LaMarcus Aldridge, Jimmy Butler, DeAndre Jordan. Those are only some of the free agents available in the summer of 2015. Free agency is always a circus that constantly surprises. With the salary cap rising in the next few years due to a new TV deal, it's entirely possible more players will jump ship this summer.
1. LaMarcus Aldridge
Aldridge will be 30 on July 19th, and he's spent all nine of his NBA years in a Blazers uniform. With young All-Star Damian Lillard by his side, Aldridge finally had a running mate. However, a thumb injury hindered him for the latter half of the season, and while he managed to play through it, surgery was needed after the Blazers were eliminated by Memphis.
The All-Star big man faces a crossroad this summer, either he stays with Portland and makes more money, or he takes a pay cut and goes to another club. It's no secret that the West is incredibly tough, and while the Blazers have been good, they just don't have enough to get to the Finals. Eastern Conference teams will be looking for the big man's services to help elevate them to the next level.
Key clubs to watch: Boston Celtics, New York Knicks, Los Angeles Lakers, San Antonio Spurs, Portland Trail Blazers.
2. Jimmy Butler
The emerging star from Chicago, Jimmy Butler had his best season in a Bulls uniform, averaging 20 points and six rebounds a game. Butler is only 25 years of age and has tremendous upside. A gritty defender out of Marquette, he knows how to defend and isn't afraid to take on the opposing team's best player. While it's Chicago's top priority to keep Butler, it wouldn't be surprising if he leaves. With a new coach coming in and amidst rumors about a growing feud with star Derrick Rose, it's possible Butler will look to become part of a different organization, one where he can grow with a young team.
Key clubs to watch: Boston Celtics, Chicago Bulls, Los Angeles Lakers, Dallas Mavericks, Milwaukee Bucks.
3. DeAndre Jordan
The big man from L.A. will be the top center in the free-agent market this summer, and after a total collapse by the Los Angeles Clippers, it's possible Jordan will look to test the waters. Jordan averaged 12 points, 15 rebounds, and two blocks per game, making him the most dominant center in the NBA. While his offense is basically non-existent besides dunking and his free-throw shooting is horrendous, it isn't easy to find a big man with his athleticism and nose for the ball. A team will overpay for him this summer and whether that's the Clippers remains to be seen.
Key clubs to watch: Boston Celtics, New York Knicks, Los Angeles Lakers, Dallas Mavericks, San Antonio Spurs, Los Angeles Clippers.
These three might stay where they are, or they might leave, whatever the decision, this summer will have some surprises.