Breaking News: NBA Free Agency – Big Men and Wings Still Available
Three weeks into the 2025 NBA free agency period, most of the top prospects have found homes, but there are still plenty of talented players available. If you’re looking for a veteran big man or wing to bolster your roster, here are some of the best remaining options:
Bigs:
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Al Horford: The 39-year-old veteran is still one of the best big men available, despite Boston’s decision to move on due to Jayson Tatum’s injury and their earlier-than-expected playoff exit. Horford averaged 9.0 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 1.5 combined steals and blocks in 27.7 minutes per game last season, providing steady leadership and organization on both ends of the floor. He’s reportedly close to joining the Golden State Warriors.
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Chris Boucher: Once a fringe rotation player, Boucher has developed into a key frontcourt reserve over seven seasons with the Raptors. Although injuries and inconsistency have hampered his effectiveness in recent years, the 6-9 forward can still hoist triples and defend. He’s one of only 26 NBA players last season to block 20 shots, snag 20 steals, and make 70 3-pointers while shooting 36% or better from long distance.
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Trey Lyles: The 29-year-old forward had a disappointing season with the Kings, shooting just 42% from the field and 34% from 3-point range. However, he has shown the ability to contribute in the past and could be a valuable role player if he can regain his form. Lyles is a versatile forward who can fill multiple roles and provide extra passes and timely rotations.
Wings:
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Malik Beasley: The 28-year-old sharpshooter made 300 3-pointers in a single season, helping the Pistons return to the playoffs. However, his contract talks have been put on hold due to a federal gambling investigation related to unusually heavy betting interest on his statistics. If cleared, Beasley could be a buy-low reclamation project for a team in need of a high-volume shooter.
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Gary Payton II: The 32-year-old guard is a tenacious defender who has played a significant role on playoff teams in the past. However, he’s never averaged more than 20 minutes per game in an NBA season. Payton’s value depends on the situation and the eye of the beholder, but he could be a useful addition to a team looking for a defensive-oriented guard.
These players bring valuable skills and experience to any team looking to bolster its roster. As the NBA season approaches, expect to see these free agents find homes on playoff-bound rosters.
Breaking News: Top NBA Free Agents Still Available as Playoffs Loom
As the 2025 NBA playoffs approach, many of the league’s biggest stars have signed new contracts, but plenty of valuable role players and intriguing prospects remain available. Here’s a rundown of the best players still available at each position, focusing on unrestricted free agents.
Bigs
- Al Horford: The 39-year-old center is one of the best big men available, with a career-high 61 wins under his belt last season. He averaged 9.0 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 2.1 assists while shooting 44% from the field and 36% from deep. Horford’s leadership and defensive presence make him an attractive option for playoff-bound teams.
- Chris Boucher: The 6-9 forward is a proven reserve with a history of clutch performances. Last season, he blocked 20 shots, snagged 20 steals, and made 70 3-pointers while shooting 36% from deep. Boucher’s versatility and shooting ability could provide valuable two-way contributions.
- Trey Lyles: Lyles has had inconsistent seasons but has shown flashes of potential. If he can return to his previous shooting form, he could be a valuable bench contributor. He’s a capable passer and rebounder who can also space the floor.
- Thomas Bryant: Bryant has spent the last three seasons backing up NBA stars but has shown potential in limited minutes. He’s a solid pick-and-roll dive man and offensive rebounder who could provide useful bench minutes in the playoffs.
- Precious Achiuwa: The young big man has struggled with injuries but has shown defensive potential. He’s a mobile defender who can also contribute on the glass. If he can improve his finishing and perimeter shot-making, he could be a valuable role player.
Ball-handlers
- Russell Westbrook: Despite his decline in recent years, Westbrook is still a productive player who can provide energy, facilitate the offense, and pressure the rim. He averaged 13.4 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.4 rebounds last season while shooting 40% from the field.
- Malcolm Brogdon: The veteran guard is a low-turnover, high-volume 3-point shooter with playoff experience. He’s a steady playmaker who can provide valuable minutes as a reserve. If he can stay healthy, he could be a low-cost, high-reward option for contenders.
- Ben Simmons: The former All-Star has struggled with injuries and confidence issues, but his physical tools are still enticing. He’s an elite defender and rebounder who can provide value in the right system. Simmons could be a buy-low reclamation project for a team looking for a high-impact role player.
- Monte Morris: Morris was once considered one of the best backup point guards in the league, but his shooting efficiency has declined in recent years. If he can return to his past form, he could provide steady ball-handling and playmaking for a playoff team.
- Cameron Payne: Payne has been a reliable backup point guard for several playoff teams in recent years. He’s a low-turnover, high-volume 3-point shooter with playoff experience. He could provide valuable minutes as a reserve for a title-contending team.
Wings
- Malik Beasley: Beasley’s 2024-25 season was derailed by a federal gambling investigation, but he’s still one of the league’s best 3-point shooters. If he can clear his name and prove he’s a reliable off-the-bench option, he could be a valuable addition for a playoff team.
- Gary Payton II: GPII is a defensive specialist who can provide valuable on-ball defense and spacing. He’s not much of an offensive threat, but his defensive impact and professionalism make him an attractive option for teams looking for a role player who can fill in the gaps around high-volume shot creators.
- Amir Coffey: Coffey has developed from a G League player into a regular contributor for the Clippers. He’s a 6-7 wing who can shoot from deep and provide valuable two-way contributions. Coffey could be a valuable role player for a team looking for a young, developing perimeter player.
- Alec Burks: The 34-year-old guard has shown he can still provide value as a professional ball-handler and shooter. He’s not a great defender, but his experience and shooting ability make him an attractive option for teams looking for bench depth.
- Seth Curry: Curry is an elite 3-point shooter who can provide valuable spacing and playmaking off the bench. He’s a 6-2 guard with experience and professionalism who could be a low-risk, high-reward addition for a playoff team.
FAQ Section
- Q: Who is the best unrestricted free agent still available?
- A: Al Horford is the best big man available, while Russell Westbrook is the top ball-handler still on the market. Malik Beasley is the most talented wing still available.
- Q: Who could be a valuable buy-low reclamation project?
- A: Ben Simmons could be a buy-low reclamation project for a team looking for a high-impact role player. His physical tools are still enticing, and he could provide value in the right system.
- Q: Who is the best young perimeter player still available?
- A: Amir Coffey is the best young perimeter player still available. He’s a 6-7 wing who can shoot from deep and provide valuable two-way contributions.
Pro Tips
- Teams looking for bench depth and playoff contributors should target players with experience, professionalism, and shooting ability.
- Contenders should prioritize versatility, defense, and playmaking when evaluating potential role players.
- Younger players with high ceilings and potential two-way contributions could provide valuable long-term upside.
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