10 Most Wanted Guards In The 2024 Free Agency And Possible Destinations

The 2024 NBA free agency period is set to be exciting, especially for teams looking to strengthen their backcourts. This year's class of free agent guards includes both experienced veterans and promising young talents, all of whom are ready to make a difference. Whether you need a sharpshooter, a playmaker, or a defensive ace, there’s a guard out there for every team’s needs.

Players like James Harden and Paul George are up for grabs, bringing years of experience and skill. Harden’s playmaking and scoring ability still make him a hot commodity, while George's defensive skills and leadership are highly valued. D'Angelo Russell, with his consistent scoring and playmaking, is also expected to draw significant interest as he opts out of his player option. Klay Thompson, despite some ups and downs, remains a valuable asset with his shooting and championship experience.

As the free agency kicks off, teams will be eagerly competing to sign these top guards, hoping to boost their chances of making a deep playoff run or even winning a championship. Let’s dive into the top ten guards in the 2024 free agency and the teams that might be interested in signing them.

1. Tyrese Maxey

2023-24 Stats: 25.9 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 6.2 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Tyrese Maxey has rapidly developed into one of the premier young guards in the NBA. His breakout season in 2023-24, where he averaged 25.9 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 6.2 assists per game, has established him as a key player for the Philadelphia 76ers and a potential star in the making. His scoring ability, quickness, and improving playmaking skills make him a highly valuable asset.

Maxey is set to become a restricted free agent (RFA) this offseason. As an RFA, the 76ers have the right to match any offer sheet he signs with another team, which gives them a significant advantage in retaining him. Given his performance and potential, Maxey is expected to command a lucrative contract, possibly in the range of a max deal. Estimates suggest that he could secure a contract worth around $200 million over five years, considering the current market for elite guards.

The Philadelphia 76ers are highly motivated to keep Maxey as he is an integral part of their core alongside Joel Embiid. His explosive scoring and playmaking ability complement Embiid’s inside dominance perfectly. Re-signing Maxey would ensure that the Sixers maintain their competitive edge in the Eastern Conference and continue their pursuit of an NBA championship.

The Orlando Magic are another team that could benefit significantly from Maxey’s talents. With ample cap space, projected to be around $50 million, the Magic have the financial flexibility to make a competitive offer. Adding Maxey to a young core that includes Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner would provide Orlando with a dynamic backcourt and accelerate their rebuild. Maxey’s ability to lead and create plays would fit well with the Magic’s vision of building a competitive and exciting team.

The San Antonio Spurs are renowned for their player development, and Maxey could thrive under the guidance of coach Gregg Popovich. The Spurs’ system, which emphasizes ball movement and teamwork, would provide an excellent environment for Maxey to further develop his skills. With a young and promising roster, adding Maxey could accelerate their rebuild and make them a competitive team in the West.

Tyrese Maxey’s explosive scoring, playmaking abilities, and potential for growth make him one of the most exciting guards in the 2024 free agency. Whether he stays with the 76ers or moves to a new team, Maxey is set to be a major player in the NBA for years to come.

Best Possible Destinations: Philadelphia 76ers, Orlando Magic, San Antonio Spurs

2. Klay Thompson

2023-24 Stats: 17.9 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 2.3 APG, 0.6 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Klay Thompson is set to become an unrestricted free agent in 2024, ending his long tenure with the Golden State Warriors. Over his illustrious career, Thompson has been a five-time All-Star and a crucial part of the Warriors' dynasty, winning four championships. However, at 34 years old, Thompson is at a crossroads, and his future with the Warriors remains uncertain.

Thompson is reportedly open to exploring all external options in free agency. Despite the Warriors' desire to retain him, they've yet to agree on a new contract, and Thompson intends to test the market. He has already turned down a two-year, $48 million extension from Golden State, indicating he is looking for a longer-term deal, possibly around three years.

Several teams are interested in adding Thompson's elite shooting and championship experience. The Orlando Magic are one such team, with mutual interest reported between Thompson and the Magic. Orlando has significant cap space, around $50 million, which could increase if they make roster adjustments. Adding Thompson to their young core of Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner could elevate the Magic to serious playoff contenders.

