Looking Ahead: A Preview of the 2024 Free Agent Crop - Point Guards

With the 2023 free agency period in the rear-view mirror, I'll be taking a peak at top players set to hit the open market next summer over the next few weeks. And unlike this year's FA class, plenty of top-tier studs could be up for grabs in 2024

We'll examine each position, but let's start by ranking the top ten point guards expected to become free agents next July.

1. Tyrese Maxey / Philadelphia 76ers / Restricted:

One of the primary reasons the Sixers have not offered Harden a lucrative long-term contract is that they view Maxey as the team's PG of the future. And for good reason. Last season, at the ripe age of 22, Maxey averaged 20.3 points to go along with 2.9 rebounds, 3.5 assists (vs. just 1.3 turnovers) and 2.7 made treys, all while shooting above 48% from the floor and a scorching 43.4% from behind the arc. He is the youngest player in NBA history to attempt more than six three-pointers per game and shoot above 43% from downtown. (The only other players to put up 6 3PT/game and slash 48/43/84 over an entire season are Stephen Curry, Peja Stojaković and Kyle Korver). With Harden, Tobias Harris and De'Anthony Melton all coming off Philly's books after this season, the Sixers are fully expected to sign Maxey to a massive new contract

.

2. James Harden / Philadelphia 76ers / Unrestricted:

Harden exercised his player option for the 2023-24 season and simultaneously requested a trade to the LA Clippers. As a result, the Sixers find themselves between a rock and hard(en) place. The battle of wills between Daryl Morey, Philadelphia's president of basketball operations, and The Beard may last well into the season.  

3. Jrue Holiday / Milwaukee Bucks / Player Option:

Holiday's player option for the 2024-25 campaign is worth $37.4 million. Jrue is entering his age-33 season, so it will be interesting to see if he opts out or locks in that large, guaranteed lump sum. For what it's worth, Holiday has said he plans to stay in Milwaukee for the duration of the contract and has even stated he plans on retiring in 2025. "It's funny cause my wife and I had this conversation; I think it was two days ago. She was like, 'Are you serious after this contract? Are you serious about retiring?' I'm like, 'Yes, I feel very strongly about it,'" Holiday said last year.