We have now entered the slower phase of the NBA’s Free Agency period. Where NBA teams are looking to add depth to their roster and not many have starting spots open. Gary Trent Jr. is one of the most intriguing names who is still looking for a new team. If Trent Jr. is now willing to accept a minimum offer to play on a contending team he could make a significant impact for several teams.
NBA Free Agency: 3 Potential Landing Spots for Gary Trent Jr.
Milwaukee Bucks
The Milwaukee Bucks like the Denver Nuggets also have a starting spot open that Trent Jr. can fill. As a result of losing Malik Beasley to the Detroit Pistons. Milwaukee is now down a starting shooting guard. If Trent Jr. prefers to stay in the Eastern Conference. Milwaukee may be the most attractive destination as they have a starting position open for him. Going to Milwaukee offers him a chance to play in a backcourt with Damian Lillard. The two were teammates in Portland from 2018 to 2021. Also, the amount of open shots that will be created for Trent Jr. might be too attractive to pass up.
When Beasley played in this backcourt it revitalized his career and helped him become one of the best shooters in the league. Especially, for a player like Trent Jr. who wants to prove his value to the rest of the league. The Bucks may offer him the best opportunity to do that while also playing on a contending team. Milwaukee seems like the team prime to land him in free agency.
Denver Nuggets
The Denver Nuggets have a starter position open now as a result of losing Kentavious Caldwell Pope to the Orlando Magic. Trent Jr. would be perfect in that KCP role for the Nuggets. Especially, with their roster lacking shooters and defenders. Trent Jr. can certainly put the ball in the hoop, he made 39.3% of his three-pointers last season. Additionally, he can create his own shot, and would not need to wait for Jamal Murray or Nikola Jokic to create a shot for him.
Denver should take a hard look at him, despite the rumored lack of interest on Trent Jr.’s part. The Nuggets should sell him on being a starter and the missing piece that Denver needs to compete in the loaded Western Conference. He is just what the doctor ordered for them. Moreover, Trent Jr. might not be a better defender than KCP, but he is only 25 years old and Mike Malone can certainly help him improve as a defender.
Philadelphia 76ers
The Philadelphia 76ers continue to be associated, with several high-profile free agents still left on the board. They may not have a starting position available for Trent Jr. However, the chance to compete for a title and revitalize his career might be an attractive lure for Trent Jr. who is looking to prove his value. Philly was able to revitalize Kelly Oubre Jr.’s career just last year. He proved his worth to them and the rest of the league and was rewarded with a multi-year deal.
In addition, Trent Jr. is familiar with the coaching style of Nick Nurse, despite some drama between the two from their days in Toronto. If they can mend that, Trent Jr. would be a big get for a Sixers team that values shooters who can make an impact on the defensive end. Playing on a team with Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and Paul George should create enough scoring opportunities for Trent Jr. to prove his worth to the league.
