Detroit Pistons - NBA Offseason Outlook Series

4th in Central Division

11th in Eastern Conference

29-53 W-L Record

Team Leaders

Points: Josh Smith (16.4)

Rebounds: Andre Drummond (13.2)

Assists: Brandon Jennings (7.6)

Steals: Josh Smith (1.4)

Blocks: Andre Drummond (1.6)

Team Statistics

Points: 101.1 (14th)

Rebounds: 45.4 (3rd)

Assists: 20.9 (24th)

Points Allowed: 104.7 (27th)

Depth Chart

PG: Brandon Jennings, Will Bynum, Peyton Siva

SG: Kyle Singler, Rodney Stuckey, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Chauncey Billups 

SF: Josh Smith, Luigi Datome

PF: Greg Monroe, Jonas Jerebko, Charlie Villanueva, Tony Mitchell

C: Andre Drummond, Josh Harrellson

Financial Breakdown

Under Contract: Will Bynum ($2,915,908), Kentavious Caldwell-Pope ($2,772,480), Luigi Datome ($1,750,000), Andre Drummond ($2,568,360), Josh Harrellson ($948,163), Brandon Jennings ($8,000,000), Tony Mitchell ($816,482), Kyle Singler ($1,090,000), Peyton Siva ($816,482), Josh Smith ($13,500,000)

Free Agents: Chauncey Billups (Team Option), Jonas Jerebko (Player Option), Greg Monroe (Restricted), Rodney Stuckey (Unrestricted), Charlie Villanueva (Unrestricted)

Projected Cap Space: Approximately $28.0 million

Draft Picks

First Round: None

Second Round: 38th overall 

Team Needs

3-Point Shooting/Floor Spacers

The Pistons finished 29th in 3PT% this season and part of the cause was due to the fact that Josh Smith was playing out of his natural position. With Smith at small forward, the team lacked spacing and bad shots were forced up by guys like Smith and Jennings who both shot poor percentages from the field this year. The Pistons do not have a catch-and-shoot type of player, something they should look to invest in. Andre Drummond, only 20 years old is the building block of the future. With an emerging and dominant center and a first class coach in Stan Van Gundy, Detroit needs to surround Drummond with shooters who can space the floor and knock down the three ball in double-team situations. Van Gundy utilized this system of "4 in 1 out" in his Orlando days and it proved to be effective. He will look to implement something similar and turn the Pistons into playoff contenders.

Wing Depth

With a small forward rotation of Josh Smith, Kyle Singler, and Luigi Datome, the Pistons must look to add more bodies as they are weak on the wing. Smith is inefficient playing the three spot while Singler and Datome are utility players as opposed to starter material. Ideally, adding a 3-and-D rotational player would help with the floor spacing and improve the perimeter offense. With a good chunk of cap room and an early 2nd round pick, Detroit should address this need before next season.

Keepers & Draft/Free Agent/Trade Targets

Greg Monroe

Resigning Greg Monroe will be the top priority for the Pistons but they must find a taker for Josh Smith's albatross contract to create room for Drummond's extension down the road. It would not be an ideal move to keep both Monroe and Smith long term as they are both capable starters which would create a logjam at PF. Monroe is an underrated big man who can score and rebound and he is only getting better. The addition of Josh Smith may have stunted his growth and the team must decide who is a better fit for the roster. While Monroe should be retained, the decision will hinge on the Piston's ability to trade Smith this offseason. 

Jabari Brown
With only a second round pick in this year's draft, the Pistons will need to find a diamond in the rough. With a need for perimeter shooting, Detroit should target Jabari Brown from Missouri. The 6'5" shooting guard averaged just under 20 points per game while shooting 41% from downtown. Brown is an excellent spot-up shooter who would complement Jennings well. He is not great at generating his own shot and creating offense for others, but with other playmakers on the roster, it should not be a problem.

Cory Jefferson

In his tenure with the Magic, Stan Van Gundy paired stretch fours (Rashard Lewis, Ryan Anderson) with Dwight Howard to stretch the defense and it proved to be effective. Needing a forward who can shoot, the Pistons should look at Cory Jefferson. The power forward out of Baylor shot a respectable 37% from deep and has a solid midrange game. His athleticism and motor are also key attributes that should intrigue Detroit. With Drummond locked at center, a stretch four in Jefferson would be a potential option.

Mario Chalmers

If Detroit is looking for another playmaking guard, enter Mario Chalmers. Chalmers is often overlooked on a Miami Heat roster filled with attention centered around the Big 3. He has been an asset during Miami's title run although this year's playoffs, Chalmers was not as effective. With a depreciating stock, the Pistons should look to add the free agent point guard. Chalmers averaged 4.9 assists this season despite not being the primary ball handler. In addition, he is a threat from three point territory and would greatly help improve floor spacing.

