NBA Free Agency: Ranking the top 10 points guards on the open market

ATLANTA, GA - FEBRUARY 26: Isaiah Thomas #7 of the Los Angeles Lakers attempts a basket against Isaiah Taylor #22 of the Atlanta Hawks at Philips Arena on February 26, 2018 in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /

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CLEVELAND, OH – JANUARY 18: Elfrid Payton #2 of the Orlando Magic reacts after being defeated by the Cleveland Cavaliers 104-103 at Quicken Loans Arena on January 18, 2018 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images) /

3. Elfrid Payton, Phoenix Suns (restricted)

Stats: 12.7 points, 6.2 assists, 4.3 rebounds

Elfrid Payton’s start to his fourth season in the NBA was a good one. In the first 40-some odd games he played with the Orlando Magic last season, he was much improved. Specifically, his shooting. With the Magic, Payton was averaging 13 points per game on 52 percent shooting from the field and 37 percent from 3-point range (a career-high).

However, after being traded to the Phoenix Suns on NBA Trade Deadline day, all his efficiency numbers took a hit. With the Suns, he simply wasn’t the same player in terms of shooting. And that’s probably the biggest reason why he’s going to be a gamble in free agency.

There’s a good chance he re-signs in Phoenix, but don’t be surprised if a young team out there trades a flier on him. Payton is a low-risk, high-reward type of player at this point in his career.

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