The return of LeBron James has been the big story of the NBA off-season, but several other significant free-agent moves have taken place. We look at five of the most important deals.
Chris Bosh stays in Miami
Bosh’s giant five-year, US$118 million (Dh433m) extension to remain with the Heat not only had major implications for Miami - who did a nice thing for a player who helped them win two titles, but are probably doomed to a few years of irrelevance now - but also reverberated to teams like Houston, who could have been a major contender if he’d chosen the Rockets instead.
Carmelo Anthony stays in New York
Anthony had interesting options, most notably with the Bulls and Lakers, but he ultimately spurned outside interests and signalled he would put his faith in Phil Jackson’s rebuilding plan for the New York Knicks. He also signalled $129 million (Dh473.8m) is a very large, very hard amount of money to turn down.
Pau Gasol and Nikola Mirotic sign in Chicago
After Anthony told Chicago no, the Bulls went down a very European path, signing two highly skilled big men to go with Joakim Noah and form a possibly very dangerous frontcourt. If Derrick Rose is healthy (always, of course, the question with the Bulls), they have something interesting going on in Chicago.
Isaiah Thomas signs in Phoenix
This subtly interesting move allows the Suns to negotiate tough with restricted free agent Eric Bledsoe, who wants major money. If, as Phoenix hopes, he comes back at a slight discount, having Thomas helps them build even more on last year’s surprise play-off contention. And at four years and $27m, he’s one of the more astute bargains of free agency.
Gregg Popovich signs extension with San Antonio
Popovich isn’t a player, no, but if there’s any one most dominant reason among the many that explain why the Spurs have been near the top of the NBA for 15 years, it’s their coach. As long as he’s around, the Spurs have a chance.
jraymond@thenational.ae
