NBA Rumors: Latest Buzz on Top Remaining Free Agents
Even though the mass free-agent frenzy has died down in the NBA, there are still plenty of notable names available who can contribute for a potential playoff or championship team.
These players are not likely to be starters when they sign, but as we saw with the Miami Heat in the decisive Game 5 of the NBA Finals, the role players can be just as important as the superstars in a one-game scenario.
No one would have thought that Mike Miller would be the second-best player on the court for the Heat, yet that's exactly what happened.
So which top remaining free agents are generating the most buzz as the calendar flips to August?
Baron Davis, Point Guard
Davis is going to have a long road ahead of him if he wants to play in the NBA again, but that is not dissuading the point guard from doing whatever he must in order to get back on the court.
According to Scott Howard-Cooper of NBA.com, Davis said during summer league games that he "expects to play again."
Given that teams always need help at the point, and Davis is not that far removed from being a quality NBA player, I find it hard to imagine that someone won't take a chance on him. He just has to prove he is going to be healthy in order to get that opportunity.
Carl Landry, Power Forward
Landry's inability to find a home thus far is not exactly surprising, as he is seemingly incapable of staying healthy and is a bench player at this point in his career.
That said, he will be 29 years old in September and is coming off his most productive season since 2009-10.
Accordng to Rick Bonnell of the Charlotte Observer, the Bobcats are in the mix for Landry, one way or another.
"#Bobcats still exploring ways to get Carl Landry. Some chance they could end up as a 4th team in that NO-Phoenix-Minnesota trade talk.
— Rick Bonnell (@rick_bonnell) July 26, 2012"
Given the lack of depth on the Bobcats and their need for, well, basically everything at this point, Landry would be a solid veteran presence to add to the mix.
Jodie Meeks, Guard
The Lakers have been very busy this offseason, though their work is hardly done. Steve Nash was the big fish they needed. Now they have to add more depth to their bench and shooters who can give them valuable minutes.
According to Alex Kennedy of Hoopsworld, Meeks could be the next piece to the Lakers' puzzle this offseason.
"The Los Angeles Lakers continue to express interest in Jodie Meeks, according to source. No deal is imminent, but the two sides are talking.
— Alex Kennedy (@AlexKennedyNBA) July 27, 2012"
Meeks took a step back last year with Philadelphia, averaging 8.4 points, shooting 41 percent overall and 36.5 from three-point range, so no one knows what to expect.
With Nash and Bryan commanding so much attention, Meeks could thrive in the Lakers' offensive system if the two sides are able to strike a deal.
