The NBA free agency period is always full of intrigue and excitement, as teams look to reshape their rosters and make a push for the championship. While the big names often grab the headlines, there are several underrated players who fly under the radar but have the potential to be difference-makers. These players might not be the flashiest or most talked-about, but they possess the skills and experience to make a significant impact on their new teams. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at five such free agents who could surprise everyone and make a big impact in the 2024-25 season.
1. Taurean Prince
Taurean Prince is set to become an unrestricted free agent in the 2024 offseason. He signed a one-year, $4.5 million contract with the Los Angeles Lakers for the 2023-24 season. This deal was fully guaranteed and signed using the bi-annual exception.
Given his consistent performance and experience, Prince could secure a new contract in the range of $8-10 million annually, possibly for two to three years. Teams seeking a versatile forward who can contribute both offensively and defensively would find Prince a valuable addition.
Taurean Prince is one of those players who consistently flies under the radar but brings immense value to any team he’s part of. In the 2023-24 season with the Los Angeles Lakers, Prince proved his worth as a versatile forward, averaging 8.9 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game. His shooting touch was evident, hitting 39.6% of his three-point attempts, which makes him a significant floor-spacer for any team.
Prince’s defensive capabilities are a big part of his appeal. He can guard multiple positions, thanks to his 6’7″ frame and athleticism. This versatility allows him to switch seamlessly between defending guards and forwards, providing crucial flexibility for any defensive scheme. During his time with the Lakers, he often took on tough defensive assignments, showing he can be relied upon to slow down some of the league’s best scorers.
What makes Prince particularly valuable is his ability to perform well in high-pressure situations. Throughout the 2023-24 season, he demonstrated a knack for hitting clutch shots and making key defensive plays, something that any contender would find appealing. His experience in the playoffs, although limited, also adds a layer of maturity and reliability to his game.
Offensively, Prince is more than just a three-point shooter. He has a solid mid-range game and can drive to the basket effectively. His ability to create his own shot when needed gives him an edge over other role players. Additionally, Prince’s basketball IQ allows him to make smart decisions on the court, whether it’s finding the open man or taking the right shot.
Prince’s contract situation also makes him an attractive option. As a free agent, he offers great value for teams looking to add depth without breaking the bank. His consistent performance and ability to contribute on both ends of the floor make him a low-risk, high-reward signing.
2. Malik Beasley
Malik Beasley is a sharpshooting guard known for his scoring and ability to stretch the floor. In the 2023-24 season with the Milwaukee Bucks, Beasley averaged 11.3 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game, while shooting 41.3% from three-point range. His performance was a key component of the Bucks’ offensive strategy, providing essential spacing for stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Khris Middleton.
He is currently playing under a one-year, $2.7 million contract with the Milwaukee Bucks, which he signed for the 2023-24 season using the veteran’s minimum exception. Given his solid performance and shooting ability, Beasley could secure a new contract in the range of $5-8 million annually, potentially for two to three years. Teams looking for a reliable shooter who can provide offensive firepower off the bench would find Beasley an appealing option.
Beasley’s shooting ability is his most significant asset. He’s known for his quick release and confidence in taking shots from beyond the arc. His ability to catch and shoot makes him a perfect fit for teams needing a reliable outside threat. Over the course of the 2023-24 season, he hit multiple game-winning shots, showcasing his clutch gene and ability to perform under pressure.
Defensively, Beasley has made strides, becoming a more reliable perimeter defender. While not elite on this end of the floor, his effort and understanding of defensive rotations have improved, allowing him to hold his own against some of the better guards and wings in the league. His athleticism and length help him contest shots and stay with quicker opponents.
At 27 years old, Beasley is entering his prime, and his combination of scoring, shooting efficiency, and defensive effort make him an attractive option for any team looking to add firepower to their backcourt.
3. Gary Trent Jr.
Gary Trent Jr. is a talented shooting guard who brings a potent mix of scoring and defensive prowess to any team. In the 2023-24 season with the Toronto Raptors, Trent averaged 13.7 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game, while shooting 39.3% from three-point range. His ability to score efficiently from the perimeter and defend multiple positions makes him a highly valuable player.
Trent exercised his player option for the 2023-24 season, earning $18.5 million with the Toronto Raptors. This decision allows him to explore free agency in 2024 after completing his current three-year, $51.84 million contract. He could secure a new contract in the range of $20 million annually, possibly for three to four years.
