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Jonathan Givony
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Jeremy Woo
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Jeremy Woo
ESPN
- NBA draft analyst and author
Joined ESPN.com in 2023
Lined the NBA and NBA draft for Sports activities Illustrated from 2015-2023
With the 2025 NBA draft eight days away (June 25-26, 8 p.m. ET on ABC and ESPN), 30 groups are deep into their predraft course of, understanding high prospects and narrowing down their draft boards in preparation for the two-round occasion.
The Dallas Mavericks, house owners of the No. 1 choose due to profitable the draft lottery regardless of a 1.8% probability of doing so, don’t have any plans to work out every other prospects apart from Duke’s Cooper Flagg for the best choice. The Mavericks have scheduled a personal go to with the nationwide participant of the 12 months on Tuesday.
This newest mock draft, which displays a radical analysis of the 2025 class and considers intel from scouts and front-office personnel, has a little bit of a shake-up from earlier ones as half of the highest 10 has new gamers slotted to totally different groups, together 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 choose amongst different future picks. Across the league, commerce talks are nonetheless taking form as totally different eventualities are being laid out from NBA decision-makers relying on how the draft evolves.
One such state of affairs that might have draft ramifications consists of the actual fact NBA groups have been anticipating that Kevin Durant can be traded ever for the reason that Phoenix Suns engaged in talks across the February commerce deadline. On Saturday evening, sources advised ESPN’s Shams Charania that the Miami Warmth, San Antonio Spurs and Houston Rockets are Durant’s most popular commerce locations.
Amid the leaguewide commerce discussions and what we’re listening to on how groups are evaluating prospects, here is our newest mock draft of the 59 picks:
Be aware: The New York Knicks’ second-round choose was rescinded by the NBA after an investigation into Jalen Brunson’s free company signing in the summertime of 2022.
Extra NBA draft protection:
Commerce provides for No. 1 | Lottery choose comps
Newest mock draft: Want vs. finest worth
Draft property | High 100 rankings | Pelton’s high 30
First spherical
Cooper Flagg, SF/PF, Duke
Freshman | TS%: 60.0
Top with out footwear: 6-7¾ | Weight: 221
Standing attain: 8-10½ | Wingspan: 7-0
There isn’t any suspense to be discovered at No. 1 this season. Flagg is about to go to the Mavericks on Tuesday, a formality within the course of as Dallas prepares to pick out him on the primary evening of the draft (June 25). The Mavs’ distinctive lottery luck means Flagg will stroll right into a aggressive crew 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 flexible talent set, however the requisite psychological make-up to succeed beneath strain because the de facto successor to Luka Doncic because the face of the Mavericks’ franchise. His offensive development in what could possibly be a big playmaking position out of the gate shall be an enchanting subplot to start the 2025-26 season. — Woo
1:19
What Stephen A. must see for Cooper Flagg to reside as much as the hype
Stephen A. Smith explains what Cooper Flagg must do within the NBA to reside as much as the hype.
Dylan Harper, PG/SG, Rutgers
Freshman | TS%: 59.3
Top with out footwear: 6-4½ | Weight: 213
Standing attain: 8-6 | Wingspan: 6-10½
Most expertise evaluators take into account Harper to be in a tier of his personal because the draft’s clear-cut second-best prospect, overriding potential considerations the Spurs might need about his imperfect backcourt match with De’Aaron Fox and Stephon Fortress, as a result of a definite lack of perimeter taking pictures.
Rival groups making an attempt to interact in commerce talks with the Spurs have come away with the impression it is unlikely they transfer down or off the choose at No. 2; it appears San Antonio is worked up about the potential of including a expertise of Harper’s caliber and is prepared to be affected person, determining roster building considerations later.
The 19-year-old’s mixture of measurement, shot-creating prowess, passing creativity, ending talent and scoring instincts makes him the kind of lead guard, offensive engine that’s coveted in immediately’s NBA, as his robust body seems well-suited for enjoying by the bodily demanding vigor required within the playoffs. The problem of buying these kinds of gamers makes it tough to ascertain the Spurs passing on the chance so as to add Harper in the end. — Givony
VJ Edgecombe, SG, Baylor
Freshman | TS%: 56.1
Top with out footwear: 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 robust impression in a personal exercise in addition to in conferences with the entrance workplace and possession. He seems to be “the chief within the clubhouse” presently, with Bailey shedding momentum after refusing to go to, initially unhappy along with his seek for a confirmed pathway to improvement. Nevertheless, Bailey is scheduled to work out in Philadelphia on the finish of this week, and we’ll see if he is capable of sway the tides in his favor.
