Just when you think the NBA offseason couldn't get any more exciting, here come the free agent moves that shake up the league's landscape. The Los Angeles Lakers made headlines by signing three-time All-Star guard Chris Paul for a two-year, $30 million contract. That’s $15 million per year! Absolutely worth it for a veteran who averages around 18.0 points and 9.5 assists per game. Paul’s addition gives the Lakers a substantial playmaking boost, directly impacting their postseason hopes.
Meanwhile, the New York Knicks didn't hold back either. They signed dynamic forward DeMar DeRozan for a three-year deal worth $81 million. This means DeRozan will be earning $27 million per season. For a player who clocked in an average of 21.6 points per game last season, he’s going to be worth every penny. Consider this: DeRozan also brings a lot of playoff experience to a team looking to make a deeper run next season.
Golden State Warriors surprised no one by stepping up their bench with the addition of shooter J.J. Redick. They signed him on a one-year deal for $5 million. Given his 39.9% three-point shooting accuracy, Redick’s perimeter shooting will definitely stretch defenses. The Warriors, already an offensive powerhouse, now have another reliable shooter off the bench.
Looking over at the Miami Heat, they secured point guard Kyle Lowry for a hefty three-year, $85 million contract. That breaks down to roughly $28.3 million annually. Lowry, known for his court vision and leadership, comes with a career average of 6.2 assists per game. It’s not just about stats; it’s his experience of leading the Toronto Raptors to an NBA Championship in 2019. Miami’s commitment to adding Lowry shows their serious intentions to compete for another title.
On the other coast, the Boston Celtics made a bold move by signing big man Andre Drummond to a one-year, $9 million deal. Drummond, who averaged 12.5 rebounds per game last season, will strengthen Boston’s interior defense and rebounding department. With Drummond, you’re adding immense physicality and a dominant paint presence, which the Celtics urgently needed.
In another blockbuster transaction, the Dallas Mavericks signed shooting guard Victor Oladipo for a two-year contract worth $45 million. Imagine having someone who averages 19.4 points per game on your squad; it's phenomenal! Oladipo’s scoring versatility and defensive skills make him the ideal complement to Luka Dončić.
Not to be outdone, Phoenix Suns secured the services of defensive stalwart, Patrick Beverley, on a one-year, $13 million contract. Beverley's defensive ratings and his average of 1.8 steals per game underscore his importance on the court. Known for his tenacity and defensive prowess, his presence will surely add grit to the Suns' already formidable lineup.
Veteran forward Carmelo Anthony found a new home with the Denver Nuggets, agreeing to a two-year contract worth $10 million. Carmelo, a former scoring champion, still managed to post solid numbers with 13.4 points per game last season. His experience and scoring skills offer Denver another weapon in their offensive arsenal.
Chicago Bulls aimed to bolster their lineup by acquiring Lonzo Ball for a four-year, $85 million deal, averaging over $21 million per year. Lonzo's improved shooting and playmaking ability, reflected in his 14.6 points and 5.7 assists per game last season, make him a young talent with a high ceiling. His acquisition addresses the Bulls' need for a primary ball-handler and floor general.
The Portland Trail Blazers, making strategic moves, signed versatile guard Norman Powell to a five-year, $90 million contract. Powell's capability to play both shooting guard and small forward, scoring an impressive 17.0 points per game last season, adds much-needed depth and flexibility to Portland's roster. This move is a part of Portland’s commitment to building a serviceable core around Damian Lillard.
Heading to the nation’s capital, the Washington Wizards chose to sign Spencer Dinwiddie under a three-year, $54 million agreement. Dinwiddie, who has a career average of 13.3 points and 5.3 assists per game, is expected to take on major playmaking duties. His signing fills the void left by Russell Westbrook and aims at keeping the Wizards competitive.
The Houston Rockets looked forward by signing young forward Kelly Oubre Jr. to a two-year, $25 million contract. Oubre's athleticism and scoring (averaging 15.4 points per game last season) could potentially make him a cornerstone for the Rockets’ rebuilding efforts. This signing might not make instant headlines, but it’s a strong bet for the Rockets' future sustainability.
Switching gears, the Utah Jazz offered experienced guard Elfrid Payton a one-year contract valued at $4 million. Payton, with his average of 7.0 assists per game, fortifies Utah’s backup point guard position. His consistent ability to facilitate makes him an ideal second-unit veteran, allowing the primary guards to rest without losing the playmaking element.
Finally, the Sacramento Kings made a savvy move by signing experienced center Dwight Howard for a one-year, $2.6 million deal. Known for his rebounding and shot-blocking, Howard still grabbed an impressive 8.4 rebounds per game last season. His wealth of experience and defensive contributions are significant additions to a budding Kings’ roster.
To catch more updates, visit arena plus.
