a sign-and-trade, because he's going to want that sixth year added on.

Somebody will overpay for him, based on his game since the All-Star break—he's been the best power forward in the game, and it's not even that close.

Look for something like six-years, $90-95 million for STAT.

Teams Most Likely to Sign With

I've got a little piece of advice for you, Amar'e: when the season ends, call Dwyane Wade, find out what he wants to do, and latch on the for the ride.

If he wants you to come to Miami, see you on South Beach.

If he wants you to follow him to New York, meet him in the Big Apple.

After playing with Nash his entire career, Stoudemire has been gift-wrapped a lot of easy buckets by the best passing guard of this generation. If he plays with Wade, he won't have to be the primary scorer on offense, and a pick-and-roll with those two is just...well it's...I can't even describe how terrified I would be.

Teams That Make No Sense to Sign With

I loved my Boozer scenario for the Nets, but hate it with Amar'e. Too many character issues for Stoudemire to swallow up his pride and land in N.J.

Also, couldn't you see the Clippers throwing an absurd amount of money at Amar'e, baiting people into thinking it's a great move, then glumly sitting on the deal six months from now when Baron Davis is shooting jump shots all game and Stoudemire looks like he wants to kill Chris Kaman?

Scouting Report

Strengths: An athletic freak of nature...plays the pick-and-roll well...unstoppable in transition...runs the floor hard...solid mid-range game...finishes strong under the rim...has improved his rebounding this year...tough to control on the offensive glass...hasn't shot less than 50 percent from the floor since 2003-04...a consistent 20-point scorer...pretty adept at finishing with both hands.

Weaknesses: How much of his game benefits from the system and playing with Steve Nash, one of the best passing PGs ever?...questionable work ethic...not a good defender (to be fair, he's never been asked to play it until this year)...character issues...can he be the best player on a championship team?...has been involved in trade talks for years...not a great back-to-the-basket player.

Clutch Quotient/Postseason Prowess

He's not a player you're going to draw up a play for down the stretch of a close game, and that really hurts, especially when you're asking for max money.

He was routinely outplayed by Tim Duncan when the Spurs and Suns met in the playoffs in the mid-2000s, though now his superior athleticism and talent is a real issue for Duncan.

And when the Suns made their best push for a Finals run, Stoudemire played just three games the entire season. Take that how you want.

Off-the-Court

Recently Phoenix forward Amar'e Stoudemire hosted an NBA FIT basketball clinic for youngsters at the United Airways Center in Arizona. The NBA: Where Caring Happens...

Joe Johnson

Star Power

I love Joe Johnson and think he should be considered one of the best two-guards in the NBA (hell, maybe he is). But his name just lacks that star appeal, doesn't it? It doesn't roll off the tongue that Dwyane or LeBron does.

Age Factor

Do you realize that Johnson will be entering his 10th NBA season next year? Doesn't that seem like a lot?

It seems like just yesterday that he was flying all over the court in Mike D'Antoni's seven-seconds-or-less offense. Now he's about to turn 29. Can he consistently contribute for the next five to six years?

How He Could Help a Team

Scoring, scoring, scoring.

Outside of Kobe Bryant, he's probably the best scoring shooting guard in the Association. He can create his own shot, facilitate an offense, work off the pick-and-roll, go one-on-one, post-up smaller defenders...there's not an offensive option he hasn't scored out of.

At 6'7", he creates a mismatch against almost any other team in the league. You can't put a 6'4" guard on him—he'll score out of the post every time. He's a good enough athlete to get by taller, but not quite as athletic, small forwards as well.

How He Could Hurt a Team

If you have a young point guard that you want to develop, I wouldn't be rolling out the red carpet for Johnson.

He dominates the ball at times, and often doesn't trust his teammates. I don't know if this is him trying too hard to be the alpha dog, or maybe the atrocious half-court offense sets in Atlanta, but he's a player that needs the ball in his hands to be an effective scorer.

I can think of one team that this eliminates right off the bat, but we'll get into that in a few sections.

Style of Play He'd Best Fit

I still think Johnson was at his best during his Phoenix days, and if he hadn't of left, the Suns would have won at least two titles, and maybe they're in discussion with the Spurs and Lakers for team of the decade.

Alas, that's not the case, and he abandoned the prolific offensive set for opportunities to go one-on-five in the half-court in Atlanta.

The Hawks have trouble getting easy buckets. To be fair, this isn't all Johnson's fault. They need a point guard that's not three years past his prime, and an effective low-post scorer out of the block.

