What to expect from Nordic NBA-players in the upcomming season
Several Nordic players will have a chance to prove themselves in the 2024/2025 NBA season. Nordic Basketball News takes a closer look at the opportunities for Nordic players to make an impact in the league.
Lauri Markanen, Finland,
Forward, Utah Jazz.
There were a lot of rumors concerning the best Nordic basketball player to ever play the game. Experts predicted that the Utah Jazz were going into full rebuild mode and trading away its biggest asset. However, Markkanen recently signed the biggest contract in the history of the club, agreeing to stay with the Jazz until 2029.
He is now expected to be the Jazz’s primary weapon. After departing from Cavaliers, the Finnisher has exploded in the NBA, making the All-Star game in 2023. But even with Markkanen on the squad, the Utah Jazz are not seen as serious contenders for the playoffs.
Pelle Larsson, Sweden
Shooting Gurd, Miami Heat
Pelle Larsson really showed off his best qualities during this year’s summer league. He was a leader on the court and a dominant force on defense for the Miami Heat. On offense, he set up his teammates and made important buckets for the Heat as they became Summer League champions. The Swede pretty much embodies “Heat culture”, playing with grit, unselfishness, and high energy. Just signed a 3-year, $5.4 million deal and will get the opportunity to prove himself for the Miami Heat and Erik Spoelstra during the season. If his game translates to an NBA-level, Pelle will likely be in the rotation off the bench.
Bobi Klintman, Sweden
Detroit Pistons, Forward
Early on predicted as a first-rounder, Bobi Klintman eventually fell to the 37th spot in the 2024 draft. With less expectation on his shoulders, he managed to turn heads playing for the Pistons in the summer league. Showed off some consistent shooting from outside and solid rebounding on a team that struggled from three. But since the Pistons signed several big wings, Bobi will probably have to prove himself in the G-League before getting a shot at playtime in the NBA. Still, Bobi is regarded as a valuable asset for the young rebuilding Pistons.
Henri Drell, Estonia
Chicago Bulls, Small Forward/ Shooting guard
Henri Drell is the first Estonian to play in the NBA since Martin Mursepp. After a successful period with the Windy City Bulls in the G-League, Drell earned a two-way contract with the Bulls. He played four games late in the season, averaging 2.8 points. He did not stand out during the summer league and will now move to the Portland Trailblazers, where he will also be available to play for the G-League affiliate Rip City Remix. Most likely, this is where Drell will start the season.
Tristan Vukcevic Center
Washington Wizards, power forward/center
Talented sharpshooting big, Tristan Vucevic has a smorgasbord of countries to choose to play for. Born in Italy with a bosnian born serbian Father and swedish mother who also holds a Greek citizenship.
After getting the chance to start for the Washington Wizards and making some impressive shots, Tristan is now under a two-way contract and will be availeble to play for thr Capital City in the G-League. He is likely to receive more opportunities in the NBA moving forward, as the Wizards are focusing on tanking for the hyped 2025 draft class.