Unexpected NBA Players Who Could Earn A Big Roster Spot For The Season

As the NBA preseason rolls on, a few players are standing out, even if they weren't originally in the spotlight. Whether they're undrafted gems, second-round picks, or former journeymen, they're playing like they belong. Teams are always on the lookout for guys who can fill roles or even provide that extra spark off the bench, and this year is no different. With some impressive showings so far, these unexpected players are making a strong case to stay on the roster when the regular season tips off. Let's dive into the names making noise and check out how they're stacking up statistically in the preseason so far.

Tre Mann

Tre Mann is making a strong case for himself this preseason, especially after his trade from the Thunder to the Hornets back in February. With Charlotte, he finally started to find his rhythm, closing out last season with some impressive performances, including averaging 11.9 points, 5.2 assists, and 4.5 rebounds in the final stretch of games he played after the trade. Now in the 2024-25 preseason, Mann continues to prove he can be more than just a bench player, averaging 16.0 points in three games.

Before his most recent preseason showing against the Knicks (16 points), Mann exploded with 19 points on 8-13 shooting, adding 3 rebounds, 2 assists, and even a block in just 22 minutes of action against the Grizzlies. What stands out is how efficient he’s been in his minutes. Mann’s ability to score from deep, attack the rim, and find his teammates has been on full display, making him a consistent performer off the Hornets' second unit. This kind of performance is making it clear that Charlotte has a valuable asset on its hands, and with LaMelo Ball’s history of injuries, Mann’s role could be even more crucial.

The Hornets need reliable depth at the guard position, and Mann is stepping up right when the team needs it. Projections for the 2024-25 season could see him taking on a bigger role, potentially as the primary backup for LaMelo Ball. If Ball misses time, which has been an issue in past seasons, Mann could even find himself playing starter-level minutes. His scoring ability and playmaking could give him around 20-25 minutes per game, where he could put up numbers in the range of 10-12 points, 4-5 assists, and a handful of rebounds each night.

Charlotte could also experiment with playing Mann alongside Ball in a two-guard lineup. Mann’s ability to score off the ball and create his own shot makes him a perfect fit to complement Ball’s playmaking. His preseason performances are showing that he’s more than capable of being a high-impact player in different lineups. This versatility could make him a critical piece for the Hornets, not just as a bench scorer but as someone who can contribute in big moments. Whether he's backing up LaMelo or playing next to him, Mann has the potential to become a key player in Charlotte’s rotation this season.

If he keeps playing at this level, this might be the breakout year for Tre Mann—one where he shows he deserves a permanent role in the Hornets’ future plans.

Jaylen Wells

Jaylen Wells is quietly making a name for himself in the Grizzlies ’ preseason, proving that Memphis may have found a hidden gem with their 39th overall pick in the 2024 draft. He’s been lighting up the stat sheet, averaging 15.3 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game. Wells is showing his ability to impact games in multiple ways—whether it’s scoring efficiently or facilitating for his teammates—and his performances are catching the attention of everyone watching.

What’s really standing out is how Wells is making the most of his minutes. In a recent preseason game, he put up 24 points against the Bulls, proving he can be a reliable scorer on any given night. His versatility as a forward with size and playmaking skills is something that the Grizzlies could definitely use, especially in a season where they’re looking to develop their younger talent and fill key rotation spots. Wells isn’t just scoring in one way either—he’s attacking the rim, hitting from mid-range, and showing a confident outside shot.

With Memphis needing more depth and versatility on the wing, Wells’ preseason performance could push him into a meaningful role when the regular season begins. His ability to contribute on both ends of the floor, including his defensive presence with 1.0 steals per game, makes him a potential all-around contributor. The Grizzlies have a track record of finding and developing unexpected talent, and Wells seems primed to be the next in line.

If he continues to perform at this level, there’s a real chance Wells will earn a solid spot in the Grizzlies’ rotation. His size and skill set make him an intriguing option for a team that values players who can do a bit of everything. As the preseason unfolds, Wells is showing that he’s ready for the NBA, and the Grizzlies might have a future contributor on their hands.

