The NBA offseason has reached the point where most of the major moves have already been made, but the championship picture could still change.
There are several talented players who remain in uncertain situations, and the right landing spot could give a contender the extra piece it needs to make a serious run at the title.
Jonathan Kuminga
Kuminga is one of the most intriguing names still available. At 23, he brings athleticism, scoring ability and the potential to become an important two-way player.
For a championship contender, Kuminga doesn’t necessarily have to be the centerpiece. Put him next to established stars and give him opportunities to attack the basket, run in transition and defend multiple positions, and he could become a major playoff weapon.
A team such as the Lakers or Cavaliers adding Kuminga could make an already talented roster more athletic and dangerous.
Jalen Duren
Duren could have one of the biggest impacts of any player still looking for a resolution.
The young center has developed into a powerful interior presence, capable of rebounding, finishing around the basket and protecting the paint. A contender that needs more size and physicality could see Duren as a potential difference-maker.
Because he is a restricted free agent, his situation is more complicated. But if he becomes available, several teams could view him as a major addition.
DeMar DeRozan
DeRozan brings something every playoff team can use: a veteran who knows how to create his own shot.
At this stage of his career, he doesn’t need to carry an entire offense. His value could come from providing scoring when a team’s primary options are struggling.
DeRozan’s midrange game and ability to get to the free-throw line could become particularly useful in the postseason, when games slow down and every possession matters.
Peyton Watson
Watson is another young player who could quietly have a major impact.
His defensive versatility and length make him attractive to teams looking for another wing defender. He doesn’t need the ball constantly to influence a game, which makes him an ideal type of player for a contender built around stars.
If Watson lands with the right team and receives a larger role, he could develop into one of those players fans appreciate even more once the playoffs begin.
James Harden
Harden’s situation is different from the other names on this list because his future appears increasingly tied to Cleveland.
If a deal gets finalized, his presence could still influence the championship race.
Harden doesn’t need to return to his former superstar scoring role. His greatest value at this point could be his ability to create offense, control the tempo and get teammates involved.
If Cleveland can add Harden while maintaining enough depth around its core, the Cavaliers could become an even more difficult matchup in the Eastern Conference.
Ben Simmons
Simmons represents more of a wildcard.
If he can remain healthy and rediscover some of the playmaking and defensive ability that made him an All-Star earlier in his career, he could provide a contender with an interesting combination of size, passing and versatility.
Nobody should expect the old Simmons immediately. But for the right team, he could be a low-risk opportunity with potentially significant upside.
The Bottom Line
The remaining free-agent market may not have the superstar power of previous offseasons, but that doesn’t mean these players can’t affect the championship race.
Championship teams don’t always need another superstar. Sometimes they need the right piece.
Kuminga could provide athleticism and scoring. Duren could strengthen a frontcourt. DeRozan could give a team another reliable scorer. Watson could bring defensive versatility. Harden could provide veteran playmaking. Simmons could become a potential comeback story.
With training camp approaching, the NBA’s biggest offseason moves may already be behind us. But one final signing could still change the balance of power.
The championship picture isn’t completely finished being written.
