With the 2025 NBA draft eight days away (June 25-26, 8 p.m. ET on ABC and ESPN), 30 teams are deep into their predraft course of, understanding prime prospects and narrowing down their draft boards in preparation for the two-round event.
The Dallas Mavericks, homeowners of the No. 1 select due to worthwhile the draft lottery no matter a 1.8% likelihood of doing so, haven’t any plans to work out each different prospects aside from Duke’s Cooper Flagg for your best option. The Mavericks have scheduled a personal go to with the nationwide participant of the 12 months on Tuesday.
This latest mock draft, which shows a radical evaluation of the 2025 class and considers intel from scouts and entrance office personnel, has slightly little bit of a shake-up from earlier ones as half of the best 10 has new players slotted to utterly completely different teams, along with the projection for Rutgers star Ace Bailey.
Sunday’s blockbuster commerce between the Orlando Magic and Memphis Grizzlies impacted this draft, with the Magic sending the Grizzlies their No. 16 select amongst completely different future picks. Around the league, commerce talks are nonetheless taking type as utterly completely different conditions are being laid out from NBA decision-makers counting on how the draft evolves.
One such state of affairs that may have draft ramifications is that NBA teams have been anticipating Kevin Durant could possibly be traded ever given that Phoenix Suns engaged in talks throughout the February commerce deadline. On Saturday night, sources instructed ESPN’s Shams Charania that the Miami Heat, San Antonio Spurs and Houston Rockets are Durant’s most popular commerce places.
Amid the leaguewide commerce discussions and what we’re listening to on how teams are evaluating prospects, that is our latest mock draft of the 59 picks:
Note: The New York Knicks’ second-round select was rescinded by the NBA after an investigation into Jalen Brunson’s free firm signing within the summertime of 2022.
More NBA draft safety:
Trade presents for No. 1 | Lottery select comps
Latest mock draft: Need vs. best value
Draft belongings | Top 100 rankings | Pelton’s prime 30
First spherical
Cooper Flagg, SF/PF, Duke
Freshman | TS%: 60.0
Height with out sneakers: 6-7¾ | Weight: 221
Standing attain: 8-10½ | Wingspan: 7-0
There’s no suspense to be found at No. 1 this season. Flagg is about to go to the Mavericks on Tuesday, a formality throughout the course of as Dallas prepares to choose him on the first night of the draft (June 25). The Mavs’ distinctive lottery luck means Flagg will stroll proper right into a aggressive group from Day 1, with Dallas pushing for the playoffs subsequent season as Kyrie Irving recovers from an ACL tear.
Flagg enters the league with not solely a versatile expertise set, nevertheless the requisite psychological make-up to succeed beneath stress as a result of the de facto successor to Luka Doncic as a result of the face of the Mavericks’ franchise. His offensive growth in what may probably be a significant playmaking perform out of the gate will possible be an attention-grabbing subplot to begin the 2025-26 season. — Woo
1:19
What Stephen A. should see for Cooper Flagg to dwell as a lot because the hype
Stephen A. Smith explains what Cooper Flagg should do throughout the NBA to dwell as a lot because the hype.
Dylan Harper, PG/SG, Rutgers
Freshman | TS%: 59.3
Height with out sneakers: 6-4½ | Weight: 213
Standing attain: 8-6 | Wingspan: 6-10½
Most experience evaluators ponder Harper to be in a tier of his private as a result of the draft’s clear-cut second-best prospect, overriding potential points the Spurs would possibly want about his imperfect backcourt match with De’Aaron Fox and Stephon Castle, because of a particular lack of perimeter taking photos.
Rival teams attempting to work together in commerce talks with the Spurs have come away with the impression it’s unlikely they switch down or off the select at No. 2; it seems San Antonio is labored up concerning the potential of together with a experience of Harper’s caliber and is ready to be affected individual, figuring out roster growth points later.
The 19-year-old’s combination of measurement, shot-creating prowess, passing creativity, ending expertise and scoring instincts makes him the sort of lead guard, offensive engine that’s coveted in in the meanwhile’s NBA, as his strong physique appears well-suited for participating in via the bodily demanding vigor required throughout the playoffs. The downside of shopping for a few of these players makes it troublesome to determine the Spurs passing on the prospect in order so as to add Harper lastly. — Givony
VJ Edgecombe, SG, Baylor
Freshman | TS%: 56.1
Height with out sneakers: 6-4 | Weight: 193
Standing attain: 8-5½ | Wingspan: 6-7½
Edgecombe takes over this spot from Ace Bailey in ESPN’s mock draft after a constructive go to to Philadelphia, the place sources say he made a strong impression in a personal train along with in conferences with the doorway office and possession. He appears to be “the leader in the clubhouse” in the meanwhile, with Bailey dropping momentum after refusing to go to, initially sad collectively together with his search for a confirmed pathway to progress. However, Bailey is scheduled to work out in Philadelphia on the end of this week, and we’ll see if he’s able to sway the tides in his favor.
