Sharife Cooper, Cleveland Cavaliers David Liam Kyle/NBAE via Getty Images

Every NBA Team's Most Promising G League Prospect

Jonathan Wasserman

The G League has become a critical developmental program for every NBA team, from projected lottery franchises to contenders.

The depth of talent around the NBA has reached an all-time high. Every organization seems to have at least one G League prospect it can call up for useful minutes.

Some are just waiting for an opportunity after being drafted to a deep roster.

Among the 28 G League teams with direct affiliates, we identified the player most likely to eventually make the jump and emerge as a valued NBA rotation piece. Some of the following players are with their NBA affiliates now, but they previously spent time in the G League and could wind up back there soon.

Austin Spurs: Blake Wesley, Combo Guard

Blake Wesley, San Antonio Spurs Photos by Michael Gonzales/NBAE via Getty Images

G League Stats: 11 games, 17.0 points and 2.4 assists in 27.0 minutes, 37.2 percent FG, 28.6 percent 3PT

Drafted: No. 25 in 2022

Age: 19

While there were some expectations that the San Antonio Spurs would trade one of last year's three first-round picks, they kept No. 25 with Blake Wesley on the board.

His flashes at Notre Dame outweighed the inconsistency and inefficiency. That's still the case for Wesley in the G League, given his age, positional tools, explosive first step, shot-making versatility and ability to set up teammates off the dribble.

San Antonio will remain patient and bet on Wesley to gradually improve his shooting consistency, decision-making and finishing IQ, because he's clearly a threat with his jumper, blow-by burst and athleticism for translatable attacking.

At 6'5" with a knack for using his length to make defensive plays on the ball, Wesley could eventually offer the versatility to play and guard either backcourt position.

Birmingham Squadron: Dereon Seabron, Wing

Dereon Seabron, New Orleans Pelicans Christian Bonin/NBAE via Getty Images

G League stats: 28 games, 16.7 points, 5.0 rebounds, 3.6 assists in 32.5 minutes, 52.1 percent FG, 34.1 percent 3PT

Drafted: Undrafted in 2022, two-way contract with New Orleans Pelicans

Age: 22 years old

The New Orleans Pelicans are in position to benefit from NBA teams putting too much stock into Dereon Seabron's poor shooting and questionable fit.

Playing a point wing role at North Carolina State, he recorded a whopping 180 made field goals at the rim (per Synergy Sports), a tribute to his signature ability to handle, change speed/direction and turn the corner on defenders. He often catches his men off guard with how much ground his long strides cover.

It's carried over to the G League, where he recently scored 30-plus points in consecutive games against Ignite and 2023's projected top-two pick Scoot Henderson. Meanwhile, his average of 3.6 assists reflects his effectiveness in navigating off the dribble and using that skill to create for others.

With Seabron having made nine of 18 threes through nine January games, he's reaching a new level of intrigue for New Orleans. Regardless, his value to the Pelicans and other NBA teams is his knack for putting pressure on the rim.

Capital City Go-Go: Johnny Davis, Guard

Johnny Davis, Washington Wizards Stephen Gosling/NBAE via Getty Images

G League stats: 23 games, 11.2 points and 1.7 assists in 25.4 minutes, 38.9 percent FG, 30.7 percent 3PT

Drafted: No. 10 in 2022

Age: 20

The Capital City Go-Go's Quenton Jackson is starting to make a case for more NBA call-ups by the Washington Wizards. But Johnny Davis is still the franchise's top G League prospect, even if it doesn't start seeing results for another year or two.

The ball-dominant, mid-range-heavy college scorer was always going to need time to adjust. Davis made an enormous jump during his second season at Wisconsin, and it's too early to write him off before giving him a chance to adjust and improve his shooting range.

He was effective when used off the ball last year, particularly as an off-screen scorer and cutter.

Still, signature driving, difficult shot-making and defensive pressure should eventually come alive for Davis.

Cleveland Charge: Sharife Cooper, Point Guard

Sharife Cooper, Cleveland Cavaliers David Liam Kyle/NBAE via Getty Images

G League stats: 27 games, 25.5 points, 7.2 assists in 35.0 minutes, 47.8 percent FG, 36.2 percent 3PT

Drafted: No. 48 in 2021

Age: 21

Ahead of the 2021 draft, teams questioned the lack of size, shooting and ball-dominance of Sharife Cooper, who's been one of the G League's most productive players.

