NBA 13 free agency predictions 2022
NBA 13 free agency predictions 2022. Although most players won’t be able to sign their contracts until the following week, a few deals will be finalised shortly after NBA free agency begins on Thursday, June 30 at 6 p.m. ET.
On the surface, it appears as though this year’s free agency won’t be as exciting as previous years because most of the big stars involved are expected to remain where they are. Large-scale trades that might drastically alter the league landscape are always a possibility.
An exercise in prediction is in order before the rush of signings begins, so let’s do that.
The Sporting News makes 13 offseason projections for athletes, some of which are bold and others of which are… maybe not so much.
NBA free agency predictions for 2022
Bulls re-sign guard Zach LaVine
There aren’t any big revelations here. The number one free agent according to SN will be remaining in Chicago, where he has been an All-Star for the past two years running. There is no other opportunity that could tempt LaVine away from the Bulls at this time.
76ers re-sign guard James Harden
Daryl Morey will make sure Harden remains a part of the Sixers’ plans after they acquired him at the trade deadline. Harden is unlikely to receive another max contract, but he should still earn roughly $100 million to remain a key cog in the 76ers’ championship push over the next few years.
Knicks sign Mavericks guard Jalen Brunson
The Knicks have begun the process of clearing cap space in order to sign Brunson. Considering that Rick Brunson has recently joined Tom Thibodeau’s coaching staff, it’s unlikely that Demarcus would turn down the opportunity to play for the same team as his father.
Hornets re-sign forward Miles Bridges
When rumors began to circulate that Bridges was considering leaving, general manager Mitch Kupchak issued a statement to put an end to them. Though Bridges may be unable to secure the maximum contract he was seeking, he and the Hornets should still be able to negotiate a mutually beneficial contract.
Hawks trade for Spurs guard Dejounte Murray
The Hawks have made it clear they want to do whatever it takes to form a backcourt consisting of DeMarcus Murray and Trae Young. While San Antonio hasn’t gone out of its way to selling Murray, an irresistible offer could change that.
Suns retain center Deandre Ayton
The word “retain” is used on purpose in this context. The internal problems between Ayton and the team don’t appear to have been resolved, therefore it’s unlikely that he’ll accept a qualifying offer to become an unrestricted free agency in 2023. The demand for Ayton is swiftly evaporating, which means he may return to the Suns on a contract that is less than ideal for him.
76ers sign Heat forward P.J. Tucker
Morey will back his team all the way and hopes that Tucker can bring some championship pedigree to Philadelphia. Tucker is already 37 years old, but the Sixers are reportedly willing to give him $30 million over the course of three years. Tucker would sign a contract guaranteeing him $10 million every year until he becomes 40 without hesitation.
Wizards trade for Pacers guard Malcolm Brogdon
There are a lot of guards for the Pacers but no point guards for the Wizards. Intuitively, that stands to reason. The Wizards may use a savvy experienced guard like Brogdon in his final year of the contract if they want to challenge for a playoff spot alongside Bradley Beal.
Celtics trade for Knicks guard Alec Burks
Burks and Celtics forward Jayson Tatum have a well-documented friendship, and Burks can help partially address Boston’s need for more consistent playmaking. Burks’ $10 million salaries for the 2022-23 season would be a perfect fit for the Celtics’ trade exception from last year’s Evan Fournier move.
Lakers re-sign guard Malik Monk
A successful 2021-22 season in Los Angeles was a boon to Monk’s free-agent discussions, and he has previously suggested that money isn’t his first goal. The 24-year-old has found a home with the Lakers and is set to stay for the foreseeable future.
76ers trade for Rockets guard Eric Gordon
Morey, as usual, has managed to reunite the gang. Gordon would be able to bring his shooting and veteran presence to Philadelphia, where he would reconnect with Harden and Tucker, for the last year of his guaranteed contract.
Knicks re-sign center Mitchell Robinson
Robinson isn’t the most well-known player in the world, but he’s a crucial cog in the Knicks’ long-term plans. If New York is able to sign Brunson, the team will have a promising young foundation upon which to establish itself as a major force in the Eastern Conference.
Raptors acquire Magic center Mo Bamba
The drafting of a center has not deterred the Raptors from participating in this market. Bamba seems to be a bit of a misfit in Orlando’s frontcourt with all of the other big men. This means that Toronto may be able to acquire a high-potential former lottery pick.