Mike Miller
Another three point marksman who could contribute for the Pistons is Mike Miller. Miller shot 46% from downtown this season with the Grizzlies. He is a solid defender who has championship experience, winning two titles with the Miami Heat. For the Pistons, he would not be an expensive free agent option. Apart from stretching the floor, Miller would provide veteran experience.

Ryan Anderson

Anderson would be an excellent fit for the Pistons who lack shooting big man beside Drummond. Having played for Stan Van Gundy previously in Orlando, Anderson is one of the better stretch fours in the league. It will definitely be hard for Detroit to pry Anderson from the Pelicans unless they can take on Eric Gordon's contract. However, this would be a bold move if the Pistons believe they can be playoff contenders as early as next season.

Wilson Chandler

The Nuggets do not have much financial flexibility until the 2015-16 season. As a result, many of the players may be potentially on the trade market for the right price. For the Pistons, they should inquire about Wilson Chandler who brings a 3-and-D skillset to the table. With much needed depth at the wing, trading for Chandler would give them a versatile forward who could guard four different positions. His ability to provide floor spacing and his athleticism would also be welcomed. 

NBA Offseason Transactions 2014

July 4th, 2014

Toronto Raptors receive: G Diante Garret

Utah Jazz receive: F Steve Novak, future second round pick

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June 30th, 2014

Brooklyn Nets receive: 2015 second round pick, 2019 second round pick

Milwaukee Bucks receive: Head Coach Jason Kidd

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June 29th, 2014

Atlanta Hawks receive: G/F John Salmons, 2015 second round pick

Toronto Raptors receive: G Lou Williams, C Lucas Nogueira 

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June 26th, 2014 (Draft Night)

Chicago Bulls receive: F Doug McDermott, F Anthony Randolph

Denver Nuggets receive: C Jusuf Nurkic, G Gary Harris, 2015 second round pick

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Orlando Magic receive: G Elfrid Payton

Philadelphia 76ers receive: F Dario Saric, 2015 second round pick, 2017 first round pick

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Charlotte Hornets receive: G P.J. Hairston, G Semaj Christon, 2019 second round pick, cash

Miami Heat receive: G Shabazz Napier

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Memphis Grizzlies receive: F Jarnell Stokes

Utah Jazz receive: 2015 second round pick

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Atlanta Hawks receive: G Lamar Patterson 

Milwaukee Bucks receive: 2015 second round pick

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Los Angeles Lakers receive: G Jordan Clarkson

Washington Wizards receive: cash

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New Orleans Pelicans receive: G Russ Smith

Philadelphia 76ers receive: G Pierre Jackson

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Charlotte Hornets receive: cash

Oklahoma City Thunder receive: G Semaj Christon

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Indiana Pacers receive: cash

New York Knicks receive: PF/C Louis Labeyrie

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Philadelphia 76ers receive: G Jordan McRae, F Cory Jefferson

San Antonio Spurs receive: F Nemanja Dangubic

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Brooklyn Nets receive: G/F Markel Brown, G Xavier Thames, F Cory Jefferson

Minnesota Timberwolves receive: cash

Philadelphia 76ers receive: cash

Toronto Raptors receive: cash

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June 26th, 2014

Denver Nuggets receive: G/F Arron Afflalo

Orlando Magic receive: G/F Evan Fournier, 2014 56th overall pick

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June 25th, 2014

New Orleans Pelicans receive: C Omer Asik, cash

Houston Rockets receive: 2015 first round pick

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June 25th, 2014 

Dallas Mavericks receive: C Tyson Chandler, G Raymond Felton

New York Knicks receive: G Jose Calderon, C Samuel Dalembert, G Wayne Ellington, G Shane Larkin, 2014 34th overall pick & 2014 51st overall pick

Chicago Bulls - NBA Offseason Outlook Series

2nd in Central Division

4th in Eastern Conference

48-34 W-L Record

Team Leaders

Points: D.J. Augustin (14.9)

Rebounds: Joakim Noah (11.3)

Assists: Joakim Noah (5.4)

Steals: Jimmy Butler (1.9)

Blocks: Joakim Noah (1.5)

Team Statistics

Points: 93.7 (30th)

Rebounds: 44.1 (10th)

Assists: 22.7 (10th)

Points Allowed: 91.8 (1st)

Depth Chart

PG: Kirk Hinrich, D.J. Augustin, Mike James, Derrick Rose (IL)

