Mario Hezonja's decision to leave Real Madrid for the NBA has forced the club to rethink its plans for the remainder of the summer.

One of the immediate consequences concerns Eli John Ndiaye. According to reports, Real Madrid now have until Friday at 11:59 p.m. to decide whether to match Valencia Basket's offer for the 22-year-old power forward, after retaining matching rights over the academy graduate last summer.

Hezonja's departure, which was communicated to the club just hours before his NBA buyout clause expired, has left a significant gap in the frontcourt. Combined with Trey Lyles' earlier exit, it has also created an issue regarding the ACB's homegrown player regulations.

At present, Real Madrid's quota players include Sergio Llull, Alberto Abalde, Edy Tavares, new signing Jaime Pradilla and long-term absentee Usman Garuba, while Izan Almansa is pushing to go to the NCAA. With ACB rules requiring at least four homegrown players in every 12-man squad, retaining Ndiaye has become a more attractive option.

Beyond helping satisfy league regulations, Ndiaye would also provide valuable depth in the frontcourt. The forward is known for his defensive versatility and reliable outside shooting, having averaged 3.8 points, 2.8 rebounds and a 3.6 efficiency rating during the 2024-25 Liga Endesa season.

If he joins, Ndiaye would compete for minutes alongside Gabriel Deck, Chuma Okeke, Jaime Pradilla and Mikael Jantunen, who is reportedly close to joining Real Madrid.

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