As I look at the current NBA free agent market, I can't help but reflect on how much has changed since last season. The reference to that feeling of everything being "bago" - new - really resonates with me because that's exactly what these remaining free agents are experiencing right now. They're in that transitional phase where every practice, every potential team visit, every conversation carries that fresh, uncertain quality that comes with not knowing where you'll land.
The landscape this offseason has been particularly fascinating, with several notable names still available who could genuinely shift a team's fortunes. Christian Wood stands out to me as perhaps the most intriguing case. The 27-year-old big man averaged 16.6 points and 7.3 rebounds last season with Dallas, yet finds himself without a team as training camps approach. I've always been high on Wood's offensive versatility - he's a legitimate three-point threat who can create his own shot, something you don't often find in players his size. The Lakers keep popping up in conversations I've had with league sources, and personally, I think that could be a fantastic fit. They need scoring off the bench, and Wood's ability to space the floor would complement Anthony Davis beautifully. The concern, of course, has always been his defense and consistency, but on a veteran minimum deal? That's a risk worth taking.
Then there's Kelly Oubre Jr., who I've watched develop since his Phoenix days. The athletic wing put up 20.3 points per game for Charlotte last season before injuries cut his campaign short. At 27, he's in his prime, and his slashing ability remains elite. I'm surprised he's still available, honestly. Miami keeps getting mentioned, and I love that potential pairing. The Heat culture could maximize Oubre's defensive potential while utilizing his cutting and transition game perfectly within their system. The financials might be tricky, but if they can make it work, Oubre could be that athletic wing they've been missing since... well, perhaps ever.
What fascinates me about this year's market is how teams are being more cautious with their remaining cap space and exceptions. We're seeing veterans who would have been snapped up immediately in previous years still waiting for the right opportunity. Blake Griffin, for instance - I watched him contribute meaningful minutes for Boston last season, particularly in their playoff run. He's not the high-flyer he once was, but his basketball IQ, passing, and occasional three-point shooting still have value. I'd love to see him back in Boston or perhaps with Golden State, where his veteran presence and floor spacing could really help.
The point guard market has some interesting names too. Dennis Schröder, who just led Germany to a World Cup gold medal, remains unsigned. His 12.6 points and 4.5 assists for the Lakers last season don't jump off the page, but his defensive intensity and ability to create off the dribble are valuable. I've always appreciated Schröder's fearlessness - he's not afraid of big moments. Phoenix could use backcourt depth, and Schröder's ability to play both guard positions makes sense there.
What many fans might not realize is how much the new CBA is affecting these remaining signings. The second apron restrictions have made teams incredibly cautious about filling out their rosters. We're seeing more veterans willing to wait for the right situation rather than jumping at the first offer. This creates opportunities for contenders to find value later in the offseason, but it also means quality players might not find homes until injuries create openings during the season.
Looking at the big men available, I'm particularly intrigued by Bismack Biyombo. His defensive presence and rebounding could help several playoff teams. The 30-year-old center averaged 4.3 points and 4.3 rebounds in limited minutes for Phoenix last season, but his impact goes beyond numbers. Teams needing rim protection - Milwaukee comes to mind - should be looking hard at Biyombo. I've always admired his professionalism and how he maximizes his limited offensive skills through sheer effort.
The wing market still has some interesting names too. Justise Winslow, still only 27, provides defensive versatility that several teams could use. Terrence Ross offers instant offense off the bench - I've watched him single-handedly change games with his explosive scoring runs. And we can't forget about Will Barton, who was putting up solid numbers just a season ago in Denver.
As training camps approach, I expect movement to accelerate. Teams will assess their rosters, identify needs, and these available veterans will find homes. The "bago" feeling these players are experiencing - that uncertainty mixed with anticipation - will soon give way to new beginnings. From my perspective, the teams that act strategically now, identifying which of these remaining free agents fit their systems and culture, could find the missing pieces that make all the difference come playoff time. The value available in this late stage of free agency often goes underappreciated, but history shows us that championship teams are frequently built not just on superstar signings, but on finding the right role players to complete the puzzle.
