Perhaps the biggest name still available in free agency is Russell Westbrook's. As the start of training camp creeps closer, there's no resolution in sight.
The nine-time All-NBA selection spent last season with the Denver Nuggets. He averaged 13.3 points, 6.1 assists, 4.9 rebounds, and 1.4 steals. Those numbers likely influenced his decision not to pick up his $3.5 million player option.
However, they don't tell the whole story. If they did, Denver may have already re-signed him. He'd at least have a new professional home by now.
But when the playoffs arrived, across the board, Westbrook's stat line dipped. His playing time also went down. After logging a tick below 28 minutes per contest in the regular season, he averaged 24.1 minutes of floor time. He shot 39.1 percent from the field.
Between that, the turnovers, and defensive miscues, he's staring down the distinct possibility of playing for his sixth team in seven years.
"So far, the market has not responded," reports NBC Sports' Kurt Helin. "The Sacramento Kings are the team most mentioned as having genuine interest, but unless (or until) they trade Malik Monk or Devin Carter (or waive a non-guaranteed player, which is unlikely), the Kings will not have the roster spot open.
"As of now, they have reigned in Monk trade talks, and he is likely to be with the team when the season opens. Where does that leave Westbrook? He has not been linked closely to another team."
Should the Celtics sign Russell Westbrook?
No. For as long as Anfernee Simons is on the roster, the Boston Celtics don't need another guard. Even if he's traded, Westbrook is a terrible system fit.
While he would mesh with their agenda to push the pace at a greater frequency, his struggles from beyond the arc are not a match for Joe Mazzulla's offense.
The Celtics have room to add one more player on a standard NBA contract. Their roster is at 14, one below the regular-season maximum. Interestingly enough, they have reportedly shown interest in Ben Simmons, another non-shooter.
The difference is that Simmons is younger and capable of guarding one through five. He's a two-time All-Defensive team selection. The Australian native turned 29 in July. Westbrook will be 37 in November.
With Boston focused on gaining flexibility, the organization may leave its 15th roster spot vacant, entering the upcoming campaign. Going that route would help maximize tax savings.
While Westbrook deserves future enshrinement in the Basketball Hall of Fame, if the Celtics add to their roster, they should look in a different direction to find a better fit who's more likely to be in their plans beyond this season.