Julian Strawther

Julian Strawther has been a bright spot for the Denver Nuggets during the 2024 preseason, showing that he’s ready to compete for meaningful minutes. Across his preseason games, Strawther is averaging 15.3 points, 2.5 rebounds, and shooting an impressive 53% from the field, including 46% from three-point range. His catch-and-shoot game has been on full display, and he’s also been aggressive attacking the basket, showing off his floater and improving his ball handling.

In standout performances, Strawther scored 17 points against the Celtics on 50/40/60 shooting splits and followed that up with a 20-point effort in the Suns’ game. He’s shown great confidence in his shot, something the Nuggets desperately need from their bench unit, especially as they look for reliable scoring behind their starters with the loss of Kentavious Caldwell-Pope in free agency.

His ability to stretch the floor and play off Denver’s stars, particularly Nikola Jokic, has been a perfect fit for their offense. Combined with his willingness to attack the rim and improved defense, Strawther is making a strong case to be a key part of the Nuggets’ rotation this season. If he continues at this pace, he could see substantial minutes as a critical piece off the bench, providing both scoring and floor spacing.

Scotty Pippen Jr.

Scotty Pippen Jr. is turning heads in the Memphis Grizzlies' preseason, seizing the opportunity to prove he’s ready for a more permanent role, as he got a deserved standard deal after his performances. He got a 4-year deal with the first two seasons guaranteed. After a limited showing with the Lakers, where he mostly played in the G League, Pippen Jr. signed a two-way contract with Memphis and has been making the most of it. During his brief stint last season, he averaged 12.9 points and 4.7 assists over 21 games, including a standout 28-point game against the Lakers. This summer, he further cemented his case by earning First-Team All-Summer League honors, averaging 21.5 points, 8.7 assists, 5.0 rebounds, and 3.3 steals per game.

With Derrick Rose no longer on the roster and Marcus Smart likely playing more as a defensive wing or even stepping in for Ja Morant at times, Pippen Jr. has a clearer path to become the Grizzlies’ backup point guard. His ability to score and distribute the ball has been on display during preseason games, where he’s putting up solid numbers, including 12 points and 6 assists in a strong performance against the Mavericks.

The Grizzlies are looking for depth at the point guard position, especially given Morant’s history of missing games. Pippen Jr. is showing he can handle a bigger role, offering both offensive versatility and defensive hustle, as seen in his high steal rates in both Summer League and preseason (averaging 10.3 points and 4.5 assists). If he continues to build on these performances, he could solidify a consistent role as the primary backup guard, especially with Smart potentially taking on more of a leadership role as a defensive anchor.

Pippen Jr.'s growth as a floor general and his ability to adapt quickly to the NBA pace make him an intriguing option for the Grizzlies, and his preseason success suggests he’s more than ready to step up and fill the gap. It’s clear that Memphis has real confidence in his potential, and this season could be his breakout year.

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Julian Phillips

Julian Phillips has been making a strong case for himself during the Bulls ' 2024 preseason, and his development is becoming a key piece of Chicago’s strategy as they begin a rebuilding phase. After a rookie season plagued by a foot injury, Phillips has bounced back in a big way. He’s leading the team in minutes this preseason, averaging 14.0 points and 5.0 rebounds per game, while shooting an impressive 54.5% from beyond the arc. His standout performance came against the Grizzlies, where he put up 21 points and 8 rebounds, hitting 5-of-8 from three.

The Bulls are in a transitional phase, looking to build around younger talent, and Phillips is positioning himself to be a big part of that future. Chicago is focused on playing fast and pushing the tempo, especially with the addition of players like Josh Giddey. Phillips fits right into this plan with his athleticism and ability to stretch the floor. His defensive versatility, combined with his nearly 7-foot wingspan, makes him a potential 3-and-D player, something the Bulls sorely need as they move into a more up-tempo, defensive-minded system.

