The scoring guard class may not be dazzled by its name, but here are some role players that can be very influential. This is a group of players who can be a clear contributor in the regular season, perhaps a playoff swing game.
Now, remember that Cam Thomas and Quentin Grimes have appeal shares, but are both restricted free agents, so they won’t be on this list. The focus is only on unrestricted free agents.
Here are the five best options for teams looking to add high-quality shooting guards in the rotation (for those interested, our point guards get started).
1. NickeilAlexander-Walker
Alexander-Walker might have a huge payout. He is a role-player who can work on the toughest guard tasks and has shot at least 38% of the 3-point shooting percentage in each of the last three seasons. He also proved that he played all 82 games in each of the plastics in two seasons.
After earning $4.3 million this season, Alexander-Walker’s figures are at least consistent with the $14 million non-tax payer intermediate exception (NTMLE). The Canadian didn’t really click on this thing in his first few seasons, so there might be a sense of loyalty to Minnesota, with his career starting in 2022-23.
If that is not the case, a team like the Detroit Pistons might be attracted to offer him NTMLE. Any playoff team will be more than happy to ensure his service.
2. MalikBeasley
Speaking of Detroit, Besley’s service will certainly get when it proves that a winning team is very effective. Last season, only Anthony Edwards scored three points ahead of him.
Pistons may prioritize using NTMLE before anyone else to maintain continuity. Is there another team that will throw more for him? Again, it just boils down to the Brooklyn Nets.
Beasley has one good thing with the Pistons and should recognize this.
ESPN’s Shams Charania said it should of course be noted that Beasley is investigating “gambling charges related to NBA games and prop betting.” This could affect his market in the free agent market, depending on the survey’s performance.
Breaking In: The U.S. District Attorney’s Office is investigating allegations of Detroit Pistons Guard Malik Beasley regarding gambling related to NBA games and prop betting. Serious development around one of the top free agents in the NBA. pic.twitter.com/u0w1qonyva
– Shams Charania (@shamscharania) June 29, 2025
3. Bruce Brown Jr.
One of the best roles in the league is the forgotten season between the Toronto Raptors and the New Orleans Pelicans. Brown showed he proved to be a highly connective tissue flash when he won the title with the Denver Nuggets in 2023.
After getting the bag a few seasons ago, Brown may want to return to a winning team. He can dribble, pass, defend, and run well. He just didn’t shoot much from three or all. The $23 million Brown earned a season ago won’t make any money, and the team is happy to offer MLE.
Reunite with the Nuggets on the Card? Teams like the New York Knicks and the Dallas Mavericks will also benefit from his joining.
4. Gary Trent Jr.
Stay true to juniors and see what the market in Trent is like. He wasn’t bad in the regular season, but had a few big games in the playoffs.
He enjoyed the reputation of an absolute sniper from the outside and was safe, with his career three-point shooting percentage reaching 39.1%. He is also a guy who can rely on something in the late clock scene.
His defensive struggle led him to a minimum contract last summer. The team may be willing to do some upgrades with the taxpayer MLE this time. Even with Desmond Bane joining, the Orlando Magic may not mind adding more shots.
5. CarisLevert
Levert had some lost season in the deal from the Cleveland Cavaliers to the Atlanta Hawks. He is a gliding offensive player who can reach the bucket on a nice cut, but has been an average/mediocre three-point shooter throughout his career.
The Hawks got good utility from Levert in 26 games, with him averaging 14.9 points, 3.7 rebounds and 2.9 assists.
Given that Atlanta’s numbers can recover with Jalen Johnson’s injury and join Kristaps Porzingis improves, it’s likely to do whatever it can to maintain solid depth.
