​Since the UCLA Bruins added Nikola Kusturica earlier this week, the 2026-2027 roster is starting to look almost full, and the excitement surrounding the program has reached a new peak. Kusturica brings a high level of anticipation, signaling the possibility of landing one of the top picks in the 2028 NBA Draft. He is expected to earn meaningful minutes early for UCLA, a reflection of the commitment the program has shown by securing him with a substantial investment. After his standout performance at the FIBA U17 World Cup, the expectations for the Serbian forward are sky-high, and his addition appears to fortify a already promising depth chart.
So where does that leave the depth chart now that Kusturica is in the fold? Let’s break down the notable pieces and how they might fit around the new arrival. Azavier Robinson, who transferred in from Butler, posted 6.1 points per game as a freshman and will look to build on that early contribution. In the backcourt, Trent Perry is coming off a sophomore season at UCLA in which he averaged over 12 points per game, and there is clearly potential for him to assume a larger role as the team moves deeper into the season.
Eric Freeny also provides a compelling upside. As a freshman last season, Freeny demonstrated defensive versatility and shot the three-pointer at a solid 37% clip, a combination that could translate into reliable production for the Bruins. Then there’s Jaylen Petty, who arrives from Texas Tech after averaging 9.9 points per game as a freshman, adding more guard/wing depth to the roster.
A notable feature of the depth chart is that both of UCLA’s incoming small forwards figure to compete for important minutes, yet the veteran presence of Eric Dailey Jr. remains a central piece. Dailey, UCLA’s second-leading returning scorer, is slated to receive substantial opportunities at the three-spot, providing experience and maturity to an otherwise youthful rotation. Dailey is a 6’8” forward who enters his senior season and his third year with the Bruins, giving him a rare combination of size, experience, and potential that coaches can lean on as the team grows.
Kusturica’s presence adds another dynamic layer to the lineup, but it’s important to remember that he is still just 17 years old and won’t turn 18 until next April. The combination of Dailey’s veteran leadership, the arrival of a couple of seasoned transfers, and Kusturica’s sky-high ceiling makes sense for head coach Mick Cronin and UCLA as they shape a roster capable of competing at a high level.
In the frontcourt, Xavier Booker stands out as UCLA’s most talented center. Standing at 6’11” and having shot 43% from three as a junior, Booker has the potential to be a game-changer on offense and a stabilizing force on defense. Behind him, Brandon Williams and Javonte Floyd provide Cronin with additional options off the bench, helping to ensure depth and versatility across positions.
The combination of a promising young core, the continued development of veterans, and the arrival of Kusturica creates a compelling narrative for UCLA’s 2026-2027 season. It will be interesting to watch how Cronin manages the rotation and maximizes the strengths of a roster that blends proven production with high-ceiling talent. With Dailey’s senior leadership, Freeny’s defensive potential, Robinson’s early impact, Perry’s scoring ability, Petty’s range, and the added optimism around Kusturica and Booker, UCLA appears poised to build a formidable lineup that could make a deep run in the season ahead.