It is always a big deal when LeBron James hits free agency, but the all-time great isn't the only big-name power forward hitting NBA free agency this offseason. In fact, the position is arguably the deepest one when it comes to talent hitting the open market on June 30. So, who are the best impending free agent power forwards, and where will they choose to sign?
10. Al Horford, Golden State Warriors, player option
Al Horford contributes to winning, even in his old age. At some point, though, he is going to have to hang up the kicks, and that could very well come this year. If the freshly-turned 40-year-old decides to make one more run at it, he would provide a team with spacing, high basketball IQ, and defensive awareness.
Prediction: Retirement
9. Harrison Barnes, San Antonio Spurs, UFA
Harrison Barnes started his career with the Golden State Warriors, where he was a key role player while the team became a dynasty. He most recently played for the San Antonio Spurs, and although the up-and-coming team fell short in the NBA Finals, they have dynasty potential written all over them. Perhaps his 3-and-D skill set and veteran leadership could help another team get over the hump. The Minnesota Timberwolves have been so close for years now.
Prediction: Minnesota Timberwolves
8. Dean Wade, Cleveland Cavaliers, UFA
The Portland Trail Blazers have great depth and plenty of athleticism. They have loads of young talent and some veteran players, including the recovering from injury Damian Lillard, and Jrue Holiday, one of the best defensive guards of all time. They could use a dose of shooting to help take the next step forward. Lillard will bring some of that in his return, but it could be smart to pursue a stretch four like Dean Wade, too.
Prediction: Portland Trail Blazers
7. Jonathan Kuminga, Atlanta Hawks, team option
Jonathan Kuminga never quite fit with the Warriors, , but the Atlanta Hawks gambled on his potential when they traded Kristaps Porzingis, who is another player on this list, to acquire him at the trade deadline. Whereas Porzingis was a pure rental who the Warriors would have to give a new contract to if they want him back, Kuminga still has a team option on his deal. Expect the Hawks to pick it up.
Prediction: Atlanta Hawks
6. John Collins, Los Angeles Clippers, UFA
Just two seasons ago, John Collins averaged 19 points per game. His numbers dropped in his first season with the Los Angeles Clippers, but there is no denying the power forward's offensive prowess. He has impressive leaping ability inside, but can also hit the 3-point shot. The Phoenix Suns just invested heavily into their long-term point guard, so now they should get someone whom Collin Gillespie can throw lobs to.
Prediction: Phoenix Suns
5. Kristaps Porzingis, Golden State Warriors, UFA
Porzingis is one of three Warriors on this list. In a perfect world, the Latvian would be a prime target in free agency. He stretches the floor at 7-foot-2 and can defend the rim, making him a great fit in the modern game of basketball. However, health and injury issues have plagued him in recent years. Porzingis was limited to 15 games in Golden State last year after being traded to the team, but he fits their style of play and should return to the Warriors as they look to maximize the final years of Stephen Curry and the next player on this list.
Prediction: Golden State Warriors
4. Draymond Green, Golden State Warriors, player option
Draymond Green is synonymous with the Warriors. He became one of the best defensive players ever en route to winning four championships with the team. It would be weird to see Green play for anybody besides Golden State, but the same was said for Klay Thompson before his departure. While trades involving Green has been rumored, in all likelihood, the power forward from Michigan State will pick up his player option or work out a new deal to return to the team.
Prediction: Golden State Warriors
3. Rui Hachimura, Los Angeles Lakers, UFA
Rui Hachimura stepped up in a big way right before his contract expired. He averaged 17.5 points per game in the playoffs and could be rewarded on the open market because of it. The Japanese power forward can score from all three levels and plays solid defense. However, rather than letting him walk in free agency, the Lakers, who have a number of key players hitting free agency this offseason, need to do what it takes to bring Hachimura back.
Prediction: Los Angeles Lakers
2. Tobias Harris, Detroit Pistons, UFA
Tobias Harris is within the top 30 in career earnings in NBA history despite being more of a role player. He caught a lot of flak for how much he was making prior to his Detroit Pistons tenure. Now, Harris is set to hit the open market again. Harris' previous big contracts have actually led to him becoming underrated, and he has played a key role for the Pistons in recent years. So much so that the team earned the one-seed in the Eastern Conference this past season. Considering Harris has made over $300 million already, he might not demand a huge deal this offseason, which could make retaining him a tat bit easier for Detroit.
Prediction: Detroit Pistons
1. LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers, UFA
LeBron James has already gone down as one of the greatest NBA players ever, and he did so predominantly at the small forward position. The future Hall of Famer just might have a little bit more in the tank, though, and he is playing the four spot these days. The Kid from Akron isn't the player he once was, as his athleticism has deteriorated in his 40s after the longest career in NBA history, but James is still a high-IQ player with great playmaking and an understanding of how to win basketball games.
This offseason isn't as big as “the decision” that sent him to Miami, but every basketball fan is surely curious about what James will decide to do for year 24. A reunion with the Cleveland Cavaliers would be a poetic way to end an iconic career. The Cavaliers were the team that picked him first overall, and he also delivered them their lone championship in his second stint with the team. The Cavaliers offer James the chance to ring chase one more time, too.
Prediction: Cleveland Cavaliers