SG: Jimmy Butler, Ronnie Brewer, Jimmer Fredette

SF: Mike Dunleavy, Tony Snell

PF: Carlos Boozer, Taj Gibson, Lou Amundson

C: Joakim Noah, Nazr Mohammed, Greg Smith

Financial Breakdown

Under Contract: Lou Amundson ($1,310,286), Carlos Boozer ($16,800,000), Ronnie Brewer ($1,310,286), Jimmy Butler ($2,008,748), Mike Dunleavy ($3,326,235), Taj Gibson ($8,000,000), Mike James ($1,448,490), Joakim Noah ($12,200,000), Derrick Rose ($18,862,876), Greg Smith ($948,163), Tony Snell ($1,472,400)

Free Agents: D.J. Augustin (Unrestricted), Jimmer Fredette (Unrestricted) , Kirk Hinrich (Unrestricted), Nazr Mohammed (Unrestricted)

Projected Cap Space: None (Approximately $4.4 million over salary cap)

Draft Picks

First Round: 16th overall (From Charlotte), 19th overall 

Second Round: 49th overall

Team Needs

Scoring/Outside Shooting

The Bulls led the league in points allowed, but finished dead last in points. In simpler words, Chicago's defense was top notch while their offense was a disaster. With Tom Thibodeau at the helm, the Bulls have organically produced and developed players who play good team defense. The one major need that must be addressed this offseason is adding a scorer who can stretch the floor and create matchup problems. With no cap space this summer, the Bulls are mainly limited to the draft or through a trade.

Backup Big Man

This year, Taj Gibson assumed a larger role and looks primed to move into the starting lineup for next season. With that being said, Chicago's backup big man rotation will be extremely thin as Nazr Mohammed will be a free agent, Lou Amundson is on a non-guaranteed contract (could be used as trade bait), and Carlos Boozer is a potential amnesty candidate. Chicago's system is centered upon defense and they will need a backup rim protective big to give Joakim Noah a breather. 

Keepers & Draft/Free Agent/Trade Targets

D.J. Augustin
After being waived by the Toronto Raptors, Augustin was picked up by the Chicago Bulls. The absence of Derrick Rose and injuries to Kirk Hinrich paved the way for Augustin to emerge as an unexpected surprise pacing the Bulls at 14.9 points per game. With Rose returning next season and Hinrich also a free agent, the Bulls should prioritize resigning Augustin who provided excellent offensive production off the bench. As a lethal three point shooter, Augustin gives Chicago a distributor and scoring weapon. Chicago should be able to afford the 6-year guard with the Mid-Level Exception.

Nik Stauskas

Stauskas, a sophomore shooting guard from Michigan improved greatly from his freshmen season. One of the best shooters in the nation, Stauskas averaged 17.5 points per game on 44% shooting from downtown. He has great basketball IQ, plays solid defense and can score in a variety of ways. His offensive game is very Klay Thompson-esque. For a team in need of scoring, Stauskas would be an excellent addition for the Bulls, sliding in at the off guard spot.     

James Young

If the Bulls are looking for a pure scorer, they should look no further than James Young. Young, a freshmen shooting guard from Kentucky averaged 14.3 points per game for the Wildcats. His shooting stroke, size and age (turning 19 in August) will attract NBA suitors, though he must improve his decision making and shooting efficiency at the next level. The Bulls could use a scoring guard beside Derrick Rose and Young would definitely be an intriguing fit.

Patty Mills
Patty Mills performed exceptionally well during The NBA Finals and he will certainly be due for a huge raise this summer. Per 36 mins, he averaged 19.5 points, 3.5 assists and 1.6 steals during the regular season. In the playoffs, Mills was on fire from downtown and served as a scoring punch off the bench. If the Bulls cannot retain D.J. Augustin, Mills would be a viable option who could be a "Nate Robinson" type of player for Chicago.

Emeka Okafor

Chicago has not had true frontcourt depth since they lost Omer Asik. Okafor, who is coming off a neck injury will not be making as much as he did this year ($14.5 million) and may be had for the vet minimum, depending on the league-wide interest. The 2005 Rookie of the Year has career averages of 12 points and 10 rebounds and that alone should intrigue the Bulls. Okafor would give Chicago rebounding and an interior presence while allowing Taj Gibson to play more of his minutes at power forward.


Greg Stiemsma

Another big man who can provide rim protection and shot blocking is Greg Stiemsma. Stiemsma was released by the Pelicans late-season and had a sub-par statistical season. If he can display similar potential in his first NBA season, the Bulls would be getting a steal for a cheap option at backup center at the minimum contract.

Arron Afflalo

The Bulls would love to add a marquee star in the likes of Carmelo Anthony or Kevin Love. While the possibility of trading for a player of Anthony or Love's caliber is low, one of the more attainable players on the trade market is Arron Afflalo, who is a good fit for the Bulls system. Afflalo had a career year with the Orlando Magic averaging 18.2 points per game. His on-ball defense is above average and he is an excellent shooter from distance. The Magic are in the midst of a rebuild and it would make sense to capitalize on Afflalo's trade value while it is at its peak. Meanwhile, Afflalo is the perfect running mate for Derrick Rose. He does not need the ball in his hands to be effective and would also be able to guard opposing point guards and take pressure off of Rose. Chicago is a piece away from moving into the upper echelon of the Eastern Conference and Afflalo may be the missing piece.  

