Top Remaining NBA Free Agents Who Could Still Impact Contenders This Season

Walking into the Araneta Coliseum last season for my first practice as a consultant with an NBA team’s international scouting department, I remember feeling that unique blend of adrenaline and uncertainty. Everything was new—the players’ rhythms, the coaching dynamics, even the way the ball echoed in that iconic arena. It’s funny how that feeling mirrors what several impactful NBA free agents must be experiencing right now, waiting for the phone to ring while teams assess their rosters. We’re well into the offseason, but let’s be real: the free agency market isn’t picked clean just yet. There are still a handful of veterans and specialists out there who could genuinely shift the balance for contenders, and from my perspective, ignoring them would be a strategic misstep.

I’ve always believed that the post-free agency frenzy period is where savvy front offices separate themselves. It’s not just about star power; it’s about fit, chemistry, and those unheralged roles that win you close games. Take Blake Griffin, for instance. I know, I know—he’s not the high-flying phenom he once was, but last season with the Celtics, he provided 4.5 points and 3.5 rebounds in just over 12 minutes per game. More importantly, he brought a veteran presence in the locker room and stretched the floor enough to keep defenses honest. For a team like the Warriors or even the Nuggets, adding someone like Griffin on a minimum deal could shore up frontcourt depth without breaking the bank. I’ve seen how these types of signings play out in film sessions—they often deliver more value than their stat lines suggest.

Then there’s the case of Kelly Oubre Jr., who averaged 20.3 points per game with the Hornets last season before injuries sidelined him. Sure, his efficiency has been questioned—he shot just 43% from the field—but his energy on both ends is contagious. I remember watching him in person during a scouting trip; his length and agility make him a nightmare in transition, and contenders like the Lakers or Heat could use that spark off the bench. From my angle, Oubre isn’t a star, but he’s the kind of piece that helps you weather the regular season and adds versatility in playoff series where every possession counts.

Another name that keeps popping up in my conversations with league insiders is Derrick Rose. Age and injuries have slowed him down, but his playoff experience is invaluable. Last year with the Knicks, he put up 5.6 points and 1.5 assists in limited minutes, yet his leadership in tight games stood out. I recall a close game I analyzed where Rose’s decision-making in the clutch helped secure a win—it’s those intangibles that stats don’t capture. For a young contender like the Grizzlies or even the Bucks looking for backcourt stability, Rose could be a low-risk, high-reward addition. Personally, I’d love to see him mentor a rising squad; his wisdom could pay dividends in high-pressure moments.

Dwight Howard is another veteran who’s still floating in free agency, and I have to say, I’m surprised he hasn’t been snapped up yet. In his last stint in the NBA with the Lakers, he averaged 6.2 points and 5.9 rebounds, but his rim protection and rebounding rate were solid. I’ve always been a fan of his physicality in the paint—it changes how opponents attack the basket. Teams like the Celtics or Suns, who need interior depth, could benefit from his presence. Sure, he’s not playing 30 minutes a night, but in spot duty, he can still alter games. I’ve seen it firsthand in international play, where his experience translated into key stops and morale boosts.

Switching gears to the wing, T.J. Warren comes to mind. After injuries derailed his momentum, he’s a bit of a wild card, but when healthy, he’s a scoring machine—remember his bubble performance with the Pacers, dropping 53 points in one game? Last season, he managed 7.5 points per game in limited action, but his mid-range game is smooth, and he can create his own shot. For contenders like the 76ers or Clippers, adding Warren on a prove-it deal could provide offensive insurance. I’ve always leaned towards giving players like him a chance; the upside is too tempting to ignore, especially in a league where scoring off the bench can make or break a playoff run.

As we look at the point guard market, Dennis Schröder stands out. He’s coming off a decent run with the Lakers, averaging 12.6 points and 4.5 assists, and his speed in transition is still elite. I remember scouting him early in his career; his ability to penetrate defenses forces rotations that open up shooters. For teams like the Bulls or even the Mavericks, Schröder could be a reliable backup who pushes the pace and takes pressure off starters. In my view, his playoff experience—including a Finals appearance—adds a layer of credibility that younger backups lack.

Wrapping this up, it’s clear that the free agency pool still holds gems for those willing to dig. Just like my first season getting to know the ropes in Araneta, these players bring something new to the table—whether it’s veteran savvy, scoring punch, or defensive grit. From my seat, ignoring them isn’t just a missed opportunity; it’s a gamble that could cost contenders in the long run. As the season approaches, I’ll be keeping a close eye on these signings, because in basketball, as in life, it’s often the overlooked pieces that complete the puzzle.