NBA Free Agency 2021: 5 Notable names who didn't get rookie scale extension

#3 Lauri Markkanen

Lauri Markkanen

The 2019-20 campaign, by Lauri Markkanen's own admission, was a disappointing one for him. The 7'0 forward was heralded as the second coming of Dirk Nowitzki when he was drafted in 2017 and played the part during his rookie year.

Injuries have been a major concern for the Fin though and the main reason why his numbers declined last year after he averaged 18.7 points and nine rebounds per game in 2018-19. The Chicago Bulls have played safe here. They want Markkanen to prove his worth if he wants a good deal in NBA free agency 2021.

#2 Lonzo Ball

Lonzo Ball

Already an elite perimeter defender in the NBA, Lonzo Ball developed a penchant for the catch-and-shoot game throughout the 2019-20 season. He shot the ball at 37.5% from downtown and his playmaking ability was there for everyone to see.

Lonzo Ball last night: 19 PTS 8 AST5 REB 2 STL 1 BLK 7/11 FG3/6 3PT (🎥 @swishcultures_ ) pic.twitter.com/wLTX789jxn

— NBA Central (@TheNBACentral) December 19, 2020

However, it was his mediocre run in the NBA bubble that really made the New Orleans Pelicans second-guess his development. Ball averaged a mere 7.1 points on 30.5% shooting in seven games in Orlando.

The Pelicans have been rather happy to delay extensions as was the case with Brandon Ingram. They want to get the right pieces as they build around Zion Williamson. They'll want to see a better version on Lonzo before offering him a new contract in NBA free agency.

#1 John Collins

John Collins

The uber explosive John Collins is set to enter NBA free agency largely due to financial reasons. He averaged 21.6 points on 58.3% shooting in addition to 10.1 rebounds per game. Although the volume wasn't high, the power forward made 40.1% of his 3.6 attempts per game from downtown.

For a man who is 6’ 9” and 235lbs, John Collins is so smooth pic.twitter.com/wi6ybs88D2

— Andrew Leehy (@DoOrDieNasty) December 20, 2020

Collins was fairly vocal about the fact that he wanted a max extension and the Hawks aren't sure if he's that kind of player yet. If Collins returns with improved numbers this season and manages to lead Atlanta to the playoffs, the front office will have no option but to offer him his desired deal in NBA free agency.

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