10 Players Who Should Leave The NBA And Find More Success In The Euroleague This Season

Not every player in the NBA gets the chance to thrive, and for some, a move to the Euroleague could be just what they need to reboot their careers. Whether it’s more playing time, a system better suited to their skills, or the opportunity to be a focal point, heading overseas might be the perfect solution. Here are 10 players who could find more success in Europe than staying in the NBA this season.

1. Markelle Fultz

Markelle Fultz’s NBA career has been filled with potential and setbacks, and now as a free agent in 2024, his next move remains uncertain. Last season with the Orlando Magic , Fultz averaged 7.8 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.8 assists over 43 games. While his passing and defense remained solid, his shooting, especially from three-point range (22.2%), continues to limit his value. As younger players like Cole Anthony and Jalen Suggs emerged, Fultz’s role diminished, leaving his future in the NBA in question.

A move to the Euroleague could be the perfect opportunity for Fultz to rejuvenate his career. European teams tend to emphasize playmaking and defense, areas where Fultz excels. Without the pressure of needing to score from deep, he could thrive as a lead guard, focusing on his strengths like facilitating offense and driving to the basket.

In the Euroleague, Fultz would also benefit from a slower-paced game that values basketball IQ and versatility. This would give him the chance to showcase his ability to create for others and lock down opponents on defense. Teams overseas are often more patient with players as they find their rhythm, which could help Fultz regain his confidence after struggling with injuries and inconsistency in the NBA.

At only 26 years old, Fultz still has time to reinvent himself. A strong showing in Europe could not only boost his confidence but also open doors for a potential NBA return down the line.

2. RJ Hampton

RJ Hampton’s NBA journey has been tough so far, and as of today, he’s back on the free-agent market after stints with multiple teams. Most recently, he signed a two-way contract with the Miami Heat but was waived before making a significant impact. Hampton averaged 6.4 points and 1.9 rebounds in 47 games last season while playing for both the Detroit Pistons and the Heat. Despite his athleticism and flashes of potential, Hampton hasn’t been able to secure a steady role in the NBA, and his inconsistent shooting has kept him from locking down a long-term spot.

A move to the Euroleague could be just what Hampton needs to turn his career around. In Europe, he could find a system where his skills as a fast-paced, slashing guard are more appreciated, and he could see more playing time to develop his game further. With fewer roster constraints and a focus on versatility, the Euroleague might offer Hampton the chance to regain confidence and consistency in his scoring and playmaking abilities.

At just 23 years old, Hampton still has plenty of time to reinvent himself. The Euroleague has been a place where several former NBA players have thrived, and a season or two overseas could help him return to the NBA with more polish.

3. Nassir Little

Nassir Little’s NBA journey hit a bump in August when the Phoenix Suns waived him, just a year after acquiring him in the Damian Lillard trade. Little struggled to find consistent playing time with the Suns, averaging just 3.4 points per game in limited minutes over 45 games. With the Suns focusing on helping their star players, Little’s role became redundant. Now an unrestricted free agent, his future in the NBA is uncertain.

Injuries have been a constant hurdle for Little throughout his career, making it hard for him to live up to the expectations he carried as a former first-round pick. Despite his defensive versatility and potential as a forward, his inconsistency and health issues have kept him from establishing a steady role. While Little still has the talent to contribute, NBA teams may be wary of taking a chance on him.

Given his situation, a move to the Euroleague could be a smart option for Little. In Europe, he could get more playing time and play a key role for a team that values his defensive versatility and athleticism. The slower pace and more structured systems in the Euroleague might suit Little better than the fast-paced NBA, giving him the opportunity to rebuild his confidence and develop his skills without the pressure of competing for minutes in a star-studded roster.

At just 24 years old, Little still has plenty of time to turn his career around. If he chooses to head overseas, he could find success in the Euroleague, where several former NBA players have rejuvenated their careers. A strong showing in Europe could open doors for a return to the NBA in the future, but for now, the Euroleague might be the best place for him to rediscover his game.

