RJ Luis Jr. turned heads this season with St. John’s, averaging 18.2 points, 7.2 rebounds, and two assists per game while shooting 43.9% from the field. The Big East Player of the Year and Tournament MVP, Luis also added 1.4 steals per game, showcasing real two-way potential.
While he’s ranked No. 62 on ESPN’s draft board, Luis’ physical tools, defensive edge, and improved playmaking make him a sneaky second-round option. Here are five NBA teams that could take a chance on the rising wing.
5 Potential Teams Who Could Pick RJ Luis Jr. in the 2025 NBA Draft
1) Charlotte Hornets
With back-to-back second-round picks (No. 34 being the more likely fit for Luis), the Charlotte Hornets can add size and effort to their perimeter defense. They ranked near the bottom in defense last season, so Luis’ energy, rebounding, and knack for generating steals could bring the defensive boost they need on the wing.
2) Philadelphia 76ers
The Philadelphia 76ers could use help on the wing, especially players who bring defensive toughness and rebounding. Luis fits the mold perfectly. At 6’7″, he averaged 7.2 rebounds and 1.4 steals — a rare combo for a guard/wing.
Some highlights from RJ Luis Jr. today via @nbafuturenow Instagram page. #SJUBB pic.twitter.com/wXuW37Dzqw
— Johnnies Highlights (@JohnniesTape) May 16, 2025
Luis’ improved playmaking and physicality make him a strong value pick at No. 35. The Sixers need rotation-ready players, and he could crack the bench with his two-way potential.
3) Brooklyn Nets
The Brooklyn Nets have three picks in the late first and early second rounds, but No. 36 is where Luis realistically fits. Brooklyn loves lengthy, switchable defenders, and his numbers in steals and rebounds highlight his impact on that end.
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Offensively, Luis is still raw. His 43.9 FG% masks some shaky shot selection, but his 18.2 PPG shows he knows how to score. Luis makes sense here if the Nets want a high-energy wing who can grow in their system.
4) San Antonio Spurs
The San Antonio Spurs are known for turning raw, defensive-minded players into legitimate NBA contributors. Luis has all the tools — length, hustle, and versatility — they typically value, and his defensive intensity fits San Antonio’s culture well. At No. 38 overall, they could grab him as a developmental piece with long-term upside.
5) Utah Jazz
This could be a long shot, but if Luis falls, the Utah Jazz might pounce. At pick 43, the Jazz can afford to take a flier on a player with his résumé. Luis’ combination of scoring, rebounding, and defense makes him worth a stash.
Utah needs wing depth and energy players off the bench, and Luis’ production speaks for itself. In a developmental setting, he could be a steal this late.
