NBA Offseason Review
October 26, 2015 | Sports,
By: Joe Laland
The offseason every year shapes the structure for the upcoming season. Despite points being scored, or any rebounds being collected. It changes the whole complex of championship-caliber teams. For example: the 2014 Kevin Love saga. Imagine if the Warriors had pulled the trigger and sent Klay Thompson and Harrison Barnes to Minnesota. Lebron’s Eastern conference champion’s Cavilers might have rookie of the year Andrew Wiggins, or a separate third big piece. The hypotheticals are endless. However here is a list of the most influential moves of this past 2015 offseason.
LaMarcus Aldridge to San Antonio
This quite frankly could be one of the scariest adds in recent memory. Not only because of the production they’re getting from a four-time all-star. Rather the rich are getting richer. One of the most dominant and steady franchises already. The Spurs have practically never added a huge transaction via free agency. Aldridge actions stated that “boring” or “old” San Antonio is now an attractive destination for big pieces. Growing pains could be an early issue for Aldridge. The biggest adjustment being fewer touches in San Antonio compared to Portland. But like always in San Antonio. Because Popovich is at the helm, it will probably fit smoothly.
Record money is spent in free-agency
Due to the rise in salary cap room that NBA franchises can spend. The most recent free agents cashed in, big-time. So high, that it even raised NBA player’s eyebrows. Stars like John Wall are confused on why “I’m getting the same as Reggie Jackson.” However, despite the change in CBA rules a large percentage stayed home. Marc Gasol stayed in Memphis. Draymond received a massive raise to stay a Warrior. Last years Most Improved Player Jimmy Butler resigned for 5 more years in the Windy City. Even despite the Deandre drama, Jordan stayed in lob city. Out of the few moves that did result in players moving, that I liked. Greg Monroe to the Bucks. Milwaukee is an already young upcoming team with strong defensive principles. Monroe adds a crucial offensive boost from the low-post position. Additionally, Monta Ellis could be a spark plug in Indiana’s new look small-ball lineup.
Welcome 2015 Rookies
This year’s patch of rookie comes in as a deep pack. Highlighted by #1 overall pick Karl Anthony-Towns. Towns is now paired with last years #1 Andrew Wiggins. A promising duo primed to improve Minnesota’s win total. Denver’s Emmanuel Mudiay has already dazzled fans through preseason action. Two great value picks during the fist round were picked by Eastern conference contenders. Miami stole Justice Winslow at #10, and Chicago wisely selected Bobby Portis when he dropped to #22. Both players are amongst the most NBA-ready due to their physical attributes, defensive instincts and strong intangibles.