Best Fits for Jevon Carter in Free Agency

A look at where the former Mountaineer could play next season.

Former West Virginia guard Jevon Carter declined his $2.2M option to remain with the Milwaukee Bucks in 2023-24 and has opted for free agency. He could still return to Milwaukee but wants to test the market and after his best season yet, he should.

What teams make sense for Carter?

Note: Teams listed in alphabetical order by city name, not by best fit.

Charlotte Hornets

The Hornets have a defensive-minded head coach in Steve Clifford who is currently operating without a defensive-minded backcourt. Dennis Smith Jr. played well in spurts defensively but he's nowhere the defender JC is. The Hornets won't be big spenders this offseason and instead will be looking to upgrade its bench, particularly at guard.

Memphis Grizzlies

A return to Memphis? Why not? I'm not sure how interested Carter would be in going back to the team that gave up on him but the Grizzlies will need some guard help while Ja Morant is out for the first 25 games of the season. Once Morant returns, Carter would return to a reserve role but this time around, would have a much bigger impact in Memphis.

Miami Heat

Miami appears to be moving on from Kyle Lowry and I'm not sure that there's a better fit out there for Carter than Miami. He just seems like the ideal Erik Spoelstra guard off the bench that gives quality minutes, plays his tail off, and can even start if needed. 

Milwaukee Bucks

Carter seems to like playing in Milwaukee, so if they are willing to pay up, this is probably the most likely option. It just made no sense for Carter to accept the player option in his contract worth $2.2M when he's worth way more. The only question is, does new head coach Adrian Griffin want him back?

Toronto Raptors

If Carter wants an opportunity to start somewhere, Toronto makes a ton of sense. Fred VanVleet is likely out the door and the remaining options on the roster (Jeff Dowtin Jr., Malachi Flynn, & Dalano Barton) aren't worthy of being in the starting five. Plus, I don't fully believe the Raptors are about to enter a full rebuild. If they decide to hold on to Pascal Siakam and OG Anunoby, they can be a playoff team in the East with a couple of additions in free agency. 

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