RJ Luis Jr. has officially declared for the 2025 NBA Draft while also entering the transfer portal, keeping his options open for a potential return to college. With his 6’7″ frame, athleticism and polished mid-range game, several rebuilding NBA franchises could target him in the early to mid-second round (35-50 range) on draft night.
The St. John’s standout turned heads during his 2024-25 campaign, averaging 18.2 points and 7.2 rebounds per game en route to Big East Player of the Year honors. Under Rick Pitino’s guidance, the 6’7″ wing showcased three level scoring ability and defensive versatility, propelling him into NBA Draft discussions.
Top 5 Potential Landing Spots for RJ Luis Jr.
Despite Luis’ Big East Player of the Year campaign, his inconsistent three-point shooting (33.9% catch-and-shoot) and limited playmaking (2.0 APG) have him projected as a second-round pick.
Brooklyn Nets
The Nets’ rebuild aligns perfectly with Luis’s developmental trajectory. Under head coach Jordi Fernandez, Brooklyn’s system emphasizes positionless basketball, making Luis’s defensive versatility particularly valuable. His driving ability, rebounding and mid-range scoring would provide much-needed support on the wing.
With the Nets focusing on athletic and defensive-minded players, he could be a strong fit in a long term developmental role.
Luis is projected in the 35-50 range, while Brooklyn currently holds the 45th pick. If he impresses during pre-draft workouts, the Nets could trade up or select him as a high-upside defensive wing. His ability to contribute defensively while developing his perimeter shot could make him an asset in Brooklyn’s rebuild.
Given their cap space and multiple draft picks, the Nets have the flexibility to take a chance on his potential upside.
Washington Wizards
The Wizards’ young core, featuring Bilal Coulibaly and Alex Sarr requires defensive-minded wings who can also attack the paint. Luis’s defensive intensity, rebounding (7.2 RPG) and ability to get to the rim would add toughness to their developing rotation.
Washington is still looking for identity pieces, and Luis’s gritty two-way play could help solidify their foundation.
Mock drafts, including NBADraft.net, project Luis in the 35-45 range with Washington holding the 42nd pick. His ability to play physical defense and score inside makes him a logical selection. Washington’s front office has prioritized acquiring young, athletic wings, and Luis could be another high prospect who fits their long-term vision.
Detroit Pistons
Detroit has invested heavily in its young core, led by Cade Cunningham, Jaden Ivey and Jalen Duren but lacks consistent wing depth. Luis’s ability to finish through contact, guard multiple positions and provide defensive versatility makes him an intriguing project for a defensively focused team.
His physicality and rebounding ability could fill a major void in Detroit’s second unit.
Detroit could explore adding a defensive-minded wing like Luis in the second round. Under head coach J.B. Bickerstaff, Detroit prioritizes defensive toughness and high-energy players, traits that Luis embodies. His developing perimeter shot could also benefit from Cunningham’s playmaking making him a solid complementary piece in Detroit’s rebuild.
Charlotte Hornets
The Hornets have built around LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller, but need complementary wings who can defend and take advantage of Ball’s passing vision. Luis’s cutting ability, rebounding and defensive versatility align well with Charlotte’s fast-paced offensive system. His physical style of play could also add much needed toughness to their wing rotation.
His first-to-early second-round pick makes him a viable option for Charlotte in the 35-45 range. His downhill attacking game fits perfectly with Ball’s playmaking potentially giving the Hornets a valuable two-way contributor. If he can improve his three-point shooting, Luis could carve out a long-term role in their rotation.
Portland Trail Blazers
Portland’s roster is guard heavy, featuring Scoot Henderson, Anfernee Simons and Shaedon Sharpe, but lacks athletic wings who can defend multiple positions. Luis’s transition finishing, rebounding and defensive versatility would help balance out their rotation while providing a physical presence on the perimeter.
KEEP READING: Rick Pitino and Billionaire Mike Repole Set To Revolutionize St. John’s With 7-Figure NIL Investment
His high-energy play would be a natural fit for a young rebuilding team.
NBA Draft Room and NBA Scouting Live project Luis in the 35-45 range, aligning with Portland’s second round selection. His rebounding tenacity and potential as a wing fit the Trail Blazers’ rebuilding timeline. If he improves his three-point shot, Luis could become a valuable defensive piece alongside Portland’s young core.
Luis’s NBA future hinges on pre-draft workouts and skill development. While the draft’s depth with talented wings has affected his stock, his defensive versatility and energy stand out. He could improve his stock into the early second round or become a high-priority target for teams trading into the 30s.
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