The suggestions from his interviews on the draft mix in Chicago was not all that constructive, with some groups expressing concern about his lack of preparation and focus. NBA executives say Bailey has been polarizing in inside front-office conversations due to questions on his really feel for the sport and lack of polish, making a wider draft vary than initially anticipated.
Surrounding the hyper-explosive Edgecombe with prolific 3-point shooters reminiscent of Tyrese Maxey, Jared McCain, Quentin Grimes and Paul George might add one other dimension to the Sixers’ offense, particularly if the crew buys into the event of his passing capability long-term.
Ought to Edgecombe not be chosen right here, most groups anticipate him to be drafted one choose later by Charlotte at No. 4, however he has additionally labored out in entrance of Washington within the predraft course of, a sign there is likely to be some commerce eventualities in play with the Wizards shifting up, probably as excessive as No. 3. — Givony
Kon Knueppel, SG/SF, Duke
Freshman | TS%: 64.8
Top with out footwear: 6-5 | Weight: 219
Standing attain: 8-5½ | Wingspan: 6-6¼
Knueppel has some actual followers amongst NBA groups on this portion of the draft, with proponents highlighting his elite motion and spot-up taking pictures (emphasis on his capability to shoot off motion versus his precise motion), defensive smarts and playmaking, in addition to an analytics-friendly profile that shines by in crew draft fashions. Knueppel’s really feel for the sport, selfless type of play, energy and toughness ought to make him straightforward to play with, particularly alongside the likes of LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller, who he seems to enrich fairly effectively.
The Hornets and Jazz are two groups that seem to have curiosity in him, along with his ground seemingly no decrease than No. 8. He is the kind of prospect a playoff-caliber crew might additionally goal in a commerce, as he has a plug-and-play talent set and appears more likely to deliver worth all through his cost-controlled rookie-scale contract. — Givony
Tre Johnson, SG, Texas
Freshman | TS%: 56.1
Top with out footwear: 6-4¾ | Weight: 190
Standing attain: 8-5 | Wingspan: 6-10¼
The Jazz, now led by Austin Ainge, have main choices forward as they work to navigate their manner out of what has turn out to be a protracted rebuild. Whereas rival groups nonetheless suspect Utah could have curiosity in a robust high of the 2026 lottery — noting that their first-round choose has top-eight safety (in any other case conveying to Oklahoma Metropolis) — the group’s public stance has been that the crew is completed tanking.
Nonetheless, not one of the perimeter gamers obtainable to Utah at this spot shall be prepared to show across the franchise instantly, permitting the Jazz to easily swing on their most popular expertise.
Johnson’s glorious perimeter taking pictures and room to develop as an all-around scorer will make him attractive. Bailey, who continues sliding down the board on this state of affairs, does not seem to have a lot curiosity in Utah and is seen by most groups as a riskier guess. Anticipate Jeremiah Fears, and Knueppel, if obtainable, to obtain lengthy appears as effectively. — Woo
Airious “Ace” Bailey, SG/SF, Rutgers
Freshman | TS%: 54.0
Top with out footwear: 6-7½ | Weight: 202
Standing attain: 8-11 | Wingspan: 7-0½
Bailey’s predraft exercise technique has perplexed some observers, as he has but to conduct a single identified exercise so far, having declined invites from a number of groups inside his draft vary. Sources say Bailey’s camp has knowledgeable groups that they imagine he’s a top-3 participant within the draft, but in addition seeks a transparent pathway to stardom, maybe feeling snug {that a} crew will commerce as much as get him at Nos. 3 or 4, ought to he drop.
Some groups query whether or not Bailey has acquired assurances of being chosen by a crew presently outdoors the highest 5, to a scenario deemed extra advantageous from a geographic and enjoying time perspective.
Bailey is scheduled to conduct a exercise with the 76ers later this week, but it surely’s unclear if he plans to go to every other groups at this stage. Ought to the Sixers cross on him, he might very effectively slide to the No. 6 or No. 7 picks, two groups in Washington and New Orleans which might be mentioned to be extremely intrigued with the 18-year-old’s expertise. And each are conditions by which there look like loads of minutes and pictures available. — Givony
1:51
Ace Bailey’s electrical recreation is prepared for the NBA
Check out highlights from Rutgers freshman Ace Bailey forward of the 2025 NBA draft.
