Sir Charles in Charge
Fansided

NBA Free Agency: A starting 5 of the most overrated free agents

By Vince Massara

Mar 27, 2017; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks guard Derrick Rose (25) drives to the basket against the Detroit Pistons during the second half at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 27, 2017; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks guard Derrick Rose (25) drives to the basket against the Detroit Pistons during the second half at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
4 of 6
Next
Mar 14, 2017; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder small forward Andre Roberson (21) reacts during the third quarter against the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 14, 2017; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder small forward Andre Roberson (21) reacts during the third quarter against the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /

Andre Roberson, SF, Restricted

His story?

Andre Roberson is a young wing from the Thunder who has seen his minutes go up every season. He is a elite defender and has flourished as a part of the side built around stud, Russell Westbrook.

How was his season?

2016-17 was the best season of Roberson’s career by a long way. He proved to be a elite defender. He defended second most isolations in the league, and only allowed .85 points per possession. Along with this, he was one of the best defenders against the pick-and-roll ball handler. However, Roberson’s offensive shortcomings were aired out for the world to see in the first round of the playoffs against the Houston Rockets.

Why is he overrated?

The wing position is one of the thinnest in the league, talent-wise. After the mega-elite players, such as LeBron, Kevin Durant, Kawhi Leonard, and co, the drop off is quite large. This free-agent class is similar. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Otto Porter are getting max offers, and will both most likely be matched.

Roberson is the next best restricted small forward. Teams that offer Caldwell-Pope and Porter big deals will most likely move on to Roberson. The lack of depth in his position, highlighted in this free agency class is a recipe for Roberson to be overpaid heavily.

Why would you pay $20 million to a player who was absolutely unplayable at times during the playoffs? Having said that, it looks like that’s what he will get.

Home/NBA News