Philadelphia 76ers - NBA Offseason Outlook Series

5th in Atlantic Division

14th in Eastern Conference

19-63 W-L Record

Team Leaders

Points: Thaddeus Young (17.9)

Rebounds: Michael Carter-Williams (6.2)

Assists: Michael Carter-Williams (6.3)

Steals: Thaddeus Young (2.1)

Blocks: Jarvis Varnado (1.3)

Team Statistics

Points: 99.5 (19th)

Rebounds: 42.7 (15th)

Assists: 21.8 (15th)

Points Allowed: 109.9 (30th)

Depth Chart

PG: Michael Carter-Williams, Casper Ware, Adonis Thomas

SG: James Anderson, Tony Wroten, Elliot Williams

SF: Hollis Thompson, Jason Richardson

PF: Thaddeus Young, Arnett Moultrie, Nerlens Noel

C: Henry Sims, Byron Mullens, Brandon Davies, Jarvis Varnado

Financial Breakdown

Under Contract: James Anderson ($981,084), Michael Carter-Williams ($2,300,040), Brandon Davies ($816,482), Arnett Moultrie ($1,136,160), Nerlens Noel ($3,315,120), Jason Richardson ($6,601,125), Henry Sims ($915,243), Hollis Thompson ($816,482), Jarvis Varnado ($915,243), Elliot Williams ($981,084), Tony Wroten ($1,210,080), Thaddeus Young ($9,410,869)

Free Agents: Byron Mullens (Player Option), Adonis Thomas (Restricted), Casper Ware (Unrestricted)

Projected Cap Space: Approximately $33.9 million

Draft Picks

First Round: 3rd overall, 10th overall (From New Orleans)
Second Round: 32nd overall, 39th overall (From Cleveland), 47th overall (From Brooklyn via Dallas & Boston), 52nd overall (From Memphis via Cleveland), 54th overall (From Houston via Milwaukee)

Team Needs

Star Power/Talent
The 76ers went into a full-blown rebuild when they traded away All-Star point guard Jrue Holiday for Nerlens Noel and the Pelicans 2014 1st round pick, packaged Evan Turner to Indiana and Spencer Hawes to Cleveland mid-season, and signed several D-League players on 10-day contracts for the rest of the season. With an abundance of assets such as multiple draft picks and non-guaranteed contracts, the Sixers will look to use them to acquire young talent through the draft or in trades. Apart from Carter-Williams and Noel, the majority of the current roster may not be part of the team's future. The team will probably receive calls for power forward Thaddeus Young and will need to evaluate the best deal they can get for him. The squad is definitely a few years away from playoff contention and an influx of talent and star power is certainly needed.

Depth
With a bench mostly made of D-League players and young prospects, Philadelphia will need to retool its roster by adding wing defenders, athletic bigs, playmaking guards, etc. The 76ers have to fill essentially every position especially adding a two-way forward and complementary guard for MCW. Having given up a league worst 109.9 points per game this season, it is crucial for the Sixers to add a defensive anchor in the middle and also solid swingmen who can defend multiple positions. A scorer off the bench would be ideal as well.

Keepers & Draft/Free Agent/Trade Targets

Jabari Parker
Parker is probably the most NBA-ready of all the prospects. He is a natural scorer and possesses high basketball IQ. As a freshmen at Duke, Parker led his team in scoring (19.1 pts) and rebounding (8.7 reb) per game. The Sixers desperately need a go-to-scorer and Parker can be just that. With a healthy Nerlens Noel next season who can cover up Parker's defensive short comings, Parker is the safest pick for Philly, one who is expected to contribute like MCW right away.

Andrew Wiggins
If Parker is off the board when the Sixers are on the clock, Wiggins would not be a bad consolation prize. The Kansas product would indeed be a great fit on a young team as an athletic two-way player with extreme upside. Philadelphia finished 1st in the league in pace this season which would play well with Wiggins' motor and strengths as a dynamic open-court athlete. In Kansas, Wiggins did not have freedom to create as often as he would like within the offensive system. However, with Brett Brown's free-flowing and uptempo structure, Wiggins will have no problem getting buckets.


Gary Harris
Harris may be the most well-rounded shooting guard in the draft. As a sophomore this season at Michigan State, Harris paced the team in points (16.7) and lead the charge on defense (1.8 steals). The 6'4" shooting guard hones an arsenal of offensive moves and shoots the ball deep pretty well. His above average defense compensates for his height disadvantage and his ability to play off the ball would complement Michael Carter-Williams well. As a 3-and-D player, he would provide stability at the 2-guard position in the long run.

