10. Glen Davis- PF; Unrestricted
Glen Davis was overlooked coming out of college due to his size and lack of explosiveness; however, he has helped the Celtics make two Finals appearances and has helped them win one NBA title. Davis may not produce on the same level as Pau Gasol or Amar’e Stoudemire, but he can provide any team with instant energy and hustle.
Lakers fans understand just how effective Davis can be and how easily he can change the outcome of the game. Remember Game 5 of the NBA Finals?
9. Tayshaun Prince- SF; Unrestricted
Tayshaun Prince was one of many talented players on the 2004 champion Detroit Pistons team. The Pistons upset the heavily favored Los Angeles Lakers with a balanced attack. Those Pistons personified teamwork and have been the poster-team for franchises without a superstar.
Since then, however, age and mediocrity have taken over the Motor City. Chauncey Billups and Rasheed Wallace have parted ways from the Pistons, and only three players from that dynamic starting five remain. With nothing to look forward to in Detroit, this would be the best time for Prince to leave. He can still put points on the board and his length presents problems for every opponent.
The Lakers are one team that would benefit from adding Prince. Just image the difficulty the opposition would face when being defended by both Lamar Odom and Tayshaun Prince.
8. J.J. Barea- G; Unrestricted
The Los Angeles Lakers are also quite familiar with the productivity level of J.J. Barea. Barea was a key player in the Mavericks’ sweep of the Lakers, and he had his way with L.A.’s big men. Barea constantly scored in the paint and could get any shot he wanted against Bynum and Gasol.
Barea will be a coveted free agent this summer and many teams would like to add this explosive guard to their lineup. Although he stands at only six feet tall, he has an uncanny knack for scoring over several defenders. However, at this point it seems as though J.J. Barea will return to the Mavs in pursuit of his second title. Nevertheless, an attractive offer from another team may bring Barea out of Mark Cuban’s hands.
Next Page: Top Free Agents, 7-5
