Exploring the Big Man Free Agent Market
By Scott Levin
It’s not a given that the Kings bring back Samuel Dalembert. The center figures to be a hot commodity around the league. And I like Sammy, but to be honest, I have my reservations about giving him a large contract. Dalembert has a history of underachieving.
Looking at other recent deals for centers, Dalembert could command something in the neighborhood (or in excess) of 5 years/$40 million (Brendan Haywood, at the same age, got 6 years/$54 million from Dallas while Marcin Gortat, a player who had a much smaller track record than Dalembert, got 5 years/$34 million). If Sammy plays like he did toward the end of last year, he earns it. If he reverts back to the player that disappointed many Philly fans, we have a problem.
So it came as no surprise that Geoff Petrie said post-draft that the Kings will target a big talent in the frontcourt.
Who could that be? Here is a breakdown of all the big men on the free agent market this summer. (We’re gonna pretend the lockout gets resolved because it’s more fun that way.)
The “No, Thanks” Pile (Interesting names in italics)
Kenyon Martin, Glen Davis, Reggie Evans, Louis Admundson, Chuck Hayes, Yi Jianlian, Josh McRoberts, Jason Smith, Craig Smith, Dante Cunningham, Joey Dorsey, Joe Smith, Malik Allen, Juwan Howard, Brandan Wright, Darius Songaila, Leon Powe, Shelden Williams, Chris Wilcox, DJ Mbenga, Brian Skinner, Hamady Ndiaye, Solomon Jones, Brian Cardinal, Brian Scalabrine, Josh Powell, Melvin Ely, Joel Przybilla, Yao Ming, Greg Oden, Spencer Hawes, Nenad Krstic, Tony Battie, Kyrylo Fesenko, Erick Dampier, Jeff Foster, Nazr Mohammed, Kurt Thomas, Francisco Elson, Hilton Armstrong, Aaron Gray, Jamaal Magloire, Dan Gadzuric, Ryan Hollins, Kwame Brown, Theo Ratliff, Etan Thomas, Jason Collins, Eddy Curry, Hamed Haddadi, Alexis Ajinca
Getting Warmer…
Jeff Green (Restricted) – It’s doubtful the Celtics let Green walk after dealing Kendrick Perkins for him. And there is a question as to whether Green is better suited at the small forward spot.
Troy Murphy – Coming off a terrible season after years of consistency. Can rebound and shoot, but defense leaves much to be desired.
Carl Landry – Love ya’, Carl, but I think we’ve established that Carl is better as a 6th man and not a full-time starter.
Kris Humphries – I’m afraid to pony up serious money for a guy with one solid season under his belt.
DeAndre Jordan (Restricted) – Someone will give Jordan a lot of money, and the Clippers may not be able to match.
Tyson Chandler – Cuban doesn’t let this valuable piece to his championship squad walk away.
Quality Targets
David West – Perhaps the best option for the Kings. West, recovering from ACL surgery, will reportedly be ready by November, but the injury will affect his market value. West is a competitor who knows how to score and would slide in nicely next to DeMarcus Cousins. He’s 30 years old and a 5-year, $60 million offer may be enticing, although West may look to join a contender or re-sign in New Orleans.
Nene – Hard to see the Nuggets letting Nene walk. The 28-year-old has proven his health with three straight 75+ game seasons. He’d cost a lot, but would immediately improve the Kings on both ends of the court.
Marc Gasol (Restricted) – Another longshot. Baby Gasol played his way into big money during the playoffs, and the Grizzlies claim they will match any offer, which could surpass $60 million.