2017 NBA free agency: The lesser-known transactions

The 2017 NBA free agency period has been insane, to say the least. Some have even said it has been more exciting than the NBA playoffs. Amongst the big-name signings of Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, Blake Griffin, Chris Paul, Paul George and Gordon Hayward, it has been easy to overlook some of the other movements and decisions in free agency, and the implications of these decisions. In consideration of this, let's take a look at some of the overshadowed decisions and movements in the offseason so far.

Kyle Lowry

Kyle Lowry has agreed to re-sign with the Toronto Raptors, as announced in his 'The Players' Tribune' article titled 'Home'. The deal is reportedly for three years and will pay Lowry $100 million. The move has been seen as a risk by many, considering Lowry is already 31 and is likely on the wrong side of his prime. However, this move shows the Raptors' dedication to preserving their All-Star backcourt in Lowry and DeMar DeRozan, while keeping their championship window open, albeit slightly. The new deal for Lowry may concern some Toronto fans considering his high salary, yet it is a low-risk move for the Raptors. Since Lowry joined the Raptors - with the exception of the 2012-13 season - the team has averaged a third-place finish in the Eastern Conference. This move ensures the Raptors can continue to be contenders in the East.

Paul Millsap

Four-time All-Star Paul Millsap has agreed to a three-year, $90 million deal with the Denver Nuggets. The move has big implications and instantly turns the Nuggets into postseason contenders in the tough Western Conference. Additionally, the Atlanta Hawks' decision to not offer the 32-year-old power forward a new contract confirms the team's move towards a rebuilding period. Millsap's move to the stacked Western Conference likely spells the end of his All-Star career, however, after four appearances. The hefty $90 million paycheck may have been more enticing.

Jimmy Butler

Sure, we're all aware that Jimmy Butler has moved to the Timberwolves, but just how this deal went down - and why it went down - still has people scratching their heads. The lopsided draft-day trade of the Chicago Bulls All-Star, along with the 16th overall draft pick in exchange for Zach LaVine, Kris Dunn and the 7th overall draft pick sent shockwaves throughout the NBA. Before the implications of the move could properly be analyzed, a tumultuous NBA free agency period began, which largely overshadowed this move. The truth of the matter is, this trade was a steal for Minnesota. Adding a perennial All-Star in Butler to a team which boasts the exciting young duo of Karl-Anthony Towns and Andrew Wiggins is a no-brainer. The move makes the Timberwolves instant postseason contenders. Trading LaVine and Dunn, two talents who have great potential yet remain unproven, is a huge victory for the Timberwolves. For the Bulls, the move confirms they are looking to rebuild with their youth movement.

Other notable trade developments

Serge Ibaka: Re-signed with the Toronto Raptors on a three-year, $65 million deal. The deal allows the Raptors to continue to contend in the Eastern Conference.

Danilo Gallinari: Agreed to a three-year $65 million deal with the Los Angeles Clippers. The deal removes the Clippers' long-term deficiency at the small forward position.

Jeff Teague: Agreed to a three-year, $57 million deal with the Minnesota Timberwolves. Tallied with the Butler move, Teague's acquisition gives the Timberwolves a dynamic backcourt.

George Hill: Agreed to a three-year, $57 million deal with the Sacramento Kings. Adds greatly-needed talent at the point guard position, as well as veteran leadership.

Dion Waiters: Re-signed with the Miami Heat on a four-year, $52 million deal. The new deal gives the Heat salary cap flexibility and keeps their core together.

Patty Mills: Re-signed with the San Antonio Spurs on a four-year, $50 million deal. This deal helps the Spurs retain their future starting point guard as Tony Parker's career winds down.

Andre Iguodala: Re-signed with the Golden State Warriors on a three-year, $48 million deal. The new deal helps keep the Warriors' championship core together.

Zach Randolph: Agreed to a two-year, $24 million deal with the Sacramento Kings. Adds much-needed veteran leadership and toughness to the Kings.

Shaun Livingston: Re-signed with the Golden State Warriors on a three-year, $24 Million deal. The new deal helps the Warriors retain a valuable veteran presence on the bench.

J.J.Redick: Agreed to a one-year, $23 million deal with the Philadelphia 76ers. The signing gives the 76ers a tremendous shooter who can mentor their young core.

Kyle Korver: Re-signed with the Cleveland Cavaliers on a three-year, $22 million deal. The new deal keeps a vital bench piece on the team.

Nick Young:  Agreed to a one-year, $5.2 million deal with the Golden State Warriors. The acquisition adds much-needed depth to their bench, as well as another reliable three-point shooter.

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