As the NBA offseason enters its quiet phase, most teams have completed their major roster moves, and the league’s attention shifts to vacation mode. However, a handful of free agents remain on the market, players who might not be game-changers but could still provide valuable depth and rotation minutes. Here’s a look at the seven best free agents still available:
1. Markelle Fultz
One of the more surprising names still on the market is Markelle Fultz. Despite flying under the radar in Orlando, Fultz has quietly developed into a reliable point guard when healthy. Last season, he played in 43 games, but injuries have limited him to just 129 games over the past four years. Fultz is most effective with the ball in his hands, but his shooting woes (22.2% from three last season) have made teams hesitant to pull the trigger. While his market value has dipped, Fultz could still provide solid backup minutes at the point guard spot, though he may need to accept a minimum contract, possibly from Orlando.
2. Isaac Okoro (Restricted)
Isaac Okoro’s situation is a classic case of the restricted free agent market not playing out as expected. The Cavaliers wing, who averaged 9.4 points and shot a career-best 39.1% from three last season, was likely expecting a raise from the $8.9 million he made in the final year of his rookie deal. However, no team was willing to offer more than what Cleveland would match, leaving Okoro in limbo. He’s likely to re-sign with the Cavaliers, but it’s surprising that no other team has made a strong push for the young, improving wing.
3. Lonnie Walker IV
Lonnie Walker IV is coming off a season in which he averaged 9.7 points on 38.4% shooting from deep for the Brooklyn Nets. While his scoring ability is evident, front offices seem to view him as a one-dimensional player, which has likely contributed to his availability. Despite this, Walker’s ability to get buckets could be valuable to many teams, especially those in need of a scoring punch off the bench. He’ll likely land a minimum deal soon, as his talent is too significant to remain unsigned for much longer.
4. Justin Holiday
Veteran guard Justin Holiday spent last season with the Denver Nuggets, where he played in 58 games and shot an impressive 40.4% from three. While his role was limited during the regular season, Holiday saw increased minutes in the playoffs, particularly against the Timberwolves. At 35 years old, Holiday is likely looking for a deal above the veteran minimum, but the market hasn’t materialized for him yet. Nonetheless, his experience and shooting make him an appealing option for teams seeking a stabilizing veteran presence off the bench.
5. Cedi Osman
Cedi Osman was a consistent part of the San Antonio Spurs’ rotation last season, averaging 6.8 points and shooting 38.9% from three in 72 games. While Osman has expressed a desire to return to the Spurs, he remains unsigned, making him an attractive option for teams needing shooting and size off the bench. At 6’7″ and under 30, Osman’s skill set is versatile enough to fit into various systems, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see him sign with a new team before training camp begins.
6. Dennis Smith Jr.
Dennis Smith Jr. finds himself without a team after an offseason filled with moves by the Brooklyn Nets. The point guard averaged 6.6 points and 3.6 assists last season but struggled with his outside shot, hitting just 29.8% from three over his career. Despite these shooting struggles, Smith can still run an offense and provide valuable rotation minutes off the bench. There have been whispers of interest from a few teams, but nothing concrete has materialized yet.
7. Davis Bertans
Davis Bertans, a 6’10” sharpshooting big man, was waived by the Charlotte Hornets this summer while playing for Latvia in an Olympic Qualifying game. Despite his release, Bertans remains a valuable floor spacer, averaging 6.7 points and shooting 38% from three last season with Oklahoma City and Charlotte. The 76ers have been rumored to have interest, and it’s easy to see why. Bertans could provide much-needed shooting and size off the bench for a team looking to add depth at the four or small-ball five positions.
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