
NBA Free Agents 2011: Player That Fits Best on Each Team
Regardless of where your team is positioned right now in the draft, free agency is always something to consider.
If a team doesn't satisfy their needs through the draft and have failed to make a solid trade, free agency becomes that much more important.
That said, there will be players who are pursued by multiple teams, so this summer will be extremely competitive off the court.
However, everyone has different needs, so here is a free agent that fits the mold to each team.
NOTE: In order to use as many free agents as possible, no FA was selected more than once.
Atlanta Hawks: Greg Oden, C Portland
1 of 30
2009-10 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 23.9
POINTS: 11.1
REBOUNDS: 8.4
FG%: 60.5
FT%: 76.6
We know Greg Oden has talent, but his luck has virtually run out in Portland.
If he can get a fresh start with the Hawks, Atlanta could solidify themselves as a perennial Eastern Conference contender.
That said, it is imperative that Oden remains healthy.
Boston Celtics: Tyson Chandler, C Dallas
2 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 27.8
POINTS: 10.1
REBOUNDS: 9.4
FG%: 65.4
FT%: 73.2
Whether Danny Ainge likes to admit it or not, trading Kendrick Perkins was not the right decision.
Well, a proven replacement is needed, so why not take a shot at Tyson Chandler?
Chances are he'll stay in Dallas, but making the move to Boston wouldn't be such a bad idea either.
Charlotte Bobcats: J.R. Smith, SG Denver
3 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 24.9
POINTS: 12.3
ASSISTS: 2.2
FG%: 43.5
FT%: 73.8
Not that it wouldn't be too difficult for Denver to replace J.R. Smith, but Charlotte may need him more.
He may not be a shut-down defender, but Smith could definitely help the 29th ranked offense (only 93.3 ppg).
Chicago Bulls: Ray Allen, SG Boston
4 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 36.1
POINTS: 16.5
ASSISTS: 2.7
FG%: 49.1
FT%: 88.1
Despite having Kyle Korver (marksman), Ronnie Brewer (lock-down defender) or Keith Bogans (decent on both ends), Ray Allen could be the short-term solution to Chicago's two guard problem.
Allen is definitely better in transition than Korver (although improving) and Bogans and is way better at offense than Brewer).
The biggest reason would be pairing him with Derrick Rose. A deadly combo.
Cleveland Cavaliers: Tracy McGrady, SG Detroit
5 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 23.4
POINTS: 8.0
ASSISTS: 3.5
FG%: 44.2
FT%: 69.8
The Cavaliers need a lot of help all-around.
And, with two top 10 first round picks, areas will be improved.
However, giving Tracy McGrady new life with some young talent would only create more optimism (at the very least) in Cleveland.
Dallas Mavericks: Tayshaun Prince, SF Detoit
6 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 32.8
POINTS: 14.1
REBOUNDS: 4.2
FG%: 47.3
FT%: 70.2
For as great a player Tayshaun Prince has been for Detroit, it's time for him to move on.
Enter the Dallas Mavericks with solid pieces of the puzzle together in Dirk Nowitzki, Tyson Chandler and Jose Barea (if J-Kidd ever retires).
Adding Prince to SF would be an upgrade from Shawn Marion, Caron Butler or Peja Stojakovic.
Denver Nuggets: Shane Battier, SF Memphis
7 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 29.0
POINTS: 7.6
REBOUNDS: 4.5
FG%: 45.0
FT%: 68.8
After the Carmelo Anthony trade, the Nuggets did pan out better than the critics anticipated.
Barring a lockout, once they get a full year together, the chemistry will begin to form.
However, they still ranked 21st in defense (allowing 102.7 ppg), so signing Shane Battier would most definitely suffice.
Detroit Pistons: David West, PF New Orleans
8 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 35.0
POINTS: 18.9
REBOUNDS: 7.6
FG%: 50.8
FT%: 80.7
The Pistons do have depth at the PF position; however, none are as productive as David West.
He gives you almost three full quarters of a game and is very consistent on both ends.