Trent’s offensive game is centered around his excellent shooting ability. He excels at both catch-and-shoot opportunities and creating his own shot off the dribble. This versatility makes him a dangerous threat from beyond the arc, as well as a capable mid-range scorer. During the 2023-24 season, Trent consistently demonstrated his ability to take over games with his scoring, including several 30+ point performances.
Defensively, Trent is known for his tenacity and ability to guard both guards and forwards. His quick hands and instincts have allowed him to be a proficient on-ball defender, often tasked with guarding the opposing team’s best perimeter player. His defensive versatility is a key asset, especially for teams looking to improve their perimeter defense.
At 25 years old, Trent is entering his prime and has already established himself as a reliable two-way player. His performance with the Raptors has shown that he can be a cornerstone piece for a team looking to compete at a high level. His ability to contribute on both ends of the floor makes him an attractive free agent target for teams needing a boost in scoring and defense.
In conclusion, Gary Trent Jr. is an underrated free agent who could make a significant impact in the 2024-25 season. His scoring ability, shooting efficiency, and defensive skills make him a valuable asset for any team. Whether he joins a contender looking for an extra edge or a team in need of a reliable scorer and defender, Trent is poised to make a big difference.
4. Precious Achiuwa
Precious Achiuwa is set to become a restricted free agent in the 2024 offseason. He is currently playing under a rookie-scale contract with the New York Knicks after being traded from the Toronto Raptors as part of the OG Anunoby deal. His current contract is worth approximately $12.7 million over four years, with the 2023-24 season being the final year of his rookie deal.
Given his performance and potential, Achiuwa could be looking at a substantial pay increase. A reasonable estimate for his next contract could be in the range of $12-15 million annually, possibly spanning three to four years. Teams in need of a versatile forward who can contribute defensively and on the boards would likely be willing to offer him a lucrative deal.
Achiuwa has shown tremendous growth and potential in his game. During the 2023-24 season with the New York Knicks, Achiuwa averaged 7.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game. His ability to defend multiple positions, coupled with his improving offensive game, makes him a valuable asset for any team looking to bolster their frontcourt.
Achiuwa’s defensive versatility is one of his strongest attributes. Standing at 6’8″ with a wingspan that allows him to contest shots effectively, Achiuwa can guard both forward positions and even some centers. His athleticism and mobility make him an excellent defender in switch-heavy defensive schemes. He’s also a solid rebounder, using his strength and timing to secure boards on both ends of the floor.
Achiuwa’s high energy and work ethic make him a fan favorite and a coach’s dream. He’s known for his hustle plays, whether it’s diving for loose balls, contesting shots at the rim, or running the floor in transition. His ability to impact the game without needing the ball in his hands makes him an ideal fit for teams with ball-dominant stars.
In summary, Precious Achiuwa is an underrated free agent who could make a significant impact in the 2024-25 season. His defensive versatility, rebounding, and developing offensive game make him a valuable target for any team. Whether he stays with the Knicks or finds a new home, Achiuwa is poised to be a game-changer.
5. Talen Horton-Tucker
Talen Horton-Tucker is set to become an unrestricted free agent in the 2024 offseason. He opted into his player option for the 2023-24 season, earning $11.02 million with the Utah Jazz. This decision allows him to explore free agency after the season, completing his three-year, $30.7 million contract.
Given his potential and performance, Horton-Tucker could secure a new contract in the range of $10-15 million annually, potentially for three to four years. Teams looking for a young, versatile guard who can contribute on both ends of the floor would find Horton-Tucker a valuable addition.
Horton-Tucker has shown flashes of brilliance and significant growth in his game. During the 2023-24 season with the Utah Jazz, Horton-Tucker averaged 10.1 points, 3.5 assists, and 2.4 rebounds per game. His ability to create his own shot, coupled with his improving playmaking skills, makes him a versatile offensive threat.
Horton-Tucker’s game is characterized by his unique combination of size, strength, and ball-handling skills. Standing at 6’4″ with a wingspan that allows him to play both guard positions and even small forward, he presents matchup problems for defenders. His driving ability and finishing around the rim are standout aspects of his offensive game, often using his body to shield defenders and finish through contact.
At just 23 years old, Horton-Tucker is entering a crucial stage of his career where his next contract could see him become a key player for a team looking to build around young talent. His performance with the Jazz has demonstrated his ability to take on larger roles, and with more opportunities, he could significantly impact any team that signs him.
In summary, Talen Horton-Tucker is an underrated free agent who could make a significant impact in the 2024-25 season. His combination of scoring, playmaking, and defensive potential make him a valuable asset for any team. Whether he stays with the Jazz or moves to a new team, Horton-Tucker is poised to make a big difference.
