Otto Porter Jr emerged as a key player for the Golden State Warriors during their NBA Finals run. His defensive versatility and contributions on offense gave Golden State an X-Factor. Porter Jr is set to hit free agency and should have plenty of interest on the open market. The Warriors could attempt to bring him back, but Porter will have a number of teams to choose from.
Today, we are taking a look at the 3 best options for Otto Porter Jr in 2022 NBA Free Agency.
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3 best destinations for Otto Porter Jr in 2022 NBA Free Agency
3. Clippers
The Los Angeles Clippers could realistically pry Porter Jr away from the Warriors this offseason. Nicolas Batum is a free agent and Porter Jr is a similar type of player. At just 29 years old, the Clippers may opt to pursue him instead of Batum.
The fit would be beneficial for Porter Jr as well. He would receive the opportunity to play on a star-studded team with Paul George and Kawhi Leonard leading the way. If the duo can remain healthy, the Clippers should be able to make a deep postseason run next year.
Porter Jr could run the 4 with the starting lineup. Additionally, he could be a three-and-D wing player as part of the Clippers second unit. Leaving the Warriors to join the Clippers may seem odd given the teams' rivalry. But LA would be a good fit for him.
2. Celtics
Otto Porter Jr could ditch the West all together and head out to Boston. The Celtics profile as a good fit for him and they could be serious contenders for his services in 2022 NBA Free Agency. In similar fashion to Golden State, the Celtics tend to get the most out of their role players. Porter Jr saw that in person during the NBA Finals.
He would likely play a big role for the Celtics and it would not be shocking to see him start some games for them.
Porter Jr and the Celtics are a good match for one another. Playing behind the duo of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown could tempt Porter Jr into heading to Boston.
1. Warriors
In the end, a return to Golden State is the best option for Otto Porter Jr.
First off, he is familiar with Golden State's attack. Learning the Warriors up-tempo offense can be difficult. But he understands it and knows how to contribute on offense.
His performance will likely be at peak form with the Warriors. As a result of the aforementioned offensive game plan, the Warriors excel at getting everybody open shots. If Porter Jr wants open three-point attempts on a consistent basis then Golden State is the way to go.
We mentioned that he understands the offense. But he also understands his role with the Warriors.
Porter Jr is a role player who Golden State relies on as a defensive catalyst. Steve Kerr may utilize him as a small-ball post presence in a Draymond Green type of role. But Porter Jr also can chase down strong wing opponents. Although his role may be similar for other teams, there wouldn't be any second guessing in Golden State.
And the final reason he should return to the Warrior is because he has a desire to play in Golden State. ESPN's Kendra Andrews shared the following quote in reference to Porter Jr's aspirations to remain a Warrior.
“I do know this team can compete for another championship. And I think it would be a great opportunity if I can stay here. It would be an amazing to be here with this group of guys again and do it all over again.”