NBA Free Agents 2011: Ranking Top 5 Most Coveted Players on the Market

NBA free agents are set to be able to sign with new or current teams beginning December 9, and while the class of 2011 doesn't resemble the free-agent class of just a season ago, there's still some talent out there to be had.

While there may not be any franchise-changing pieces out there, there are still some possible pieces that can help contending teams get over the hump.

Here's a look at the top five free agents currently on the market.

5. Jamal Crawford

Crawford may not be the best 2-guard on the market, but he's being coveted in that fashion. Currently, there are at least six teams in on the shooting guard.

He would be a good fit almost anywhere, as almost every team could use the scoring punch he brings along.

4. David West

West comes in at No. 4 on the list due to the uncertainty of his knee after coming back from a torn ACL. He has the talent to rank higher on the list, but you just never know how the surgery will change his game.

Several teams have shown interest in the power forward, but the Hornets are trying their best to keep him in New Orleans.

3. Tyson Chandler

Chandler's stock rose drastically after his defense and rebounding were a big part of the Dallas Mavericks winning last season's NBA championship.

Many teams looking to get into contention are looking to land a big guy, and Chandler's rising value may lead to him leaving Dallas.

Golden State and New Jersey are just two of the teams actively pursuing Chandler at the moment.

2. Marc Gasol

Gasol would be No. 1 on this list if he wasn't a restricted free agent.

Even though Memphis can match any offer made to Gasol, that won't stop teams from actively pursuing him, as teams like the Pacers really want him.

Although there will be a ton of interest, all signs point to him staying in Memphis, even though it may put the Grizzlies into the luxury tax.

1. Nene

Nene is big and strong and, right now, is the most coveted free agent on the market.

Denver really wants to keep him, and many other teams want him, including New Jersey and Houston, who have him as their No. 1 offseason priority.

He's not a franchise player, but he's the one available player on the market that can likely have the most impact on a team.