4. Isaiah Thomas

Isaiah Thomas , a two-time All-Star, has been fighting to get back into the NBA but remains a free agent heading into the 2024-25 season. After brief stints with the Phoenix Suns last season, where he played in just six games, and recent workouts with the Milwaukee Bucks, Thomas is still trying to prove he belongs in the league. Although his talent is unquestionable, injuries have slowed him down, and at 35 years old, teams have been hesitant to give him a full contract.

A move to the Euroleague could be exactly what Thomas needs at this stage of his career. In Europe, his scoring ability and experience would likely make him a star, with teams often seeking seasoned players who can create offense and provide leadership. Without the intense physicality and speed of the NBA, Thomas could shine in a more controlled, team-oriented environment, similar to how other former NBA players have found success overseas.

Thomas’s relentless drive and ability to score in bunches could make him a key player for a Euroleague team looking to compete at a high level. A stint in Europe could not only allow him to continue playing at a competitive level but also give him a chance to rejuvenate his career and potentially earn one last shot at an NBA return.

5. Montrezl Harrell

Montrezl Harrell has faced significant setbacks recently, including an ACL injury that kept him sidelined for the entire 2023-24 NBA season. Despite this, Harrell is still fighting to continue his career and recently signed a short-term deal with the Adelaide 36ers in Australia’s NBL as an injury replacement. The move could mark the beginning of a longer stint overseas, as Harrell looks to regain his form after missing so much time.

Harrell, who won the NBA Sixth Man of the Year award in 2020, has struggled to find a stable role in the league ever since his time with the Los Angeles Clippers. His performance dipped during his time with the Philadelphia 76ers, where he averaged just 5.6 points and 2.8 rebounds in the 2022-23 season before the injury. At 30 years old, Harrell may be at a point in his career where playing in a less demanding league, like the NBL or Euroleague, could provide the best opportunity to rebuild his career.

If Harrell performs well in his short Australian stint, he could look to make an NBA comeback in the regular season, but it could also open doors for a longer stay in international basketball, where he could continue to showcase his energy, physicality, and rebounding prowess. The Euroleague, in particular, might be an appealing option for Harrell if he wants to compete at a high level in Europe, as other former NBA players have done with great success.

For now, Harrell’s focus is on making an impact in the NBL, but a move to Europe could be the next logical step after his contract in Australia is up.

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6. Danilo Gallinari

Danilo Gallinari, now 36 years old, is at a crossroads in his career. After a challenging season in 2023-24, where he played for multiple teams including the Milwaukee Bucks and the Detroit Pistons, Gallinari remains a free agent heading into the 2024-25 season. Although he expressed interest in continuing his NBA career, injuries and age have significantly reduced his effectiveness. Last season, he averaged 5.7 points in limited minutes across 49 games, a far cry from his former role as a key contributor.

With his future in the NBA uncertain, rumors of a return to the Euroleague—where Gallinari began his professional career—have started to resurface. Gallinari himself hasn’t ruled out a move back to Europe, specifically mentioning that playing for Olimpia Milan would be a dream come true. Milan, however, already has a stacked roster, including Nicolo Melli, which could complicate Gallinari's potential return.

A move to the Euroleague could allow Gallinari to finish his career on a high note, as the slower pace and more tactical style of play might suit his current abilities better. Plus, his experience and leadership would be highly valuable to any Euroleague team competing at a high level.

If the NBA doesn’t offer him another chance, Gallinari’s next step might be heading back to Europe, where he could play a starring role in the Euroleague, potentially with Olimpia Milano. This move would mark a fitting conclusion to a successful international career.

7. Bol Bol

Bol Bol remains an intriguing figure in the NBA, with his combination of size, agility, and shot-blocking potential. After re-signing with the Phoenix Suns for the 2024-25 season on a one-year minimum contract, Bol is in a make-or-break period in his career. Despite flashes of brilliance during his brief stints with teams like the Orlando Magic and Denver Nuggets, his inconsistent play and inability to carve out a consistent role have limited his growth.

