2012 NBA Free Agents: Contenders Who Must Re-Sign Key Players

With NBA free agency coming up, a lot of contenders will be looking to lock up key players for a few more years.

Sometimes, a player is invaluable to an organization, even if he isn't a star. Sometimes, role players fit so well with their respective teams that losing them can be devastating.

Here's a look at five contenders who must re-sign key players this offseason.

Orlando Magic: Ryan Anderson, PF

Dwight Howard may not be a free agent this offseason, but Ryan Anderson will. Anderson has grown with the Magic, proving to be a consistent three-point threat. He was named the Kia Most Improved Player on Friday, averaging career highs in points (16.1) and rebounds (7.7). He's a career 38-percent, three-point shooter who stretches the floor.  

Indiana Pacers: Roy Hibbert, C

Roy Hibbert has proven to be a wise draft pick. He's improved his rebounding every year since he was drafted in 2008 and he locks down the interior for the Pacers with his shot-blocking ability. It doesn't hurt that he has great size, too, at 7'2", 275 pounds.

Philadelphia 76ers: Lou Williams, G

Lou Williams could be a starter in the NBA, but he's come off the bench for the 76ers because they have one Jrue Holiday manning the point. He averaged 14.9 points off the bench for the 76ers this season, and he just posted 20 points and six assists against the Chicago Bulls in Game 2 of their playoff series. He provides an instant spark off the bench in Philadelphia.

Denver Nuggets: JaVale McGee, C

JaVale McGee was part of the Nene Hilario trade. He's an elite shot-blocker, and the Nuggets need someone to man the interior with Nene gone. McGee's defense alone makes him a valuable asset to have, especially come playoff time. He posted six blocks against the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 2 of their playoff series.

New York Knicks: Jeremy Lin, PG

Obviously, the Knicks have to re-sign Jeremy Lin. The good news is, Lin's a restricted free agent this offseason, which makes it easier for the Knicks to keep him. Everyone saw what he did this season, going from a relative unknown to an overnight sensation.   

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