I was looking at the FA market, and it is kind of weak this year. 2013 seems to have many more impact players, but I think the following list are players we should take a hard look at. I dont think going out and picking up FA's is the BEST way to build a contender, but there are several players who, with a little adjusting to our roster, could find a nice spot and would really contribute for the next few years. Brooklyn Nets – PF Kris Humphries (UFA) Humphries completed the pseudo-celebrity cycle in record time last year. He went from nobody, to C-list reality star, to divorced and universally hated in the blink of an eye. But even if his brief dabble with fame made him an easy target for jeering audiences this season, Humphries continued to put up solid numbers for the Nets. You don't have to like the guy, but you do have to concede that he's one of the game's most under-appreciated rebounders. If he were smart, he'd find his way to a small-market team that's devoid of interior toughness—somewhere like Toronto—and try to re-invent his image. But he's already proven his intellect to be questionable, so this could go in any number of directions. Philadelphia 76ers – C Spencer Hawes (UFA) Hawes has stated his desire to come back to Philly, and while the Sixers would gladly have him, that decision will probably rest solely on what the market bears. Hawes may not understand his own value. He's a legit seven-feet tall with subtle athleticism and a good feel around the basket. What team in the NBA isn't looking for that? The Sixers have other free agents to re-sign and are poking their nose around other players to bring in as well. If Hawes feels the love from another team while the Sixers are putting him on the back burner, his attitude may sour. Philly would be wise to not let that happen. Philadelphia 76ers – PG/SG Lou Williams (UFA–ETO) Williams pulled off a rare statistical feat this season, leading a playoff team in scoring despite coming off the bench. He was probably the only player in the league who had a case to be made against James Harden for Sixth Man of the Year. But even though he gets to play starter minutes in Philly, he's likely to opt out of the final year of his contract. Still just 25, Williams is a young veteran (he came straight from high school) who wants a place to start and a long-term deal. Although he's an electrifying scorer, he's little else and will probably be overpaid by a desperate team this summer. Phoenix Suns – SG Shannon Brown (UFA) Brown had been performing like a starter for years in Los Angeles, but with his path blocked by Kobe Bryant, a move was imminent. And after a year where he averaged over 15 points per game, it was clear that he deserved this opportunity. While the Suns didn't spoil him with victories and rings the way the Lakers did, he was happy getting to play every night, and he has stated his desire to sign a long-term deal with the team. That notion might not sound as attractive if Steve Nash is around, but for now, the Suns look like the favorite to retain the athletic swingman. Portland Trail Blazers – PG Raymond Felton (UFA) Felton's production fell off a cliff this season. He had no bounce in his step, and his numbers reflected how poorly he played. A split from Portland this offseason would probably be mutually beneficial. If Felton gets back into playing shape and recommits himself to the game, he could easily avenge his poor season. Let's not forget that he was the original Ty Lawson at North Carolina. Somebody will give him a shot based on his potential, and if he's got any pride left in himself, he'll work his ass off to deliver. Now not saying go out and grab all these guys, and some of them may require a little movement on our roster to accommodate, but I think these are all interesting possibilities.
If Humphries can bring a lil exposure because of his celebrity profile.....why not? He can sell tickets maybe? Spencer Hawes should be our top target I wouldnt mind Lou and Brown Ill pass on Raymond Felton
for me i think we don't need any more power fowards all we need is a back up center,shooting guard and another point then were good
lol Spencer Hawes is 24, and averaged 9.6ppg, 7.3rpr, with an 18.19 PER in 24.9 minutes. Explain what part of that sucks, or try watching basketball.
He's decent, but far from what we need to make this team halfway good. He's slow, unathletic, and weak... Not really what I'd like on my team. Try watching his game a little. Next time, don't get offended if someone doesn't like a thread you made, it's unbecoming.
Kris Humphries - 14pts, 11rebs, 18PER Spencer Hawes - 10pts, 7rebs, 18PER Lou Williams - 11pts, 3asts, 20PER Shannon Brown - 11pts, 3rebs, 14PER Raymond Felton - 13pts, 7asts, 3rebs, 13PER So only the last two had PER's below 15 (the league average). Tell me how the list sucks. You guys need to watch someone other than the Rockets. If anything, Humphries and Hawes would be key pieces.
Guys, it's time to face the facts. If there is no free agent out there who would make a huge difference for this team, then it is not worth the effort to go after them. We either have someone who is like them or better(Louis Scola>Kris Humphries). Unless Dwight Howard gets on a flight to Houston, our best bet is the draft.
I mentioned Spencer Hawes two days ago and got roasted....just got off the phone w/ CP @ 790 and he thought it could work
Spencer Hawes is not a bad idea. He just doesn't scream wow as far as free agents go. Seeing as he is only 24 years old, we would do better just drafting a center, who will in their early 20's and developing him.
