Struck out at trade deadline? Offseason holds promise

Guard Gilbert Arenas would be one of the headliners on the free-agent market if he opts out of his contract after the season. AP

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So your favorite team didn't make any big acquisitions before the recent trade deadline? Or maybe it did, but it wasn't the kind of monster deal that has you blocking out those NBA Finals dates on your calendar?

Relax, hoops fan.

There is still hope your team could turn it around with one or two bold moves this summer. Just think of last year's Celtics.

That kind of turnaround might be a little far-fetched (unless you're friends with Kevin McHale). After all, as of now only the Sixers and Grizzlies will have significant room under the salary cap this summer to sign a top-tier free agent. A handful of others -- including the Clippers, Heat and Wizards -- also could have room if certain players opt out of contracts.

But this year's free-agent crop could turn out to be pretty decent, and there is always the possibility of a sign-and-trade. The potential trade market also features some big names. Finally, there is always the chance that your team could strike it rich in the draft.

We can't tell you how to get it done. That's up to your general manager. But here's a quick rundown of some of the options who might be available. We've even listed them by position, just to make it easier to find that sudden impact player your team needs.

Top free agents and potential free agents

PG: Gilbert Arenas -- The three-time All-Star says he intends to opt out of the final year (and $12.8 million) of his contract. He'll have to show he's over his knee problems that have kept him out most of the season, but he's one of the game's biggest scorers.

SG: Ron Artest/Corey Maggette -- Both of these veteran swingmen can opt out of the final year of their deals (they each make around $7 million). Artest is one of the best two-way players in the game, though he comes with a history of odd behavior. The Knicks, Heat and Nuggets are among the team that might be willing to take a gamble on him. Maggette, 28, is averaging 21.7 points and shooting a career-high 47.8 percent from the field. The Spurs and Pacers have shown interest in the past.

SF: Shawn Marion -- He also might forfeit the final year ($17.8 million) and become a free agent. A lot of teams would love to have the versatile Marion, who has the rare ability to fill a stat sheet while also playing excellent defense.

PF: Antawn Jamison -- Assuming the Clippers' Elton Brand doesn't opt out of his contract, the Wizards' soon-to-be unrestricted free agent would be the choice at this position. Jamison made the All-Star team for the second time in his 10-year career this season. He's a proven scorer inside and out, and he's a veteran leader in the locker room.

C: Emeka Okafor (restricted) -- Charlotte will have the right to match any offer. But some team with cap room just might be willing to break the bank for a 6-foot-10 big man who can score, rebound and block shots.

Others possibilities (in the unlikely event they choose to opt out of current deals): Brand, Allen Iverson, Baron Davis, Jermaine O'Neal, Stephon Marbury.

Other free agents: Restricted -- Jose Calderon; Josh Smith; Andre Iguodala; Luol Deng; Monta Ellis; Ben Gordon; Andris Biedrins. Unrestricted -- Sam Cassell; DeSagana Diop; Beno Udrih; Mickael Pietrus.

On the trade block?

PG: Stephon Marbury -- Say what you want about his lack of leadership, but he's a talent who used to routinely put up 20 points and eight assists on a nightly basis. With one more year on his contract, the 31-year-old might be a good one-year rental for a team seeking a quick fix at the point. He certainly could be had for a song.

SG: Vince Carter -- Like Marbury, he's past his prime and saddled with baggage. But he also can put up 20 a night without breaking a sweat (which some would say he seldom does). The Nets will surely look to deal him, but his remaining contract (three years, $48.3 million) could make it difficult.

SF: Tracy McGrady -- Yao Ming's latest injury is only going to fuel more calls for Houston management to break up the McGrady/Yao pairing. T-Mac's balky back and his lack of postseason success would be issues for any prospective suitor, but the 28-year-old is one of the game's elite scorers.

PF: Jermaine O'Neal -- The Pacers have made no secret that they'll listen to offers for the five-time All-Star. If they go the rebuilding route, a team might be able to get O'Neal for expiring contracts and draft picks. But O'Neal's chronic health issues, especially his sore knee, might scare off a lot of suitors.

C: Eddy Curry -- Isiah Thomas seems to have discovered what the Bulls knew all along about this talented but disappointing big man. Still, the 6-11 Curry is an intriguing talent who might blossom in a better environment.

Others who could be shopped heavily: Zach Randolph, Andrei Kirilenko, Nenê.

The draft

PG: Derrick Rose, Memphis -- The 6-3 freshman is considered the top floor leader in the draft right now (assuming he comes out), with Arizona freshman Jerryd Bayless also in the mix.

SG: Eric Gordon, Indiana -- The 6-4 freshman might be a little undersized for an NBA shooting guard, but his athleticism and outside shooting touch make up for it. Like Rose and other freshmen, however, he might need some time to learn the pro game.

SF: Danilo Gallinari, Armani Milano (Italy) -- This 6-9 Italian might be the most skilled player in the draft if, as expected, he decides to come over to the States. He is a gifted scorer with rare physical strength and maturity for a 19-year-old.

PF: Michael Beasley, Kansas State -- Considered the likely top overall pick, the 6-9 freshman can score from anywhere on the floor and handle the ball. An intimidator on the court, he reminds many of Carmelo Anthony.

C: Brook Lopez, Stanford -- With strength and ability to hit the 15-footer, the 7-foot sophomore might be able to help fill a team's void in the middle.