Bol averaged 5.2 points and 3.2 rebounds in just over 10 minutes per game last season, but injuries and crowded frontcourts have kept him from fully showcasing his unique skill set. Now, with limited playing opportunities in Phoenix behind stars like Kevin Durant and Jusuf Nurkic, a move to the Euroleague might be a beneficial step for Bol.

In the Euroleague, Bol could finally find a system that emphasizes his strengths—rim protection, shot-blocking, and his ability to shoot from deep as a big man. A switch to Europe could give him the consistent playing time he needs to develop and dominate in a league with a slower pace and more structured systems.

If Bol continues to struggle for minutes in Phoenix, heading to the Euroleague could be the next step for the 24-year-old to truly unlock his potential and perhaps make his way back to the NBA in a few years.

8. AJ Griffin

AJ Griffin was recently traded to the Houston Rockets in a 2024 draft-day deal after spending his first two seasons with the Atlanta Hawks. Griffin, who averaged 8.9 points and shot 39% from three during his rookie campaign, showed flashes of being a reliable shooter and wing player. Yet, with the Rockets now loaded with young talent and Griffin's role still uncertain, there are already whispers about whether he’ll find consistent minutes in a crowded roster.

At just 20 years old, Griffin has a lot of potential, but his development may benefit from more playing time—something that could be difficult to come by in Houston. The Rockets have a number of emerging players, and Griffin might not get the consistent role he needs to truly blossom in the NBA. A move to the Euroleague could provide the opportunity for Griffin to expand his game and get the minutes required to sharpen his skills.

Griffin’s shooting and basketball IQ make him an ideal candidate for European leagues, where his offensive ability could thrive in a system that values precision and team play. With more space to operate and a slower pace, Griffin could develop into a more versatile player, showcasing his talents on both ends of the floor.

If he doesn’t find his footing in Houston, heading to the Euroleague for a season or two could be a smart move to reset his career trajectory. A successful stint overseas could boost his confidence and even open the door for a stronger return to the NBA in the future.

9. Mo Bamba

Mo Bamba signed a one-year minimum contract with the Los Angeles Clippers for the 2024-25 season after a rollercoaster year with limited playing time. He spent most of last season on the bench for the Philadelphia 76ers, where he averaged 4.4 points and 4.2 rebounds in just over 13 minutes per game. Despite his potential as a shot-blocking and three-point shooting big man, Bamba hasn’t found consistent success in the NBA.

A move to the Euroleague could be a game-changer for Bamba. His unique combination of size, shooting, and defensive presence might thrive in a more structured, slower-paced European game. With more playing time and a chance to rebuild his confidence, he could dominate overseas and possibly open the door for a return to the NBA down the line.

If Bamba doesn't break into the Clippers' rotation, Euroleague teams could be interested in his skill set, offering him a chance to reboot his career on a major stage.

10. Emoni Bates

Emoni Bates recently re-signed with the Cleveland Cavaliers on a two-way contract for the 2024-25 season. After being picked 49th overall in the 2023 NBA Draft, he didn’t get much run in the NBA, appearing in just 15 games where he averaged 2.7 points. On the other hand, he showed much more promise in the G League, putting up 21.6 points and 5.7 rebounds per game with the Cleveland Charge. He’s got potential, but hasn’t been able to crack consistent minutes yet.

At just 20 years old, Bates has time on his side, but his inconsistent defense and struggles to adapt to the NBA game have slowed his progress. A move to the Euroleague could give him a chance to really shine in a system that allows for more playing time and a bigger role. His scoring ability, especially his shooting, would be a major asset in Europe’s more tactical style of play.

The Euroleague has been a great place for young players to refine their skills and get more exposure. Bates could benefit from the more structured environment and regular minutes, which could help him develop further. It might also give him a shot at coming back to the NBA with more polish.

If things don’t pan out with the Cavaliers this season, a jump to Europe could be the right move for Bates to unlock his full potential and make a name for himself on a bigger stage.

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