NBA Free Agents 2011: Predicting the Biggest Moves in Free-Agent Frenzy

Everybody wants to know where the top NBA free agents like Caron Butler, Tayshaun Prince, David West, Tyson Chandler and Nene are going to end up in this lockout-shortened offseason.

The regular season will be starting sooner than later, believe it or not, and there are a bunch of teams out there that can really benefit from some of the talent on the open market.

The competition will be stiff though, especially for these big names.

Here are my predictions for the biggest free-agent signings in 2011: 

Caron Butler, Small Forward: Los Angeles Clippers

Butler may not seem like a huge name anymore, but there is no doubting that he played a significant role with the Dallas Mavericks.

He averaged 15 points and four rebounds last season, and even though he's struggled with injury, he still has enough left in the tank to be a major contributor.

Mark J. Miller of Yahoo! Sports is reporting that Butler is interested in either the Bulls or Clippers.

I feel he will eventually sign with the Clippers.

He will have the shot to play next to Blake Griffin on a young team where he can be a big-time contributor.

Tayshaun Prince, Small Forward: Miami Heat

The Miami Heat need a big-time role player to come off the bench and take control of the game, especially so they can give the Big Three much-needed rest from time to time.

Prince fits the mold perfectly, and the Heat should be able to make room for him on the roster if they use their amnesty clause.

With Prince you're getting a player that averages 12.9 points, 2.7 assists and 4.7 rebounds per game in his career.

He's known for his excellent defense, usually against an opponent's best player, and has tons of playoff experience.

He's played in 118 playoff games and two championship series, winning one NBA title with the Detroit Pistons in 2004.

Prince could be the perfect last piece to the Heat's championship puzzle.

David West, Power Forward: New Jersey Nets

The Nets need to make a splash here in free agency, with the specific goal of appeasing Deron Williams and showing him they will build a legitimate team around him.

West would be the perfect fit on this team, and he would give Williams a great scorer to target in the post.

Last season West averaged 18.9 points and 7.6 rebounds per game, and he has the raw abilities to get better in the right situation.

The Nets have the money to bring him in, and he will love the idea of playing with Williams.

Tyson Chandler, Center: Golden State Warriors

Chandler is a stud, and he's a huge reason the Dallas Mavericks won the NBA Championship last season.

He's big down on the block, plays incredible defense and has a ton of experience.

Marc Stein of ESPN is reporting that the Warriors, Rockets and Nets are in strong contention for the veteran center.

Chandler fits the Warriors need for a big man almost perfectly, and they will have enough room to bring him in under the salary cap.

I expect to see Chandler gracing the Bay Area with his presence very soon.

Nene, Center: New York Knicks

The Knicks desperately need a big-time center to come play with Carmelo Anthony and Amar'e Stoudemire, and Nene looks to be a great fit.

They obviously have a ton of money on board after their failed run at LeBron James, so why not use some of that to bring in a good center that can help the team down low and defensively?

Last season he averaged 14.5 points, 7.6 rebounds and one block per game last season, and he would be a huge addition to a team desperate for some help down low.