What's Happening?
Three NBA players, Deivon Smith from the Atlanta Hawks, Malachi Smith from the Brooklyn Nets, and James Akinjo from the Denver Nuggets, have been waived according to the NBA.com transaction log. Deivon Smith, a guard who played college basketball at Mississippi
State and St. John's, averaged 9.3 points and 3.9 assists per game. James Akinjo, also a guard, played for Georgetown, Arizona, and Baylor, where he averaged 13.5 points, 5.8 assists, and 2.0 steals per game. Malachi Smith, who signed with the Nets recently, has been active in the G League since going undrafted in 2023. All three players are expected to join their respective teams' G League affiliates, with potential bonuses for extended stays.
Why It's Important?
The waiving of these players highlights the dynamic nature of NBA rosters and the strategic use of the G League for player development. For the teams involved, this move allows them to manage their salary caps effectively while providing opportunities for these players to continue developing their skills. The G League serves as a crucial platform for players like Deivon Smith, Malachi Smith, and James Akinjo to showcase their talents and potentially earn a spot back in the NBA. This decision impacts the players' careers, offering them a chance to earn bonuses and gain valuable experience in a competitive environment.
What's Next?
As these players transition to the G League, they will aim to make significant contributions to their teams and potentially earn a call-up to the NBA. Their performance in the G League will be closely monitored by scouts and team executives, who may consider them for future roster spots. The players will need to adapt to the G League's competitive atmosphere and demonstrate their abilities consistently to secure their professional futures.
Beyond the Headlines
This development underscores the importance of the G League in the NBA ecosystem, serving as a bridge for players between college basketball and the professional league. It also highlights the financial strategies teams employ to maintain compliance with salary cap regulations while fostering talent development. The G League's role in nurturing players who may not initially make NBA rosters is crucial for the league's overall growth and sustainability.
