NBA free agency: where remaining players could sign before opening night

The NBA calendar is racing toward opening night, yet a handful of players remain unsigned as teams finalize 15-man rosters. Some are veterans chasing one more campaign, others are young prospects hoping for a second chance, and a few are navigating off-court complications that complicate their returns. Below are realistic landing spots and fits for three free agents who could still impact the league this season.

Why teams are still hunting late free-agent additions before the season

The league’s depth charts are still in flux. A surprise signing like Russell Westbrook landing with the Sacramento Kings shows teams will keep reshaping rosters even as the season looms. Meanwhile, injuries and legal matters — think Malik Beasley’s uncertain availability — leave openings that teams will aim to fill with low-cost, high-upside options. Front offices want players who can contribute immediately on defense, spacing, or energy minutes without upsetting team chemistry.

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• Roster flexibility matters: Teams often want players who can slot into multiple lineups and play both ends.
• Shooter and defender premium: Late additions who can defend and hit threes remain coveted on playoff-contending clubs.
• Market depth: Young wings or versatile bigs on cheap deals can be rotation insurance and development projects in one.

Kai Jones (25) — Athletic big with real NBA upside

Once a rotational piece for multiple clubs, Kai Jones still shows traits that make him an attractive depth center in the NBA. At 25, his combination of size and mobility gives teams a chance to add a rim-runner who can finish efficiently around the basket. Jones has bounced between organizations and even spent time overseas, but his flashes in limited NBA minutes suggest he belongs on a league roster.

What he brings

• Finishing around the rim: Extremely high field-goal percentages in short stints point to elite efficiency in close-range offense.
• Athleticism: He can protect the rim and provide verticality on both ends.
• Upside on a small investment: Low-cost deals let teams assess him without major commitment.

Potential fits and risks

Ideal destinations are teams that need a backup big who spaces the floor a little and can be a lob threat — clubs that can also offer a patient development environment. The main risks are his off-court history and the need to show consistency across a larger sample of minutes. Still, for a team seeking energy and finishing ability off the bench, Jones is worth a gamble.

Keon Johnson (23) — Young wing with defensive length and shooting upside

Keon Johnson’s absence from opening rosters is puzzling given his age and previous starting experience. He flashed perimeter shooting and defensive activity in spurts last season, and at 23 he remains young enough to grow into a stable NBA rotation player.

Strengths and recent form

• Three-point stroke: Johnson has produced seasons where his 3-point percentage was well above league average on respectable volume, showing he can space the floor.
• Length on defense: His wingspan helps him contest shots, disrupt passing lanes, and switch onto smaller players when needed.
• Starting experience: Having opened 50+ games already, he’s not new to pro minutes or game-planning.

Where he could land

Rebuilding organizations or clubs with guard depth concerns would be logical landing spots. A team like Boston — which is open to trying out young contributors during a transition year — could use a wing who can defend and potentially stretch the floor. If Johnson is healthy and comfortable with a role, it would be surprising if he didn’t secure a roster spot before the regular season gets underway.

Alex Reese (26) — Versatile big who can rebound, defend and space the floor

Alex Reese’s path to the NBA was unconventional: undrafted, persevering through the G League, and eventually cracking NBA rosters. At 6’9”, he offers size, rebounding, and the kind of positional versatility coaches value late in the season.

On-court profile

• Rebounding and hustle: Reese rebounds well for a wing/forward and plays with the motor coaches like to see.
• Switchable defense: He can guard multiple positions in short bursts and provides valuable lineup flexibility.
• Floor spacing: Shooting close to the high 30s from three in limited action, Reese can help teams that lack perimeter shooting off the bench.

Team fits and immediate value

Fringe playoff teams or clubs thin on shooters could take him for bench depth. The Detroit Pistons, for example, could benefit from his skill set if concerns about Malik Beasley’s availability persist. Reese’s combination of size, rebounding, and three-point gravity makes him a useful role player who can stabilize a second unit.

How teams balance upside and roster needs in last-minute signings

Front offices juggling late additions evaluate several factors quickly: health, fit with locker-room culture, and how a player complements existing lineups. Teams commonly pursue players who provide one or two clear benefits rather than jack-of-all-trades prospects who need time.

• Short-term insurance: Injuries and sudden off-court developments create openings best filled by reliable, versatile players.
• Developmental upside: Younger free agents offer long-term upside at low cost, appealing to teams that can provide playing time.
• Low-risk contracts: Minimum deals, two-way contracts, or 10-day arrangements let teams evaluate performance in regular-season action.

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John Davis

John Davis is a sports journalist focused on the NBA, NFL, and major global championships. With seven years of live coverage, he breaks down performances and key strategies. His expertise gives you a clear view of every game and its impact.