The Los Angeles Lakers are also considered a potential destination. Thompson's ties to Southern California and the Lakers' need for perimeter shooting make this a logical fit. However, acquiring Thompson would likely require a sign-and-trade deal due to the Lakers' cap situation, complicating matters. Still, pairing Thompson with LeBron James and Anthony Davis could significantly boost the Lakers' chances in the highly competitive Western Conference.

Klay Thompson's proven track record as one of the best shooters in NBA history makes him a valuable asset for any team. Whether he stays with the Warriors or moves on to a new challenge, Thompson's impact on the court will be substantial.

Best Possible Destinations: Golden State Warriors, Orlando Magic, Los Angeles Lakers

3. James Harden

2023-24 Stats: 16.6 PPG, 5.1 RPG, 8.5 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.8 BPG

James Harden will be an intriguing free agent in 2024, marking another potential shift in his storied NBA career. Harden, a former MVP and ten-time All-Star, has spent the 2023-24 season with the Los Angeles Clippers, where he continued to showcase his playmaking ability with averages of 16.6 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 8.5 assists per game. Despite being 34 years old, Harden remains one of the league's premier guards.

Harden has a player option for the 2024-25 season, but he is widely expected to decline it to explore free agency. His future with the Clippers is uncertain, especially given the team's potential need to retool around their core of Kawhi Leonard and Paul George. Harden’s value in free agency is still significant, and he could command a contract in the range of $30 million per year, depending on the length and structure of the deal.

Several teams are likely to be interested in Harden’s services. The New York Knicks are a strong contender, needing a veteran playmaker who can take some of the scoring and playmaking burden off Jalen Brunson and Julius Randle. Harden’s experience and ability to orchestrate the offense could be the missing piece for the Knicks to make a deeper playoff run.

Additionally, a return to the Houston Rockets is also a possibility. The Rockets are in the midst of a rebuild but have the cap space and could benefit from Harden’s veteran leadership and familiarity with the franchise. Bringing Harden back could help mentor their young core and accelerate their development.

Best Possible Destinations: Los Angeles Clippers, New York Knicks, Houston Rockets

4. D'Angelo Russell

2023-24 Stats: 18.0 PPG, 3.1 RPG, 6.3 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.5 BPG

D'Angelo Russell is expected to become an unrestricted free agent in 2024, as he is likely to decline his $18.7 million player option with the Los Angeles Lakers. Russell had a solid season, averaging 18.0 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per game while shooting 42% from three-point range. Despite some criticism for inconsistent play, he remains a valuable asset as a scoring and playmaking guard.

Several teams are eyeing Russell as a potential addition to their roster. The Orlando Magic, in particular, have shown significant interest. With tons of cap space, Orlando is in a strong position to make a competitive offer. Adding Russell would provide the Magic with a much-needed upgrade in the backcourt to complement their young frontcourt stars, Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner.

The New York Knicks are another potential suitor for Russell. The Knicks are looking to add a dynamic guard to bolster their backcourt and support Jalen Brunson and Julius Randle. Russell's scoring and playmaking abilities would fit well with New York's roster and ambitions.

Additionally, a return to the Los Angeles Lakers is still on the table. While Russell is exploring his options, the Lakers could work out a new deal to retain him, especially given his contributions to the team's success in the 2023-24 season.

Best Possible Destinations: Los Angeles Lakers, Orlando Magic, New York Knicks

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5. Immanuel Quickley

2023-24 Stats: 7.0 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 4.9 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.1 BPG

Immanuel Quickley is poised to be a significant figure in the 2024 free agency as a restricted free agent (RFA). The Toronto Raptors, who acquired him in a mid-season trade from the New York Knicks, have the right to match any offer sheet he signs. This trade also included RJ Barrett and a second-round pick, with the Raptors sending O.G. Anunoby, Precious Achiuwa, and Malachi Flynn to the Knicks.

Since joining the Raptors, Quickley has flourished, particularly in a starting role. Over 38 games with Toronto, he averaged an impressive 18.6 points, 6.8 assists, and 4.8 rebounds per game while shooting 39.5% from deep. His performance has significantly raised his market value, positioning him as the Raptors' point guard of the future.