Dario Saric
Another option to fill up the frontcourt would be to take a flier in Dario Saric. Saric, a 6'10" forward from Lithuania has a diverse offensive game and can stretch the floor well with his 3-point range. As a natural scorer and solid rebounder, Saric is the definition of the stretch four. He is too big at the small forward position and lacks the lateral quickness to guard the 3 spot. Thus, slotting him at power forward gives the Sixers a mirror to Noel's game which is predicated on protecting the rim, rebounding, and banging down low. If he is available at number 10, Dario Saric would be a good gamble for the 76ers.

Thanasis Antekounmpo
With three second round picks, the Sixers can afford to develop a player or two or "draft and stash" a prospect overseas. Thanasis Antekounmpo (older brother of  Giannis Antekounmpo the "Greek Freak"), a forward for the Delaware 87ers displayed immense potential this year in the NBA D-League and should be on Philly's radar. Blessed with blazing athleticism and speed, the older Antekoumpo is dangerous in transition and plays great on-ball defense. However, his offensive skills are still incredibly raw and he will need to certainly develop some sort of mid-range game to have an impact in the NBA. If the Sixers decide to take him with one of their second rounders, do not expect the "other Greek Freak" to play big minutes right off the bat.

Kent Bazemore
While the Sixers will have a pool of cap space this summer, it would make sense to avoid spending big bucks on high-tier free agents but rather target mid-level players until the team is ready to make a playoff run. One such mid-level player is Kent Bazemore who is more known for his bench celebrations but certainly showed he is capable of playing rotational minutes when he was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers. The undrafted guard out of Old Dominion is an athletic swingman who plays good defense and developed an improve long-range shot. He would be an excellent fit to Philadelphia's uptempo offense and provide energy off the bench. While Bazemore is due to a raise, his price will not be too high for the Sixers as he only made the minimum this year.

Xavier Henry
As a former lottery pick, Henry has played on three different teams in his four year career. In his latest stop with the Lakers, Henry posted career highs across the board and proved he still had untapped potential. The 76ers could use a scoring guard off the bench and Henry fits into their offensive schemes. Henry is a good attacker off the dribble who can get to the rim and draw fouls, but needs to work on his shooting. Making less than a million this season, Henry will definitely command a bigger contract and Philly could offer something in the lines of the Mid-Level Exception while preserving their cap space for the future.

Thabo Sefolosha
With a need for a defensive identity, the Sixers could look to add Sefolosha this summer. Near the end of the season, Scott Brooks opted to use Caron Butler instead of Sefolosha in the Thunder rotation. A change of scenery would greatly benefit Sefolosha's career. The 76ers have a huge need for a defensive wing who can take on the opposing team's best player. With upwards of $30 million in cap space, Philadelphia can offer Sefolosha more money than the Thunder. Provided the multi-year deal is less than three years, the Sixers would still have clear books to chase marquee superstars in 2015 & 2016 when they are ready to contend.

Toronto Raptors - NBA Offseason Outlook Series

1st in Atlantic Division

3rd in Eastern Conference

48-34 W-L Record

Team Leaders

Points: DeMar DeRozan (22.7)

Rebounds: Jonas Valanciunas (8.8)

Assists: Kyle Lowry (7.4)

Steals: Kyle Lowry (1.5)

Blocks: Amir Johnson (1.1)

Team Statistics

Points: 101.3 (13th)

Rebounds: 42.5 (17th)

Assists: 21.2 (21st)

Points Allowed: 98.0 (7th)

Depth Chart

PG: Kyle Lowry, Greivis Vasquez, Dwight Buycks, Julyan Stone 

SG: DeMar DeRozan, Nando de Colo, Landry Fields

SF: Terrence Ross, John Salmons, Steve Novak

PF: Amir Johnson, Patrick Patterson, Tyler Hansbrough

C: Jonas Valanciunas, Chuck Hayes

Financial Breakdown

Under Contract: Dwight Buycks ($816,482), DeMar DeRozan ($9,500,000), Landry Fields ($6,250,000), Tyler Hansbrough ($3,326,235), Chuck Hayes ($5,958,750), Amir Johnson ($7,000,000), Steve Novak ($3,445,947), Terrence Ross ($2,793,960), John Salmons ($7,000,000), Jonas Valanciunas ($3,678,360)

Free Agents: Nando de Colo (Qualifying Offer), Kyle Lowry (Unrestricted), Patrick Patterson (Qualifying Offer), Julyan Stone (Unrestricted), Greivis Vasquez (Qualifying Offer)  

Projected Cap Space: Approximately $13.4 million

Draft Picks

First Round: 20th overall
Second Round: 37th overall (From Sacramento), 59th overall (From Oklahoma City via New York)

Team Needs

Frontcourt Depth/Upgrade
Toronto has a promising, young center in Jonas Valanciunas, but the rest of the frontcourt is in need of an upgrade. Amir Johnson is a serviceable big man who can occasionally knock down the 3 and Patrick Patterson is a nice stretch-4. Behind them, Tyler Hansbrough and Chuck Hayes receive minimal minutes in the rotation and provide energy in spurts. At best, most of these guys are just solid role players. In the long-term, these big men do not seem to fit in the big picture with the exception of Valanciunas. Trading for a more established power forward/center makes complete sense for an organization looking to build upon this season's success. In addition, acquiring a back-up small forward who possesses 3-and-D ability would also be beneficial.

