The Brooklyn Nets might not have a ton of money at their disposal this offseason to chase free agents, given the presence of their superstar trio of Kevin Durant, James Harden, and Kyrie Irving. Even if they choose to let Spencer Dinwiddie go, the Nets will likely need to look for some cheaper alternatives this year.
The point guard position is one that requires a very close examination, as despite the additions of Harden and Irving, the team would lack a true backup point guard with more experience than Chris Chiozza. Assuming they add a center in the draft, Sean Marks and the Nets need to attack this position in free agency.
While there are some players out there that would break the bank, Brooklyn will have plenty more economical point guard options to lean on — assuming said options will accept a backup role behind Harden and Irving.
The Nets should do everything they can to lure one of these three impending free agent point guards to Brooklyn, as doing so could improve their bench and help their chances of contending for a championship.
3 free agent point guards the Brooklyn Nets should look to sign.
3. Cameron Payne, Phoenix Suns
Payne has had a truly wild ride in the NBA, as he has gone from a lottery pick to completely out of the league to a valuable backup on a Finals team in the span of just a few short years. Chris Paul’s backup during the Phoenix Suns’ breakout season, Payne has averages of 8.7 points and 3.5 assists per game under Monty Williams.
Payne’s performances in the NBA finals have varied wildly, but at his best, he has shown that in clutch situations, the Suns can trust him to attack the basket or knock down open shots. Those traits should come in handy on a Nets team that lacked production off the bench in the playoffs.
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Cameron Payne is proving he can help the Nets in the Finals.
Payne might look to capitalize on his big year with a multi-year contract, but a lack of truly gaudy numbers plus his prior history could make it tough for a team to commit to him long-term.
The Nets, meanwhile, can give Payne another chance to play his role as a backup point guard on a contender. Phoenix will make an effort to keep him, but the Nets might be willing to outbid them if they let Dinwiddie go. Payne doesn’t have his size, but other than that, there is a ton to like as a Dinwiddie replacement.