About two months away from the start of the 2022-2023 NBA season, the majority of offseason drama revolving around free agency has ended as teams have acquired the meat of their player rotations. Despite the lack of headlines on blockbuster trades or franchise upheavals, there are still plenty of well-known veterans—also unrestricted free agents—that could move around.
Carmelo Anthony
First on the list of big names is none other than Carmelo Anthony. The 10-time All-Star was signed by the Los Angeles Lakers to become a floor-spacer while the ball is in the hands of Russell Westbrook, Anthony Davis, or Lebron James. He was a good fit for the star-studded L.A. squad as he was attacking the right matchups by knocking down his famous jumper or his midrange fadeaways. He was expected to have a fruitful season with the Lakers but injuries definitely hurt the team, making it difficult for the different lineups to work.
After averaging about 13.3 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.0 assist per game last season, the veteran is still an asset to any team who will sign him. Although Melo is far from the go-to scorer he once was, his versatility as a scorer allows him to make space for his younger teammates and contribute points when necessary.
Blake Griffin
If you had the chance to witness Blake Griffin going neck-and-neck with Hall of Famer Tim Duncan in the second round of the playoffs back in 2015, you already know what I’m about to say here.
This power forward was always putting on a show during his prime as he threw big dunks or exhausted his defenders in the post. He easily maximized his position with screen pick-and-rolls and created space for the guards. This guy was one of the most athletic players to ever play in the NBA.
Griffin is still a solid basketball player with all the talents required for a power forward, despite having reached the lowest point in his career. He can set tough screens and shoot from the rainbow line. Other than that, he possesses the athleticism that enables him to make powerful attacks to the basket and has league experience that is invaluable to any player.
Dwight Howard
The eight-time All-Star and three-time Defensive Player of the Year Dwight Howard doesn’t get enough credit as much as he used to back in Orlando. He calls himself Superman because of his physical build and his bullying presence on the court. Sadly, his fans can admit that his best years are over.
Despite the dip in production, Howard, who is entering his 18th season, is still capable of grabbing rebounds and finishing at the rim. He has the physical tools to box out big men and catch the ball for easy follow-throughs. With an average of 6.2 points and 5.9 rebounds per game, Howard is a benefit to any squad that requires his skillset.
LaMarcus Aldridge
After returning from a break due to health concerns, LaMarcus Aldridge is back on the court to provide productive minutes for a team that needs a reliable big man. If Brooklyn was able to use the 6-foot-11 center, especially during their postseason run, he could have had a massive impact on both their offense and defense.
The 37-year-old averaged almost 13.0 points and 5.5 rebounds per game with the Nets and has more to offer on the floor. Aldridge, who brings an old-school type of playing in the post, can put his teammates in a good position to either shoot the ball or take it to the rim. He can distribute the ball from the post and extend his offense out to the 3-point line.
Eric Bledsoe
Eric Bledsoe always had the reputation of being an excellent defender. Standing at only 6-foot-1, he was selected to the NBA All-Defensive First Team in 2019 and Second Team in 2020. He averaged 9.9 points and 4.2 assists per game for the Portland Trail Blazers last season, making him one of the top unrestricted free agents. Bledsoe was mostly kept on the bench because of the core player rotation that revolved around guards Damian Lillard and C.J McCollum.
With Bledsoe’s age and past injury, it would be feasible for him to go to a team that is much more stable in terms of offense. He can be an important piece if he takes on a role as a defender and leader off the bench rather than a starter. His shooting isn’t reliable but his efforts on hassling opposite ball-handlers can do wonders for any team.