The Cleveland Cavaliers prospect has already had nine games with at least 30 points, including three with 40-plus. Credit goes to his shiftiness off the dribble for penetration, finishing craft and improved shot-making, with Cooper having made 55 threes in 27 games.

But despite the volume scoring, which is still an obvious plus that reflects his ability to self-create and make just enough jumpers, it's his playmaking that will hold the most value in the NBA.

With his ball-handling, quickness and change of speed/direction, Cooper possesses translatable elusiveness and the vision/passing skill to optimize it for setting up teammates.

Even if the scoring doesn't carry over, whether it's due to physical limitations or shooting issues, Cooper should still be appealing to NBA teams as a change-of-pace facilitator who can keep pressure on defenses.

College Park Skyhawks: Tyrese Martin, Shooting Guard

Tyrese Martin, Atlanta Hawks Derek White/NBAE via Getty Images

G League stats: 13 games, 19.9 points, 8.5 rebounds in 32.5 minutes, 50.2 percent FG, 34.0 percent 3PT

Drafted: No. 51 in 2022

Age: 23

Tyrese Martin made a gradual impression on scouts last year, eventually getting drafted by capitalizing on an opportunity at G League Elite Camp and turning that into an NBA combine invitation.

While there isn't a clear path into the Atlanta Hawks' rotation, he differentiates himself with on/off-ball scoring versatility, instinct plays and rebounding activity. It could make Martin a fit, especially if last year's shooting improvement (43.0 percent 3PT at UConn) proves legitimate.

Though limited athletically, he compensates with a capable pull-up game and scoring improvisation in the lane.

Martin has bounced between Atlanta and College Park, but he's averaged 23.9 points over his last nine games in the G League.

Delaware Blue Coats: Jaden Springer, Combo Guard

Jaden Springer, Philadelphia 76ers Mary Kate Ridgway/NBAE via Getty Images

G League stats: 12 games, 17.7 points, 2.1 assists in 27.8 minutes, 51.3 percent FG, 28.6 percent 3PT

Drafted: No. 28 in 2021

Age: 20

Jaden Springer ended last year in the G League by reaching at least 26 points in three of his last five games. Depth at the guard spots on the Philadelphia 76ers has made it difficult for the 20-year-old to make the NBA jump this year. Still, Springer continues to build an interesting case around his efficient play, versatility and defense.

For Delaware, he's shooting 57.9 percent inside the arc, where he leverages his strong legs and frame to get to spots and rise with balance. He'll obviously receive a spike in NBA interest by showing some improvement in his three-point percentages, but his age and shot-making skill create hope.

While it's difficult to picture Springer developing into a high-powered scorer or playmaker, he possesses the tools and skill set for a connector who can defend both backcourt spots.

Sound decision-making and toughness bode well for his projected role-player responsibilities. And he still has plenty of time to sharpen his off-the-dribble game and range, considering he's not much older than some of 2022's one-and-done freshmen.

Fort Wayne Mad Ants: Kendall Brown, Combo Forward

Kendall Brown, Indiana Pacers Ron Hoskins/NBAE via Getty Images

G League stats: 10 games, 8.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, 1.9 assists in 23.2 minutes, 43.6 percent FG, 6-of-21 3PT

Drafted: No. 48 in 2022

Age: 19

Raw offense and a foot injury have pushed Kendall Brown's NBA timetable back. The Indiana Pacers could start to think about him as a potential rotational player for the 2023-24 season, particularly if they trade any of their wings or fail to upgrade at power forward.

Brown's draw revolves around his explosiveness and defensive potential at 6'8". At this stage, he's better suited as a small-ball 4, given his creation and shooting limitations. He impacts games by tapping into his bounce and quickness for cutting, finishing and defensive playmaking.

Flashes of open shot-making and passing did pop at Baylor, and Brown won't turn 20 until May. He'll never offer Indiana any scoring firepower, but the Pacers could eventually value his defensive versatility, easy baskets and activity—with shooting development and ball-moving as possible bonuses.