Jeremiah Fears, PG, Oklahoma
Freshman | TS%: 57.0
Top with out footwear: 6-2½ | Weight: 179
Standing attain: 8-2½ | Wingspan: 6-5¼
Fears constructed important momentum with the way in which he completed his season at Oklahoma and has entrance workplaces considering arduous about his long-term upside, even with some tough edges left in his recreation. His vary is comparatively slender at this level: The Pelicans and Nets are seen by rival groups as touchdown spots, and the Jazz at No. 5 look like the highest finish.
There’s thought circulating that New Orleans is likely to be his ground if he makes it to this spot — a match that is smart, contemplating the Pelicans’ long-standing want for a starting-caliber lead guard. The Pelicans sit in a priceless slot right here, with at the least one in every of Fears, Johnson, Knueppel or Bailey set to be obtainable to them — however have additionally been a difficult crew to peg up to now, with rival groups working to grasp what route the crew’s new management will take. — Woo
Khaman Maluach, C, Duke
Freshman | TS%: 74.7
Top with out footwear: 7-0¾ | Weight: 252
Standing attain: 9-6 | Wingspan: 7-6¾
Maluach has been collaborating in aggressive exercises for top-10 groups towards different huge males, aiming to showcase the enhancements he has made in his talent degree and physique. Maluach acquired a clear invoice of well being from NBA medical doctors throughout his medical examination, which is important contemplating his measurement and a few minor illnesses he skilled earlier throughout Duke’s season. The Nets, drafting No. 8 proper on the finish of a tier of prospects earlier than what appears to be a transparent drop-off, can afford to be opportunistic and wait to see which participant falls to them, whether or not it is Maluach, Fears, Knueppel or another person.
Maluach is without doubt one of the draft’s youngest prospects, turning 19 on Sept. 14, and has important room for development each bodily and skillswise. He performs with great depth and is beloved by coaches and teammates, as a result of his distinctive off-court intangibles.
His capability to anchor a protection along with his wingspan and supply vertical spacing as a curler and cutter, whereas sprinting the ground aggressively in transition, shall be enticing to any crew on the lookout for a middle to construct round long-term, together with probably the Wizards or Pelicans, which choose at No. 6 and No. 7, respectively. — Givony
Noa Essengue, PF, Ratiopharm Ulm
Germany | TS%: 61.1
Essengue’s predraft course of has stalled as a result of his profitable season in Germany stays ongoing. Ulm superior to the Basketball Bundesliga (BBL) Finals towards Bayern Munich, a best-of-five sequence that started Monday and will very effectively run into the draft, with a possible Recreation 4 slated for June 24, and Recreation 5 on June 26. Essengue (in addition to teammate and draft prospect Ben Saraf) is likely to be unable to conduct non-public exercises stateside previous to draft evening. What does assistance is that this week, Essengue, 18, measured effectively formally at 6-10 barefoot with an almost 7-1 wingspan, underscoring his glorious bodily profile throughout frontcourt positions.
Toronto has largely been linked to frontcourt targets at choose No. 9, together with Maluach, who is not any assure to be on the board. The Raptors are additionally one in every of a number of groups on this vary mentioned to be concerned in commerce talks round their choose, contemplating the potential of shifting again within the draft so as to add expertise to subsequent season’s roster.
Essengue’s mix of measurement, versatility, excessive youth and burgeoning manufacturing has drawn rising curiosity from groups within the 9-to-15 vary, and he matches an archetype Raptors brass has usually focused in the event that they keep put right here. — Woo
1:08
Noa Essengue’s NBA draft profile
Try a few of the highlights which have made Noa Essengue a high NBA draft prospect.
Carter Bryant, SF/PF, Arizona
Freshman | TS%: 59.9
Top with out footwear: 6-6½ | Weight: 214
Standing attain: 8-10 | Wingspan: 6-11¾
Bryant has acquired robust evaluations all through the predraft course of. He seems more likely to hear his identify known as someplace within the 9-to-15 vary, with a number of groups more likely to be interested in the frontcourt taking pictures, defensive versatility, and passing prowess he provides. Bryant wasn’t persistently productive for Arizona coming off the bench, averaging 6.5 factors per recreation, as he isn’t a lot of a shot creator, and has loads of room for development on each ends of the ground.
The Rockets, flush with younger prospects, may not be in the end selecting right here, as the potential of including a confirmed veteran will seemingly be totally explored. Contemporary off an impressive season that concluded with the NBA’s fourth-best report (52-30) and flush with younger expertise all through the roster, it is difficult to pinpoint particular wants for the Rockets, apart from maybe addressing Fred VanVleet’s crew choice.