The ideas from his interviews on the draft combine in Chicago was not all that constructive, with some teams expressing concern about his lack of preparation and focus. NBA executives say Bailey has been polarizing in inside entrance office conversations attributable to questions on his actually really feel for the game and lack of polish, making a wider draft fluctuate than initially anticipated.
Surrounding the hyper-explosive Edgecombe with prolific 3-point shooters similar to Tyrese Maxey, Jared McCain, Quentin Grimes and Paul George would possibly add one different dimension to the Sixers’ offense, notably if the group buys into the occasion of his passing potential future.
Should Edgecombe not be chosen proper right here, most teams depend on him to be drafted one select later by Charlotte at No. 4, nevertheless he has moreover labored out in entrance of Washington throughout the predraft course of, an indication there could also be some commerce conditions in play with the Wizards transferring up, most likely as extreme as No. 3. — Givony
Kon Knueppel, SG/SF, Duke
Freshman | TS%: 64.8
Height with out sneakers: 6-5 | Weight: 219
Standing attain: 8-5½ | Wingspan: 6-6¼
Knueppel has some precise followers amongst NBA teams on this portion of the draft, with proponents highlighting his elite movement and spot-up taking photos (emphasis on his potential to shoot off movement versus his exact movement), defensive smarts and playmaking, along with an analytics-friendly profile that shines via in group draft fashions. Knueppel’s actually really feel for the game, selfless kind of play, energy and toughness should make him simple to play with, notably alongside the likes of LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller, who he appears to counterpoint pretty correctly.
The Hornets and Jazz are two teams that appear to have curiosity in him, collectively together with his floor seemingly no lower than No. 8. He’s the sort of prospect a playoff-caliber group would possibly moreover aim in a commerce, as he has a plug-and-play expertise set and seems liable to convey value all via his cost-controlled rookie-scale contract. — Givony
Tre Johnson, SG, Texas
Freshman | TS%: 56.1
Height with out sneakers: 6-4¾ | Weight: 190
Standing attain: 8-5 | Wingspan: 6-10¼
The Jazz, now led by Austin Ainge, have fundamental decisions ahead as they work to navigate their means out of what has change into a protracted rebuild. While rival teams nonetheless suspect Utah may have curiosity in a strong prime of the 2026 lottery — noting that their first-round select has top-eight security (in every other case conveying to Oklahoma City) — the group’s public stance has been that the group is accomplished tanking.
Still, not one of many perimeter players on the market to Utah at this spot will possible be ready to indicate throughout the franchise immediately, allowing the Jazz to simply swing on their most popular experience.
Johnson’s great perimeter taking photos and room to develop as an all-around scorer will make him participating. Bailey, who continues sliding down the board on this example, wouldn’t appear to have quite a bit curiosity in Utah and is taken into account by most teams as a riskier guess. Expect Jeremiah Fears, and Knueppel, if on the market, to acquire prolonged seems as correctly. — Woo
Airious “Ace” Bailey, SG/SF, Rutgers
Freshman | TS%: 54.0
Height with out sneakers: 6-7½ | Weight: 202
Standing attain: 8-11 | Wingspan: 7-0½
Bailey’s predraft train method has perplexed some observers, as he has however to conduct a single acknowledged train so far, having declined invitations from quite a lot of teams inside his draft fluctuate. Sources say Bailey’s camp has educated teams that they think about he’s a top-3 participant throughout the draft, however as well as seeks a clear pathway to stardom, possibly feeling cosy {{that a}} group will commerce as a lot as get him at Nos. 3 or 4, should he drop.
Some teams question whether or not or not Bailey has acquired assurances of being chosen by a gaggle in the meanwhile exterior the best 5, to a state of affairs deemed further advantageous from a geographic and participating in time perspective.
Bailey is scheduled to conduct a train with the 76ers later this week, nonetheless it’s unclear if he plans to go to each different teams at this stage. Should the Sixers transfer on him, he would possibly very correctly slide to the No. 6 or No. 7 picks, two teams in Washington and New Orleans which may be said to be extraordinarily intrigued with the 18-year-old’s experience. And every are situations throughout which there seem to be a great deal of minutes and pictures obtainable. — Givony
1:51
Ace Bailey’s electrical recreation is ready for the NBA
Take a check out highlights from Rutgers freshman Ace Bailey ahead of the 2025 NBA draft.
