Going into the 2016 NBA free agency period everyone loves to talk about the big names that are available. From the craziness that took place because of Kevin Durant or Al Horford, this summer’s free agency festivities was at an all-time high. But only a few teams were lucky enough to land those talents. What gets lost in every off-season is the talk about the players who aren’t stars but can still help a team win. Here are five players that still remain jobless as they look to help a team in need of the 2016-17 season.
Lance Stephenson: Guard
Lance Stephenson does have talent to be in the NBA. Through 26 games with the Memphis Grizzlies last season, Lance averaged around 14.2 points, 4.4 rebounds and 2.8 assists a night. Lance does have some bad history on and off the court and teams may have second thoughts about signing him. He showed that last season when he had trouble finding a fit when he was with the Clippers. Lance needs to prove he isn’t only effective when the ball is in his hands and he needs to find other ways to be involved offensively.
Kevin Martin: Guard
He has shot a career 38% from behind the arc, Martin can still fill up the stat sheet on any given night. Teams are always looking for a guy like this and teams should be thinking about signing Martin. Defensively he doesn’t do too much but Martin’s skills as a shooter does make up for it. While with the Thunder, Kevin Martin made 43% of his three-point attempts. It would go a long ways in helping their team succeed if any NBA team can find a way to hide him on the defensive end of the floor and let him shine offensively.
Donatas Motiejunas: Forward
Various injuries has hurt Donatas from being very successful in the NBA and reaching his potential. He has a good jumpshot and an array of post moves. He averaged 12 points and six rebounds during the 2014-15 season, while shooting 37% from behind the arc. Donatas still hasn’t signed with the team. Wherever he does end up playing next season, they are going to get player that seems like he has something to prove on the court.
Norris Cole: Guard
Norris is a high-energy guard that will bring scoring and defense to whatever team. Norris does have playoff experience and understands what it takes to play in big games like the NBA Finals. If a team is looking to make a run for the title this season and looking for a reserve guard, Norris Cole is their best option. Last season, Cole averaged 10.6 points per game in just under 27 minutes a night. Right now, Cole is any teams best bet at a solid back up guard.
Josh Smith: Forward
The NBA journeyman has been with the Hawks, Pistons, Rockets and Clippers but he hasn’t been the focus of too many rumors this summer. Sadly, he isn’t going to be the player he was with the Hawks. Smith needs to find a team where he is going to be comfortable and a team that will help him get back on track. Josh still has the tools to provide valuable minutes for any NBA team.