Grand Rapids Gold: Peyton Watson, Wing

Peyton Watson, Denver Nuggets Richard Prepetit/NBAE via Getty Images

G League stats: 15 games, 19.0 points, 7.5 rebounds in 33.3 minutes, 45.0 percent FG, 28.8 percent 3PT

Drafted: No. 30 in 2022

Age: 20

Even though UCLA played Peyton Watson just 12.7 minutes per game, the Denver Nuggets used a first-round pick to get him. So far, his G League film is looking similar to the high school and FIBA tape that likely enticed the Nuggets to invest long term and remain patient through a few years of development.

Watson's defensive potential is still atop the scouting report, with the 6'7" wing possessing the type of positional tools and quickness to guard multiple positions and contest shots away from the basket.

Though still on the raw side offensively, he's averaging 19.0 points for Grand Rapids Gold, delivering more flashes of off-the-dribble scoring and shot-making with freedom he didn't have at UCLA.

He's also had six games with multiple made threes and has converted 79.2 percent of his free throws. There is clear evidence of capable shooting and enough time for a 20-year-old to reach a threatening level.

Greensboro Swarm: Kai Jones, Power Forward/Center

Kai Jones, Charlotte Hornets Olivia Ramirez/NBAE via Getty Images

G League stats: Seven games, 16.4 points, 9.9 rebounds, 2.1 blocks in 29.2 minutes, 68.5 percent FG

Drafted: No. 19 in 2021

Age: 22

Kai Jones seems like a strong candidate to get called up and play regular minutes for the Charlotte Hornets once the lottery is in sight.

At baseline, he should have NBA success just by rim running and tapping into his athleticism for easy finishes off rolls and drop-offs. That quickness and bounce will also serve him well on defense, where he has the right ingredients for pick-and-roll coverage and weak-side rim protection.

Dating back to Brewster Academy and Texas, Jones has always been able to show scouts the occasional flash of shooting or slashing from the arc. He should be useful even without the offensive skill plays, but there is clearly another level of upside than just dunker/shot-blocker for Jones to reach.

Iowa Wolves: Josh Minott, Combo Forward

Josh Minott, Minnesota Timberwolves Evan Yu/NBAE via Getty Images

G League stats: 19 games, 18.1 points, 7.8 rebounds in 31.9 minutes, 52.1 percent FG, 35.8 percent 3PT

Drafted: No. 45 in 2022

Age: 20

The Minnesota Timberwolves decided to buy Josh Minott's physical tools and athleticism and bet on his skill development in the G League.

Explosiveness and motor continue to fuel the 20-year-old's production, and he figures to still serve as a dynamite play-finisher off NBA scorers' creation when gets the call up. There is also an exciting defensive upside tied to his 6'8" size, quickness, motor and instincts, which he used to put up tremendous steal and block rates at Memphis.

He possesses promising passing IQ and improving shooting touch as well. Minott's assist numbers don't accurately reflect his ability to process and hit the right teammate. And after making just two threes in college, he's averaging 1.0 per game for the Iowa Wolves.

Lakeland Magic: Caleb Houstan, Wing

Caleb Houstan, Orlando Magic Mary Kate Ridgway/NBAE via Getty Images

G League stats: 7 games, 16.6 points, 4.9 rebounds in 28.4 minutes, 41.1 percent FG, 31.1 percent 3PT

Drafted: No. 32 in 2022

Age: 20

Caleb Houston should benefit from 30 games of NBA experience and his recent demotion to the G League.

Now with the Lakeland Magic, he's getting 12.9 shots per game, which include both more catch-and-shoot looks to build confidence and bonus creation reps he won't receive in Orlando.

The obvious appeal to Houstan will always stem from his 6'8" size and shot-making. He's already made 28 NBA threes at a respectable 36.4 percent clip. But with Jonathan Isaac back following a lengthy recovery from a torn ACL, the rookie can focus on improving his spot-up drives and finishes and experimenting more off the dribble in the G League.

Regardless, the 20-year-old has an NBA foundation with his physical profile and shooting stroke.

Long Island Nets: Day'Ron Sharpe, Power Forward/Center

Day'Ron Sharpe, Brooklyn Nets Evan Yu/NBAE via Getty Images

G League stats: 14 games, 16.3 points, 12.4 rebounds in 28.8 minutes, 59.4 percent FG, 4-of-19 3PT

Drafted: No. 29 in 2021

Age: 21

In limited NBA action with the Brooklyn Nets, Day'Ron Sharpe has already had a handful of promising stretches. It's easy to picture his role and value, which revolve around his strength, mobility and activity for finishing, screening, putting back misses and making plays defensively.