Jeremiah Fears, PG, Oklahoma
Freshman | TS%: 57.0
Height with out sneakers: 6-2½ | Weight: 179
Standing attain: 8-2½ | Wingspan: 6-5¼
Fears constructed important momentum with the way in which through which he accomplished his season at Oklahoma and has entrance locations of labor pondering arduous about his long-term upside, even with some robust edges left in his recreation. His fluctuate is relatively slender at this degree: The Pelicans and Nets are thought of by rival teams as landing spots, and the Jazz at No. 5 seem to be the best end.
There’s thought circulating that New Orleans could also be his floor if he makes it to this spot — a match that’s smart, considering the Pelicans’ long-standing need for a starting-caliber lead guard. The Pelicans sit in a useful slot proper right here, with not lower than thought of considered one of Fears, Johnson, Knueppel or Bailey set to be on the market to them — nevertheless have moreover been a troublesome group to peg so far, with rival teams working to understand what route the group’s new administration will take. — Woo
Khaman Maluach, C, Duke
Freshman | TS%: 74.7
Height with out sneakers: 7-0¾ | Weight: 252
Standing attain: 9-6 | Wingspan: 7-6¾
Maluach has been collaborating in aggressive workouts for top-10 teams in the direction of completely different giant males, aiming to showcase the enhancements he has made in his expertise diploma and physique. Maluach acquired a transparent bill of nicely being from NBA medical medical doctors all through his medical examination, which is essential considering his measurement and some minor sicknesses he expert earlier all through Duke’s season. The Nets, drafting No. 8 correct on the end of a tier of prospects sooner than what seems to be a clear drop-off, can afford to be opportunistic and wait to see which participant falls to them, whether or not or not it’s Maluach, Fears, Knueppel or one other individual.
Maluach is among the many draft’s youngest prospects, turning 19 on Sept. 14, and has important room for progress every bodily and skillswise. He performs with giant depth and is beloved by coaches and teammates attributable to his distinctive off-court intangibles.
His potential to anchor a safety collectively together with his wingspan and provide vertical spacing as a roller and cutter, whereas sprinting the bottom aggressively in transition, will possible be engaging to any group looking out for a center to assemble spherical future, along with most likely the Wizards or Pelicans, which select at No. 6 and No. 7, respectively. — Givony
Noa Essengue, PF, Ratiopharm Ulm
Germany | TS%: 61.1
Essengue’s predraft course of has stalled because of his worthwhile season in Germany stays ongoing. Ulm superior to the Basketball Bundesliga (BBL) Finals in the direction of Bayern Munich, a best-of-five assortment that began Monday and can very correctly run into the draft, with a doable Game 4 slated for June 24, and Game 5 on June 26. Essengue (along with teammate and draft prospect Ben Saraf) could also be unable to conduct personal workouts stateside earlier to draft night. What does help is that this week, Essengue, 18, measured correctly formally at 6-10 barefoot with a just about 7-1 wingspan, underscoring his great bodily profile all through frontcourt positions.
Toronto has largely been linked to frontcourt targets at select No. 9, along with Maluach, who isn’t any guarantee to be on the board. The Raptors are moreover thought of considered one of quite a lot of teams on this fluctuate said to be involved in commerce talks spherical their select, considering the potential of transferring once more throughout the draft in order so as to add experience to subsequent season’s roster.
Essengue’s mixture of measurement, versatility, extreme youth and burgeoning manufacturing has drawn rising curiosity from teams throughout the 9-to-15 fluctuate, and he matches an archetype that Raptors brass has usually targeted if the group stays put proper right here. — Woo
1:08
Noa Essengue’s NBA draft profile
Check out quite a lot of the highlights which have made Noa Essengue a chief NBA draft prospect.
Carter Bryant, SF/PF, Arizona
Freshman | TS%: 59.9
Height with out sneakers: 6-6½ | Weight: 214
Standing attain: 8-10 | Wingspan: 6-11¾
Bryant has acquired strong opinions all via the predraft course of. He appears susceptible to listen to his determine known as someplace throughout the 9-to-15 fluctuate, with quite a lot of teams liable to have an interest within the frontcourt taking photos, defensive versatility and passing prowess he presents. Bryant wasn’t continually productive for Arizona coming off the bench, averaging 6.5 components per recreation, as he isn’t plenty of a shot creator, and has a great deal of room for progress on every ends of the bottom.
The Rockets, flush with youthful prospects, received’t be lastly selecting proper right here, because the potential of together with a confirmed veteran will seemingly be utterly explored. Fresh off a powerful season that concluded with the NBA’s fourth-best report (52-30) and flush with youthful experience all via the roster, it’s troublesome to pinpoint explicit desires for the Rockets, apart from possibly addressing Fred VanVleet’s group chance.