So, whether it's offense or defense, Detroit will improve with West at PF.
Golden State Warriors: Josh Howard, SF Washington Wizards
9 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 22.7
POINTS: 8.4
REBOUNDS: 4.1
FG%: 35.8
FT%: 61.7
Now although Josh Howard has gone through the injury gauntlet the past few seasons, when healthy, he can be a very solid player.
Golden State could revive his career after the mishaps in Washington and his final two years with Dallas.
Not to mention the Warriors would be back on the playoff contention map for the first time since the 2006-07 season.
Houston Rockets: Andrei Kirilenko, SF Utah
10 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 31.2
POINTS: 11.7
REBOUNDS: 5.1
FG%: 46.7
FT%: 77.0
Last season, the Houston Rockets allowed 103.7 points per game, ranking them 22nd in the association.
Well, the addition of Andrei Kirilenko will increase that ranking for sure.
Another interesting thing here is that they are headed in a new direction. Chances are they won't re-sign Yao Ming, and HC Rick Adelman was just let go.
Not to mention the trading of Shane Battier.
Convincing AK-47 to sign will be difficult, but he could become a cornerstone in their franchise history if they take a turn for the better.
Indiana Pacers: Kenyon Martin, PF Denver
11 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 25.7
POINTS: 8.6
REBOUNDS: 6.2
FG%: 51.1
FT%: 58.3
A concerning question for the Pacers: Is Tyler Hansbrough the long-term solution at PF?
Well, if so, great, but if not, then Kenyon Martin is here to help.
His age is definitely an issue; however, he'd definitely be an upgrade from James Posey for experienced depth.
Los Angeles Clippers: Luc Richard Mbah a Moute, SF Milwaukee
12 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 26.5
POINTS: 6.7
REBOUNDS: 5.3
FG%: 46.3
FT%: 70.7
Luc Richard Mbah a Moute is one of the better defensive FAs on the market this summer.
Now although offense is not his focal point, pairing him with Blake Griffin would be an interesting combo.
Additionally, the Clippers would improve on defense, thus giving more offensive opportunities to Griffin, PG Mo Williams and SG Eric Gordon.
Los Angeles Lakers: Acie Law, PG Golden State
13 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 14.2
POINTS: 4.2
ASSISTS: 1.6
FG%: 43.5
FT%: 73.4
Let's face it, Laker fans, you know Derek Fisher isn't getting any younger, and Kobe needs a young PG to feed him the rock.
Obviously, Acie Law needs more experience running basketball's quarterback position; however, the Lakers also need depth at PG as well.
So bringing in Law isn't the worst of ideas, especially since a new HC is in the works.
And, whether the fans will admit to it or not, a rebuilding season is bound to happen sooner or later.
Memphis Grizzlies: Yao Ming, C Houston
14 of 30
2008-09 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 33.6
POINTS: 19.7
REBOUNDS: 9.8
FG%: 54.8
FT%: 86.6
Although Yao Ming played in five games last season, his 2008-09 season was much more contributory.
We all know he's dealt with what seems like injury after injury, but he's only 30 years old and not too many miles.
Therefore, why not get a fresh start with a Grizzly team that could use some depth at center while giving Ming a situational role.
Not nearly as many minutes, but just enough to keep him effective while easing his way back from those pesky injuries.
It's a win-win.
Miami Heat: Samuel Dalembert, C Sacramento
15 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 24.2
POINTS: 8.1
REBOUNDS: 8.2
FG%: 47.3
FT%: 73.0
Here's a trivia question for fans outside of Sacramento. Who was their most paid player for the 2010-11 season?
Yes, it was Samuel Dalembert. Wait, what? (asks Norm MacDonald)
He's a solid defensive player, and the Heat need an inside presence that's not coming from the big three.
If Miami steals him under everyone's eye this summer, the Heat will be very close to a complete team.
Milwaukee Bucks: Glen Davis, PF Boston
16 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 29.5
POINTS: 11.7
REBOUNDS: 5.4
FG%: 44.8
FT%: 73.6
If Luc Richard Mbah a Moute re-signs with Milwaukee, the addition of Glen Davis could be a very good move.
