One of the least-anticipated NBA drafts of all time has concluded. On Sunday, one of the league’s least noteworthy free-agency periods begins.
There is no future Hall of Famer in his prime — a la LeBron James, Kevin Durant or Shaquille O’Neal — available to elevate a team into the title favorite. There isn’t even a player who can switch cities and become the top option on a championship contender.
Paul George is the best player available, at 34, five years removed from his lone All-NBA First Team selection and having played an average of fewer than 53 games the past five seasons. James is approaching 40 and essentially a lock to return to the Lakers (more on that later). James Harden will turn 35 this summer, on the decline after spending the past four seasons with four teams. DeMar DeRozan also will turn 35 this summer, coming off his worst shooting season in six years.
The Knicks know what they’re up against.