While Chicago is still working out its rotation, Phillips’ performances are giving head coach Billy Donovan plenty to think about. With Lonzo Ball’s ongoing injury issues and uncertainty surrounding some veterans like Nikola Vucevic’s future, Phillips could see extensive minutes this season. His development would be a huge boost for a team that is focusing on rebuilding its core.

If Phillips continues on this trajectory, he could be one of the surprise breakout players for the Bulls this season, providing much-needed energy, defense, and shooting. His strong preseason has positioned him well for a key role in what looks to be a rebuilding year for Chicago.

Josh Minott

Josh Minott is emerging as a standout for the Timberwolves during this preseason, showing signs of a potential breakout in his third year. In the Timberwolves’ preseason opener against the Lakers, Minott was on fire, scoring 22 points on an efficient 9-of-11 shooting, including 4-of-6 from three. He also added 8 rebounds, 3 steals, 2 blocks, and 1 assist, putting his athleticism and two-way game on full display. His improved ball-handling and shooting form were key factors in his dominant performance, and he followed up scoring 12 points against the 76ers later on.

Minott's growth has been a pleasant surprise, and head coach Chris Finch has been hyping him up all offseason. Finch mentioned that Minott had been "one of the best players in the building" during training camp, and that preseason game seemed to validate that statement. His versatility, combining shooting, defense, and energy, could earn him a more significant role in the rotation, especially with the Timberwolves needing reliable wings behind Jaden McDaniels and the newly acquired Julius Randle.

Looking at his potential role this season, Minott has a real shot to be a critical piece off the bench. His ability to play both forward positions and defend multiple spots on the floor makes him valuable in Finch's system, which emphasizes versatility and athleticism. If Minott continues to shoot at a high clip and provide defensive hustle, he could secure consistent minutes, particularly in a Timberwolves team that is focusing on developing young talent.

Overall, this preseason is setting Minott up for a breakout year. With improved confidence, a more polished offensive game, and Finch’s backing, Minott could be one of the Timberwolves’ key rotation players this season, helping the team make a deeper playoff run. His growth from last year, where he had limited opportunities, to now being one of the Timberwolves’ preseason stars, is a huge boost for a team in need of young, versatile talent.

Luka Garza

Luka Garza has been making waves for the Timberwolves during the 2024 preseason, showing he's ready for a bigger role. With Karl-Anthony Towns now out of the picture and Rudy Gobert and Julius Randle locking down the starting frontcourt, Garza’s ability to stretch the floor is turning heads. He's not a typical big man—his shooting range gives Minnesota a fresh dynamic, especially when paired with Gobert’s more traditional inside play. Garza has been working alongside Naz Reid as another big who can space the floor, and it’s giving the Timberwolves’ offense a lot more versatility.

Through the preseason, Garza’s been averaging 13.3 points and 5.7 rebounds, really stepping up in key moments. One of his standout performances came against the Lakers, where he dropped 20 points and grabbed 9 boards in a strong effort. He’s showing that he can be more than just a bench piece, providing solid shooting and rebounding that gives the Timberwolves more flexibility in how they approach games. His ability to hit from deep also opens up space for Randle and Gobert to operate inside, which is crucial for the team’s offense.

With Towns gone, the Timberwolves are relying on Garza’s shooting and floor-spacing more than ever. He’s playing a key role, not just as a scorer but also as a guy who can help keep the offense flowing. Whether he’s playing alongside Gobert or Reid, Garza is giving the Wolves an extra dimension that makes them tougher to defend. His chemistry with Reid, who also thrives as a floor-spacing big, is adding a new layer to Minnesota’s frontcourt game.

As the Timberwolves move into this new chapter post-Towns, Garza’s development could be huge. His ability to knock down shots, clean the glass, and provide some defense gives coach Chris Finch a lot of options when it comes to mixing up lineups.

