Philadelphia 76ers: Kyle Lowry
What a collapse it was for the Philadelphia 76ers in the postseason. Philadelphia was the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference, only for them to lose in the second round to the Hawks. The underwhelming play from Ben Simmons was a large reason why the 76ers are watching the NBA Finals from home.
Even if Philadelphia believes Simmons can still improve on the offensive end, the 76ers need to add more guards that can score. Lowry is likely going to be a prime target for Philadelphia due to his experience and production on both ends of the court. Maybe allowing Lowry to play close to home and the idea of playing alongside Joel Embiid, Tobias Harris, and possibly Simmons is enough to convince Lowry to sign with the 76ers.
Toronto Raptors: Gary Trent Jr.
I would say that the main focus for the Toronto Raptors would be to re-sign Lowry, but it seems like a foregone conclusion that he’ll be signing elsewhere. With the Raptors holding the No. 4 overall pick in this year’s draft, most expect them to take someone like Jalen Suggs, and Fred VanVleet will replace Lowry at the point guard position.
Gary Trent Jr. was acquired by the Raptors in a trade that sent Norman Powell to the Portland Trail Blazers this season. Trent had the best year of his career this season, posting 15.3 points per game on 38.5 percent shooting from beyond the arc. Keeping Trent would give Toronto a deep back court with VanVleet, possibly Suggs, and Malachi Flynn.
Washington Wizards: Serge Ibaka
There are a ton of different directions the Washington Wizards could go this offseason and it all depends on whether or not Bradley Beal is traded. But if Beal stays at least one more season, the center position needs to be addressed.
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While Daniel Gafford provided a spark later in the season, the Wizards need someone with experience in their front court. Serge Ibaka is an intriguing name to watch as he’s expected to hit free agency after an injury-riddled season with the Los Angeles Clippers this season. Luckily for whoever wants to sign him, he’s had plenty of time to get healthy, which could make him an underrated signing this summer.