Despite his restricted status, several teams with ample cap space, such as the San Antonio Spurs and Detroit Pistons, are likely to pursue Quickley. These teams could offer him a substantial contract, potentially around $25 million annually, which would force the Raptors to match if they wish to retain him. Quickley is eligible for a five-year extension, which could be as high as $150 million, or up to $204.5 million if the Raptors decide to offer him the maximum.

Quickley has expressed his affection for Toronto and a desire to stay with the Raptors, but he acknowledges that the business side of basketball will ultimately dictate his future. The Raptors, having invested heavily to acquire him, are expected to make every effort to secure him long-term.

Latest Update: Immanuel Quickley will most likely sign a five-year, $175 deal with the Toronto Raptors ( Via Adrian Wojnarowski )

Best Possible Destinations: Toronto Raptors, San Antonio Spurs, Detroit Pistons

6. Buddy Hield

2023-24 Stats: 12.1 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 2.8 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Buddy Hield is set to become a free agent in 2024 after spending the season with the Indiana Pacers and then being traded to the Philadelphia 76ers. Known for his elite three-point shooting, Hield averaged 12.1 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game this season. Despite a dip in his scoring output, he remains a highly valued shooter, hitting 38.4% of his shots from beyond the arc.

Hield's role was somewhat reduced in Indiana due to a deep roster, prompting the mid-season trade to Philadelphia. With the 76ers, he continued to showcase his ability to space the floor and contribute as a reliable shooter. His current contract, which paid him $19.2 million this season, is expiring, making him an unrestricted free agent.

Several teams are expected to pursue Hield in free agency. The Orlando Magic have expressed interest in adding Hield's shooting to their young and developing roster. With approximately $20 million expected to command per season, the Magic can make a competitive offer to Hield and bolster their perimeter scoring, providing more space for their frontcourt players like Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner.

The Milwaukee Bucks are another potential destination. The Bucks need additional shooting to support their stars, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, especially after a disappointing playoff run. Hield's ability to stretch the floor could be a valuable asset for Milwaukee's championship aspirations.

Buddy Hield’s proven track record as one of the best shooters in the NBA makes him a valuable asset in the 2024 free agency market. Whether he stays with the 76ers or joins a new team, Hield's ability to knock down threes will make him a sought-after player this offseason.

Best Possible Destinations: Philadelphia 76ers, Orlando Magic, Milwaukee Bucks

7. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope

2023-24 Stats: 10.1 PPG, 2.4 RPG, 2.4 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Kentavious Caldwell-Pope is poised to be a significant figure in the 2024 free agency market. The 11-year NBA veteran has a player option worth $15.4 million for the 2024-25 season, which he is expected to decline to explore unrestricted free agency. Caldwell-Pope has had a productive season with the Denver Nuggets, averaging 10.1 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game, while shooting an impressive 40.6% from three-point range.

Caldwell-Pope has expressed his desire to win another championship, indicating that his decision in free agency will heavily factor in the potential for competing at a high level. The Denver Nuggets, who won the championship in 2023, are keen on retaining him. However, they are aware that Caldwell-Pope might attract significant offers from other teams. His market value could be comparable to contracts like Bruce Brown’s two-year, $45 million deal, reflecting his worth as a two-way player.

Several teams are expected to pursue Caldwell-Pope. The Orlando Magic, with ample cap space, are looking to add experienced players to support their young core, including Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner. Caldwell-Pope’s shooting and defense would provide the Magic with much-needed perimeter stability.

The Philadelphia 76ers are another potential destination, as they look to add defensive versatility and shooting around their core players. Caldwell-Pope’s championship experience and ability to guard multiple positions would be invaluable to the 76ers' roster.

Best Possible Destinations: Denver Nuggets, Orlando Magic, Philadelphia 76ers

8. Gary Trent Jr.

2023-24 Stats: 13.7 PPG, 2.6 RPG, 1.7 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.1 BPG

As the 2024 free agency approaches, Gary Trent Jr. finds himself at a pivotal point in his career. The 25-year-old guard averaged 13.7 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game this season with the Toronto Raptors. Despite these solid numbers, Trent's future with the Raptors is uncertain, as the team appears ready to move on and possibly rebuild after a disappointing season that saw them miss the playoffs.

