The NBA Draft might be over, but the hustle and bustle of team-building continues as franchises across the league scour the undrafted talent pool for hidden gems. It's a time when every team looks to add potential game-changers through two-way contracts, Exhibit 10 deals, or Summer League opportunities. While many of these undrafted players may never make a significant impact in the NBA, history has shown us that some can carve out remarkable careers.
Take Lu Dort, for instance. He went undrafted in 2019, yet by the 2024-25 season, he was a first-team All-Defense selection and a crucial part of the Oklahoma City Thunder's championship-winning squad. Similarly, Austin Reaves, undrafted in 2021, recently inked a hefty four-year, $185 million deal with the Los Angeles Lakers after a standout 2025-26 season.
Caleb Love, from the 2025 class, found his rhythm in the league despite not being drafted, averaging 10.4 points, 2.5 assists, and 2.3 rebounds over 49 games for a playoff-bound team.
Now, let's turn our attention to the 2026 class and some intriguing prospects who might just make waves in the upcoming 2026-27 season.
The Chicago Bulls, known for their athletic prowess, didn't quite address their need for perimeter shooting in the draft. Enter Atwell, a promising addition who could bolster their defense while providing a much-needed 3-point threat. In his senior year at Texas Tech, Atwell put up impressive numbers: 13.5 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.2 steals per game, with a shooting accuracy of 46.3% from the field and a sizzling 45.8% from beyond the arc on 8.4 attempts per game.
Meanwhile, the Milwaukee Bucks are navigating a new chapter after parting ways with Giannis Antetokounmpo. They're on the hunt for depth and youthful energy, and Castro might just fit the bill.
With an average of 15.3 points, 9.1 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 1.8 steals, and 1.7 blocks per game, and a shooting percentage of 62.7% from the field during his senior year at George Washington, Castro could be a key piece in their rebuild. His physical presence is undeniable, standing 6-foot-9 with a 7-foot-1-and-a-quarter wingspan.
The Miami Heat, fresh off acquiring Antetokounmpo, are looking to bolster their guard and wing positions. Known for their knack in developing undrafted talent, Miami might have struck gold with Hall.
At Auburn, Hall averaged 19.3 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game, shooting 45.1% from the field and 37.9% from deep. His measurements at the NBA Combine-6-foot-6 with a 6-foot-10-and-a-quarter wingspan-suggest he has the physical tools to succeed.
Finally, the Golden State Warriors are seeking more frontcourt depth, and Ike could be the seasoned addition they need. As a sixth-year senior at Gonzaga, Ike averaged 19.9 points, 8 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game, shooting 56.3% from the field and 33.8% from three-point range. His experience and skill set could prove invaluable in strengthening the Warriors' rotation.
As these undrafted players gear up for their shot at NBA success, fans and teams alike will be watching closely, hoping for the next big breakout story.
In Other News...
Jimmy Butler Suddenly Has A Disturbing Link To NBA Gambling Case
The NBA gambling probe that has already dragged in the Malik Beasley orbit added another wrinkle this week, with federal authorities saying a close friend of Jimmy Butlers was among those arrested. The case centers on allegations that bettors and intermediaries worked around manipulated player statistics during the 2023-24 season, and investigators say the network stretched beyond a single player or team.
For the Warriors, the concern is less about an immediate on-court issue than the uncomfortable proximity of a player they rely on to a widening federal case. The indictment alleges wire fraud, bribery and related offenses, with one figure in the investigation described as a middleman connecting players and bettors, a reminder of how quickly these gambling inquiries can spread through the leagues social circles. [Read more 🡒]
Warriors Suddenly Look Tied To A Massive Free Agency Swing
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There is also speculation that Anthony Davis could be part of the same conversation, which only adds to the sense that Golden State is willing to think bigger than a routine summer reset. For now it remains rumor more than reality, but the mere fact the Warriors are being mentioned in that kind of deal is enough to make the rest of the league pay attention. [Read more 🡒]
Warriors Just Made A Surprising Porzingis Move With Bigger Trade Implications
The Warriors took an interesting path with Kristaps Porzingis, announcing his new deal in a way that keeps him flexible for the future instead of locking him into a more restrictive setup. The reported two-year, $40 million extension gives Golden State a clean number on the books and, just as important, preserves the kind of roster maneuverability the front office has been chasing as it weighs bigger moves.
For a team that has shown a willingness to explore the market when the right opportunity comes along, that matters. Porzingis contract structure leaves the door open for trade scenarios the Warriors would otherwise have had to set aside, and it is the kind of detail that can shape how aggressively they can pursue help around the core if a bigger name becomes available. [Read more 🡒]