Rival teams depend on Houston’s entrance office to be energetic the week of the draft. — Givony
Kasparas Jakucionis, PG, Illinois
Freshman | TS%: 59.8
Height with out sneakers: 6-4¾ | Weight: 205
Standing attain: 8-3½ | Wingspan: 6-7¾
The Trail Blazers are organize entrance for the foreseeable future with Donovan Clingan at coronary heart and haven’t received an particular positional need, nevertheless players similar to Jakucionis, Bryant and Essengue would possibly all be on the market proper right here and produce broadly utterly completely different expertise items.
Jakucionis’ unselfish kind and expertise to spice up ball movement would help Portland’s backcourt mix, with players similar to Scoot Henderson, Shaedon Sharpe and Anfernee Simons all further scoring-oriented. He would possibly feasibly slide into multi-playmaker lineups alongside the alternative guards in a further connective perform.
Jakucionis appears ticketed for this 10-to-15 fluctuate, collectively together with his playmaking, versatility and intangibles holding strong attraction in a variety of contexts. — Woo
Derik Queen, C, Maryland
Freshman | TS%: 60.0
Height with out sneakers: 6-9¼ | Weight: 247
Standing attain: 9-1½ | Wingspan: 7-0½
The Bulls haven’t received quite a bit in the way in which through which of long-term keepers throughout the big-man division, with Nikola Vucevic, 35, a commerce candidate stepping into the last word 12 months of his contract. Queen, Joan Beringer, and Thomas Sorber are said to be among the many many prospects they could ponder with this select at No. 12.
Queen is basically essentially the most knowledgeable giant man on this class. He is a terrific aim in pick-and-roll, can create his private shot coping with the basket with a wide selection of strikes and has intriguing passing potential.
Queen’s conditioning, occasional apathy defensively and lack of taking photos fluctuate are points NBA teams selecting on this house (or earlier) are trying to get a larger take care of on throughout the predraft course of, areas that we’ve heard blended ideas about primarily based totally on just a few of his early workouts. — Givony
Egor Demin, PG/SG, BYU
Freshman | TS%: 51.3
Height with out sneakers: 6-9¼ | Weight: 199
Standing attain: 8-9½ | Wingspan: 6-10¼
Rival teams’ study on the Hawks has been that they may look to pair an unlimited man and a guard, presuming they keep every of their first-round picks (Nos. 13 and 22). The order they go about prioritizing these desires might hinge on what happens in entrance of them. Demin’s playmaking experience turns into an intriguing value guess if he makes it to this part of the draft, with giant males along with Essengue, Joan Beringer and Asa Newell amongst potential candidates at this slot.
Demin has cast a big net on the train circuit, scheduling a wide range of teams whereas making an attempt to showcase his experience in aggressive settings. He has curiosity from teams inside the best 10, nevertheless conditions are moreover in play the place he would possibly slip out of the lottery. His combination of unbelievable measurement and passing imaginative and prescient should allow him to play all over the place within the perimeter, supplied he makes progress collectively together with his leap shot, an house he demonstrated efficiently all through a formidable skilled day train. — Woo
Joan Beringer, C, Cedevita Olimpija
Adriatic | TS%: 61.5
Height with out sneakers: 6-11 | Weight: 235
Standing attain: 9-3 | Wingspan: 7-4½
The Spurs will seemingly uncover diversified decisions with this No. 14 select, along with the potential of together with a veteran who’s further capable of contribute as a result of the group pivots in the direction of playoff competitors. Adding frontcourt depth could also be a priority, notably if the Spurs use Victor Wembanyama as further of an affect forward alongside one different rim protector in the end, which may be very troublesome to achieve in the direction of.
With his season in Slovenia lastly concluded, Beringer made his resolution to the United States, starting in Chicago and Brooklyn, New York, the place he completed his compulsory NBA combine participation. That included official measurements, which level out he has grown an inch and a half thus far 12 months, now standing over 7-feet in sneakers, 235 kilos with a 7-4½ wingspan and 9-3 standing attain, associated measurements to Jaren Jackson Jr. and Myles Turner on the an identical age.
The draft’s best shot blocker, Beringer has flashed considerable upside all season, which has put him in lottery consideration since January. — Givony
1:11
Joan Beringer’s NBA draft profile
Check out quite a lot of the highlights which have made Joan Beringer a chief NBA draft prospect.
Collin Murray-Boyles, PF/C, South Carolina
Sophomore | TS%: 64.0
Height with out sneakers: 6-6½ | Weight: 239
Standing attain: 8-10 | Wingspan: 7-0¾
Murray-Boyles has been considered one of many further divisive players amongst executives we’ve spoken with — some are enamored collectively together with his defensive versatility and all-around manufacturing and see a powerful NBA perform participant, whereas others harp on his restricted positional measurement and lack of perimeter taking photos, and the way in which through which these two parts prohibit his projectable ceiling.
