Local stars still key ahead of Summer League

While NBL teams look to the world market to sign key imports, it could be some big local names that hold the key for NBL25.

Former Melbourne United big man Jo Lual-Acuil has been one of the hottest free agents this off-season again.

“He’s yet to sign anywhere,” Pete Hooley said on The Marketplace.

“He obviously has a desire to go back to Europe… maybe even explore the Asian market at some point in his career.

“But by not having put pen on paper, it means he’s available – which means teams will continue to reach out until he becomes unavailable.”

ESPN’s Olgun Uluc provided a brief insight into Lual-Acuil’s current off-season movements.

“He’s in their gym right now,” referring to United’s home at Hoop City in Melbourne.

“Look, if that’s something they pursue and were able to get done, then potentially they could bring in a backup five who is an import.

“Guess who else is in Australia right now? Marcus Lee… he’s in Melbourne right now.”

“These conversations are ongoing. It doesn’t mean anything is imminent with any of these guys, but there is constant communication between all of these parties.”

With NBA Summer League beginning this week, teams will start to add the final pieces to their rosters before pre-season commences in August.

“There are teams out there that are desperate for a marquee,” Uluc said.

“With each day that passes, more leverage shifts over to those players.

“The more the leverage shifts… the more money those teams are willing to offer. So that’s something we’re also keeping an eye on.”