While the early NBA free agency frenzy has died down in recent days, numerous potential value signings still linger on the open market. Bleacher Report’s Eric Pincus envisions a nine-year veteran point guard bolstering the New York Knicks or Los Angeles Clippers’ backcourt rotation.
12-time All-Star Chris Paul, approaching his 21st season, is the most proven playmaker remaining in unrestricted free agency. Naturally, he has been connected to several aspiring contenders, including LA.
However, once Paul is off the board, according to Pincus, teams like the Knicks and Clippers could turn to another established backup option.
Knicks, Clippers Anticipated To Target Malcolm Brogdon
In his Monday article titled “The 25 Best NBA Free Agents Still Available, Plus Top Landing Spots,” Pincus pegged Malcolm Brogdon as a possible point guard depth target for playoff squads.
Brogdon is coming off an injury-riddled campaign with the Washington Wizards in which he was limited to only 24 appearances. As such, the 6’4″ facilitator is expected to command considerably less money than the $22.5 million he earned this past season, making him an intriguing gamble.
“Brogdon is one of the more experienced available point guards, but he has never been exceptionally durable,” Pincus wrote. “At 32, he can help a team with his size, playmaking and defense. At this stage, he’s more likely to provide bench support.”
The analyst, who ranked Brogdon 15th among remaining free agents, predicted he could end up with the Knicks or Clippers if they can’t land someone of Paul’s stature.
“Prediction: Teams like the New York Knicks and LA Clippers may seek players like Chris Paul, but once rejected, may turn to Brogdon,” Pincus wrote.
Wizards ‘Open To Sign-and-Trade Discussions’ Surrounding Brogdon
Adding to the likelihood of Brogdon finding a new home in the near future is Washington’s reported willingness to assist him in doing so.
According to NBA insider Jake Fischer’s Tuesday report, “the Wizards are open to sign-and-trade discussions to facilitate Malcolm Brogdon’s exit from Washington.”
Fischer added that “a slew of teams have registered varying levels of interest in the 32-year-old.” However, his reported list of suitors, which “includes the Clippers, Suns and Lakers as well as the Warriors, Timberwolves, Pelicans, Kings and Bucks,” notably omits the Knicks.
Thus, Brogdon heading to the Clippers appears to be far more likely despite them facing extensive competition for his services.
The 2023 NBA Sixth Man of the Year posted arguably career-worst production with the Wizards. Over 24 outings, he averaged 12.7 points, 3.8 rebounds, 4.1 assists, 0.5 steals and 0.7 3-pointers per game, shooting 43.3%, including just 28.6% from deep. He also sat out the final 28 games of the regular season due to a left ankle sprain.
Even so, Brogdon remains a career 38.8% long-distance shooter and has contributed to winning teams as a complementary player with Milwaukee, Indiana and Boston in the past. Given his track record, if he stays healthy, he could prove to be one of the offseason’s biggest steals.
