McGee among 32 fascinating players

Here’s a look at the most interesting storylines heading into free agency, from the value of Dion Waiters to the possibility of Otto Porter being a max player.

JaVale McGee, Warriors: One of the best stories in the NBA right now, McGee was productive in a limited role for the Warriors during the regular season and ignited runs almost every time he hit the court against the Portland Trail Blazers in the playoffs.

Joe Ingles, Jazz (restricted): Keeping Ingles won’t be the Jazz’s top priority (more on that soon), but he has evolved into a vital part of the team.

Few players combine his size, shooting, passing and defensive versatility, making him one of the league’s most underrated role players before the playoffs started.

You don’t have to be a true franchise player to have the power to change the fortunes of an organization; you can merely be the sort of player whose arrival or departure signifies a shift in direction.

“Max player” doesn’t mean the same thing it used to; once the domain of only superstars, now promising young players routinely get maximum offer sheets as soon as they hit restricted free agency for the first time.

Otto Porter, Wizards (restricted): The 23-year-old Porter isn’t a star, but he had an amazing season for Washington, averaging 13.4 points while shooting 51.6 percent and 43.4 percent from 3-point range.

Despite the league’s big-man boom, players who can protect the rim, defend smaller players and finish alley-oops are highly valued.

The Bulls make no sense, and there is no telling what they will look like next season; they could bring back a similar group or trade star Jimmy Butler and start from scratch.

He could exercise his $23.8 million player option and play for his hometown team again, or he could test the uncertain waters of free agency.