Averaging 4.6 offensive boards in just 28.8 minutes for the Long Island Nets, Sharpe makes his mark on games by outworking opponents and generating second-chance opportunities. He also loves to set picks and use them to free himself for easy finishes off rolls and slips to the rim.

Passing is also a skill that sets him apart from other physical big men. Though he does most of his work off the ball or in the paint, the Nets can use him to dish from atop the key, as well as off short rolls and post-ups.

Maine Celtics: JD Davison, Point Guard

JD Davison, Boston Celtics China Wong/NBAE via Getty Images

G League stats: 29 games, 13.3 points, 7.3 assists in 32.2 minutes, 49.3 percent FG, 29.9 percent 3PT

Drafted: No. 53 in 2022 (two-way contract)

Age: 20

The Boston Celtics bought low on JD Davison, who was once viewed as a potential lottery pick but whose poor shooting and decision-making at Alabama led to a draft-night slide.

Both weaknesses have been evident in the G League, but they're also improvable, while his athleticism and playmaking aren't as teachable.

Averaging 12.0 assists over his last five games with the Maine Celtics, Davison should be interesting to the Celtics for his ability to set up teammates. He should also offer enough open-floor finishing and some more in ball-screen situations, but the scoring will mostly be a bonus.

He'll have a chance to carve out an NBA role by raising his shooting-threat level a notch and cutting down on unforced turnovers.

Memphis Hustle: Jake LaRavia, Power Forward

Jake LaRavia, Memphis Grizzlies Brandon Dill/NBAE via Getty Images

G League stats: 12 games, 17.2 points, 4.0 rebounds in 27.7 minutes, 45.9 percent FG, 37.7 percent 3PT

Drafted: No. 19 in 2022

Age: 21

Given the Memphis Grizzlies' depth and position near the top of the Western Conference, there is no urgency for them to rush Jake LaRavia, despite their obvious belief in his game.

They traded up in the first round to grab him, after an idea started to spread that he didn't fully showcase his shooting range at Wake Forest. In 12 G League games, LaRavia is up to 29 three-pointers, strengthening his stretch 4 reputation and future value to the Grizzlies.

The ability to attack closeouts, pass on the move and make smart defensive reads create more versatility and upside. LaRavia possesses an attractive skill set for a connector forward who'll play for a team and coaching staff that consistently gets the most out of Ja Morant's supporting players.

Motor City Cruise: Jared Rhoden, Wing

Jared Rhoden, Detroit Pistons Allison Farrand/NBAE via Getty Images

G League stats: 28 games, 14.8 points, 6.9 rebounds in 29.1 minutes, 48.7 percent FG, 41.1 percent 3PT

Drafted: Undrafted in 2022

Age: 23

A standout at the 2022 Portsmouth Invitational, Jared Rhoden then earned a G League Elite Camp invite, which he turned into a call to the NBA combine. In January, he made his first NBA appearance for the Detroit Pistons, continuing a rise that's been fueled by improved shooting, consistent production and two-way energy.

Rhoden has the chance to be an effective off-ball scorer with his catch-and-shoot game, shot-making off screens and drives past closeouts.

He's had a tendency to take tough shots or attempt hard finishes, and he won't offer much playmaking. But the potential to develop into a three-and-D NBA wing is there.

Oklahoma City Blue: Ousmane Dieng, Wing

Ousmane Dieng, Oklahoma City Thunder Melissa Majchrzak/NBAE via Getty Images

G League stats: 12 games, 16.2 points, 8.8 rebounds, 4.1 assists in 34.6 minutes, 45.5 percent FG, 33.8 percent 3PT

Drafted: No. 11 in 2022

Age: 19

Though it figures to take a few years before Ousmane Dieng can consistently execute against NBA defenses, in the G League, he's showcased the strengths and skills that convinced the Oklahoma City Thunder to trade up and draft him at No. 11.

At 6'10", he's averaging 2.1 threes, 4.1 assists and 1.2 blocks per game with the OKC Blue, checking a unique mix of boxes with his physical tools, playmaking and shot-making. It creates versatility, mismatches and positional interchangeability, which is important for a Thunder team that needs to find time for Jalen Williams and Tre Mann off the bench.

