NBA Free Agency: 3 teams that could still sign Joakim Noah ahead of the 2019-20 season

Joakim Noah is a free agent after spending last season with the Memphis Grizzlies
Joakim Noah is a free agent after spending last season with the Memphis Grizzlies

Joakim Noah is no longer the force that he was during his prime years in Chicago, although the veteran is one of the most interesting names remaining on the free agent market. The 34-year-old has struggled with injuries over the past few years, but performed well for the Memphis Grizzlies last season, averaging 7.1 points, 5.7 rebounds and 2.1 assists in just 16.5 minutes per contest.

At this point in his career, Noah is no-longer an All-Star caliber player but is still a big that brings experience and hustle to the bench. With just a little over two months left until the start of the season, plenty of teams are still looking to bolster their rosters, and Noah should have no problem finding a new home. So, here are three potential destinations for the former Chicago Bulls star.


#3 Los Angeles Clippers

Despite impressing throughout the season, Zubac struggled to make an impact during the 2019 postseason
Despite impressing throughout the season, Zubac struggled to make an impact during the 2019 postseason

The Los Angeles Clippers won free agency by completing stunning deals for Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, although the team surrendered plenty of depth to bring the All-Star duo to Los Angeles.

The Clippers appear particularly short at the five, with options limited to the inexperienced Ivica Zubac and the undersized Montrezl Harrell. While the NBA continues to evolve, traditional centers remain an asset, and Noah could play an important role in a three-man rotation with the Clippers' existing options.

Noah's minutes may be up and down throughout the regular season, although his defensive steel and experience may prove crucial as Los Angeles looks to bring home a first championship. Ultimately, the Clippers need to add depth ahead of the upcoming season, and Noah appears to be the standout candidate of the remaining pool of free agents.

#2 Oklahoma City Thunder

Both of the Oklahoma City Thunder's senior bigs have been linked with trades
Both of the Oklahoma City Thunder's senior bigs have been linked with trades

The Oklahoma City Thunder are currently well-stocked at the five, with both Steven Adams and Nerlens Noel among Billy Donovan's options. However, the Thunder have entered a rebuild following the surprise departures of Russell Westbrook and Paul George, and both of the Thunder's veteran centers have been linked with imminent trades.

General Manager Sam Presti is believed to be keen to offload the final two-years of Adams' expensive deal, while the Thunder may attempt to get something in return for Noel - who is likely to walk away next summer.

Adding Noah on a minimum deal would help the Thunder cope with the departure of either player, while the veteran's presence would also aid the development of the recently acquired Justin Patton. Ultimately, Noah is the perfect quick fix for an organization looking to cut salary.

#1 Los Angeles Lakers

The Los Angeles Lakers are looking for a center after losing DeMarcus Cousins for the season
The Los Angeles Lakers are looking for a center after losing DeMarcus Cousins for the season

DeMarcus Cousins was expected to start the season as the LA Lakers' starting center, however, the former All-Star was recently ruled out for the foreseeable future with a serious knee injury. Cousins' injury leaves JaVale McGee as the Lakers' only senior center heading into the new season, and the team is believed to be actively looking to sign a new big.

Dwight Howard has been among the names mentioned, although Noah would provide Frank Vogel's team with an excellent defender - who would add steel to a Lakers team that is expected to leak points.

Noah's laid back attitude will also suit an LA team that wants to enjoy a rare drama-free season, and the Lakers appear to be the perfect destination for the two-time All-Star to continue his career.

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