[CBS Sportsline]Top ten Free agents:Small Forwards could be low risk, big return;EG#2

http://www.sportsline.com/nba/story/8618111


Free agents: Small forwards could be low risk, big return
July 3, 2005
By Tony Mejia
CBS SportsLine.com Staff Writer
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CBS SportsLine.com's top 10 available small forwards:

1. Bobby Simmons, L.A. Clippers: The former DePaul standout picked a great time to blossom, garnering most improved player honors during a contract year. Although he toiled in the relative obscurity that envelops the Clippers, he demonstrated a knack for knocking down the big shot, developed a killer midrange jumper to complement his scrappy play around the basket, and is long enough to provide defensive resistance. Of the threes available, he's the one certain starter, and he's in for a big payday, be it from the Clips or someone else.

2. Eddie Griffin, Minnesota: It might surprise you to see Griffin's name so high on this list, but when you talk potential reward, his upside is off the charts. Personal baggage ruined the start of his career, and as far as No. 5 overall draft picks go, he's been a disappointment. That, however, looks to be water under the bridge. Griffin had a strong season coming off the bench for the Wolves last season, showcasing a versatile game that combines strong post skills with a deft shooting touch from the perimeter. He's still maturing, but if I'm a GM willing to make an investment on an unpolished gem, Griffin's my primary target. Minnesota can match any offer he receives.


3. Bonzi Wells, Memphis: Warning to any teams looking to pursue the talented but volatile Wells: If you're not planning on starting him, don't even bother looking his direction. Wells is one of those players who has to be a major part of a team in order to be content. His role with the Grizzlies, splitting time with James Posey and Dahntay Jones on the wing, didn't fit the bill, and his attitude became a big problem. There's no question he's a gifted offensive player who can make a difference in the right role.

4. Vladimir Radmanovic, Seattle: The Sonics love the boost Radmanovic supplies off the bench and intend on keeping him on board. They can match any offer he receives, and since it's unlikely anyone is going to pony up serious money for his services, it's a safe bet he'll be in green and gold next season. The 3-point specialist has the ability to take over a game when he gets on a hot streak, but has to improve his defense.

5. Glenn Robinson, San Antonio: The Big Dog still has some juice in his 32-year old legs, and told CBS SportsLine.com that he felt rejuvenated after sitting out most of last season. He proved to be a team player after joining the Spurs late in the year, buying into their commitment to defense and gaining his teammates' acceptance. Now that he has his ring, he'll look to make a more substantial contribution on his next team.

6. James Jones, Indiana: As Rick Carlisle bluntly put it last season, Jones transformed himself from a player who should've been on the injury list to an invaluable contributor the Pacers coach had to find minutes for. Jones defends, rebounds, takes smart shots and won't hurt his team. The Pacers have the right to keep him if they choose to, but with Ron Artest coming back and first-round pick Danny Granger coming on board, there may not be much playing time for Jones.

7. Devin Brown, San Antonio: The Spurs have the right to match any offer the hometown product receives, and now that he's recovered from a nerve problem that sapped his leg strength late in the season, he'll likely generate interest. Gregg Popovich trusted Brown to defend and give his team an energy boost during the Finals, enhancing his reputation.

8. Luke Walton, L.A. Lakers: Phil Jackson loves what Walton brings to the table, so unless another team comes in with a substantial offer the Lakers wouldn't match, expect to see him back in the fold. Walton has always had the ability to make teammates better by simply doing the right things on the court, and is already one of the best passing forwards in the game.

9. Kyle Korver, Philadelphia: The Sixers would like to keep their primary shooting specialist, but considering he was exposed by Detroit in last year's playoffs, it wouldn't be the end of the world if another team comes in with an offer. Korver is too great a liability defensively to be playing major minutes, and seems better suited coming off the bench rather than starting, which was his role most of last season.

10. Toni Kukoc, Milwaukee: He's 36 and never did live up to the hype Jerry Krause created when he first brought him to Chicago, but there's no doubt he's capable of being a sound veteran contributor. The Bulls are reportedly discussing bringing him back to mentor their younger players, and there are others interested in his services. As long as he can stay healthy, he can help a team win. If he has his way, look for him to sign on with a team that can contend for a championship.

Best of the rest: Rodney Rogers, New Jersey; Lee Nailon, New Orleans; Gerald Wallace, Charlotte; Scott Padgett, Houston; Jason Kapono, Charlotte.