3 underrated players set to become free agents this offseason

Denver Nuggets, Will Barton
Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports

Will Barton – Denver Nuggets

After Jerami Grant signed with Detroit Pistons last offseason, the Denver Nuggets were left scrambling for some answers on where they were going to get production from on the wing and Will Barton answered their call. He has started in 49 of the 53 games he has played in for the Nuggets this season and along with Michael Porter Jr, they have helped lead the Nuggets to having one of the better records in the Western Conference this year. 

When talking about the Denver Nuggets, most people like to talk about Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray and Michael Porter Jr, but nobody ever wants to give Will Barton the recognition he deserves. This was the same issue with Jerami Grant last year, which is the main reason why he decided to sign with the Pistons instead of Denver. 

Will Barton’s situation is very similar and given his production and value, he will likely opt out of his contract for next season. Barton is set to make $14.7M if he is to opt into his player option for next season, but the chances of him opting out are likely since he can probably capitalize on his value now. 

To this point in the season, Barton has averaged 12.6 points, 4.0 rebounds, 3.2 assists, 0.9 steals and has shot 37.4% from three-point range. He is the epitome of a “3-and-D” wing in today’s NBA and while he is 30-years-old, he is in the midst of playing some of the best basketball of his career. 

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Not only is he extremely versatile in terms of players he can guard defensively, but Barton’s athleticism allows him to take advantage of slower and weaker defenders on the wing. Not to mention, he is more than confident in his jump shot and can really get in a zone when his shots are falling. 

While he may not have the potential of guys like Jerami Grant and Norman Powell to potentially become a star player, Will Barton definitely has the potential to join an already playoff team and help make them a real championship contender, much like he has with the Nuggets. Expect to see Barton opt out of his player option this offseason and look to maximize his next contract, wherever that may be.

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