Ranking the Top Impending NBA Free Agents for Summer of 2019

The NBA free agent class of 2019 is one of the most anticipated batches of available players in the history of the league. Some of the very best talents on the planet will be hitting the open market, and there's still no telling where they could end up. Even the second and third options of this group are proven All-Stars that hopeful franchises will be dying to get their hands on-- here's a ranking of the top names that teams will be up all night focused on.

1. Kevin Durant

Before Kevin Durant hurt his calf, he was looking like the best player in the world. He was making impossible jumpers from every angle as he put up multiple 45-plus-point performances in the postseason. KD has been heavily rumored to be leaving the Warriors this offseason, and should be the top target for every single team with cap space.

2. Kawhi Leonard

In case you forgot, Kawhi Leonard is really good. After a solid regular season, the Claw took it up a notch in the playoffs. He has carried the Raptors offense, scoring 31.8 points per game while shooting 52.5%. While the Raptors are still alive in the playoffs thanks to Kawhi's miracle shot, they weren't a team on his radar when he requested to be traded out of San Antonio. If he's really ready to explore all options during free agency, he'll be the 1b to Durant's 1a.

3. Klay Thompson

Without Durant to help shoulder the offensive load, Klay Thompson has had to step up to remind everyone just how good he is. In his last three playoff games, he's averaging 26.7 points while shooting lights-out from three (47%). While insiders believe that there's little to no chance Thompson leaves the Warriors, it won't stop teams from trying-- an All-Star three-and-D wizard like him could plug into literally any team in this league seamlessly.

4. Kyrie Irving

Kyrie Irving is the only player on the list whose stock has fallen in recent months. Although he had a career year from a statistical standpoint, he showcased poor leadership and disappeared in the Celtics' playoff series against the Bucks. That said, Uncle Drew is still one of the most electrifying offensive players in the NBA, and teams won't hesitate to throw him a max deal.

5. Jimmy Butler

Jimmy Butler has complete changed his narrative. He received a lot of negative press for his dramatic exit from the Minnesota Timberwolves, but proved his worth in the playoffs after relocating to Philly. With Joel Embiid battling injuries and Ben Simmons still expanding his offensive game, Butler became a primary ball handler and scorer for the Sixers, averaging 19.4 points and 5.4 assists through the playoffs while playing consistently strong defense. While it's a bit risky giving the 29-year-old a "true" max contract, he's worth it for teams with championship dreams.

6. Kemba Walker

Kemba Walker has always been a fine NBA player, but this season, he became great. Although his efforts didn't result in a playoff spot, he has earned himself a spot on this list. In his career year, Kemba averaged 25.6 points despite constantly facing double-teams, as he was the Hornets' only real offensive threat. There will be several teams with cap space this summer; with the Hornets built for mediocrity, Kemba's time in Charlotte could be coming to an end.