Who will be free agency winners?
By: John Keim and Craig Stouffer
Washington Examiner
06/30/09 7:52 PM EDT
Shaq already joined Cleveland; Vince Carter was shipped to Orlando and even the Wizards acquired their talent by way of a trade. So when NBA free agency opens today, it could pale to what’s already taken place.
Still, all these players can help:
Impact
SF Hedo Turkoglu » He takes big fourth-quarter shots, can handle the ball and execute the pick and roll flawlessly. Is he worth $10 million a year? Tough call.
PG Andre Miller » He’s a terrific passer and underrated talent, partly because he’s so quiet. Do not take Mike Bibby instead of him. Bibby will not take you far in the playoffs; Miller can.
“I love him,” one former coach said. “Philadelphia would be seriously not as good if they let him go. He’s not a true leader because he’s so introverted, but he’s one of the best point guards in the NBA from the free throw line on down.”
SG Ben Gordon » He can score and would provide instant offense. ’Nuff said.
Enigma
PF Charlie Villanueva » Cleveland reportedly is interested. But any team should be wary of committing major dollars to Villanueva.
“I don’t know if he could be a starting power forward on a playoff team,” the former coach said. “But he had a great season and he can make shots all over the floor. Just don’t ask him to get big stops or big rebounds when the game is on the line.”
Last shot
SF Grant Hill » He's 37, but played every game this past season. The choice is this: stay with Phoenix or go to a contender, such as Boston or the Lakers.
"Both are desperately trying to get him," said the source.
PG Jason Kidd » Teams covet his size and experience, with New Jersey, New York, Portland and Cleveland among those reportedly interested. Dallas, however, wants him back. Kidd is past his prime, but would help an elite team -- just not at starter's minutes.
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