The rebuilding Thunder will have no problem waiting on Dieng to add strength, improve his shooting consistency and cut down on turnovers.

Ontario Clippers: Brandon Boston Jr., Wing

Brandon Boston Jr., Los Angeles Clippers Juan Ocampo/NBAE via Getty Images

G League stats: 15 games, 24.2 points, 5.8 rebounds in 34.1 minutes, 48.2 percent FG, 32.0 percent 3PT

Drafted: No. 51 in 2021

Age: 21

Brandon Boston Jr. arrived at Kentucky in 2020 viewed as a potential top-three pick, and the Los Angeles Clippers drafted him at No. 51 after he went one-and-done.

He's one of the G League's top scorers this year, looking more like the hyped prospect out of Sierra Canyon than the one who struggled with consistency and shooting at Kentucky.

Boston's confidence looked zapped in college, where he had a short leash and was benched during the second halves of games. That confidence has seemingly returned as a member of the Ontario Clippers, as he's been granted far more freedom to play through mistakes and missed shots.

This season, he's totaled six games with at least 30 points.

Boston ultimately possesses the positional size, shooting range, self-creation ability and shot-making versatility for three-level NBA scoring. It seems realistic to expect the 2021 second-round pick to emerge as a useful weapon off L.A.'s bench by next season.

Raptors 905: Ron Harper Jr., Combo Forward

Ron Harper Jr., Toronto Raptors Christian Bonin/NBAE via Getty Images

G League stats: 25 games, 17.2 points, 5.7 rebounds in 34.1 minutes, 47.6 percent FG, 31.7 percent 3PT

Drafted: Undrafted in 2022 (two-way contract)

Age: 22

Age and athletic limitations had something to do with Ron Harper Jr.'s undrafted status. He figures to eventually receive a chance at rotation minutes with the Toronto Raptors, assuming last season's three-point shooting improvement proves legitimate.

Though Harper hasn't been as efficient in the G League, he made 68 threes at a 39.8 percent clip as a senior at Rutgers. And at 6'6", 245 pounds, he's shown he can defend both forward positions, creating some intriguing three-and-D potential for the Raptors.

Otherwise, he'll score off improvisation and feel, and he checks the intangibles box with his IQ and decision-making, toughness and clutch play. Harper has the type of game and mentality that could be more effective/efficient when surrounded by better NBA creators.

Rio Grande Valley Vipers: TyTy Washington Jr., Combo Guard

TyTy Washington Jr., Houston Rockets Jack Arent/NBAE via Getty Images

G League stats: 13 games, 23.2 points, 5.3 assists in 33.3 minutes, 47.7 percent FG, 38.7 percent 3PT

Drafted: No. 29 in 2022

Age: 21

TyTy Washington Jr. may be spending a lot more time with the Houston Rockets after his 53-point game for the Rio Grande Valley Vipers in mid-January.

While his excellent playmaking IQ and assist-to-turnover ratio from Kentucky carried over to the G League, he's been more aggressive with shooting threes with the Vipers, which has helped unlock more scoring firepower.

NBA scouts questioned Washington's limited athleticism and its negative impact on his ability to separate. But he is too skilled of a finisher, shot-maker and passer for a lack of burst to completely negate his offensive strengths.

His effectiveness as a facilitator will still translate first for the Houston Rockets. But there should be optimism that Washington can eventually execute threatening-enough scoring versatility to play a regular combo role in Houston's rotation.

Salt Lake City Stars: Johnny Juzang, Wing

Johnny Juzang, Utah Jazz Jeff Bottari/NBAE via Getty Images

G League stats: 20 games, 18.1 points, 5.1 rebounds in 29.5 minutes, 41.4 percent FG, 38.2 percent 3PT

Drafted: Undrafted in 2022 (two-way contract)

Age: 21

The Utah Jazz grabbed Johnny Juzang from the undrafted pool after he failed to show improvement from 2021 to 2022 at UCLA. Despite adding little to his game last season, he's making an NBA case around his shot-making in the G League, where the 6'6" wing is averaging 3.1 threes per game.

Half his field goals have come from behind the arc. Though scouts questioned his athletic limitations, Juzang possesses the positional size and easy stroke for his shot-making to carry over.