Trent's current contract, a three-year deal he signed in 2021, paid him $18.6 million in its final year. As he enters free agency, Trent is expected to attract considerable interest from multiple teams. His market value is projected to be significant, with estimates suggesting he could command a contract in the range of $15-20 million annually, depending on the length and structure of the deal.

Several teams are likely to pursue Trent in free agency. The Orlando Magic are particularly interested, looking to add his shooting skills to their young and promising roster. With significant cap space, the Magic are well-positioned to offer a competitive contract that could entice Trent to join their ranks. Adding Trent would provide Orlando with an experienced perimeter scorer to support their developing stars like Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner.

The Sacramento Kings also present an intriguing option for Trent. The Kings aim to bolster their roster with reliable shooters, and Trent’s ability to stretch the floor fits their needs perfectly. His consistent scoring could complement Sacramento's core and help them in their quest for deeper playoff success.

The Detroit Pistons are another potential destination. As they continue their rebuild, the Pistons are looking for experienced players to guide their young team. Trent’s three-point shooting and defensive capabilities would be a valuable addition, helping to elevate Detroit’s competitive edge.

Best Possible Destinations: Orlando Magic, Sacramento Kings, Detroit Pistons

9. Markelle Fultz

2023-24 Stats: 7.8 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 2.8 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Markelle Fultz’s journey with the Orlando Magic may be coming to an end as he enters free agency in 2024. Despite flashes of brilliance and improvement, his time in Orlando has been marred by injuries and inconsistency. This past season, Fultz averaged 7.8 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game, showing glimpses of his potential but also struggling to stay on the court consistently.

Fultz’s current contract, which paid him $17 million this past season, is expiring, and the Magic appear ready to move on. Reports suggest that Orlando will likely let him walk to create cap space and possibly pursue a more stable option at point guard. The Magic, who have significant cap space, are looking to continue building around their young core, including Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, and might seek to add a more reliable veteran presence.

Several teams could be interested in Fultz’s services, looking to give him a fresh start. The Sacramento Kings are one potential destination, as they could use Fultz’s playmaking ability to complement their backcourt. Sacramento, aiming to solidify their playoff position, might see Fultz as a valuable addition if he can stay healthy and regain his confidence.

Another team that could benefit from Fultz’s skill set is the Houston Rockets. The Rockets are in the midst of a rebuild and have the cap space to take a chance on a former top pick. Fultz’s ability to drive and distribute the ball could mesh well with Houston’s young and athletic roster.

The Indiana Pacers are also a potential landing spot. The Pacers are looking for depth at the point guard position and could provide a stable environment for Fultz to revive his career. Indiana’s coaching staff has a reputation for developing talent, which might be exactly what Fultz needs.

Best Possible Destinations: Sacramento Kings, Houston Rockets, Indiana Pacers

10. Tyus Jones

2023-24 Stats: 12.0 PPG, 2.7 RPG, 7.3 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Tyus Jones is set to become a key figure in the 2024 free agency market. After a productive season with the Washington Wizards, where he averaged 12.0 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 7.3 assists per game, Jones has proven himself as a reliable starting point guard. He has expressed interest in remaining with the Wizards, who gave him the opportunity to start after being traded from the Memphis Grizzlies. However, his future remains uncertain as he explores his options in free agency.

Jones’s current contract was a three-year deal worth $29 million, which he signed with the Memphis Grizzlies before being traded to Washington. Given his strong performance and the demand for quality point guards, he is expected to command a significant pay increase, potentially around $15-20 million per year.

The Washington Wizards are keen to re-sign Jones, recognizing his value and contribution to the team. They have the financial flexibility to offer him a competitive contract, and Jones has expressed a desire to continue his journey with the Wizards, stating that he likes the direction of the team and his role within it.

Another potential suitor is the San Antonio Spurs. The Spurs have the cap space to make a competitive offer and have been linked to Jones for over a season. They see him as a valuable addition to their young and developing roster, providing leadership and stability at the point guard position.

The Brooklyn Nets are also in the mix. The Nets are looking to strengthen their backcourt and see Jones as an ideal fit. His ability to manage the game, coupled with his low turnover rate, makes him an attractive option for a team that needs a steady hand to lead the offense.

Best Possible Destinations: Washington Wizards, San Antonio Spurs, Brooklyn Nets

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