Veteran Experience
The Raptors exceeded expectations this year as they finished third in the Eastern Conference and won the Atlantic Division for the 2nd time in franchise history. However, in the playoffs, they ran into a tough and experienced Brooklyn squad, eventually falling in seven games and failing to advance to the next round. As a young and upcoming team, Toronto should target veterans with playoff experience who are still capable of producing to help bolster their bench. With a relatively young core, the Raptors could certainly use some locker room guys who would provide a calm veteran presence and keep teammates accountable.

Keepers & Draft/Free Agent/Trade Targets

Kyle Lowry
While DeMar DeRozan was selected as a reserve for the Eastern Conference All-Star team, Kyle Lowry was arguably the Raptors most important player this season. Lowry posted career highs in multiple categories and became the leader of the team after Rudy Gay was traded to the Kings. In addition to scoring and playmaking, Lowry showed the willingness to sacrifice his body to take charges and take initiative in making big-time plays down the stretch. This breakout season will certainly allow Lowry to cash in this summer as a unrestricted free agent. Even if it means slightly overpaying their star point guard, retaining Lowry is definitely the biggest priority for the Raptors. The fanbase would be extremely disappointed to lose the heart and soul of the franchise.

Greivis Vasquez
Although there may be redundancy in re-signing Greivis Vasquez if Kyle Lowry comes back, it is evident that Vasquez's skill set complements Lowry's well. As a back-up point guard, Vasquez played significant minutes at the shooting guard slot with Lowry. His ability to play off the ball and knock down the three ball gives Lowry the space to operate and create scoring opportunities. Additionally, Vasquez is also an underrated passer who averaged 9.0 dimes per game in the 2012-13 season as a member of the New Orleans Hornets. As a restricted free agent, Toronto has the option to match any offer and should do so if the price is right.

Clint Capela
Capela, a power forward/center from Switzerland is projected to go in the mid-to-late first round of the draft, right within the range of the Raptors 20th overall selection. His athleticism and ability to defend the pick and roll will intrigue the Raptors. As a player who has played professionally in France, Capela would probably need some time to adjust to the NBA level. For that reason, he would be more of a long term project where the team develops his raw potential. Thus, instant contribution would not expected and it would also be safe for him to gain experience in the D-League. Because of the Raptors' need for front court depth, he is an ideal prospect for them.

Adreian Payne
Payne is a NBA-ready prospect who could contribute to a playoff team right away. His brilliant play during the 2014 NCAA March Madness tournament displayed his versatility as a stretch forward who can play inside and outside. As a senior at Michigan State this season, Payne showed that he was the leader of the team. Although he possesses less upside compared to other draft prospects, Payne is well-polished, fundamentally sound, and highly athletic. If the Raptors decide to let Patrick Patterson leave via free agency, they should consider taking Adreian Payne with their first round pick.

Vince Carter
Entering the twilight of his career, Carter may only have a couple seasons left in his tank. Vince Carter, a former Raptor played an instrumental role in putting Toronto on the map in the early 2000s. A reunion with the 8-time All-Star makes tons of sense for a team searching for veteran leadership and a locker room guy. Carter was productive off the bench this season averaging 12 pts for the second unit. As a free agent, Carter will not be seeking the most lucrative deal, but rather a good-fit. With the ability to consistently knock down threes and rise up to the occasion during clutch time, Carter to the Raptors would be an ideal homecoming.  

Shawn Marion
If the Raptors are looking for an inexpensive option at the small forward position, Shawn Marion would be a nice target. Like Carter, Marion will not be demanding a lot of money this summer and will look to latch onto a playoff contending team as his career winds down. The Raptors need a defensive stopper and Marion fits the bill. His ability to defend multiple positions will take pressure off of DeRozan and Lowry. In addition, Marion brings leadership and experience to the table. As a 2011 NBA Champion, the "Matrix" would show the Raptors how to get to the top.

