5 Losers in NBA Free Agency, So Far

in #sports6 years ago (edited)

Free-agency definitely has lived up to the hype so far. Yes it started off slowly, and yes a lot of big names have decided to stay put and don the same jerseys they did last season, but for every under-the-radar signing, there have been some bombshells. The major ones so far have obviously been DeMarcus Cousins going to the Warriors and LeBron James going to the Lakers. But this piece isn't a recap of free agent signings, this one is about the losers so far in free agency. So let' dive in.

1. New Orleans Pelicans

For a team that took the sixth seed in the highly competitive Western Conference, and followed it up with a 4-0 swept of the third-seeded Portland Trailblazers, their season sure has been a rollercoaster. As previously mentioned, they lost Boogie Cousins to the Warriors, and then they lost point guard and Playoff savior Rajon Rondo to the Lakers. Sure they recouped some loses by signing Julius Randle and Elfrid Payton, but they haven't addressed their needs- so far - in terms of shooters. I don't know if we'll see the Pelicans in the playoffs next season, but if we do I certainly don't expect them sweeping in the first round.

2. Houston Rockets

Chris Paul just can't catch a break. After his injury cost the Rockets a chance to reach the NBA Finals for the first time in his career, he entered an off-season where he would become a free-agent. He decided to stay in Houston with James Harden and Clint Capela, but lost Trevor Ariza along the way to the Phoenix Suns. To most the loss of Ariza may not seem substantial, but adding the likes of Michael Carter-Williams is just rubbing salt in the wound.

3. Cleveland Cavaliers

This one is pretty straightforward, they lost LeBron, they lost Jeff Green. They are now relying on Kevin Love, JR Smith and rookie Collin Sexton for offense. Last time LeBron left, the Cavs went from 61-21 to 19-63. What do we think will happen now?

4. Los Angeles Lakers

The Lakers as losers? How so? They not only added The King, but they added Rondo, JaVale McGee and Lance Stephenson as well as re-signed KCP. So how are they losers exactly? Well if you think the likes of Lonzo and LaVar Ball are going to be happy about not being the main event then you are sadly mistaken. The Lakers went from being the Ball home to being the King's Court. Ego's will definitely collide when Rondo, LeBron and LeVar hit a losing streak. Oh and Lonzo tearing his meniscus is also an issue as well.

5. Oklahoma City Thunder

Re-sign Paul George, check. Re-sign Carmelo Anthony? Check. At least that's what it seemed like. It was announced today that because of OKC's bill - $310 million - they are looking to cut ties with Melo in hopes of saving some $100 million is costs. Talks are revolved around a trade or a possible buyout. Just when all seemed settled in OKC this hits, not too surprising given the amount of money they owe, and the luxury tax attached to it. Melo is still a great player, and there are plenty of teams who would be happy to sign him.


That's all I got, did I miss anyone? Let me know below!
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Agreed with this list, Celtics May also take an L if Kyrie wants out next year and they are forced to trade him for cheap

Also T-Wolves are taking an L with the Butler vs. Wiggins / KATA drama and they lost Crawford

I agree on both points. If Kyrie wants out, that would suck for the C's, but they should at least have him for one season at the minimum. As for Minnesota, I find I don't blame Butler, he wanted out of Chicago for a lot of reasons only for Chicago and all it's former players to follow him to Minnesota. Add in Joakim Noah and they can basically re-assemble the lineups from the 2010.

I would add Kawhi Leonard to this list. His reputation is being destroyed right now. The guy is coming off as a self centered baby.

BTW I think the biggest free agent move so far has been the Rockets losing Trevor Ariza. I don't see them playing at the same level next year without finding a decent replacement.

For a guy who was supposed to be the Spurs savior after the Duncan era he has really been dragged through the mud. He always came off as a quite and reserved for the Spurs, apparently that was not the case. He's not doing himself any favors right now. As for the Rockets, I agree, they were so close - a CP3 injury away IMO - and now they lost a big piece. MCW will not fill that void. Shame.

Ariza is a big loss. OKC is trying to find a way to get Melo of the roster. good selection

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