Top 5 available free agents ahead of 2024-25 NBA season feat. Lonnie Walker
The NBA preseason has come to a close, and most teams have more or less finalized their rosters. Some non-guaranteed players, like the Memphis Grizzlies' Yuki Kawamura have secured their roster spots while others were waived and are headed to free agency this season.
Here's a closer look at the top five available free agents teams could sign during the 2024-25 NBA season.
Lonnie Walker and four other free agents heading into 2024-25 NBA season
#1. Lonnie Walker
Among all the available NBA free agents, Lonnie Walker seems to be the top choice. During his time with the San Antonio Spurs from 2018-22, Walker proved to be an offensive threat despite his role-player status. He has a deadly midrange shot and also can take it strong inside.
He was then given the opportunity to play alongside LeBron James and the LA Lakers in hopes of pursuing another title. While his stint in LA was short-lived, there's no questioning that Walker played a prominent role in the Lakers' deep playoff run in 2023.
With that kind of experience on his resume, Lonnie Walker isn't someone teams would want to miss out on.
#2. Markelle Fultz
Markelle Fultz is one of those "what-if" players. He was the No. 1 pick in the 2017 NBA draft but failed to live up to his status given the injury he suffered on his left hand. The Philadelphia 76ers no longer saw the need for him on their roster and subsequently traded him to the Orlando Magic in 2019, where he'd spend the majority of his career.
Playing for the Magic through last season, Fultz redeemed himself by becoming a solid role player. In Orlando, he averaged 11.6 points, 4.8 assists, 3.4 rebounds and 1.2 steals per game.
Fultz can provide his future team with support on offense and solid defense.
#3. Dennis Smith Jr.
During Dennis Smith Jr.'s early years in the NBA, he proved to be an explosive player who had a natural ability to score. While his offensive prowess wasn't elite, he maintained solid figures. In his rookie season, he averaged a career-high 15.2 ppg matched with 5.2 apg, 3.8 rpg and 1.0 spg.
However, injuries prevented him from elevating his game. Despite his numbers dropping by a huge margin, Smith is still a good pick among the current free agents. His scoring numbers may no longer be up to his first few years, but his tenacious style of play will help teams solidify their defense.
#4. Jae Crowder
If teams are looking for a player with championship experience, Jae Crowder could be the right pick. Crowder has never won an NBA title. However, he's competed on the biggest stage on a couple of occasions. His efficiency may no longer be up to his younger years, but his veteran experience could definitely help mold teams aiming to contend for a title.
#5. Nassir Little
For teams looking for a young player who can still be improved through training, then Nassir Little could be their pick. During his tenure with the Portland Trail Blazers from 2019-23, Little showed potential on offense. He also displayed hustle on the court, which is what most teams want.