This summer's free agency is truly the biggest and most exciting in recent years as it features players in LeBron James the undisputed King of Basketball today, Carmelo Anthony who could make the case that he is the second best, and a handful of young talented stars like Lance Stephenson who could be the next big thing in the NBA. Put in the mix Kevin Love who is asking for a trade this summer and you have an offseason that should not be missed.
Teams know how important this free agency period is and how it could reshape the NBA landscape. Just one big free agent signing and any team fighting for a playoff spot can become instant contenders. With that being said, here are the top 5 teams that you should keep an eye on this offseason.
HOUSTON ROCKETS: GM Daryl Morey is a beast in the offseason. Two summers ago, he acquired James Harden. Last summer, he stole Dwight Howard from the Lakers and other aggressive suitors. Now, he is looking to add another star to Houston to make his own Big Three. The guy is just relentless and this summer he has his eyes set on James and Anthony.
CHICAGO BULLS: The Bulls may just be one superstar and a healthy Derrick Rose away from contending again in the East and stealing the spotlight from the Heat. Look for them to make a run at Melo to team up with Joakim Noah and a Derrick Rose who may be back at full health this season.
ATLANTA HAWKS: The true sleepers of the East. Quiet but dangerous, the Hawks should not be written out in the East. Indiana almost paid the price for underestimating them in the first round. They are already clearing up cap space to make a big move in this free agency. Look for them to make a move on an elite small forward like Luol Deng.
DALLAS MAVERICKS: A team who is always in the move with a restless owner in Mark Cuban. Made a leap forward by reacquiring Tyson Chandler via sign-and-trade from New York. Have plenty of cap space and Dirk Nowitzki willing to take a pay cut. Mark Cuban told a Dallas radio station last week that "we're going to swing for the fences" and swinging they will be as the Mavs are considered as "real players" in the LeBron, Melo sweepstakes.
PHOENIX SUNS: A young team on the rise led by explosive guard combo Eric Bledsoe and Goran Dragic. The Suns overachieved last season and almost made the playoffs in the tough west. They have plenty of cap space - enough to pair up both LeBron and Carmelo - and have three first round draft picks making the future very bright for the Phoenix Suns. Look for them to make some noise this offseason.
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