subject: Nba Tickets - 2012 Free Agents And Likely Destinations [print this page] It's that time of the year when teams all around the NBA look around their rosters and decide who to keep and who to let go. Not only do these teams want to win the championship, but they also keep in mind how certain players help sell more NBA tickets than other players could. Taking a closer look at this year's crop of free agents and where they might end up, there are quite a few that are going to be in demand when the time comes for negotiating their next long-term contract.
Deron Williams:
The saga with Williams has multiple pieces to the answer of where he signs. Is he going to stay in Brooklyn and help them open their first season in their new arena? Will he join the Dallas Mavericks and team with Dirk Nowitzki in what's certain to be a powerful combination? Does he value a more lucrative contract or a team closer to contention? It's no question that it will be one of those two options for Williams, and rumors are that he will make his decision soon. If the Nets are able to get another star player to join them, it will increase their chances of keeping Williams.
They've been trying like mad to trade for Dwight Howard from the Orlando Magic, and it's rumored that the Nets are the only team that where Howard will sign a contract extension. So far, not so good. If Williams departs and joins Dallas, the Nets have other options like Steve Nash, Jason Kidd or Goran Dragic, but losing Williams would put the Nets back a few years when it comes to being in contention. (Update: Williams has signed with re-signed with the Nets, teaming him with Joe Johnson)
Tim Duncan:
Some feel Duncan might have lowered his ability to secure a longer, more lucrative contract when he declared himself a "Spur for life," essentially letting the team know they have nobody with who to compete for his services. It is true though that Duncan will likely end his career in San Antonio, and he may be eyeing Kevin Garnett's recent extension with the Boston Celtics as a guideline on his potential contract with the Spurs.
Steve Nash:
Nash certainly appears to be valued highly by many teams in addition to the Phoenix Suns, where he's spent the last few years. However, with most of the teams that are interested in him, their level of interest seems to hinge on whether they can sign their first-choice players or not, like the Dallas Mavericks and their interest in Deron Williams. Regardless, Nash will certainly find a lucrative contract somewhere. The Toronto Raptors seem to be making the hardest push early on, but they may be away from contention more than other teams.
Nash lives in New York during the offseason, and it's rumored that both the Nets and Knicks have interest in the point guard. He may decide to sign with the Mavericks, his former team, and reunite with Dirk Nowitzki. Anything is possible when it comes to Nash, and he's stated that he's keeping an open mind this offseason and will consider all offers. (Update: Nash has landed in L.A. with the Lakers)