His fluctuate appears to begin out at No. 10 with the Rockets — a gaggle that’s smart as a match, however as well as one that may commerce its select — and ends spherical proper right here throughout the youngsters.
The Thunder enter the draft with supreme flexibility due to their deep, gifted roster and their giant cache of future draft capital, enabling them to maneuver spherical throughout the draft and aim who they want. Murray-Boyles’ toughness and basketball IQ align with the components Oklahoma City tends to deal with, making this a doable landing spot for him. — Woo
Jase Richardson, PG/SG, Michigan State
Freshman | TS%: 63.2
Height with out sneakers: 6-0½ | Weight: 178
Standing attain: 8-2½ | Wingspan: 6-6
The Magic and Grizzlies pulled off a blockbuster commerce Sunday, with Desmond Bane headed to Orlando in return for a bundle deal along with this draft’s No. 16 select.
The Grizzlies are exactly the sort of group that would probably be interested by an ultra-efficient, productive youthful prospect similar to Richardson, who fees extraordinarily in draft fashions that analytics-savvy teams like Memphis usually be aware of.
Richardson possesses an exquisite actually really feel for the game, hit 41% of his 3-pointers this season, brings strong defensive depth and seems adept at participating in off the star power of a teammate like Ja Morant, whose future in Memphis is to be determined. As Richardson’s shot-creation vary and offensive aggressiveness evolve, he may probably be anyone who in the end inherits further important ballhandling obligations, if the Grizzlies resolve to pivot in the direction of a youth movement. — Givony
Thomas Sorber, C, Georgetown
Freshman | TS%: 58.7
Height with out sneakers: 6-9¼ | Weight: 262
Standing attain: 9-1 | Wingspan: 7-6
Sorber continues to be recovering from February foot surgical process and has been unable to partake in basketball actions on the train circuit, with teams relying on film and the interview course of to complete his evaluation. Nevertheless, he has robust curiosity inside the best 20, as teams are drawn to his defensive have an effect on and long-term outlook after rising this season as a shock one-and-done participant.
Minnesota is coping with potential roster modifications subsequent season, with Naz Reid and Julius Randle set to verify free firm and the Timberwolves in the meanwhile tied as a Kevin Durant landing spot. There’s an excellent case for together with frontcourt depth proper right here, with various bigs projected inside the best 20, and the Wolves moreover holding the No. 31 select. — Woo
18. Washington Wizards (by means of Memphis)
Asa Newell, PF/C, Georgia
Freshman | TS%: 62.0
Height with out sneakers: 6-9 | Weight: 224
Standing attain: 8-11½ | Wingspan: 6-11¼
With three picks throughout the prime 40 and no precise stress however to win merely two years proper into a whole roster teardown, the Wizards can go in numerous directions on this part of the draft. After taking a fringe participant with their first select at No. 6, together with frontcourt depth would possibly make sense.
Newell’s mobility, aggressiveness and depth diploma are important belongings that allowed him to have a extraordinarily productive, surroundings pleasant freshman advertising marketing campaign at Georgia, making 26 3-pointers in 33 video video games and altering 75% of his free throws, pointing to floor-stretching potential. — Givony
0:17
Asa Newell drills a trey for Georgia
Asa Newell splashes a nook trey for Georgia vs. No. 1 Auburn.
19. Brooklyn Nets (by means of Milwaukee)
Will Riley, SG/SF, Illinois
Freshman | TS%: 53.8
Height with out sneakers: 6-8¼ | Weight: 185
Standing attain: 8-8 | Wingspan: 6-8¾
This is the second of the Nets’ 4 first-round picks, with Brooklyn unlikely to roster all of these options and actively exploring a wide range of decisions in consequence. If they preserve put, the Nets have ample berth from a timeline perspective to take swings on youthful prospects like Riley, who might desire a season or two to change into a contributor.
Riley is one different participant whose fluctuate is on the broader aspect for the time being. He has teams’ curiosity as extreme as a result of the early youngsters, nevertheless there are moreover conditions in play the place he would possibly slip into the 20s. His advocates throughout the NBA see fundamental upside because of his great measurement, offensive actually really feel and taking photos potential, nonetheless it’s understood that it’s going to take him time in order so as to add bodily energy and hopefully, improve defensively. — Woo
20. Miami Heat (by means of Golden State)
Liam McNeeley, SG/SF, UConn
Freshman | TS%: 53.6
Height with out sneakers: 6-6¾ | Weight: 214
Standing attain: 8-3½ | Wingspan: 6-8½
Adding backcourt experience will seemingly be a priority for the Heat this offseason, nonetheless it’s not simple to degree to any surefire guard contributors on this fluctuate. McNeeley’s measurement, shot-making prowess, actually really feel for the game and toughness are important attributes that NBA teams value on the wing place. He should remind them of his worthwhile qualities all via the predraft course of, following an inefficient season throughout which he remodeled 44% of his 2-pointers and 32% of his 3-pointers.