Thaddeus Young
The Toronto Raptors do not necessarily need to make a splash this offseason. However, if the team feels that acquiring a proven player is more beneficial than developing young talent, the team could opt to trade their assets and cash in on a player now. Thaddeus Young is one of the players available on the trade market and his price tag is reasonable. A potential trade package could involved the Raptors 2014 1st rounder and a combination of the non-guaranteed contracts of John Salmons, Amir Johnson, Tyler Hansbrough, and Dwight Buycks. The Sixers are looking to build for the future by stockpiling on picks and opening up salary relief. Thus, this deal makes sense for both sides. For the Raptors, Young and Valanciunas would form a dynamic frontcourt. At 25, Young had one of the best seasons statistically for the Sixers averaging 17.9 ppg and he is just entering the prime of his career. With Toronto looking to advance further into the postseason, acquiring Young would be an excellent addition.

New York Knicks - NBA Offseason Outlook Series

3rd in Atlantic Division

9th in Eastern Conference

37-45 W-L Record

Team Leaders

Points: Carmelo Anthony (27.4)

Rebounds: Tyson Chandler (9.6)

Assists: Raymond Felton (5.6)

Steals: Iman Shumpert (1.2)

Blocks: Andrea Bargnani (1.2)

Team Statistics

Points: 98.6 (20th)

Rebounds: 40.3 (27th)

Assists: 20.0 (28th)

Points Allowed: 99.4 (8th)

Depth Chart

PG: Raymond Felton, Pablo Prigioni, Toure' Murry

SG: Iman Shumpert, J.R. Smith, Shannon Brown

SF: Carmelo Anthony, Tim Hardaway Jr.

PF: Amar'e Stoudemire, Kenyon Martin, Andrea Bargnani, Lamar Odom 

C: Tyson Chandler, Jeremy Tyler, Cole Aldrich

Financial Breakdown

Under Contract: Shannon Brown ($1,310,286), Tyson Chandler ($14,596,887), Raymond Felton ($3,793,693), Tim Hardaway Jr. ($1,250,640), Lamar Odom ($1,448,490), Pablo Prigioni ($1,662,961), Iman Shumpert ($2,616,975), J.R. Smith ($5,982,375), Jeremy Tyler ($948,163)

Free Agents: Cole Aldrich (Unrestricted), Carmelo Anthony (Early Termination Option), Andrea Bargnani (Early Termination Option), Kenyon Martin (Unrestricted), Tour'e Murry (Qualifying Offer), Amar'e Stoudemire (Early Termination Option)

Projected Cap Space: None (Approximately $6.4 million over salary cap)

Draft Picks

First Round: None
Second Round: None

Team Needs

Point Guard
One of the reasons for the Knicks' struggles this season was due to the sub-par play of the point guard position. Undoubtedly the weakest position in their rotation, the Knicks struggled to generate any production from their floor generals (20.0 assists per game which ranked 28th in NBA). Starting point guard Raymond Felton was not able to get it done on a nightly basis after playing a major role in the Knicks 54-win season last year. Largely criticized for being "fat" and "out of shape", Felton had off-court issues in addition to on-court problems this season. Pablo Prigioni, an aging veteran with only 2 years of experience in the NBA was best-suited for a back-up role and Tour'e Murry had budding potential but lacked the experience to match up against the best guards in the association. While the Knicks do not necessarily need to add a scoring point guard to their roster, acquiring a serviceable playmaker should be at the top of the team agenda.

Defensive-Minded Big Man
Outside of Tyson Chandler, New York did not have a defensive big man who could protect the paint. The team was not great on defense, allowing 98.6 pts per game (20th). Although this was not the biggest problem in the Knicks downfall, there was no insurance behind Chandler if he went down with an injury. Jeremy Tyler and Cole Aldrich were not expected to play significant minutes in the rotation and were seen as projects rather than regular contributors. Adding another interior presence would provide sustainability for the second unit when Chandler rests or if the Knicks play a secondary small-ball lineup.

Keepers & Draft/Free Agent/Trade Targets

Carmelo Anthony
The biggest prize in this summer's free agency frenzy will be Carmelo Anthony. Even if LeBron and co. opt out of their current contracts, the likelihood of the Big 3 switching teams is incredibly low even if they fail to win a championship this season. Back in 2011, New York surrendered their entire starting lineup (with the exception of Stoudemire) and future draft picks to acquire Anthony mid-season. They have made the playoffs (not including 2014) since then but the supporting cast around Melo has regressed each season. Amar'e Stoudemire and Tyson Chandler cannot seem to stay healthy. Iman Shumpert had a disappointing year after showing so much potential in his rookie year. JR Smith, winner of the Sixth Man of the Year award in 2013 stumbled to build on to that success and we should not even get started with Raymond Felton. Contrary, Carmelo Anthony, who just turned 30 made big strides and raised his game this season averaging a career high in rebounds (8.1) and recording a career high and MSG record 62 points against the Bobcats. Keeping your franchise superstar is a no-brainer and while handing out the max contract to a player north of 30 years old is questionable (Melo has stated that he would be willing to take a pay-cut to add more talent), Anthony has shown that he is the player you can build your franchise around.

