NBA Players Entering Contract Year: What This Means for Their Future

As the NBA season approaches, many teams will have key players entering the final year of their contracts. This can have a significant impact on both the team`s performance and the player`s future in the league.

For teams, having a player in a contract year can be both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, the player may be motivated to perform at their best in order to earn a bigger contract in the future. This can lead to an increase in productivity and a better chance at success for the team. On the other hand, if the player feels undervalued or disrespected by the team, they may not perform as well and could even become a locker room distraction.

For players, entering a contract year can be a make or break situation. If they have a standout season, they could be in line for a big payday. However, if they struggle or get injured, their value on the market could plummet. Additionally, players in contract years may be more susceptible to suffering from a lack of motivation or focus, as they may be more concerned with their future than their current team`s success.

So, who are some notable NBA players entering the final year of their contracts in the 2021-2022 season?

One name that immediately comes to mind is Kyrie Irving of the Brooklyn Nets. Irving has a player option for the 2022-2023 season, meaning he can either opt into the final year of his contract or become a free agent. Irving is a talented player, but his off-the-court antics and injury history could make the decision to offer him a long-term contract a difficult one for the Nets.

Another player to watch is Ben Simmons of the Philadelphia 76ers. Simmons has a max contract extension kicking in this season, but the 76ers have been exploring trades for him throughout the offseason. If Simmons has a solid year, it could boost his trade value and potentially land him on a new team for the future.

Finally, there`s Lauri Markkanen of the Cleveland Cavaliers. Markkanen was acquired in a trade with the Chicago Bulls this offseason and will be playing for a new contract this year. Markkanen is a talented three-point shooter, but has struggled with injuries over the past few seasons. If he can stay healthy and perform at a high level, he could earn himself a big payday in free agency.

In conclusion, NBA players entering a contract year can have a big impact on both their own future and their team`s success. With several notable players in contract years this season, it will be interesting to see how they perform and what decisions their teams ultimately make regarding their futures in the league.