Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry is set to hit the free-agent market during the 2027 offseason if he doesn’t re-sign with the team. Considering he’s such a big name in the NBA, it would make sense to think he’s the top NBA unrestricted free agent potentially available after this upcoming season.
But one NBA analyst doesn’t think that’s the case. Lorenzo Reyes of USA Today names Curry the No. 2 best possible unrestricted free agent, putting him behind another star.
That other player is Kawhi Leonard of the Toronto Raptors.
Kawhi Leonard gets the edge over Stephen Curry
In a piece discussing the top unrestricted free agents possibly breaking free in 2027, Reyes says that he finds it “tough to envision Curry anywhere but Golden State,” which makes sense. At this point, he’s really the face of the franchise, along with Draymond Green.
“Despite his age, he remains a lethal shooter and one of the tougher players to guard because of his off-ball movement and quick release,” he adds.
But, he puts Leonard a notch above him, despite the drama that surrounded the player as of late.
“When he’s available and healthy, Leonard is among the best two-way players in the NBA,” he says. “The specter of the NBA investigation into alleged salary cap circumvention is no longer hanging over Leonard’s head, so his trade to the Raptors should be resolved soon.”
It was a messy situation with Leonard and his investigation. But, it’s over, and it’s impossible to deny his talent. It’s debatable to say he’s the top unrestricted free agent hitting the market in 2027, but when he’s healthy and the drama isn’t there, it’s easy to make the case that he deserves the title.
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