April 12, 2013; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Golden State Warriors power forward David Lee (10) reacts to a call the first half of the game against the Los Angeles Lakers at the Staples Center. Lakers won 118-116. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
David Lee demonstrated a lot of things this season. He demonstrated his capacity for rebounding, coming in fifth place for total rebounds in the league. He demonstrated his proficiency of scoring in the block, ranking ninth in the league for field goals made. On top of all that, he demonstrated that he could do both of those things consistently, leading the league in double-doubles with 56 with Dwight Howard being the next highest with 48.
With all that said, Lee also demonstrated that he is non-essential. The Warriors’ lone All-Star’s postseason absence did not hobble the team. Instead, it started a conversation about his true value to the team. I don’t think the Warriors would ever openly say they are shopping Lee due to both his personal relationship with the owners and adoration from casual fans, but if a team was interested, they would certainly listen to their offer.
Let’s look at five teams that would pursue Lee if he was on the market.