
The NBA offseason is in full swing, and with the conclusion of the 2025 NBA Draft, teams are turning their attention to filling out rosters with promising undrafted talent. Two such prospects—Andrew Carr and Lamont Butler—are now the latest to land opportunities at the professional level. Carr has signed an Exhibit 10 contract with the Portland Trail Blazers, while Butler secured a two-way contract with the Atlanta Hawks. Both signings mark pivotal moments in the players’ careers as they take the next step toward achieving their NBA dreams.
Andrew Carr, a versatile forward out of Wake Forest, was one of the more intriguing undrafted players from the 2025 class. Standing at 6-foot-10, Carr combines size, mobility, and shooting touch in a way that appeals to modern NBA front offices. His signing with the Trail Blazers on an Exhibit 10 contract—a one-year, minimum-salary deal that allows the team flexibility while incentivizing Carr to stay with their G League affiliate—offers him a chance to prove he belongs on the professional stage. The Exhibit 10 deal can be converted into a two-way contract, and it includes a bonus of up to $75,000 if Carr is waived and joins the Blazers’ G League affiliate, the Rip City Remix, for at least 60 days.
Carr’s collegiate journey has been defined by growth and adaptation. After beginning his career at Delaware, Carr transferred to Wake Forest, where he elevated his game and embraced a larger role. At Wake Forest, Carr developed into a reliable contributor on both ends of the court. He showcased a polished mid-range jumper, expanding his range beyond the three-point line, while also becoming a more confident rebounder and interior defender. His basketball IQ and ability to stretch the floor made him an asset in head coach Steve Forbes’ system.
While Carr was not selected in the 2025 NBA Draft, his signing by the Trail Blazers is far from a consolation prize. Portland is in the midst of a rebuild and actively exploring different developmental pathways, particularly with young talent. Carr’s skill set aligns with the team’s long-term vision of surrounding franchise cornerstones like Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe with floor-spacing, high-IQ role players. His fit within Portland’s developmental framework could give him an edge as he battles for a permanent spot on the roster through training camp and Summer League.
The path ahead won’t be easy. Exhibit 10 deals are non-guaranteed, meaning Carr will need to make a strong impression during Summer League and preseason action. His chances of sticking around will depend on his ability to defend multiple positions, knock down open shots, and demonstrate a strong work ethic. But Carr is no stranger to hard work. He spent years transforming from a lightly-recruited high school player into an All-ACC caliber performer at Wake Forest. That kind of resilience and willingness to improve bodes well as he takes on the challenge of competing at the professional level.
Meanwhile, Lamont Butler, one of college basketball’s most respected defensive guards, is taking a slightly different route to the NBA. The former San Diego State standout has agreed to a two-way contract with the Atlanta Hawks, enabling him to split time between the NBA club and their G League affiliate, the College Park Skyhawks. Two-way contracts offer a unique bridge for players on the fringe of the NBA. Butler will be allowed to spend up to 50 games with the Hawks during the regular season, while honing his skills and getting more minutes in the G League.
Butler’s rise to this point has been shaped by a reputation for tenacity, leadership, and clutch performance. He etched his name into NCAA Tournament lore during San Diego State’s 2023 Final Four run, when his buzzer-beating jumper lifted the Aztecs to a stunning victory over Florida Atlantic, sending them to the national championship game. That moment, however, only scratches the surface of what Butler brings to the table. A three-year starter, Butler was the defensive heartbeat of one of the nation’s stingiest programs. His quick hands, on-ball pressure, and ability to read the floor made him a nightmare for opposing guards.
While Butler was never considered a prolific scorer, his offensive game evolved over time. By his senior year, he became a more consistent three-point shooter and developed improved decision-making as a primary ball handler. At 6-foot-2, Butler isn’t the biggest guard, but his intensity and feel for the game give him a puncher’s chance of carving out a role at the next level. The Hawks, a team looking to add grit and perimeter defense to their roster, see Butler as a high-upside addition to their player development system.
Atlanta’s front office has made it clear they are invested in building a sustainable winning culture through a blend of seasoned veterans and hungry young players. The addition of Butler reflects that philosophy. With veteran guard Dejounte Murray and All-Star Trae Young leading the backcourt, Butler may not see major NBA minutes immediately. However, the two-way contract gives him the runway to grow, adjust to the speed of the pro game, and work closely with coaches focused on individual development. The College Park Skyhawks will be an ideal proving ground for Butler to demonstrate his worth.