Each year, several players on two-way contracts outperform their current contracts and play more minutes than expected for their respective organizations. However, two-way players are limited to 50 games on their contracts and are not eligible for the postseason.
Once key players in either direction reach their 50-game limit, or it’s clear that they’re either part of the organization’s future or already have impact, a team will often convert their contracts. However, some teams have to wait longer than others due to financial reasons or a lack of roster spots.
Take the Heat, for example, who, because of their position against the tax, often start the season with 14 players on standard contracts, as opposed to the maximum allowed 15. They did that in the 2021/22 season, when they Caleb Martin on a two-way deal before signing him mid-season, with his salary prorated and them getting under the tax threshold.
Still, we are pretty sure that several players will move from two-way contracts to standard contracts this season. Last year Vince Williams, GG Jackson, Keon Ellis, Craig Porter Jr. And Duop Reath were among the influential players who were converted sooner rather than later. Martin, Aaron Wiggins And Sam Hauser are other good examples for the season.
The Heat could repeat history with a two-way player who could get playing time relatively early in the season with Keshad Johnson. Miami signed Johnson to a two-way contract right after the draft, and he has played well for the team after being considered one of the top undrafted free agents. With Martin gone, the Heat have playing time on the wings and offense, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see Johnson step in.
The Wizards will have to go through a roster surplus before making such a move, but given that they will likely be active at the trade deadline, it would not be surprising if Justin Champagnie be mentioned at some point. Champagnie has appeared in 56 NBA games and impressed in the G League.
The Kings may have one of the best trios of two-way players in the league with Mason Jones, Isaiah Crawford And Isaac Jones. The latter two players were not drafted in 2024, but were among the best players available after the draft in June. Jones, on the other hand, has impressed in the league before, averaging 23.2 points last season. Sacramento could get an early chance at minutes with Devin Carter is struggling with a shoulder injury and the team is not very well positioned.
Cleveland filled its two-way slots last week and JT Thor and re-signing Emoni Bates. Thor is only 21 years old, although he already has three seasons of NBA experience under his belt. Bates impressed in the G League last season, averaging 21.6 points and making 37.0% of his 10.5 three-point attempts per game. With the Cavs still having three open spots on the standard roster, it’s possible their rotation will be a little weaker to start the year, even if Isaac Okoro signs again.
Utah is another team with several “veterans” in two-way contracts between Jason Preston, Oscar Tshiebwe And Michael Potter. Tshiebwe, in particular, was the G League Rookie of the Year last year after grabbing 16.0 rebounds per game. The Jazz are a young team that could give as many young players as possible playing time to see who lasts.
This brings us to our question of the day. Which player on a two-way contract do you think could step up this season? Are there any players you think are underrated? Which players could get playing time right away?
Let us know in the comments. We look forward to your input!
