The NBA’s crop of 2016 free agents at the power forward position isn’t the deepest, but it does have one big prize. Al Horford is arguably the second-biggest free agent available after Kevin Durant. But after him, who are the other top players at the 4 which teams will be gunning for this offseason?
Here’s our list of the top five unrestricted free agents at power forward, with the potential contracts that they would command. And for more NBA free agent rankings, check out our list of the top 5 centers, small forwards, and guards on the open market this summer.
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Although Horford is still considered a power forward by some, his versatility, amazing defense, and shooting range make him the prototypical small-ball center, which is in enormous demand in a quickly downsizing league.
Horford can get the extra year and around $40 million more over the life of his contract if he takes the max with the Hawks, who are currently +4,000 contenders for the title next season, over the max of another team. But if he feels his chances to win a title lie elsewhere, the 30-year-old will have no shortage of suitors for his services.
Gasol opted out of his $7.7 million option with the Bulls, and is widely expected to latch on with a contender as he goes in search of a third title. The Spurs, who are in need of a big man after David West opted out of his deal, are one team currently linked with the Spaniard.
Gasol is now 35 years old, but he has shown that he still has a lot to offer whichever team lands him. His numbers (16.5 points, 11 rebounds and 2.0 blocks) were enough to earn him a sixth-career All-Star appearance. And with his championship experience, any would-be contender would be very lucky to have him.
3. Dirk Nowitzki
Expected Contract: 2 years, $15-20 million
2015-2016 stats: 18.3 points, 6.5 rebounds
Relax, Mavs fans. Despite opting out of his contract and rumors swirling about the Golden State Warriors’ possible interest, Dirk Nowitzki is most probably staying in Dallas. The 38-year-old legend is likely to take a team-friendly deal this summer which would effectively make him a Mav for life – and help Mark Cuban in his continued pursuit of marquee free agents.
However, unless Cuban finally lands those stars who have eluded him for years, don’t expect Dirk’s return to improve the team’s faint title chances, which currently stand at +8,000.
4. Ryan Anderson
Expected Contract: 3-4 years, $50-70 million
2015-2016 stats: 17 points, 6 rebounds, 36% 3PFG
Big men with the ability to stretch the floor continue to be in high demand around the league, and Anderson happens to be one of the best-shooting bigs around. He has averaged two or more 3-pointers per game for six straight seasons. And thanks to the rising salary cap, he won’t come cheap.
Anderson has been hit by injuries in the past couple of years and is a bit of a liability on defense. But those deficiencies likely won’t be enough to deter teams like the Wizards, Kings and Lakers from throwing big money at him.
Dudley should be another beneficiary of the need for small-ball fours in the league. The 30-year-old, who has successfully transitioned from small forward, shot 42 percent while playing primary as a small-ball 4 for the Washington Wizards last season. He doesn’t have the highest upside given his age and athleticism, but he does offer other vital intangibles like great character, constant effort and hustle.