Lindy Waters III

Lindy Waters III is having an impressive preseason with the Golden State Warriors, and he's starting to solidify his spot in the team’s rotation. After moving away from the Oklahoma City Thunder last season, Waters quickly made a statement by hitting a game-winning three-pointer in the Warriors' opener against the Clippers. He finished that game with 15 points on 5-of-7 shooting from deep, showing off his ability as a lethal perimeter threat.

Across four preseason games, Waters has been averaging 9.5 points and 4.2 rebounds while shooting efficiently from three-point range. His standout performance came against the Pistons, where he put up 13 points and 7 rebounds in just 19 minutes, further proving his potential as a versatile wing.

With the Warriors looking for consistent shooting and depth on the wing, Waters’ ability to spread the floor will be crucial . Although Golden State has plenty of experienced players like Buddy Hield and Kyle Anderson, head coach Steve Kerr will likely use Waters as a key rotation piece if he continues to shoot this well. His fit in Golden State’s fast-paced, three-point-heavy offense, influenced by Steph Curry, seems almost perfect.

Looking ahead, Waters could carve out a consistent role off the bench, providing the Warriors with much-needed shooting and energy. His defensive effort and hustle, combined with his shooting range, make him a valuable asset as the team balances veteran leadership with younger players vying for minutes.

Kai Jones

Kai Jones’ journey has been a rollercoaster, but he’s making the most of his fresh start with the Los Angeles Clippers during the 2024 preseason. After a turbulent 2023 offseason where he was waived by the Charlotte Hornets due to off-court controversies, Jones has bounced back with strong performances for the Clippers. In four preseason games, he’s averaged 9.3 points and 5.3 rebounds, shooting an impressive 63% from the field, which ranks second on the team.

The Clippers signed Jones in hopes of unlocking his raw athleticism, and so far, he’s delivered. He’s shown that he can contribute by doing the dirty work—setting screens, running the floor, and playing tough defense. His high-flying ability around the rim and rebounding skills give the Clippers a dynamic option off the bench, and his improved focus on the small details of the game is paying off.

Jones is still working to carve out a consistent spot in the rotation, but his performances have been encouraging for a Clippers team looking for depth behind Ivica Zubac. If he continues to play this way, Jones could earn more minutes as a backup center or power forward, providing energy and athleticism that the Clippers need in their frontcourt.

For a player who didn’t play in the 2023-24 season and had serious question marks around his future, Jones is making a strong case to stick with the Clippers. His ability to bounce back, combined with his impressive preseason performances, could be the beginning of a new chapter in his career.

Max Christie

Max Christie has been one of the standout players for the Lakers this preseason, showing just how much he's grown over the summer. After two seasons of limited opportunities, he’s finally getting a real chance to make his mark. JJ Redick, the new head coach, is putting him in a bigger role, and Christie is making the most of it, averaging 7.8 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 0.8 assists so far, after his 2 rebounds last night against the Warriors. His two-way play is exactly what the Lakers need, especially in a squad loaded with stars like LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

What’s really making Christie stand out is his energy and defense. The Lakers struggled last year to find consistent defensive effort from their guards, but Christie’s hustle and ability to guard multiple positions are already paying off. Redick has even said that Christie has made big strides, and it’s clear he’s more comfortable on the court. His confidence shows, whether he’s knocking down threes or locking up his man.

On offense, Christie’s role as a 3-and-D player is starting to click. He’s been a reliable shooter from deep in the preseason, and his ability to space the floor makes life easier for LeBron and AD. The Lakers are deep at guard, but Christie is carving out his spot as a valuable wing player who can hit shots and play tough defense—a combo the team really needs if they want to go deep this season.

If Christie keeps playing like this, he’ll be a key part of the Lakers’ rotation all year. His growth from a player soaking up whatever minutes he could get into someone who’s contributing on both ends is huge for the Lakers. It’s looking like this could be a big leap for him, and with the way he’s performing, it’s easy to see why the Lakers gave him that long-term contract this offseason.

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