But the half-court, slow-down game clearly isn't Johnson's strength. He's much better out in transition, where he can use his size and athleticism to find mismatches and create scoring opportunities for himself and others.

How Much He'll Cost

In this year's class, the trio of Boozer/Stoudemire/Johnson could easily be at the tail end of their careers when the contracts they sign this offseason expire, while the James/Wade/Bosh combo will probably still have some good years left afterward.

That's why it's imperative that whoever goes after Johnson lock him into a reasonable contract. You don't want a six-year, $105 million deal that will leave a team kicking itself by 2014 when it realizes Johnson probably doesn't deserve $16 million as a 33-year-old swingman.

I'd give him four-years, $55 million, with something like a $10 million signing bonus. You don't commit to him long-term, he's reasonably priced, and he gets a little something extra. Everyone wins.

Teams Most Likely to Sign With

I still love my New Jersey idea for him and Boozer, and no one will be able to talk me out of it.

Aside from that, I think the Clippers could be a legit option. A starting lineup of Davis, Gordon, Johnson, Griffin, and Kaman would be nothing to laugh at.

Teams That Make No Sense to Sign With

I don't see the appeal of Johnson to Chicago. Yes, the Bulls need another scorer on the perimeter. Yes, they need someone to take pressure of Derrick Rose.

But I don't see Johnson as the answer. He needs the ball in his hands too much, and I think it would cripple Derrick Rose's development. His lack of activity could drive Joakim Noah nuts as well.

I think he'd be a great fit in Minnesota, who desperately needs an athletic scoring guard, but he probably won't want to go to a rebuilding situation in his prime.

Basically, any scenario where Johnson has to the No. 1 guy, I don't see it as a good fit.

Scouting Report

Strengths: Great size for a shooting guard...tall, athletic, versatile, lengthy...unbelievable scorer...can score from the three-point line, mid-range, off the dribble, out of the post...used to being the No. 1 scoring option...not afraid to take the big shot...strong, physical defender.

Weaknesses: Probably couldn't be the best player on a championship team...at 29, relies too much on his jump shot rather than his ability to get to the rim...not a great rebounder for his size...doesn't play passing lanes on defense as well as he could...has struggled shooting the ball the past three years...can he co-exist with another alpha dog?

Clutch Quotient/Postseason Prowess

Tough to say anything about his postseason game, since the Hawks have never made a run under his leadership. I guess that speaks about his game on some levels, though.

Still, he's not afraid to take the last-second shot; you have to like that in a big-time free agent.

Off-the-Court

I'm still wary about Joe, just because he left that Suns team for a chance to be the best player on a team that's made it out of the first round one time in five years. How'd that work out?

Chris Bosh

Star Power

Yes sir!

Age Factor

Unlike the three players mentioned before him, Bosh's career won't be declining (or close to it) when the contract he signs this year expires.

He's just 25, but he's been in the league seven years...does that make him a veteran at this point?

Whoever signs Bosh will be banking on at least two more peak years from, and that's certainly not out of the question for a player of his caliber.

How He Could Help a Team

In every way possible. He could help in scoring.

He could help in rebounding.

He could help in passing out of the post.

He could help in defensive tenacity.

He could help by providing a sneaky effective low-post game (think a younger, bigger, more explosive Antawn Jamison).

It's easier to just say, "Bosh helps any team in any way except the following..."

How He Could Hurt a Team

Injuries. Only three times in his seven year career has he played more than 70 games.

Then again, he's never played less than 67. Actually, this could help him long-term; instead of wearing himself out, he could elongate his career a few years.

So never mind I brought this up then.

Style of Play He'd Best Fit

The past few years in Toronto, the Raptors haven't been able to stop a WNBA team. But offensively, they've been one of the top teams in the league.

They led the East in scoring this year, and Bosh was a key reason, averaging a career-high 24 points per game.

I still think an up-tempo style fits his game best. He's such an effective scorer that if he gets an easy 10 points a game, he can still get 15-20 out of set plays. That's 25-30 points a game...I don't think it's out of the question, given the appropriate system.

In a more traditional half-court set, he can still score efficiently, but I don't think it's an appropriate use of his talents.

How Much He'll Cost

A lot. A max deal that stretches six years. If he leaves town, he'll do so in a sign-and-trade.

Teams Most Likely to Sign With

Obviously, New York is a great draw. I'm not knocking Canada, but when you have an opportunity to play at Madison Square Garden 41 times a year, in front of a raucous crowd who wants nothing more than for you to restore basketball pride in a tradition-rich city, I think you take it.

