2015 NBA Predictions – Free Agency Recap: Top 5 Biggest Winners

2015 NBA Predictions – Free Agency Recap: Top 5 Biggest Winners: Although there are still a few well known free agents that have yet to be signed, a majority of the NBA’s big names have decided on where they will play in 2015-16. As with any sport, a key free agent acquisition can transform a solid team into a title contender and can help a team get over the hump and into the playoffs. There was plenty of talent on the market this offseason, and as a result, several teams have made major upgrades to their rosters and should make major leaps in the standings, as well. With that in mind, here is a closer look at the NBA’s five biggest winners in free agency.

2015 NBA Free Agency Recap: Top 5 Biggest Winners

1. San Antonio Spurs

The Spurs upgraded their frontcourt in a big way this offseason by landing premier free-agent LaMarcus Aldridge. The big man is extremely skilled offensively, and his all-around game will ensure that San Antonio’s movement-based offense can operate on a high level. The Spurs also signed Kawhi Leonard to an extension and added veteran David West for the veteran’s minimum. Look for Tim Duncan and company to make yet another run at a championship.

2. Miami Heat

After rumors swirled that Dwyane Wade may leave Miami, he eventually re-signed on a one-year deal. In addition to securing the face of the franchise, Miami also inked Goran Dragic to an extension and added Amar’e Stoudemire. Dragic gives the Heat a dynamic point guard that can push the tempo and score at a high level, and Stoudemire is still a solid source of offense off the bench. Throw in the fact that Chris Bosh is returning from a medical issue and Justise Winslow fell into their laps during the draft, and Miami could be the one of the top three teams in the Eastern Conference next season if the team’s core remains healthy.

3. Cleveland Cavaliers

While no one really expected LeBron James to leave, the Cavaliers did technically re-sign him in the offseason after he exercised his player option. Cleveland also brought back Kevin Love after it seemed like he may jump ship after one year. Emerging big man Tristan Thompson is also expected to re-sign, and Iman Shumpert has already been locked up. The Cavaliers also landed some much needed backcourt depth by bringing Mo Williams on board. Barring an injury to James, the Cavaliers have to be the favorite to win the Eastern Conference with relative ease.

4. Milwaukee Bucks

The Bucks have a lot of young talent, and they addressed their biggest need in a big way this offseason by signing Greg Monroe. Milwaukee didn’t have a true low post scorer last season, and Monroe ranked fifth in the NBA last year in points in the paint. His arsenal of post moves will provide balance to an offense that will be welcoming back Jabari Parker and has freakish athletes Michael Carter-Williams and Giannis Antetokounmpo on the perimeter. The Bucks only added one major piece, but Monroe should take this team from a fringe playoff team to a potential top four seed in the Eastern Conference.

5. Los Angeles Clippers

After it looked like DeAndre Jordan was leaving, the Clippers re-signed their stud center, allowing them to maintain their team identity, especially on the defensive end. While Jordan’s return is huge, the Clippers also bolstered what has been one of the thinnest benches in the NBA. Veteran Paul Pierce is coming on board, and his reputation for nailing big shots in big games is well known. Josh Smith was also added, and his defensive versatility will be major plus. Lance Stephenson comes with some red flags, but when focused, he is an intense defender and versatile offensive player. Regardless, the Clippers went from having no bench to having three new reserves that could start on most teams.

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