By Antigoni Zachari / info@eurohoops.net
Eurohoops has gathered 10 NBA free agents who could possibly fit into European territories. Some have played in Europe before, some others could use the chance to. And after all, the NBA marker has proven to be a really tough place for “middle class” players and that’s why the old continent can be a real choise for them.
It has to be noted that all the players on the list still have the NBA as their main priority and the Chinese CBA can also offer them big contracts. Here they are in no particular order.
On to the list!
Alex Len
Last team: Phoenix Suns / 8.5 ppg, 7.5 rpg
He had his best season yet in the NBA, however, after five years in the league, the Ukrainian big man never realized the potential of a player drafted with the 5th pick.
He has the tools to stay part of the NBA and maybe if he gets in the right situation he can be even more productive. On the other hand, a player with his abilities could dominate in Europe. Yes, basketball is changing and the old school centers are not the commodity they used to be. On the other hand, a player like Len who is just entering his prime, will not have an equal opponent in Europe. The true issue here is the fact that he made more than $4 million last season and very few EuroLeague clubs can provide him with real financial motive to make the jump.
Shane Larkin
Last team: Boston Celtics / 4.3 ppg, 1.8 apg
Larkin’s short stint on the Boston Celtics‘ bench didn’t turn out the way he might have expected. However, European teams are striving to sign him.
Per reports, Baskonia wants to bring Larkin back, something which could happen eventually. Larkin’s ability to run a second-unit offense and knock down triples at a decent rate is highly valued, hence it wouldn’t be a surprise if he received an alluring offer from a European team.
Shelvin Mack
Mack led the Magic in assists with 3.9 per game this past season, though he got waived a few days prior. He’s a well-experienced point guard who could add quality and depth to any roster and could really use the chance to show his leadership skills.
With his teammate in Butler, Matt Howard, being one of the familiar names around Europe, it seems that it might be the time for him to also consider the jump to the old continent.