Five undrafted NBA free agents to watch during summer league
DJ Burns Jr.
The NBA Summer League offers a glimpse into the future of basketball, showcasing young talents and giving undrafted players a chance to prove themselves. This year, multiple undrafted free agents are worth keeping an eye on as they vie for a spot on an NBA roster. Here are five players to watch:
1. DJ Burns Jr. | Cleveland Cavaliers
Burns Jr. captured the hearts of basketball fans during the 2024 NCAA Tournament, leading the Cinderella No. 11 seed NC State to the Final Four. Burns Jr averaged 16.2 points, 4.2 rebounds and 3.6 assists during March Madness. He excelled in the post in college, using his frame and crafty footwork to navigate around defenders.
The biggest question is whether his game will translate to the NBA and if he can keep up with the faster pace of play. His skill set and determination make him a player to watch.
2. Jack Gohlke | Oklahoma City Thunder
Gohlke made headlines during the 2024 NCAA Tournament by hitting 10 three-pointers in a first-round upset win over No. 3 Kentucky. An elite sharpshooter, Gohlke's ability to make big shots under pressure is invaluable.
The Oklahoma City Thunder have taken a chance on him, keeping him on the end of the bench as a valuable asset in clutch situations.
3. Armando Bacot | Utah Jazz
After five seasons at North Carolina, Bacot is ready to make his mark in the NBA with the Utah Jazz. Bacot's consistency and competitive drive led UNC to a national championship game.
Bacot joins a Jazz team with questions around their big men, Walker Kessler and Lauri Markkanen. This opens the door for Bacot, along with second-round draft pick Kyle Filipowski, to compete for a roster spot.
4. PJ Hall | Denver Nuggets
Hall, a 6-foot-8 forward from Clemson, impressed during the 2024 NCAA Tournament by leading his team to the Elite Eight. Hall is known for his relentless motor, hard play and excellent pick-and-roll execution. Hall is excellent on the defensive end at anticipating help-side defense.
The Denver Nuggets are looking for reliable big men to back up Nikola Jokic and Hall could fit that role.
5. Max Abmas | Utah Jazz
Abmas, a 6-foot point guard, led the No. 15 seed Oral Roberts on a memorable Cinderella run in 2021, upsetting No. 2 Ohio State and No. 7 Florida before narrowly losing to No. 3 Arkansas in the Sweet 16. He averaged 26.7 points, 4.7 assists, three rebounds and 1.3 steals in those three games.
Known for his elite scoring, particularly from long range, Abmas could become a standout player for the Jazz in the Summer League.
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