Then again, that's the argument for LeBron to leave Cleveland, and I think it holds no truth. But that just means Cleveland is better than Canada...right?

Or team up with Wade in Miami. That sounds nice too.

There's also the OKC Thunder. He'd give a real post presence to a team loaded with outside talent.

Or here's a thought: how about Sacramento? Let's say the Kings nab a top-two pick and grab Evan Turner. Wouldn't you order NBA League Pass to watch Turner/Evans/Casspi/Bosh every night. There's no way I wouldn't.

Teams That Make No Sense to Sign With

Honestly, there's not too many teams on which Bosh wouldn't fit in. Miami, New York, New Jersey, Phoenix, and Sacramento all have cap space, and all would welcome Bosh.

Scouting Report

Strengths: A great athlete...lanky, but still built well...a pure scorer...can face up or attack off the dribble...great at flip and hook shots underneath the rim... a bit undersized in terms of weight, but plays above the rim...consistently shoots near 50 percent from the floor... a good free throw shooter...excellent rebound...has consistently averaged near 3.0 offensive boards per game...has no trouble being the face of a franchise...skilled passer out of the post...strong weak-side defender.

Weaknesses: Can he be the best player on a championship team?...has no real playoff experience...could he co-exist with another leader like LeBron or D-Wade?...not great in one-on-one defense (though like Stoudemire, he's never really been asked or taught to play it).

Clutch Quotient/Postseason Prowess

He's never really been in a clutch postseason moment, so it's tough to say.

However, I'd have no problem drawing up a play or giving him the ball down by one in the closing seconds of the game. That's worth something.

Off-the-Court

Classy representative of himself and organization. Any team would love to have him.

Dwyane Wade

Star Power

The premier player of the class not named "LeBron James."

You want star power? He's oozing with it.

Age Factor

He's 28, but shows no signs of slowing down any time soon. He is the type of player that I think the wear-and-tear will creep up out of nowhere and bring his game down substantially, but I don't see that happening until he's 33 or so, meaning he's got four or five good, strong years left in him.

How He Could Help a Team

If you need someone who can score every time down the floor.

If you need someone who has developed an uncanny ability to find open teammates and to trust those around him.

If you need someone who can attack off the dribble, move without the ball, or pull up from the three-point line.

If you need someone to be the face of your franchise and sell tickets.

If you need someone who's not afraid to take the "onions!" shot.

How He Could Hurt a Team

If he signed a contract, then contracted polio or something. Only injuries are going to derail his chances for success.

Style of Play He'd Best Fit

It's interesting, because as you probably are aware of, Wade played for the Heat, a slow-down, methodical team that couldn't play up-and-down because they didn't have the horses to run with anybody. So they had to play grind-it-out defense to win games.

Still, Wade was remarkably effective playing at that pace. He could pick and choose his spots, he could find open players, and he could get selectively run when the timing was right.

So I still think a half-court game is Wade's specialty. Him and Kobe are probably the two best half-court scorers in the league right now, and with Kobe getting older, that title will be Wade's for the taking.

A wide-open style would be good for the highlight reel, but I'm not sure how great it would be for Wade's longevity as a player.

How Much He'll Cost

Either five or six years, ranging from $100-120 million. He's getting paid this offseason.

Teams Most Likely to Sign With

I don't see how he doesn't end up in Chicago. I realize the management situation is a bit messy right now, and the front office hasn't exactly proven itself trustworthy over the last 10 years.

But he's from Chicago. A hometown boy with the chance to follow in the footsteps of the greatest player ever and lead the Bulls back to national relevance? He's going to turn down that chance?

Plus, I'm with Bill Simmons. During the Cleveland series, it was like Rose and Noah were openly writing a letter to every available marquee free agent, basically saying, "we're young, we're hungry, we give a crap, we want to win multiple titles...come play with us."

Plus, with Wade/Rose/Noah in Chicago, Howard/Nelson/Lewis in Orlando, and James/Williams/Jamison in Cleveland, we've got a three-headed East monster that will undoubtedly be clashing for titles for the next five years. How can that go wrong?

If not Chi-town, then he'll either be in New York or Miami with Chris Bosh or Amar'e Stoudemire.

Teams That Make No Sense to Sign With

Any team that doesn't have a window to win right now, excluding the Knicks, because they have so much cap space that they could make themselves contenders by next year. But I don't think they will.