The Bucks are already a solid defensive team, but they ranked 30th in offense (only 91.9 ppg).
Davis could add another dimension for Scott Skiles while also contributing to the defense.
If this happens, Milwaukee will definitely leap-frog Indiana in the EC's Central Division.
Minnesota Timberwolves: Jamal Crawford, G Atlanta
17 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 30.2
POINTS: 14.2
ASSISTS: 3.2
FG%: 42.1
FT%: 85.4
A great thing about Jamal Crawford is that he does obtain the ability to play either guard position.
Now, he'll obviously help more on the offensive end, but contributing defensively will happen, especially with Kevin Love eating everything near the rim.
The T-Wolves need an experienced guard, and Crawford would take a spotlight-esque role.
New Jersey Nets: Wilson Chandler, SF Denver
18 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 33.3
POINTS: 15.3
REBOUNDS: 5.7
FG%: 45.0
FT%: 80.7
Despite having Travis Outlaw currently as their main SF, the addition of Wilson Chandler to New Jersey could allow them to be more athletic on offense.
They only averaged 94.2 points per game last season (ranking them 28th), and if Deron Williams remains, the Nets offense will do wonders.
Obviously, it makes them smaller, but being quicker isn't always a bad thing.
New Orleans Hornets: Delonte West, SG Boston
19 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES; 18.9
POINTS: 5.6
ASSISTS: 2.7
FG%: 45.8
FT%: 86.7
Hopefully, Chris Paul starts and finishes his career with NOLA; that way, a player like Delonte West could become his SG.
The Hornets are virtually set, except for SG, and it also does need some depth.
They're already a playoff team, and with West replacing either Marco Bellinelli or Willie Green, the offense will be electric.
New York Knicks: Nene Hilario, C Denver
20 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 30.5
POINTS: 14.5
REBOUNDS: 7.6
FG%: 61.5
FT%: 71.1
Okay, currently in place is SF Carmelo Anthony, PF Amare Stoudemire, SG Landry Fields and PG Chauncey Billups.
Both centers Ronny Turiaf and Shelden Williams are not bad, but Nene Hilario would improve the paint.
The Knicks need a center, so they will go shopping for one. The question is whether they want to go with the draft or the FA market.
Oklahoma City Thunder: Jason Richardson, SG Orlando
21 of 30
SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 33.9
POINTS: 15.6
ASSISTS: 1,8
FG%: 44.7
FT%: 73.0
Wow, do the Thunder have a lot of guards.
However, they consist of Thabo Sefolosha, James Harden, Daequan Cook, Nate Robinson, Russell Westbrook, Eric Maynor and Royal Ivey.
This summer, they should not re-sign Daequan Cook, release either Harden or Robinson (just one not both) and then release Royal Ivey.
Thus, making room for Jason Richardson, who could put up some good numbers while adding talented depth, as opposed to just depth.
Orlando Magic: Tim Duncan, PF San Antonio Spurs
22 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 28.4
POINTS: 13.4
REBOUNDS: 8.9
FG%; 50.0
FT%: 71.6
Yeah, he's getting old, but so what.
Now, it is very difficult to picture Tim Duncan not playing for the Spurs, but that hasn't stopped future Hall of Famers before.
That said, San Antonio needs to get younger, while Orlando needs to get Dwight Howard some help down low.
Enter the Big Fundamental in a supporting role that will help the Magic regain some confidence in what is arguably the most difficult Eastern Conference division.
Philadelphia 76ers: Boris Diaw, PF Charlotte
23 of 30
SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 33.9
POINTS; 11.3
REBOUNDS: 5.0
FG%: 49.2
FT%: 68.3
The 76ers do run pretty deep at both forward positions, but the addition of Boris Diaw could enhance what is already a solid offensive and defensive team.
Also, signing him would then mean cutting some other minor role players (i.e. Craig Brackins, Darius Songaila, and Jason Kapono) but mean an easier and more organized rotation.
