Free agency is one of the most crucial parts of the NBA which is a high-risk, high-reward game. A great free agent signing could drastically improve a team and make them into contenders overnight. On the other hand, a wrong move could haunt a franchise for years given the huge contracts involved while signing superstars. Also, a star’s move in free agency could hurt his former team, if they aren’t prepared. Over the years, there have been many great free-agent signings in the league. Today, let us look at some of the most influential free agents ever joining a new team.

These signings are ranked based on the most important criteria: success. Not just team success, but their individual growth and impact on the new home and former.

#3 Kevin Durant moving to the Golden State Warriors in 2016

In 2016, the Golden State Warriors signed Kevin Durant on a two-year $54 million deal. It was one of the most talked about free agent signings ever. Durant received a lot of criticism for his move to a direct conference rival from fans and analysts alike. Notably, the Warriors eliminated KD and the OKC Thunder in the Conference Finals just a few months before he signed the deal. Many thought Durant was taking an easy route to a championship. Notably, NBA legend Charles Barkley called him a “bus rider” which sparked a beef between the two.

On the other hand, the Dubs fans were over the moon. Despite breaking the regular season record in 2016, the Warriors lost the NBA Finals to the Cavaliers. Similar to the Thunder, the Warriors blew a 3-1 lead. The arrival of Durant gave the fans something to cheer for. After all, he was not just any other superstar.

The Slim Reaper is one of the best scorers the league has ever seen. Also, he had won the MVP award in 2014. To partner him with Stephen Curry who had won the next two MVP awards after Durant, was a huge move from the Warriors. On the other hand, it was a tremendous blow to the Thunder. Even though they still had Russell Westbrook in their ranks, KD’s move had a major impact. Notably, the Thunder were eliminated in the first round for the next four years and did not make the playoffs in the next three. Durant’s move arguably triggered the rebuild.

For the Warriors, it worked wonders. Durant and Curry shared the ball and the spotlight. Even though it took a hit on both their numbers, they were not worried. Both stars put the team in front and worked for the title. With KD’s addition, the Dubs made three straight Finals appearances.

In the first two against the Cavs, the Warriors had their revenge and clinched two rings. Durant won the Finals MVP on both occasions, going toe to toe with LeBron James. In the third NBA Finals, KD and the Warriors shockingly lost to the Toronto Raptors. However, there were various injuries the team suffered, including Durant. Overall, Durant’s move to the Warriors was a win-win despite how things ended.

#2 LeBron James joining the Miami Heat in 2010

LeBron James‘ move to the Miami Heat in  2010 is one of the most controversial free agency moves in NBA history. James was supposed to be the “Chosen 1” to lead his hometown team the Cleveland Cavaliers to their first-ever championship. However, in his seven years in Cleveland, LeBron could not win a ring. In 2006-07, he led the team to the NBA Finals but was swept by the San Antonio Spurs.

After seven years, James had not won a ring and there were already debates about whether he would ever win one. For a player who was always destined to be one of the top 5 best players ever, not having a chip was unfathomable. So, a desperate James pondered his options. The Heat made their pitch and LeBron was convinced and signed a 6-year $109.8 million deal, albeit with an early termination option. Notably, James announced the move live on ESPN. Named ‘The Decision’, it was the first ever free agent signing to be telecasted live. It was his business partner Maverick Carter’s idea. But little did he perceive the repercussions.

In response, Cavaliers majority owner Dan Gilbert released his statement named ‘The Letter‘. And he did not mince his words. He wrote, “This was announced with a several day, narcissistic, self-promotional build-up culminating with a national TV special of his “decision” unlike anything ever “witnessed” in the history of sports and probably the history of entertainment.” He even called the move a “cowardly betrayal”. Furthermore, all hell broke loose in Cleveland as many fans took to the streets to burn James’ jersey.

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On the other hand, it was great news for South Beach. Moreover, they also signed free agent Chris Bosh to form a Big 3 of James, Dwyane Wade, and Bosh. The arrival of King James immediately turned the Heat into contenders. In his four years in Miami, LeBron led the team to four straight NBA Finals winning two. While many consider it underwhelming given the talent in the roster, there is no denying that it took a huge weight off James’ back. Once again, a very successful move for the both team and the player.

#1 Shaquille O’Neal signing for the Los Angeles Lakers in 1996

Shaquille O’Neal signed the biggest contract when he joined the Los Angeles Lakers in 1996 in a 7-year $120 million deal. O’Neal was a generational player who could change the fortunes of any franchise. And it was evident from day one. So, it is safe to say that the newly formed Orlando Magic hit the jackpot when they drafted Shaq in 1992. The Big Diesel hit the ground running and won the Rookie of the Year award. In his third year in the league, he led the Magic to the Finals. However, the team was swept by the iconic Houston Rockets despite Shaq’s valiant efforts. The Magic were eliminated in the Conference Finals the next year. That is when things took a turn.

As contract talks began, O’Neal was unhappy with the team’s offer. He compared the contracts of Penny Hardaway and Horace Grant and thought that he deserved more as the main man. Ultimately, this led to a failure in contract extension and he signed for the Lakers. It was a huge blow for the Magic. After his departure, the team had to wait 13 long years to reach the NBA Finals again.

O’Neal’s arrival in Los Angeles also marked the entry of a young Kobe Bryant straight from high school. After the iconic Showtime Lakers, Shaq and Kobe brought the fun back to the arena. The former center’s huge personality fit him perfectly in the City of Angels where he became the biggest superstar. Hollywood superstars were often seen courtside to witness one of the most dominant players ever.

After a few disappointing years in the playoffs, O’Neal made it clear that he wanted legendary head coach Phil Jackson at the helm. The Lakers agreed and Jackson started as head coach in 1999. In the very next year, O’Neal clinched the MVP award. Furthermore, Shaq led the Lakers to three straight titles. It was a major feat considering even the Showtime Lakers couldn’t do it. O’Neal won the Finals MVP on all three occasions. In his prime, he was unguardable and wreaked havoc on his opponents. His eight years in LA proved to be a massive success for him and the Lakers.

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Editorial Disclaimer: The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of EssentiallySports.