He will seemingly be requested to play a particular perform throughout the NBA, leaning further intently into his potential as a dynamic perimeter shooter, which was further evident in numerous settings sooner than college. McNeeley has some momentum behind him now, following some constructive workouts, serving to to remind teams of what made him so extraordinarily regarded stepping into the season. — Givony
1:38
See why Liam McNeeley is an intriguing NBA prospect
Check out highlights from UConn’s Liam McNeeley ahead of the 2025 NBA draft.
21. Utah Jazz (by means of Minnesota)
Cedric Coward, SF, Washington State/Duke
Junior | TS%: 71.0
Height with out sneakers: 6-5¼ | Weight: 213
Standing attain: 8-10 | Wingspan: 7-2¼
Just how extreme Coward will hear his determine known as has been a scorching matter throughout the league of late. While at flooring diploma, his lack of high-level pedigree and effectivity sample is a big draw back, NBA teams have come away enamored collectively together with his interviews and intrigued by his bodily toolbox and taking photos potential on the wing.
Coward’s fast rise throughout the course of could be a referendum on the type of this draft, as some teams actually really feel the class flattens out arduous spherical No. 20 or so, and there’s a decided lack of 3-and-D wings who warrant first-round grades, an archetype many are ready to take a chance on — all of that appears set to play in Coward’s favor on draft night.
Utah, holding quite a lot of options, would possibly use a participant in Coward’s mould and can see value in him. — Woo
22. Atlanta Hawks (by means of Los Angeles Lakers)
Danny Wolf, PF, Michigan
Junior | TS%: 56.6
Height with out sneakers: 6-10½ | Weight: 251
Standing attain: 9-1 | Wingspan: 7-2¼
Feedback on Wolf from teams has been blended throughout the predraft course of, as he’s a significantly unorthodox prospect who some view as a further situational match. His inside-out versatility and passing experience at his measurement separate him from the alternative bigs on this class. There are moreover precise questions he has to answer surrounding his inconsistent taking photos and foul line struggles (34% on 3-pointers, 59% on free throws), and whether or not or not he’ll defend at a extreme diploma.
If the Hawks go together with a fringe participant with their select at No. 13, together with an unlimited later throughout the draft at No. 22 is wise, with Wolf making for an attention-grabbing slot in giant, versatile lineups with Jalen Johnson and Onyeka Okongwu up entrance. — Woo
Nique Clifford, SG, Colorado State
Super Senior | TS%: 60.9
Height with out sneakers: 6-5¼ | Weight: 202
Standing attain: 8-6½ | Wingspan: 6-8
Clifford has acquired constructive ideas on the train circuit, drawing curiosity throughout the youngsters collectively together with his fluctuate working into the 20s. Coming off an unlimited season at Colorado State, Clifford’s experience and plug-and-play, two-way expertise set has made him a viable chance for NBA teams in quest of wing help.
Amid a excellent playoff run that has underscored the depth and prime quality of Indiana’s roster, the Pacers are said to be open to transferring their first-round select, making this thought of considered one of many options on this fluctuate that may change fingers. With Myles Turner due for a model new contract that may take the Pacers into the luxurious tax — one factor the group has prolonged averted — the prospect of using this select to create financial monetary financial savings, help keep the current roster intact, and extract value by completely different means is wise.
If Indiana does select a participant proper right here at No. 23, together with one who can contribute immediately seems prudent. — Woo
Hugo Gonzalez, SG/SF, Real Madrid
EuroLeague | TS%: 50.9
The Thunder received’t even have a roster spot at their disposal for every of their first-round picks, so it’s unclear exactly which route they’ll go on draft night.
Gonzalez would possibly match Oklahoma City’s kind of play with the spectacular bodily devices and frenetic vitality he brings defensively, which has enabled him to carve out a strong perform for Real Madrid throughout the Spanish Liga ACB playoffs simply recently. There’s moreover the prospect a gaggle would possibly persuade Gonzalez to be stashed for an extra 12 months in Europe — one factor that completely wouldn’t be attention-grabbing to his camp at this stage — nevertheless could also be a necessity if the quite a few buyout in his contract wouldn’t receives a fee this offseason (it’s an chance Real Madrid would completely be open to, considering his impactful play). — Givony
0:54
Hugo Gonzalez’s NBA draft profile
Check out quite a lot of the highlights which have made Hugo Gonzalez a chief NBA draft prospect.