Aside from his potential to stretch the floor, he'll be a scoring threat in ball-screen situations with his ability to shoot off the dribble and use good pacing and body control on line drives.

Santa Cruz Warriors: Patrick Baldwin Jr., Combo Forward

Patrick Baldwin Jr., Golden State Warriors Noah Graham/NBAE via Getty Images

G League stats: 13 games, 11.6 points, 5.3 rebounds in 26.5 minutes, 42.2 percent FG, 29.4 percent 3PT

Drafted: No. 28 in 2022

Age: 20

A poor fit with UW Milwaukee forced Patrick Baldwin Jr. into a No. 1-option role that exposed his lack of burst and wiggle for creation. He's in a more favorable situation with the Golden State Warriors, who'll ask the 6'9" forward to play to his strengths as an off-ball scorer and shot-maker.

His game is actually better suited to thrive in Golden State's offense compared to Santa Cruz's. Getting higher-percentage looks in 15 NBA appearances, Baldwin is 22-of-49 from three. He has excellent positional size and a high release to cleanly get off balanced shots.

And he's flashed some encouraging lateral mobility and defensive IQ, which should help Baldwin eventually earn an important three-and-D role in a rotation that's loaded with creators and playmakers.

Sioux Falls Skyforce: DJ Stewart, Wing

DJ Stewart Dave Eggen/NBAE via Getty Images

G League stats: 30 games, 22.1 points 3.2 assists in 37.8 minutes, 49.0 percent FG, 33.3 percent 3PT

Drafted: Undrafted in 2021

Age: 23

With three games of at least 35 points for the Miami Heat affiliate Sioux Falls Skyforce, DJ Stewart is building a case around three-level scoring.

He's delivered a well-rounded mix of self-creation, one-on-one shot-making and explosive finishes. And at 6'6" with some shiftiness off the dribble and confidence hitting pull-ups, step-backs and fallaways, Stewart could possess enough physical/athletic traits and skill for NBA scoring.

Improving his three-point consistency will be key, considering he'd have to adjust to playing more off the ball if called up. He's currently an unrestricted free agent, but that could change if he keeps producing and creating highlight reels that showcase a balanced dose of perimeter, in-between and slashing offense.

South Bay Lakers: Scotty Pippen Jr., Combo Guard

Scotty Pippen Jr., Los Angeles Lakers Adam Pantozzi/NBAE via Getty Images

G League stats: 24 games, 23.5 points, 5.5 assists in 29.0 minutes, 46.1 percent FG, 36.6 percent 3PT

Drafted: Undrafted in 2022 (two-way contract)

Age: 22

NBA teams had a difficult time buying Scotty Pippen Jr. as a 6'2", 170-pound limited athlete and score-first ball-dominator. He could eventually serve as a discount scoring spark if given the right role that optimizes his creativity, rim pressure and shot-making.

Already with 11 games of at least 25 points for the L.A. Lakers-affiliated South Bay Lakers, Pippen is getting to his spots via change of direction and speed and capitalizing on a green light to keep shooting pull-ups. The 5.5 assists per game highlight playmaking feel and vision, particularly in ball-screen situations, where he can manipulate defenses using stop-start dribbles and hesitations.

Physical and athletic limitations should affect his effectiveness at separating and defending. But they aren't deal-breakers regarding Pippen's potential to create offense and make shots.

Stockton Kings: Neemias Queta, Center

Neemias Queta, Stockton Kings Mercedes Oliver/NBAE via Getty Images

G League stats: 25 games, 18.2 points, 8.2 rebounds, 2.0 blocks in 29.6 minutes, 68.6 percent FG

Drafted: No. 39 in 2021 (two-way contract)

Age: 23

Known for rim protection out of Utah State, Sacramento Kings prospect Neemias Queta has looked like an NBA-caliber center for his offensive effectiveness.

He's still producing mostly inside the paint, but opponents have had difficulty containing his 7'0", 248-pound frame and 7'4" wingspan on rolls and offensive rebounds. The Santa Cruz Warriors were one of those opponents, as they gave up 38 points to the 23-year-old in November.

He has also developed into a legitimate post option thanks to improved footwork and soft touch.

But defense is still the biggest selling point for Queta, whose strength and length are built for an anchor role.

