Top 5 NBA Free Agents in 2018
#5 DeAndre Jordan (player option)
• Age: 29
• No. of Seasons in NBA: 10
Jordan's numbers will take a slight hit this season with Chris Paul's absence. But Jordan's activity around the room and general health, make him a top free agent. Jordan finds himself low on this list because he lacks the offensive range of Demarcus Cousins, the star power of Paul George, the championship pedigree of LeBron, and the unstoppable versatility of KD. He also can't shoot outside of 12 feet and refuses to hone his skills as a free throw shooter. Jordan is an elite rim protector and can jump out of the gym, making him a supreme target in the pick-in-roll.
#4 Paul George
• Age: 27
• No. of Seasons in NBA: 8
Is Paul George a top 5 player right now? The verdict is still out. George possesses all of the talent to be classified as such. But he needs to confirm the praise by carrying a team beyond the conference championship stage. George is a bonafide star who fills the arena. When he becomes a free agent, teams will trade away the farm in order to clear space for his arrival. But they shouldn't expect George to be the missing link in a title hunt.
#3 DeMarcus Cousins
• Age: 27
• No. of Seasons in NBA: 9
Cousins is easily a top three big man in the NBA and possibly the most athletic. He consistently shoots with the range of a wing player, despite having the mass of a center. Cousins would provide an instant upgrade to every roster in the league. Unfortunately, Cousins remains a wild card in the poise department. His volatility reduces his stock. Execs with young, impressionable rosters should reconsider whether Cousins is worth the headache. He is supremely talented, but talent alone can't win a championship.
#2 LeBron James
• Age: 32
• No. of Seasons in NBA: 15
LeBron is arguably one of the greatest to ever play. Whenever LeBron enters the free agency market, every time with sufficient salary cap space to absorb the contract he commands is obligated to request a meeting. However, in the summer of 2018, teams will have to consider whether 33-year-old LeBron is still worth the drama that accompanies him. Perennial all star point guard Kyrie Irving left Cleveland for a reason.
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#1 Kevin Durant
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• Age: 29
• No. of Seasons in NBA: 11
Without question, KD is the best player on the planet. When Kawhi Leonard is healthy, he is a close second, but KD's length, speed, explosiveness, accuracy, and skill make the 'best player' conversation uneventful. As a result, like LeBron, the KD sweepstakes will begin seconds after the conclusion of the 2018 Finals. KD is young and hungry to build on his legacy. After showing his willingness to depart for greener pastures, new teams should come into the fray hoping to woo KD away from the possible Bay Area dynasty.
