Four NBA Free Agents Who Are About to Get a Bag
As the 2024 NBA season draws to a close, several players stand out as crucial figures in their teams' victories, particularly during the postseason. These players, Obi Toppin, Isaiah Hartenstein, Derrick Jones Jr., and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, have all greatly influenced their status heading into the free agency era. Their journey of growth and development, from role players to potential stars, is a testament to their hard work and dedication. Here's a closer look at these players' season-long success and the reasons they should be able to sign big-time contracts this summer.
Derrick Jones Jr.
Jones Jr. has been known for his high-flying dunks and athleticism, but this season, he has added more dimensions to his game. In playing for the Dallas Mavericks, Jones Jr. becomes a defensive anchor often assigned to guard the opponent’s best wing player. The Maverick’s versatility on defense lets them switch seamlessly, thus disrupting offensive schemes leading to fast breaks. His enhancement in three-point shooting accuracy has not only bolstered his offensive repertoire but also complemented the dynamic offensive strategies of Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving, thereby amplifying the Mavericks' overall performance. Therefore, Jones Jr.’s ability to impact both ends of the floor is one of the reasons why Dallas is in the NBA Finals and will be set for a big payday this summer, somewhere around 12 million per year at or around the mid-level exception.
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope has been vital for the Denver Nuggets, providing veteran leadership and clutch performances. Known for his tenacious defense and timely three-point shooting, Caldwell-Pope has been instrumental in helping the Nuggets maintain their status as championship contenders. This season, Caldwell-Pope has taken on a more significant role in the offense, averaging career-high numbers in points and assists. His ability to knock down shots from beyond the arc has spaced the floor for Nikola Jokić, allowing the MVP center to operate more freely in the paint. Additionally, Caldwell-Pope's experience and composure in late-game situations have been invaluable for a Nuggets team with title aspirations. His consistent two-way play makes him a prime candidate for a significant contract extension.
Isaiah Hartenstein
A key figure for the New York Knicks, Isaiah Hartenstein, has come of age, marking his strength in the paint and on the rebound. As a second-string center, he has rendered valuable minutes to the Knicks from off the bench by blocking opponents’ shots and getting rebounds. His basketball IQ is very high and he is an expert at making intelligent choices with the ball hence he is one of Thibodeau’s favorite players. When Mitchell Robinson went down earlier this season Hartenstein took over as a starter and was excellent in that capacity, too, particularly during the post-season. Moreover, Hartenstein’s offensive game has improved dramatically, especially his mid-range shooting and passing from high post. This versatility has helped New York run different offensive sets, thus they have become a challenging team to defend. Through his all-around contributions, including good numbers, Hartenstein will be coveted by many teams as free agency begins. The anticipated potential impact on the free agency market is high, as he could reach 18-20 million annually.
Obi Toppin
Obi Toppin found a new home with the Indiana Pacers this past season, flourishing in a system emphasizing pace and space. The athletic forward has become a key contributor, using his leaping ability and energy to provide highlight-reel plays and hustle points. Toppin's development as a shooter has been particularly noteworthy, as he has become a more reliable threat from three-point range. Under the guidance of head coach Rick Carlisle, Toppin has also improved defensively, using his length and quickness to disrupt passing lanes and contest shots. His growth on both ends of the floor has been instrumental in the Pacers' surprising success this season, making him a valuable asset heading into free agency. With his unique skill set and potential for further development, Toppin is poised for a substantial raise in the offseason. It's still being determined what his market will be and how badly Indiana wants him back, but he helped tremendously with what he did this season.
Derrick Jones Jr., Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Isaiah Hartenstein, and Obi Toppin continued their outstanding play this season, which has been important for their respective teams and opened the door for substantial financial increase during free agency. As a result, these four players are now considered valuable commodities that any team would love to acquire. The forthcoming summer will likely witness contract extensions or new contracts with other clubs that will see these individuals laughing all the way to the bank after years of sweat and determination in professional basketball.
