Zalgiris guard Lonnie Walker IV “is drawing NBA interest,” according to The Stein Line’s Marc Stein, who lists five teams —the Philadelphia 76ers, Minnesota Timberwolves, Miami Heat, Denver Nuggets, and Boston Celtics —as potential free agent destinations. The former first-round pick has been playing well this season, averaging 13.0 points per game and shooting 40.0 from three. With an NBA buyout clause that expires Feb. 18, the next few weeks will determine Walker’s next few months.
With that being said, each of these franchises rumored to be interested in Walker entered the 2024-25 season with high expectations. Only the Celtics are managing to live up to them. Consequently, Walker might not be being looked at as a simple depth piece. Several of his suggested suitors could be hoping he makes a relatively significant contribution to their team.
Lonnie Walker IV is drawing NBA interest and can be bought out of his Žalgiris contract in the EuroLeague by any NBA team until Feb. 18.
Potential suitors said to include Sixers, Wolves, Heat, Nuggets and Celtics. Walker went to camp with Boston.
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— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) December 30, 2024
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If Walker had his choice, he might prioritize steady playing time over being on a contender. The only reason he’s playing abroad is because he was unable to secure a contract with an NBA team. Riding the pine upon his return probably won’t help him get a contract after the season.
However, if there’s a strong team willing to give him consistent minutes, it might be a win-win for player and team. The question is — who will it be?
Which Lonnie Walker IV Suitor Is The Best Free Agent Destination?
Philadelphia 76ers
The Sixers need to fortify their backcourt rotation, making them a logical destination for Walker from the outset. With star rookie Jared McCain sidelined for the rest of the season, there’s s real void to be filled. So far, none of their depth pieces has really come close. Walker, who’s averaging 11.2 points in 22.3 minutes per game over the past four seasons, might.
Minnesota Timberwolves
The Timberwolves rank fifth in three-point attempts per game (40.0) and seventh in three-point percentage (.376). However, they have three key perimeter players (Donte DiVincenzo, Jaden McDaniels, and Mike Conley) shooting below 35.0 percent from three. This is among the main reasons that they’re tied with the Utah Jazz for 21st in offensive rating (110.6). Walker’s three-point efficiency could allow him to stabilize their backcourt rotation.
Miami Heat
Heading to the Heat would be a homecoming of sorts for Walker, as he played college ball at the University of Miami. That said, the sentimental nature of this potential signing isn’t as significant as the Heat adding another athletic wing with two-way upside. The only problem is that Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra is unlikely to guarantee Walker consistent minutes, which could lead to him looking elsewhere.
Denver Nuggets
The Nuggets don’t necessarily need Walker, as they appear to have a set rotation. However, their wing depth is relatively thin and Jamal Murray is exhibiting wear and tear. As a result, there would probably be an opportunity for Walker to get minutes and break into the rotation. Denver’s lackluster energy is another reason why they might sign the 26-year-old, as his springiness can help him provide a spark.
Boston Celtics
The Celtics aren’t a necessarily deep team despite having at least seven starting-caliber players in their rotation. Their depth isn’t particularly weak on the wings, at least in terms of proven commodities. To that point, Walker’s body of work may not be getting him to Springfield but he’s established himself as legitimate scoring threat with defensive upside.
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