Houston Rockets: Kelly Olynyk
Kelly Olynyk was one of the players that was traded in the move that sent Victor Oladipo to the Miami Heat at the trade deadline this season. Some people questioned Olynyk’s fit with the Houston Rockets, but he made the most of the playing time he received with the Rockets.
In 27 games with Houston, Olynyk showed off his versatile skill set, notching 19 points, 8.4 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and 1.4 steals per game while knocking down 39.2 percent of his three-point attempts. Given the theme of today’s NBA, Olynyk could be an enticing free agent for a variety of teams. But for the Rockets, they would be wise to do what they can to keep Olynyk as a key member of their rotation.
READ MORE: NBA Rumors: 5 stars next to move following Russell Westbrook trade
Indiana Pacers: Alec Burks
It still feels like a few roster moves are imminent this offseason for the Indiana Pacers. Myles Turner has long been considered a trade candidate and it remains to be seen if the team wants to keep Malcolm Brogdon or T.J. Warren moving forward. While re-signing T.J. McConnell should be a priority — especially with Aaron Holiday being traded — adding a primary scorer off of the bench should be a main focus for the Pacers.
Alec Burks would be a remarkable signing for Indiana this summer. Burks was a much-needed spark for the New York Knicks this season as he compiled 12.7 points per game on 41.5 percent shooting from outside. Going from Caris LeVert in the starting lineup to Burks on the bench seems like a recipe for success.
Los Angeles Clippers: Kawhi Leonard
Some were shocked to see that Kawhi Leonard declined his player option for the upcoming season with the Los Angeles Clippers. However, reports suggest that Leonard is still likely to ink a new contract with the Clippers, eliminating one of the biggest free agents. That being said, Leonard could elect to see what else is available out there, which could put Los Angeles in an awkward position.
Even though it’s already expected for them to retain Leonard on a new deal, the Clippers will want to ensure they get something done with the All-Star forward sooner rather than later, even with him projected to miss the start of next season following knee surgery.
READ MORE: NBA Rumors: 5 stars next to move following Russell Westbrook trade
Los Angeles Lakers: Carmelo Anthony
In the hours leading up to the 2021 NBA Draft, the Los Angeles Lakers made sure to create headlines. The Lakers were speaking to the Kings about a possible trade for Buddy Hield and the Washington Wizards for Russell Westbrook.
Instead of adding a premier shooter in Hield, the Lakers chose to acquire Westbrook, giving them an All-Star guard to pair with LeBron James and Anthony Davis. With the team’s lack of cap space remaining, Los Angeles will have to sign veterans that are willing to give up money in favor of chasing a title.
Carmelo Anthony has been rumored as a top target for the Lakers and he showed that he can still score in bunches this season, scoring 13.2 points per game on a career-best 40.9 percent from beyond the arc. We can finally see James and Anthony play together, which is something we’ve wanted for years.
READ MORE: NBA Rumors: 5 stars next to move following Russell Westbrook trade
Memphis Grizzlies: Norman Powell
The Memphis Grizzlies traded Jonas Valanciunas in exchange for Steven Adams and Eric Bledsoe before the 2021 NBA Draft. Memphis also took Ziaire Williams with the 10th overall selection in the draft, giving them a young wing to develop for the future. While Ja Morant, Dillon Brooks, and Jaren Jackson Jr. are key pieces for the future, the Grizzlies could use a veteran wing player that improves the shooting on the roster.
Norman Powell is a name to keep an eye on as he declined his player option with the Portland Trail Blazers. Powell is a career 37.7 percent shooter from three-point range and he has championship experience. Being able to add a veteran that knows what it takes to win a title would be a positive move for a young team in Memphis.
