The summer of 2014 will be an exciting one for the NBA, as many stars are becoming available via free agency. Plus the draft class of 2014 is already projected to be one of the best in recent memory, already drawing comparisons to 2003, which featured LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Carmelo Anthony.

Those three stars will headline the 2014 free agency class. With the possibility of a drastic change in landscape around the corner for the NBA, we take a look at the players headlining the summer of 2014.

NBA's 2014 Free Agent And Draft Class -- Will This Be The Best Group Ever? Slideshow

 

An Awesome Summer

The 2014 NBA draft is drawing comparisons to the iconic class of 2003. Stars selected that year including LeBron James can test the free-agent market next summer.

 

Kobe Bryant

Kobe Bryant has been loyal to the Lakers after the team's ownership had been good to him. But after tearing his Achilles tendon in 2013, Bryant has left many fans wondering how much the 34-year-old has left in the tank. The "Black Mamba" has stated he won't be taking a pay cut in 2014, which leaves Los Angeles with a slim chance of signing another marquee free agent.

 

LeBron James

This generation's most gifted player is in his prime right now, and the MVP is showing no signs of slowing. Every year his skills are more defined, and every year he sets a new standard for greatness. James has won back-to-back championships, and many people are confident he will bring a third title to Miami. But the thought of returning to Cleveland may cross his mind, with budding stars Kyrie Irving and Andrew Bynum. At first glance, Miami seems like a no-brainer, but after “The Decision,” nothing can shock the NBA fan base again.

 

Dwyane Wade

Continuing through South Beach, Dwyane Wade is the Miami Heat's centerpiece and has led the team to three championships. Even with LeBron taking over as the team’s leader, Wade is the fan favorite. After back-to-back championships, it's difficult to see Pat Riley letting "Flash" leave Miami.

 

Paul Pierce

The long-time Boston great will look to become a Brooklyn great in the 2013-14 NBA season while upping his free agency value. Having played his entire career in Boston, Pierce has flourished as the team's primary option and will continue to have success going to play for a Nets team where he will be the team's second, if not third, option. With a strong season in Brooklyn, look for Pierce to make a lot more than a veteran’s minimum and help a team that is one player away from a title.

 

Chris Bosh

A part of the memorable 2003 draft class, Bosh has helped the Heat reach three straight championship series, winning back-to-back rings. The big man has been an All-Star in eight consecutive seasons, starting in 2006. At 29, Bosh has plenty left in the tank and would be a great addition to any team that can pull him from Miami and the Big Three.

 

Carmelo Anthony

Playing at Madison Square Garden, Carmelo Anthony is flourishing in his hometown hero role. Already shooting down any thoughts of going to Los Angeles, Anthony looks primed to continue his career in the Big Apple. But will another early-round playoff exit divert his thoughts from the Knicks? Anthony has never been able to get to the Finals, and that nagging failure may give him the desire to get out of New York.

 

Andrew Wiggins

Already projected to be the first pick of the 2014 NBA draft, Wiggins has stated he wants to play for the Toronto Raptors. Set out to be the next LeBron James, Wiggins must show he can lead Kansas to victories throughout March. The real question is, which team will lead the “tanking” contest to improve the odds of securing Wiggins?

 

Julius Randle

Randle has committed to Kentucky and, due to Wiggins' popularity, has largely been overlooked. The 6-foot-9 power forward out of Plano, Texas has shown incredible versatility in his post and perimeter game. Playing alongside the Harrison twins have skyrocketed Kentucky's chances of playing well into March. If Wiggins wasn’t a part of this draft, Randle would be the clear-cut No. 1.

 

Jabari Parker

The Chicago native already has accumulated many accolades, including Gatorade Player Of The Year, 2013 National Player Of The Year, and USA Basketball's "Male Athlete of the Year." With high expectations, Parker committed to Duke and has drawn many comparisons to Derrick Rose. In a star-studded draft, Parker still stands out.

 

Aaron Gordon

The MVP of the McDonald’s All-American Game, a walking highlight reel, has drawn comparisons to Blake Griffin. The Arizona commit can do more than just dunk the ball though, as Gordon is a versatile scoring threat that might be the best overall athlete of this draft.

 

Marcus Smart

After shocking the world and returning to Oklahoma State this year, Smart will only get better with another year of college experience. The physical guard often draws comparisons to James Harden as there are very few combo guards that possess his basketball IQ. Overall, Smart has the intangibles that every team wants and could be an asset to any team that gives him the chance.

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-- Follow Patrick Bates on Twitter @pbates13.