The news hit St. John’s hard when their top player, RJ Luis Jr. announced he was declaring for the NBA Draft and entering the transfer portal. Luis Jr. checked in at No. 72 in ESPN’s draft rankings, but there’s always a shot that some team decides to take a chance on him in the second round.
The Big East Player of the Year and Big East Tournament MVP has been a tremendous story to watch this season, falling into the category of underrated players who could make some noise in the draft.
Luis Jr. averaged 18.2 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game this season while improving multiple portions of his game, including his playmaking. Luis Jr. also shined on defense, showcasing his ability to create problems for the opposing offense.
With the draft being a few months away, there’s no telling what could happen going forward, but Luis Jr. is good enough to earn his way into being a 2025 draft pick.
5 Potential Teams Who Could Draft RJ Luis Jr.
1. Cleveland Cavaliers
Luis Jr. is a projected second-round pick, and the Cavaliers have the 58th pick in the draft this year. If the Cavaliers were to draft Luis Jr., all signs would point to a rookie season spent primarily in the G League.
There will be potential opportunity for him on the main roster, but considering the success of the Cavaliers this season, they can afford to take their time with any prospects that are in need of further development.
2. Indiana Pacers
The 52nd overall pick belongs to the Pacers, and in Indiana, Luis Jr. may have the possibility of a decent amount of playing time. There’s no telling how the offseason will unfold for the Pacers, especially with free agency, but a defensive-minded player like Luis Jr. would be a good fit.
3. Philadelphia 76ers
As unlikely as this seems, the 76ers could take a chance with Luis Jr. They have the 36th overall pick, which would be considered high for him, but the 76ers could use a wing that can defend for the future. The improvements to Luis Jr.’s game makes him a potential weapon if selected.
4. Los Angeles Lakers
Last year, the Lakers took some flack for drafting Bronny James in the second round. This year, it seems like a possibility that they could draft a well-deserving candidate, and Luis Jr. fits that role perfectly.
Considering his success in the Big East, Luis Jr. does have some big-game experience, and with the eventual retirement of LeBron James, Luis Jr. could grow to be a solid wing for the Lakers and someone else that Luka Dončić can create open looks for.
5. San Antonio Spurs
Much like the 76ers, this would be unlikely and a bit early of a selection for Luis Jr., considering where he is ranked so far. However, the Spurs might be in need of a solid wing with upside for their bench. That sums up where Luis Jr. currently is as a player, which is why the Spurs could take the chance.
There are a number of other teams who could give Luis Jr. a look, such as the Golden State Warriors (they own the 40th pick), the Oklahoma City Thunder (they have the 44th pick), and the Utah Jazz (they have the 50th pick).
There’s always a chance that Luis Jr. returns to college and attempts to raise his draft stock for 2026, but he will be starting over with a new team if so. What does the future hold for the Big East Tournament MVP? Time will tell.