Scouting Report

Strengths: A true superstar...one of the premier scorers in the league...can beat you off the bounce, in the post, or without the ball...not a great three-point shooter, but a clutch one...superior athlete to 99 percent of the league...finishes strong with both hands...can finish in traffic...draws fouls as well as anyone in the league...already a reputation of a crunch-time player...has competed on the world's biggest stages and won...only marquee player out of the '03 draft class with an NBA title and Olympic gold medal...great court vision...strong passer...great teammate...sneaky good defender...terrific with weak-side help...can make the highlight play.

Weaknesses: Can his body hold up for another five or six years?...has taken a lot of abuse driving to the hoop over the years...only played in more than 70 games four times in seven years.

Clutch Quotient/Postseason Prowess

You might remember Wade's epic performance during the '06 Finals (I am a bit skeptical of it because of the refs, and because I would have lost a lot of money on the series if gambling were legal).

Nonetheless, he has a complete resume. He's been to the biggest stage and won. He's competed in the Olympics and won. He knows how to be the alpha dog, but also when to defer and play facilitator.

He's the most polished late game player out of any free agent, including LeBron. He's also not afraid to take the big shot.

Off-the-Court

Like so many players of this generation, he's a classy representative of the NBA off the court as well (thanks to Ron Artest). Not too many are built in the Dwyane Wade-mold.

LeBron James

Star Power

He's the best player in the NBA, so if that's not enough star power for you, I don't know what is.

Age Factor

He's only 25, so history suggests that he hasn't even peaked statistically yet. Considering he averaged 29.7-7.3-8.6 this year, I don't think a year where he averages a triple-double is out of the question...though I think he'd have to openly be gunning for it.

How He Could Help a Team

In every conceivable way.

How He Could Hurt a Team

Umm...uhhh...ehhh....maybe he could...umm...I guess all the media attention that constantly surrounds him? If attention is a bad thing?

I don't know, let's just skip this one...

Style of Play He'd Best Fit

As you can probably tell from reading this scouting report (and if you've ever read anything else I've ever written on the guy), I'm in love with LeBron James the basketball player (in a platonic way, of course).

That being said, I haven't seen a style that he couldn't play. Could you imagine him playing in New York for D'Antoni? That's the best case scenario for the triple-double average. Hell, he got 15 points and six rebounds out of Quentin Richardson in 2004-05.

He could fit in any style, but I think any up-tempo offense would suit him fine. They don't necessarily have to fast break, but just get shots up early. Think of this year's Phoenix Suns team.

How Much He'll Cost

Let's just say he won't be going hungry any time soon.

Teams Most Likely to Sign With

I have to admit, New York is an attractive draw. But it has nothing to do with the media, the fame, the glamor, all that s**t. It has everything to do with restoring pride and tradition back in Madison Square Garden in front of some of the most knowledgeable and loyal basketball fans in the world. That's it.

Chicago is enticing as well. Rose and Noah made their case in the playoffs this year. Don't think LeBron wasn't impressed—he has stated that he thinks Rose is the second best PG in the league.

But really, Cleveland is his best option. He's lived there his whole life, his family is there, his business is rooted there, his friends are there...he's built this Kingdom from the ground up in the last seven years. I don't think it'd be smart to throw that all away.

Teams That Make No Sense to Sign With

Any place not named New York, Chicago, or Cleveland.

Scouting Report

Strengths: Virtually everything about his game...impossible to guard one-on-one...incredible court vision...sees things unfold seconds before they actually do...a student of the game; studies film and history...explosive off the dribble...moves well without the ball...always a threat to make a big play that gets the crowd fired up...his range extends to half-court...can get to the rim anytime he wants...knows how to run an offense...is essentially a 6'9" point guard...has shot an improved percentage each of the last four years...three-point game is improving as well...great one-on-one defender...even better weak-side defender...great teammate...coaches his players up...ready for the big stage...not afraid to take the last-second shot...starving for a championship.

Weaknesses: Should be a better free-throw shooter...often relies on his jump shot too much instead of attacking the rim...not a great post-up player, but should be considering his size frame.

Clutch Quotient/Postseason Prowess

You remember that shot he hit against Orlando in Game Two last year? That was pretty clutch.

So were his stats for the series. He's never really underperformed in the postseason, despite the fact that he doesn't have a championship. I would argue last year was the first time that his team underachieved—they were better than their performance against Orlando suggested.

This year in the playoffs, he's shown no signs of slowing down. Expect big numbers, big performances, and big-time plays from the King.

Off-the-Court

Global icon. One billion dollar man. The face of basketball throughout the world.

Enough said.