The 2023 NBA free agency class looks exciting, and I can’t keep calm about it. There are quite a few names catching everyone’s attention, and for good reason. No doubt, there’s been a lot of buzz around James Harden. His performance in the 2022-2023 season was nothing short of phenomenal. At 33 years old, Harden still managed to average over 20 points per game. That’s no small feat at his age. And for teams looking for a game-changer, who wouldn’t want a player who’s consistently among the league’s top in assists and scoring?
Then there’s Kyrie Irving, whose talent is almost mesmerizing. According to the most recent statistics, he scored an average of 27.4 points per game in the 2022-2023 season. His handles are legendary, and he brings a certain kind of flair that fans just love. Remember that unforgettable shot during the 2016 NBA Finals? That’s the kind of brilliance a team hopes to see again. Despite the off-court drama, many franchises may find his skills too tempting to pass up.
Another player to keep on your radar is Draymond Green. The guy is a defensive maestro, having won the Defensive Player of the Year award in 2017. Last season, his defensive rating was an impressive 104.2. Teams in desperate need of bolstering their defense would certainly benefit from Green’s unique skill set. His ability to guard multiple positions and facilitate the offense gives him a high-value versatility that championship-contending teams crave.
One name I’ve been hearing a lot is Fred VanVleet. Fresh off averaging 19.3 points and 7.2 assists per game last season, Fred has certainly raised his free agency stock. The undrafted guard has proven himself a floor general and clutch performer. His standout moment was leading the Toronto Raptors to an NBA championship in 2019, cementing him as a fan favorite and a reliable option under pressure.
Nikola Vucevic also deserves some spotlight. Standing at 6’10”, he averaged 17.6 points and 11 rebounds per game last season. Vucevic’s ability to stretch the floor with his shooting makes him an excellent fit for modern NBA offenses that prioritize spacing and three-point shooting. Teams looking for a reliable big man with a diverse skill set need to look no further.
I can’t go without talking about Myles Turner. At just 27 years old, he’s entering his prime and coming off a season where he averaged 2.3 blocks per game. He’s been a part of trade headlines for what seems like ages. But the fact remains that his shot-blocking prowess and ability to hit the three-ball make him a valuable asset in today’s game. The Pacers will have to make a hard decision on him, but any team needing a rim protector should have Turner high on their list.
One intriguing prospect is Christian Wood, who had a standout year averaging 16.6 points and 7.3 rebounds per game. Wood’s versatility allows him to play both forward and center, making him a high-value target for teams looking to add depth in their frontcourt. His performance last year showed he can hold his own against some of the league’s best bigs.
Speaking of versatile forwards, Kyle Kuzma is another player watching closely. After putting up 21.2 points and 7.4 rebounds per game, he’s shown he can be more than just a role player. His time with the Washington Wizards displayed that he could carry a more significant load if given the opportunity. Teams looking for scoring options will certainly have Kuzma on their radar.
Lastly, let’s not forget about Jordan Clarkson. He’s been the ultimate spark plug coming off the bench. Averaging 20.8 points per game, Clarkson was the Sixth Man of the Year in 2021 and continued to shine last season. Teams in need of scoring depth and instant offense would be wise to consider bringing him on board.
The free agency class in 2023 is stacked, and I’m excited to see how it all plays out. From proven veterans to players entering their prime, the opportunities are plentiful. Each of these players has the potential to shift the balance of power in the NBA next season. Whether your team is rebuilding or looking for that final piece to push them over the edge, this free agency period promises a lot of movement. Stay updated and don’t miss any action on Arena Plus.