NBA Free Agents 2016: Rumors and Predictions for Players Still Left Unsigned

The NBA Summer League might be taking center stage in the basketball world, but there are still intriguing veterans looking to lock down homes next season.

The market is no longer about finding a franchise-changing talent but rather filling out rotations with veterans who can contribute right away. There’s a lot to say for building depth, and the names still on the market are capable of helping general managers find that.

Here’s a look at some of the top remaining free agents who have some buzz surrounding them along with predictions as to where they will wind up.

J.R. Smith and Cavs Having Trouble Negotiating?

“The disease of more” is a concept that was coined by Miami Heat president Pat Riley, which Bill Simmons wrote about for ESPN The Magazine in 2007.

Essentially, the concept means that once a team achieves success, it can become the team’s own worst enemy. Success means that—even if it’s subconscious—everyone wants to reap more of the benefits. Whether it be a bigger role, more money or more recognition, everyone wants a bigger piece of the pie. 

It’s a mindset that—along with a loaded Golden State Warriors team—will be the Cleveland Cavaliers’ biggest roadblock to another title.

It could also be why the Cavaliers are having a difficult time agreeing to terms with free agent J.R. Smith. According to Steve Kyler of Basketball Insiders, Smith wants huge money to come back to Cleveland:

Yikes… hearing JR Smith seeking huge deal to return to Cavs, in the $15m per year range. Can Cavs really pass on bringing him back?

— Steve Kyler (@stevekylerNBA) July 17, 2016

This puts the Cavs in a tough spot. According to Spotrac, the Cavaliers are already $32 million over the salary cap. The team still has Smith’s Bird rights, so it can re-sign him; however, that would mean going deeper into the luxury tax.

After winning the title, one has to wonder how deep into the tax owner Dan Gilbert is willing to go. 

Still, the Cavs have a window to win a title, and title windows are prone to shutting at a moment’s notice. With the Warriors adding Kevin Durant, getting another championship became even harder for Cleveland. 

It doesn’t sound like Smith is bluffing, either. He discussed the possibility of leaving in a recent interview with ESPN.

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