[Mr. HookShotParticipant]

Every year the majority of the media exposure in the offseason goes to the major signings, the blockbuster moves like James and Love going to Cleveland or Parsons going to Dallas. Moves like that can take a team from worst to best (Cleveland) or from mediocre to contenders (Dallas). However, every offseason there are also those moves that happened seemingly without anybody noticing it, teams adding smaller pieces to that same championship puzzle. Although such moves might seem only minor alterations, such additions can significantly contribute to the success of a team. What are your best ‘under-the-radar’ signings of this offseason?

Jordan Farmar – Despite a number of injuries (and thus playing only 41 games), Farmar showed he is a solid PG who could even start for a number of teams. Having him as a back-up to Chris Paul is an absolute luxery, as he will allow Paul to take a breath every once in a while to remain healthy. With Farmar being a very solid 3 pt shooter (.439 over last two seasons) he might even play together with Paul in a dual PG line-up. Next to his usual game he brings championship experience from his time with the Lakers, as well as a decent amount of confidence (some call it arrogance) what every team needs.

Kris Humphries – It was only two seasons ago Humphries was on average good for a double-double (13.8ppg – 11 rpg) in a Nets uniform. Always a hard worker he will provide energy and solid rebouding skills to a Washington team aiming for the highest. Although not a go-to guy on offense he is definitely not a no-no on that side either, bringing a solid mid-range game and very nice free throw shooting. For a Wizards team that goes with injury-prone Nene as their starting PF having a solid insurance policy in Humpries will give them the needed depth to advance far in the postseason.

Shawn Marion –  Frequently mentioned as one of the better veteran FAs on the market, his signing was overshadowed by LeBron’s coming home story and the Love-for-Wiggins trade. However, the will bring a solid veteran presence to the team, very nice role player who will fit in nicely with ball dominant players like Irving, James, Love and Waiters. As a defender, he is still one of the better wing defenders capable of picking up the best offensive player on the other team at any given night. As such LeBron will be allowed to save his breath on D and focus pre-dominantly on offense, or it will give Cleveland two terrific wing defenders allowing them to hide Irving a bit on defense when needed to.

 

 

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