25. Orlando Magic (by means of Denver)
Maxime Raynaud, PF/C, Stanford
Senior | TS%: 56.1
Height with out sneakers: 7-0¼ | Weight: 236
Standing attain: 9-2 | Wingspan: 7-1¼
It’s not clear what the Magic’s urge for meals will possible be for together with two rookie kids to an already youthful roster, possibly inflicting them to find further mature upperclassmen like Raynaud, who would convey some much-needed frontcourt spacing that the roster in the meanwhile lacks.
Raynaud hit 67 3-pointers this season in 35 video video games and had a strong exhibiting on the draft combine, suggesting there’s upside nonetheless left to faucet into because of his late-blooming trajectory, having focused full-time on basketball solely as a highschool senior. Raynaud’s potential to stretch the bottom as a center is efficient in in the meanwhile’s NBA, one factor that may completely attraction to the Magic from a spacing perspective. — Givony
Nolan Traore, PG, Saint-Quentin
France | TS%: 51.0
Height with out sneakers: 6-3 | Weight: 175
Standing attain: 8-5½ | Wingspan: 6-8
With 4 first-round picks at their disposal, it could not be stunning to see the Nets take quite a lot of experience swings, hoping to uncover gems with just a few of their later picks.
The Nets have a void throughout the backcourt, counting on what they do with their first few picks, and this case will possible be thought-about extraordinarily engaging to any of the guards slated to be picked on this fluctuate.
After starting the season projected as a top-10 select, Traore’s draft stock dropped attributable to inconsistent play, nevertheless there’s nonetheless quite a bit to like collectively together with his measurement, ballhandling, playmaking creativity and upside, making him a worthy gamble for a gaggle in Brooklyn’s state of affairs and at this degree throughout the draft. — Givony
Rasheer Fleming, PF, Saint Joseph’s
Junior | TS%: 64.4
Height with out sneakers: 6-8¼ | Weight: 232
Standing attain: 9-1 | Wingspan: 7-5¼
It seems unlikely the Nets, who moreover keep the No. 36 select, will lastly roster all 5 of their draft picks. Count them amongst many teams throughout the 20s who’re open for enterprise involving their options. This fluctuate of the draft is taken into account by teams and brokers as terribly fluid, with every select between Nos. 21 and 27 each thought of as on the market and/or belonging to teams with quite a lot of options.
Fleming is among the many many players susceptible to come back off the board throughout the once more half of the first spherical. His bodily devices and enhancing 3-point taking photos give him a path to carving out a rotation spot, and some teams view him as a participant who can also assist immediately. While not a flashy participant nor immensely knowledgeable, Fleming’s dimension, enchancment observe and late-blooming trajectory degree to untapped potential. — Woo
1:31
Rasheer Fleming’s NBA draft profile
Check out quite a lot of the highlights which have made Rasheer Fleming a chief NBA draft prospect.
Drake Powell, SG/SF, North Carolina
Freshman | TS%: 61.1
Height with out sneakers: 6-5¼ | Weight: 200
Standing attain: 8-7 | Wingspan: 7-0
The Celtics have some giant desires to take care of throughout the wake of Jayson Tatum’s season-ending Achilles injury, nevertheless they can’t have any precise expectation to take care of them throughout the draft, positively not this late throughout the first spherical.
Finding a wing like Powell, who’s capable of absorbing minutes, hopefully gaining some experience and possibly rising as capable of together with value in a 12 months from now, could possibly be a big win. NBA teams like Powell’s actually really feel for the game and long-term upside, notably his potential to guard all people from degree guards to power forwards whereas flying spherical to protect the rim, crash the glass and shut out with goal on the perimeter. He performs exceptionally arduous, has giant mobility defending flooring, rotating all over the place within the floor — with the question being whether or not or not he’s an aggressive ample scorer or right ample shooter to hold his private on that end of the bottom. — Givony
Walter Clayton Jr., PG, Florida
Senior | TS%: 61.1
Height with out sneakers: 6-2 | Weight: 199
Standing attain: 8-1½ | Wingspan: 6-4
The Suns appear interested by getting youthful and remaking their roster, with the prospect of a Durant commerce moreover creating conditions throughout which Phoenix would possibly select up additional draft picks earlier throughout the first spherical.
A participant like Clayton, who could also be value-additive on a rookie-scale deal immediately, must be engaging to the Suns as they navigate a difficult wage sheet and try and greater place themselves future.
