Apr 7, 2015; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Russell Westbrook (0) attempts to steal the ball from San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard (2) during the first quarter at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports
Honorable Mention
Having signed a two-year deal with an opt-out after the first season, LeBron James could exercise his option to leave the Cleveland Cavaliers and become the league’s top free agent this offseason.
His decision may ultimately hinge on what the Cavs can do in the postseason, or it could simply be a matter of wanting to maximize his earnings in the wake of the league’s new TV deal. The latter is the more likely scenario.
Whatever his motivations, LeBron is not coming to Salt Lake City. He’ll opt out of his contract to pen a more lucrative contract with Cleveland, or he’ll sign with another contender. End of story.
An intriguing (though equally unlikely) scenario would be the acquisition of Spurs restricted free agent and 2014 NBA Finals MVP, Kawhi Leonard.
Leonard’s heart and defensive tenacity coupled with his three-point shooting ability would give the Jazz one of the most athletic and defensively stout starting lineups in recent memory.
Most expect that San Antonio will keep him from escaping their clutches.
Other options include Miami Heat forward Luol Deng and Memphis Grizzlies three-man Jeff Green, both of whom have player options for next season.
Of the two, Deng is more intriguing to me as a two-way player, but neither crack my personal top five for the Utah Jazz.
Speaking of which, let the countdown commence.
Next: 5. Jared Dudley, Milwaukee Bucks