Predicting where the NBA's top 20 free agents will play in 2024–25
By Dalton Sell
6. De'Anthony Melton - Utah Jazz
This will be a fascinating one. Appearing in just 38 games for the Philadelphia 76ers this past season, De'Anthony Melton's career year was cut short due to injuries. Now, the guard will hit free agency, and just about every team in the league seeking backcourt depth should look into picking him up.
Melton's biggest draw is his pesky defense. Though he stands at 6-foot-2, he boasts an eye-popping 6-foot-8 wingspan, which he utilizes to hound opponents and hold his own against bigger players in particular situations. He's also a decent contributor on offense, averaging 9.1 points while shooting 36.9 percent from deep for his career.
The Utah Jazz could make sense as a suitor both situationally and financially. They could use another spry defender in the backcourt, and they will have money to entice Melton. He'd fit seamlessly there with players like Jordan Clarkson and Lauri Markkanen as this team aims to get back into the playoff picture in the NBA's Western Conference.
Given how many teams will likely express interest in him, Melton could very well start a bidding war in NBA Free Agency. The Jazz could very well hang in there until the end and nab him if they so desire.