First day of free agency: Two winners and four losers are born, the big teams are accompanied, and the two teams are poached
As soon as the free market opened, fans watched the operation of the major teams like melon-eating people. On the first day of the free market, two teams were jubilant winners, while four teams were embarrassed to become losers, and those big teams were only worthy of running together, and the worst two were poached. Let's take a look at the "first day of the free market" on August 18.
The name Paul is familiar even to those who don't watch the game. Although this "old Jianghu" has passed his prime, his market value is still frighteningly high. In order to free up 30 million salary space, the Warriors decisively gave up Paul, originally thinking that the veteran might have to take a break, but they turned around and signed a one-year contract of 11 million with the Spurs to assist the new star Wembanyama. Despite Paul's age, his ability to survive in the workplace is very good, and he has successfully become one of the big winners on the first day of free agency.
Looking at the Clippers again, although George is not coming back, the Clippers' operation this time is simply textbook. Before George left, the Clippers had already locked Harden and won a two-year 70 million contract, which made Clippers fans addicted. If George goes first, Harden really won't necessarily stay with the Clippers. And they also snatched Derrick Jones Jr. from the Mavericks, 30 million in three years, this wave of reinforcement can be described as quite safe.
After talking about the winners, let's take a look at the sad losers. First up is the Lakers, which is really a bit bleak this time. James even said a salary cut in order to bring in reinforcements, but he still failed to win the player he wanted. Paul went to the Spurs, and Varland was snatched away by the Wizards at a low price, leaving Klay alone negotiating. As a result, on the first trading day, the Lakers only renewed Christie's contract, 32 million for four years, which made people sweat for Lao Zhan.
The situation of the Warriors is not optimistic, in addition to letting Paul go, it is also confirmed that Klay will also leave the team. The next home could be the Clippers, 76ers, Mavericks or even the Lakers. The Warriors missed out on a trade for George, and it will be difficult to improve the roster. However, they have reached the goal of reducing wages by 140 million, and the rest of the operation depends on how they use the full middle class.
The Nuggets and the Mavericks have not escaped the fate of being dug up. The Nuggets' Pope was poached by the Magic for six million over three years, and the team needs to reconsider reinforcements. The Mavericks are even more tired, Klay's signing is still being discussed, and Derrick Jones Jr. was snatched away by the Clippers, which is an important part of their defense.
In addition, the actions of other teams are also full of tricks. Plumlee joined the Suns, Gordon signed a base salary contract with the 76ers, the Pistons offered Cunningham a $226 million max contract, and the Clippers also acquired Kevin Porter Jr. The operation of the teams is simply more exciting than the annual drama.
As we all know, the charm of sports lies in its unpredictability. In this free market drama, no one can win all the time, and no one will lose all the time. The teams are preparing for the new season, and regardless of the outcome, the hard work and struggle is the most moving story in itself. Fans, what do you think of this deal? Which team surprised you the most? Welcome to leave a message in the comment area to discuss!