As the NBA season pushes deeper into March, several intriguing free agents remain unsigned — and some could still make a meaningful impact for teams gearing up for the playoffs.
With postseason eligibility rules in play, contenders are scanning the market for experienced depth, scoring punch, and defensive versatility. Here are five of the most notable free agents still available right now.
🥇 1. Lonzo Ball
Once the No. 2 overall pick in 2017, Lonzo Ball’s career has been derailed by injuries — most notably a devastating knee issue that sidelined him for nearly three years.
He managed brief returns with the Chicago Bulls and later the Cleveland Cavaliers, but hasn’t fully regained his previous form. After a short stint with the Utah Jazz, he was waived.
Why he’s still valuable:
- Elite court vision and passing instincts
- Strong perimeter defense
- Can run a second unit in limited minutes
👉 Best fit: A contender needing a steady backup playmaker for 15–20 minutes per game.
🥈 2. Cole Anthony
Anthony showed promise early with the Orlando Magic, even starting regularly in his first two seasons. However, his role diminished over time, and he was recently waived by the Phoenix Suns.
Why he’s still valuable:
- Instant offense off the bench
- Shot creation in isolation
- Playoff-eligible signing
👉 Best fit: A team lacking bench scoring and guard depth.
🥉 3. Eric Gordon
At 37, Gordon is no longer a heavy-minutes player — but his experience is undeniable. After brief stints with the Philadelphia 76ers and Memphis Grizzlies, he’s back on the market.
Why he’s still valuable:
- Proven playoff performer
- Reliable three-point shooting
- Veteran leadership
👉 Best fit: A contender needing a floor-spacing specialist in key moments.
🧩 4. Dalano Banton
The 6'8" guard-forward hybrid brings size and versatility, having recently bounced between short-term deals with the Los Angeles Clippers and Boston Celtics.
Why he’s still intriguing:
- Unique size for a ball-handler
- Defensive switchability
- Development upside
👉 Best fit: A team willing to take a flier on a versatile project player.
⚡ 5. Chris Boucher
Known for his energy and length, Boucher remains a disruptive presence off the bench. After time with the Boston Celtics and Utah Jazz, he’s now available again.
Why he’s still valuable:
- Shot-blocking and rim protection
- Floor spacing as a stretch big
- High motor and hustle
👉 Best fit: A playoff team needing a spark plug big man.
🚨 Final Take
While none of these players are franchise-changing stars, each brings a specific skill set that could swing a playoff series in the right situation.
- Need playmaking? → Lonzo Ball
- Need scoring? → Cole Anthony
- Need shooting? → Eric Gordon
- Need versatility? → Dalano Banton
- Need energy inside? → Chris Boucher
Leave a Comment