Clayton seems to have carried out himself into the first spherical collectively together with his NCAA occasion heroics, thought of as a sparkplug scorer who can also assist enhance a gaggle’s bench unit. His confidence and shot-making experience ought to cowl for his restricted measurement and questionable safety. — Woo
1:56
See what makes Walter Clayton Jr. an intriguing NBA prospect
Check out highlights from Florida’s Walter Clayton Jr. ahead of the 2025 NBA draft.
30. LA Clippers (by means of Oklahoma City)
Noah Penda, SF/PF, Le Mans
France | TS%: 53.9
Height with out sneakers: 6-7¼ | Weight: 242
Standing attain: 8-10½ | Wingspan: 6-11½
Due to their hefty payroll, the Clippers should see value in rostering a rookie who can contribute with this select. Finding anyone who can complement their stars on a cost-controlled deal could possibly be a win.
Penda has been an attention-grabbing sleeper determine for teams because of his multipositional versatility, capable of participating in all over the place within the floor on offense and likewise defending quite a lot of spots. While his perimeter taking photos and restricted run-jump athleticism are question marks for teams, his actually really feel, expertise and measurement are all good selling components.
There stays curiosity amongst teams as as as to if Penda will adjust to be stashed overseas for an extra season, one factor that may help his potentialities of discovering a comfortable draft slot. — Woo
0:20
Jamir Watkins with the and-1 bucket
Jamir Watkins with the and-1 bucket
Second spherical
31. Minnesota Timberwolves (by means of Utah)
Ben Saraf, PG/SG, Ratiopharm Ulm (Germany)
32. Boston Celtics (by means of Washington)
Ryan Kalkbrenner, C, Creighton, super senior
33. Charlotte Hornets
Adou Thiero, PF, Arkansas
34. Charlotte Hornets (by means of New Orleans)
Yanic Konan Niederhauser, C, Penn State, junior
35. Philadelphia 76ers
Hansen Yang, C, Qingdao (China)
36. Brooklyn Nets
Jamir Watkins, SG/SF, Florida State, senior
37. Detroit Pistons (by means of Toronto)
Alex Toohey, SF/PF, Sydney (Australia)
38. San Antonio Spurs
Chaz Lanier, SG, Tennessee, super senior
39. Toronto Raptors (by means of Portland)
Bogoljub Markovic, PF/C, Mega Superbet (Adriatic)
40. Washington Wizards (by means of Phoenix)
Johni Broome, C, Auburn, super senior
41. Golden State Warriors (by means of Miami)
Rocco Zikarsky, C, Brisbane (Australia)
42. Sacramento Kings (by means of Chicago)
John Tonje, SF, Wisconsin, super senior
43. Utah Jazz (by means of Dallas)
Tyrese Proctor, PG, Duke, junior
44. Oklahoma City Thunder (by means of Atlanta)
Eric Dixon, PF, Villanova, super senior
45. Chicago Bulls (by means of Sacramento)
Sion James, SF, Duke, super senior
46. Orlando Magic
Kam Jones, PG/SG, Marquette, senior
47. Milwaukee Bucks (by means of Detroit)
Koby Brea, SG/SF, Kentucky, super senior
48. Memphis Grizzlies (by means of Golden State)
Javon Small, PG, West Virginia, senior
49. Cleveland Cavaliers (by means of Milwaukee)
Vladislav Goldin, C, Michigan, super senior
50. New York Knicks (by means of Memphis)
Lachlan Olbrich, PF/C, Illawarra
51. LA Clippers (by means of Minnesota)
Viktor Lakhin, C, Clemson, super senior
52. Phoenix Suns (by means of Denver)
Kobe Sanders, SG/SF, Nevada, senior
53. Utah Jazz (by means of LA Clippers)
Dink Pate, SG/SF, Mexico City (G League)
54. Indiana Pacers
Micah Peavy, SG/SF, Georgetown, senior
55. Los Angeles Lakers
Hunter Sallis, SG, Wake Forest, senior
56. Memphis Grizzlies (by means of Houston)
Amari Williams, C, Kentucky, senior
57. Orlando Magic (by means of Boston)
Alijah Martin, SG, Florida, senior
58. Cleveland Cavaliers
Ryan Nembhard, PG, Gonzaga, senior
59. Houston Rockets (by means of Oklahoma City)
RJ Luis Jr., SF/PF, St. John’s, junior
Jonathan Givony is an NBA draft skilled and the founder and co-owner of DraftParticular.com, a personal scouting and analytics service utilized by NBA, NCAA and worldwide teams.
Jeremy Woo is an NBA analyst specializing in prospect evaluation and the draft. He was beforehand a staff creator and draft insider at Sports Illustrated.