Top 5 landing spots for Austin Rivers
The NBA's free agency fever slowly quieted down as some of the big names have been moved on, which now opens up the opportunity for Austin Rivers to sign with any team.
Since the offseason started, Rivers has remained unsigned following his one-year deal with the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Last offseason, Rivers signed a one-year deal with the Wolves to be a reserve player. He played 52 games for the team and averaged 4.9 points, 1.6 rebounds and 1.4 assists.
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Top 5 landing spots for Austin Rivers
On December 21, the Minnesota Timberwolves played against the Dallas Mavericks where the 6-foot-4 guard had his season high where he scored 21 points and grabbed four rebounds.
With that, let's take a look at which teams could sign him for the next season.
#5 Denver Nuggets
The Denver Nuggets may have won the 2023 NBA championship, but they lost one of their best players during the off-season. The departure of Bruce Brown will hurt the team, so pursuing Austin Rivers could be the right choice for the team moving forward.
Rivers won't contribute much, but his knowledge of the system could prove to be helpful for the team.
#4 San Antonio Spurs
The San Antonio Spurs are looking forward to developing Victor Wembanyama in his first season in the league. One of the key things that a rookie could find useful is a reliable veteran, and adding Rivers might be a good move for the roster.
Rivers can take on the role of a key veteran for a young and developing team like San Antonio.
Also read: What is Austin Rivers' net worth as of April 2023? Exploring his annual earnings from LA Clippers contract & endorsements
#3 Miami Heat
Coming off a Finals run, the Miami Heat needs to add valuable players to get another crack at the Larry O'Brien trophy. As their pursuit of Portland's Damian Lillard failed, the Heat still need to add someone like Rivers to their roster for this season.
He's experienced enough to do what his role demands, which could be key for Miami next season.
#2 Boston Celtics
Austin Rivers could be an answer to the Boston Celtics' point guard concerns after they traded away Marcus Smart. Rivers could provide a few minutes off the bench to help facilitate and lead the team's second unit moving forward. If the Celtics decide to pursue Rivers, he could provide solid minutes for the team.
In a recent appearance on "The Bill Simmons Podcast," Rivers revealed that he called the Celtics this offseason and inquired about the possibility of joining them.
"I told him I'd love to be a part of the team," Rivers said. "He said a lot of positive things. We'll see if that's something that will come to fruition. I've always loved Brad. I've always been a fan of him."
#1 Milwaukee Bucks
After the Milwaukee Bucks acquired Damian Lillard, they would need to add depth to their roster. Austin Rivers is a veteran presence and could help the team as a backup point guard. The Bucks will need to bolster their depth given the injury problems they had last season.
Rivers has a budding career as a podcast, but prefers to continue his playing career.