Texas Legends: A.J. Lawson, Wing

A.J. Lawson, Dallas Mavericks Michael Gonzalest/NBAE via Getty Images

G League stats: 14 games, 20.5 points, 6.8 rebounds in 33.7 minutes, 53.5 percent FG, 35.0 percent 3PT

Drafted: Undrafted in 2021 (two-way contract)

Age: 22

Signed to a new two-way contract last month, A.J. Lawson has made brief appearances for the Dallas Mavericks in January thanks to his scoring and shot-making in the G League.

Since November, he's scored at least 22 points with the College Park Skyhawks, the Iowa Wolves and most recently the Texas Legends.

At 6'6", Lawson has a smooth catch-and-shoot game and knack for capitalizing on open driving lanes and in transition.

Though it's difficult to picture him creating or playmaking, he'll have a chance to add value with the ability to stretch the floor and provide complementary offense.

Westchester Knicks: DaQuan Jeffries, Wing

DaQuan Jeffries, New York Knicks Evan Yu/NBAE via Getty Images

G League stats: 26 games, 18.1 points, 5.8 rebounds in 32.4 minutes, 48.0 percent FG, 32.7 percent 3PT

Drafted: Undrafted in 2019 (two-way contract)

Age: 25

With 47 career NBA games played, DaQuan Jeffries was recently given a two-way deal by the New York Knicks.

He hasn't been able to stick, mostly because he underperformed as a shooter relative to his capabilities/expectations. But he also hasn't had any margin for error after going undrafted.

Jeffries shot 40.3 percent from three in the G League last year with the College Park Skyhawks. Though he hasn't been as efficient with the Westchester Knicks, he clearly has three-level shot-making skill and functional athleticism for play-finishing off the ball.

Depending on what the Knicks do at next week's trade deadline and during the offseason, Jeffries may need a change to a team with more openings on the wing. But it's unlikely he's played his last NBA game given the demand for three-and-D guards or forwards with Jeffries' 225-pound build.

Windy City Bulls: Dalen Terry, Point Wing

Dalen Terry, Chicago Bulls Kamil Krzaczynski/NBAE via Getty Images

G League stats: 11 games, 13.4 points, 7.3 rebounds, 4.7 assists in 31.6 minutes, 45.2 percent FG, 38.7 percent 3PT

Drafted: No. 18 in 2022

Age: 20

Dalen Terry has gone back and forth between the Chicago Bulls and G League, though he's still yet to play over 10 minutes in an NBA game.

Despite operating as a ball-handler often in college, his best chance to crack Chicago's rotation will be as a point-wing or forward who can defend positions 1 through 3.

The Bulls will value his play-finishing, ball-moving, defense, energy and overall ability to operate in different roles. His game screams glue guy. Though not an advanced creator or shot-maker, he's the type who'll score or play-make by taking what the defense gives up.

Terry is best in transition, attacking in space and cutting, and he does have some facilitator vision to set up teammates.

But he's also made an encouraging 12-of-31 three-pointers in the G League. Terry doesn't shoot them often, but just making enough open rhythm threes will be critical for his NBA value.

Wisconsin Herd: Sandro Mamukelashvili, Power Forward/Center

Sandro Mamukelashvili, Milwaukee Bucks Allison Farrand/NBAE via Getty Images

G League stats: 15 games, 20.3 points, 10.2 rebounds in 32.4 minutes, 51.9 percent FG, 26.9 percent 3PT

Drafted: No. 54 in 2021 (two-way contract)

Age: 23

Sandro Mamukelashvili blends an interesting mix of old-school and modern skill that he's already proved can work at the NBA level. He capped last year with a 28-point, 13-rebound, four-assist game in the Milwaukee Bucks' regular-season finale, finishing his rookie campaign 22-of-52 from three.

Defensive limitations will make it tough for Mamukelashvili to ever play full-time NBA minutes, but a high offensive skill level creates functional scoring versatility, inside and out.

A post player with footwork, touch and passing IQ, Mamukelashvili can serve as a back-to-the-basket option who can get his own shot and facilitate. And though he hasn't shot well from deep this season for the Herd, he's a credible threat who can also put the ball down and surprise defenders with body-controlled drives into finishes.

Depending on what happens with impending free agent Brook Lopez and the Bucks' backup power forward spot in the offseason, there could be a path for Mamukelashvili into Milwaukee's rotation by next season.

   

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