Caleb Love and the NBA’s Best Two-Way Contracts: Who Will Break Through?

One of the most exhilarating aspects of following the NBA is witnessing the journey of the underdog. There is a unique thrill in watching an unknown player carve out a rotational role through sheer grit and talent. Thanks to the evolution of two-way contracts, these “hidden gems” now have a clearer runway to prove they belong in the league.

From scoring specialists to defensive anchors, several players are currently on the verge of a career-defining breakthrough. Let’s dive into the top seven two-way players to watch, featuring the explosive potential of Caleb Love.

1. Javon Small: The Complete Package

While he may not be a household name yet, 2025 second-round pick Javon Small is arguably the most polished talent on this list. During his rookie stint with the Memphis Grizzlies, Small displayed an impressive blend of playmaking, tenacious defense, and efficient shooting (46.5/42.3/82.9 splits).

As a quintessential connective guard, Small provides the versatility any coach craves. With the right opportunity, he is a prime candidate for a full contract conversion.

2. Caleb Love: The Microwave Scorer

When it comes to raw offensive electricity, Caleb Love stands in a league of his own among two-way players. After a productive rookie season with the Portland Trail Blazers, Love now looks to make his mark with the Philadelphia 76ers.

Love is known for his “microwave” scoring ability—the capacity to get hot instantly and change the momentum of a game. While his efficiency can be erratic (shooting 38.8% from the field last season), his ability to provide instant bench scoring is a luxury. For the 76ers, Love represents a high-reward asset who can punish defenses when given the green light.

3. Pat Spencer: The Veteran Glue Guy

At 30 years old, Pat Spencer doesn’t offer traditional “upside,” but he offers something just as valuable: Basketball IQ. After a standout run with the Golden State Warriors, Spencer has joined the Phoenix Suns.

Spencer operates as a classic floor general and a defensive pest. He is the ultimate “glue guy,” ensuring the offense flows smoothly and the defense stays disciplined. Don’t be surprised if the Suns convert his deal mid-season.

4. Kobe Brown: The Versatile Wing

Kobe Brown spent a long time struggling to find his footing with the Clippers, but a move to the Indiana Pacers unlocked his potential. Averaging nearly 10 points and 5 rebounds with efficient shooting splits, Brown has proven he can be a reliable complementary forward.

His defensive versatility and spot-up shooting make him a perfect fit for a winning system.

5. Jonathan Mogbo: The Defensive Menace

If you value defense, Jonathan Mogbo is your player. Now with the Sacramento Kings, Mogbo utilizes a massive 7-foot-2 wingspan to disrupt passing lanes and protect the rim. According to NBA advanced stats, players with his deflection rate are rare assets.

Mogbo is a defensive specialist who can transform a team’s perimeter pressure overnight.

6. Jett Howard: The High-Ceiling Forward

A former lottery pick, Jett Howard is looking for a fresh start with the Dallas Mavericks. With a 6-foot-8 frame and a natural stroke from deep (37.2% from 3 last season), Howard has the prototypical size and skill set of a modern NBA wing.

If he can find consistency in Dallas, Howard could evolve into a long-term starter.

7. Cormac Ryan: The Elite Specialist

Cormac Ryan is a specialist in the truest sense. Joining the Milwaukee Bucks, Ryan brings an elite ability to shoot off the move, evidenced by his staggering 45.8% accuracy from beyond the arc late last season.

In an era where spacing is everything, Ryan’s shooting makes him an indispensable asset for any rotational unit.

Final Thoughts: The Stakes of the Two-Way Grind

The transition from a two-way contract to a standard NBA deal is one of the hardest jumps in professional sports. However, players like Caleb Love and Javon Small are proving that with the right skillset and a bit of opportunity, the road to stardom is open. Keep an eye on these seven athletes—they are the future of their respective franchises.

For more deep dives into player analytics, check out Basketball-Reference to track their progress throughout the season.