Forgotten After Failed Stint With Joel Embiid, 23-Year-Old Starlet Stands As Cheap Buy To Save Lakers & Suns Future

For any team to become title contenders, it is extremely important to have at least one or two superstars in the squad. But what’s equally important is to have a talented and deep supporting cast that can make the superstar’s lives easier. With the season coming to an end yesterday and the Celtics lifting the title, several teams are looking for good role players. Amid this search, Joel Embiid’s ex-teammate KJ Martin’s availability in the market could provide a major boost for the bigger teams who barely made it to the playoffs.

With his 4-year $6.1 million rookie contract coming to an end this year, Martin is set to become an unrestricted free agent this summer. And as per Evan Sidery’s latest report, several contending teams will attempt to secure the 23-year-old rising star on the veteran’s minimum market at a cheap rate, likely as a rotation piece in the roster. Drafted four years ago in the second round, Nets legend Kenyon Martin’s son spent the first three years of his career playing for the Rockets. Improving his numbers each year, KJ displayed massive upside and was acquired by the Sixers last fall. Since then it’s seemed to have gone downhill.

In his final season at Houston, he did not miss a single game all year and started in 49 of those appearances. Moreover, he averaged a career-high 12.7 points and over 5 boards. However, not being able to find his role in Philly, KJ saw a massive drop in his productivity this season. Starting in only two games, his averages fell to 3.7 points and 2.2 rebounds alongside Embiid. But that might have been more of a ‘fit’ problem than a talent problem. Still, with a potential upside, KJ’s addition could help teams like the Lakers and the Suns, who are looking for talented athletic wings to support their star players and win a title.

How can KJ Martin help LeBron James or Kevin Durant win another title?

With the possibility of signing KJ at a cheap price, several teams might be eyeing the rising star, including the Bucks, Nuggets, Warriors, Suns, and Lakers. But being born and raised in LA, the Lakers might be the perfect fit for him and more importantly his most preferred destination. “I love Houston forever. However, LA is home for me,” Martin said after he got traded to the Clippers. While that stint didn’t last too long for him, he would probably love to head back to his hometown and play alongside stars like LeBron and AD. Meanwhile, the Lakers could use a player like him who is an athletic two-way star and has a decent shot from beyond the arc (33.7%).

On the other hand, Phoenix could also be a great option for KJ to revive his career. With their Big 3 still in place, the Suns need decent role players to help them fulfill their Championship goal. And KJ could be that missing piece. Moreover, we already know Durant likes Martin’s game as he even acknowledged his talent after his great rookie year four seasons ago. “Hell of a season,” KD wrote on Instagram, complimenting Martin’s rookie season performance. So, it could be a win-win situation for both parties. Talking about struggling teams, even the Warriors could be interested in making a move for KJ because he would bring more youth and athleticism to their ageing roster. Not being able to make the playoffs this year, Martin could help provide a fresh start to Stephen Curry and Co.

Whichever team gets their hands on Martin, he could prove to be the dark horse on that squad that gets them one step closer to the title. Where do you want KJ Martin to play next?

Before you go, do not forget to check out what Shaquille O’Neal’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato, has to say about Caitlin Clark’s meteoric rise to stardom. Keep checking this space for more such updates.