Listed: Five Overlooked & Underrated NBA Free Agents

The NBA’s free agent season resembles Christmas shopping. GMs, like crazed shoppers, compete for the items they want; price is usually an afterthought. 

The most desirable commodities are quickly snatched up. Then, like a Boxing Day sale, the discount shopping begins. Every left-over player must go. No price is too low.

Boxing Day is fast approaching this year’s free agent class. Most of the big-name free agents have been taken off the market, inking lucrative contracts. But several talented players are available and could be had for a bargain.

Here’s a list of five slept-on free agents that could help any NBA team:

1) Player: Morris Peterson.

Last Team: Toronto Raptors.

The Skinny: ‘Mo-Pete’ never found his rhythm with the Euro-Raptors. However, in 2005-06, he averaged 17 points and five rebounds per game. He’s also a solid defender and a decent team guy.

The Outcome: He could sign with Utah or New Orleans.

The Price: Below the mid-level exception.

2) Player: Jamaal Magloire.

Last Team: Portland Trail Blazers.

The Skinny: ‘The Big Cat’ had to split minutes his last two seasons in Milwaukee and Portland. Don’t get it twisted: he’s a presence in the middle and rarely misses a game. Magloire, in the right situation, could easily post a double-double.  

The Outcome: He’s in serious talks with the New Jersey Nets.

The Price: Mid-level exception.

3) Player: Devin Brown.

Last Team: New Orleans Hornets.

The Skinny: Harris, a mid-season signing by the Hornets, averaged close to 12 points per game. He plays multiple positions and never complains about his role.

The Outcome: If the Hornets re-sign Desmond Mason, Brown will likely be searching for a new home.

The Price: Whatever he can get.

4) Player: Ime Udoka.

Last Team: Portland Trail Blazers.

The Skinny: Udoka is a valuable glue-player. He’s not a starter, but his rebounding, defense, and toughness could help any team off the bench.

The Outcome: A return to Portland looks unlikely.

The Price: Whatever he can get.

5) Player: Darrick Martin.

Last Team: Toronto Raptors.

The Skinny: Martin is a great mentor for young players, especially point guards. Jose Calderon and T.J. Ford benefited from D-Martin’s experience. He’s an excellent third point guard and practice player, too.

The Outcome: He’ll re-sign with the Raptors or land a gig as an assistant coach.

The Price: Veteran’s minimum.

Click here to read and subscribe to Oly SAndor’s NBA Blog.