He could propel Philadelphia into that top-four seed position, so they should at least consider his services.
Phoenix Suns: Shannon Brown, G L.A. Los Angeles
24 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 19.1
POINTS: 8.7
ASSISTS: 1.2
FG%: 42.5
FT%: 91.1
With the aging Steve Nash running the system, it's only a matter of time before the Suns will need youth and talent at the point.
Therefore, if Shannon Brown wishes to exit Southern California, Phoenix would be a solid choice.
He would definitely start from the get-go after the departure of Nash and could also fill in at SG prior to that when Grant Hill plays at his normal SF spot.
Portland Trail Blazers: Rodney Stuckey, PG Detoit
25 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 31.2
POINTS: 15.5
ASSISTS: 5.2
FG%: 43.9
FT%: 86.6
Come time for the draft, the Trail Blazers should look for the big man need there, since there is no substitute for youth (especially with the physicality that comes with playing down low).
So, via free agency, they should look to Detroit's Rodney Stuckey, who could play either guard position for them.
Brandon Roy has dealt with some injuries, as well has Rudy Fernandez, so sharing time with either Wesley Mathews or Andre Miller would add some health to Portland's guards.
Also, he gives them the ability to go small and quick if they decide to bump Matthews down to SF on occasion.
Sacramento Kings: Mike Dunleavy, SF Indiana
26 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 27.6
POINTS: 11.2
REBOUNDS: 4.5
FG%: 46.2
FT%: 80.0
Sacramento fans have been through a lot with the Maloof's.
So, they deserve an improvement at the SF position by signing Mike Dunleavy this summer.
There is depth for them at both forward positions, but other than Samuel Dalembert, no one else is a true center.
That said, a few should either be released or asked to move to center, thus creating room for Dunleavy.
San Antonio Spurs: Ronny Turiaf, C New York
27 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 17.8
POINTS: 4.2
REBOUNDS: 3.2
FG%: 63.2
FT%: 62.2
We all know the Spurs aren't getting any younger, and other than Antonio McDyess, another center is needed.
Hence, the listing of Ronny Turiaf in the FA market from New York.
He'll be a solid asset coming off the bench, AND if San Antonio goes big, it gives him an additional role to showcase his talent while expanding his experience.
Toronto Raptors: Grant Hill, SF Phoenix
28 of 30
SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 30.1
POINTS: 13.2
REBOUNDS: 4.2
FG%: 48.4
FT%: 82.9
The Raptors, although young, need some of that old-man strength to come in and become a mentor for the betterment of the future.
Well, Grant Hill could play that role, and he won't wear down as much, because playing 30 minutes a game won't happen.
Also, he'd help improve the 26th ranked defense (allowed 105.4 ppg).
Utah Jazz: Jared Jeffries, PF New York
29 of 30
SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 14.3
POINTS: 1.8
REBOUNDS: 2.8
FG%: 34.9
FT%: 41.4
Since he's been playing behind Amare Stoudemire in New York, Jared Jeffries hasn't really gotten an opportunity to display his ability.
Now, he definitely won't play too much over Paul Millsap or Derrick Favors, but if Andrei Kirilenko, C.J. Miles and Francisco Elson go elsewhere this summer, Jeffires could be a solid replacement.
Obviously, that will cause the Jazz to play more as big; however, with Gordon Hayward and Devin Harris doing work on the perimeter and around the elbow, the paint will be taken care of.
Washinton Wizards: Daequan Cook, SG Oklahoma City
30 of 30
2010-11 SEASON AVERAGES
MINUTES: 13.9
POINTS: 5.6
ASSISTS: 0.5
FG%: 43.6
FT%: 80.0
Chances are Oklahoma City doesn't re-sign Daequan Cook this offseason with all the guards they have.
And although the Wizards are set with John Wall running the point and Nick Young as the main two guard, Daequan Cook could be a beneficial role player.
That's basically what he's been, even when he was with Miami, so helping a rebuilding Wizards team wouldn't be a bad situation for him.