Tour'e Murry
Murry did not play many games this year and when he was give the chance, he would normally be on the floor during a blow-out game. As a 6'5" combo guard, Murry has a reputation as a solid defender. His long reach and quick feet give him the ability to crowd defenders, challenge shots, and step into passing lanes. Murry could certainly work on improving his shooting and playmaking skills as he still has room to grow as a player. Given the Knicks lack of depth at the point, it would be smart to lock up Murry for long-term development if the price is right.

Shabazz Napier
With two NCAA championships under his belt, Shabazz Napier is ready to make the leap to the next level in the NBA. A proven leader and steady playmaker, Napier lacks size and athleticism but compensates this by his ability to shoot off the dribble and come off screens. Napier has made big plays in his college career, endures adversity and plays with poise and maturity after staying four years in college. The Knicks could use an NBA-ready point guard in Napier, one who is not afraid of performing on the big stage.

Patric Young
Defense is one of Patric Young's best attributes and also something the Knicks need to address. As a slightly undersized power forward, Young uses his physical frame to make it difficult for his opponent to catch the ball in the post. Young has a good motor, great basketball IQ, and a lot of intangibles in terms of leadership and toughness. Projected as a second round pick, the Knicks could make an inquiry to a team that holds multiple late picks such as Philadelphia and Denver. Like Shabazz Napier, Patric Young has probably reached his ceiling, but more than ready to contribute to a playoff team.

Andrew Bynum
New York's current cap situation prevents a massive shopping spree this summer. However, one intriguing and possibly cheap option is to sign former All-Star Andrew Bynum. Bynum's value has diminished over the last few seasons since he was traded from the Lakers to the Sixers and he can be had at the veteran's minimum if there's minimal league interest. The big man's best campaign came in 2012 when he averaged a career high 18.7 points and 11.8 rebounds. At just 26 years old, it remains to be seen how much is still left in Bynum's tank and whether he can stay healthy through an entire season. In spite of this, given Phil Jackson's relationship with the former Laker center, it would be a nice low-risk high-reward move to make this offseason.

Darren Collison

The Knicks and Clippers talked about a trade revolving around Darren Collison during the trade deadline but talks fell through in the end. Since Collison has opted out of his current contract to become an unrestricted free agent, the Knicks should consider reigniting their pursuit of the backup point guard. Collison has bounced around the league in his four year career with stops at New Orleans, Indiana, and Dallas before signing with Los Angeles last summer. This season, per 36 minutes, Collison average 15.9 pts, 5.2 ast, and 3.3 reb. While his assists may seem slightly low, it should be noted that Collison played a majority of his minutes with one of the best distributing point guards in Chris Paul. Collison, one of the top backup point guards in the association is capable of starting on most teams The Knicks have their Mid-Level Exception and it would be ideal to gauge the interest of Darren Collison and pitch him with a starting-role. His speed and willingness to pass would definitely be a great fit in the triangle offense.

Jimmer Fredette
As a college superstar, Jimmer Fredette has not been able to translate his game to the NBA level so far in his professional career. Buried on the bench in Sacramento, Jimmer never played meaningful minutes in the Kings season-long rotation. He was bought out and later signed with the Chicago Bulls for the remainder of the season. As a dead-eye shooter, Fredette would give the Knicks another offensive weapon. The knock on Jimmer is his ability to defend other guards and the position he is most-suited to play. He is not much of a playmaker and not long enough to matchup against shooting guards. However, the Knicks should not pass up the chance to sign a flier in Jimmer Fredette. While his stock is at its lowest, signing Jimmer would certainly inject some life into the franchise.

Jeremy Lin/Omer Asik/Terrence Jones/Chandler Parsons

If Carmelo Anthony is bound to leave New York, the best possible sign-and-trade package would come from a combination of Jeremy Lin, Omer Asik, Terrence Jones, Chandler Parsons and/or picks. The Knicks desperately need a point guard and Linsanity would be welcomed once again in New York. Omer Asik would provide valuable backup minutes for Tyson Chandler as well as insurance in case of an injury. Since both Lin and Asik are expiring contracts, they can easily become cap space after one year if things do not work out. In Terrence Jones and Chandler Parsons, the Knicks would be getting two young building blocks for the future. Jones is a versatile power forward who rebounds and plays well both inside and outside while Parsons is a fantastic team player who does not need the ball to be effective. The future picks would also be beneficial for a team who has traded many of their own. While it would be difficult to lose your franchise player, the Knicks have the leverage to negotiate a sign-and-trade with Houston (if Anthony signs with the Rockets) and acquire valuable assets in return.