8. Jeff Green
LeBron is the oldest active NBA player, but Green is not far behind. He turns 38 before training camp opens and has played for 11 different teams in his 16-year NBA career. Green is a journeyman who finally won a championship with the Nuggets in 2023. He parlayed it into a multiple-year contract with the Rockets, but Houston has a $9.6 million team option for the 2024-25 season.
The Rockets hope to upgrade their roster again this summer, and it could come at the expense of Uncle Jeff. He averaged 6.5 points and 2.3 rebounds in 16.8 minutes per game. Green brings leadership and a veteran presence, but Houston needs more on-court production if they plan on making the playoffs in the loaded Western Conference.
The 6’8 forward joined the Cavaliers for LeBron’s final season in Cleveland. He averaged 10.8 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.3 assists in 23.4 minutes per game. His role remained unchanged during their run to the NBA Finals, but the Golden State Warriors were just too much. LeBron left for LA, and Green departed for the nation’s capital in free agency.
Jeff Green has not been shy about praising King James and his time playing with him. If the Los Angeles Lakers need a veteran forward coming off their bench with championship experience, Green is a fantastic choice. The Rockets may decide to keep him but expect Green to have plenty of suitors if he hits the open market.