Rival groups anticipate Houston’s entrance workplace to be energetic the week of the draft. — Givony
Kasparas Jakucionis, PG, Illinois
Freshman | TS%: 59.8
Top with out footwear: 6-4¾ | Weight: 205
Standing attain: 8-3½ | Wingspan: 6-7¾
The Path Blazers are arrange entrance for the foreseeable future with Donovan Clingan at heart and do not have an categorical positional want, however gamers reminiscent of Jakucionis, Bryant and Essengue might all be obtainable right here and convey broadly totally different talent units.
Jakucionis’ unselfish type and talent to boost ball motion would assist Portland’s backcourt combine, with gamers reminiscent of Scoot Henderson, Shaedon Sharpe and Anfernee Simons all extra scoring-oriented. He might feasibly slide into multi-playmaker lineups alongside the opposite guards in a extra connective position.
Jakucionis seems ticketed for this 10-to-15 vary, along with his playmaking, versatility and intangibles holding robust attraction in quite a lot of contexts. — Woo
Derik Queen, C, Maryland
Freshman | TS%: 60.0
Top with out footwear: 6-9¼ | Weight: 247
Standing attain: 9-1½ | Wingspan: 7-0½
The Bulls do not have a lot in the way in which of long-term keepers within the big-man division, with Nikola Vucevic, 35, a commerce candidate getting into the ultimate 12 months of his contract. Queen, Joan Beringer, and Thomas Sorber are mentioned to be among the many prospects they could take into account with this choose at No. 12.
Queen is probably the most expert huge man on this class. He’s a terrific goal in pick-and-roll, can create his personal shot dealing with the basket with a big selection of strikes and has intriguing passing capability.
Queen’s conditioning, occasional apathy defensively and lack of taking pictures vary are issues NBA groups selecting on this space (or earlier) are attempting to get a greater deal with on within the predraft course of, areas that we have heard blended suggestions about based mostly on a few of his early exercises. — Givony
Egor Demin, PG/SG, BYU
Freshman | TS%: 51.3
Top with out footwear: 6-9¼ | Weight: 199
Standing attain: 8-9½ | Wingspan: 6-10¼
Rival groups’ learn on the Hawks has been that they’re going to look to pair an enormous man and a guard, presuming they maintain each of their first-round picks (Nos. 13 and 22). The order they go about prioritizing these wants would possibly hinge on what occurs in entrance of them. Demin’s playmaking expertise turns into an intriguing worth guess if he makes it to this a part of the draft, with huge males together with Essengue, Joan Beringer and Asa Newell amongst potential candidates at this slot.
Demin has solid a large web on the exercise circuit, scheduling a variety of groups whereas seeking to showcase his expertise in aggressive settings. He has curiosity from groups inside the highest 10, however eventualities are additionally in play the place he might slip out of the lottery. His mixture of wonderful measurement and passing imaginative and prescient ought to enable him to play all around the perimeter, supplied he makes progress along with his leap shot, an space he demonstrated successfully throughout a formidable professional day exercise. — Woo
Joan Beringer, C, Cedevita Olimpija
Adriatic | TS%: 61.5
Top with out footwear: 6-11 | Weight: 235
Standing attain: 9-3 | Wingspan: 7-4½
The Spurs will seemingly discover varied choices with this No. 14 choose, together with the potential of including a veteran who’s extra able to contribute because the crew pivots towards playoff competition. Including frontcourt depth may be a precedence, particularly if the Spurs use Victor Wembanyama as extra of an influence ahead alongside one other rim protector ultimately, which might be very tough to attain towards.
Together with his season in Slovenia lastly concluded, Beringer made his technique to the US, beginning in Chicago and Brooklyn, New York, the place he accomplished his obligatory NBA mix participation. That included official measurements, which point out he has grown an inch and a half up to now 12 months, now standing over 7-feet in footwear, 235 kilos with a 7-4 1/2 wingspan and 9-3 standing attain, comparable measurements to Jaren Jackson Jr. and Myles Turner on the identical age.
The draft’s finest shot blocker, Beringer has flashed appreciable upside all season, which has put him in lottery consideration since January. — Givony
Collin Murray-Boyles, PF/C, South Carolina
Sophomore | TS%: 64.0
Top with out footwear: 6-6½ | Weight: 239
Standing attain: 8-10 | Wingspan: 7-0¾
Murray-Boyles has been one of many extra divisive gamers amongst executives we have spoken with — some are enamored along with his defensive versatility and all-around manufacturing and see an impressive NBA position participant, whereas others harp on his restricted positional measurement and lack of perimeter taking pictures, and the way in which these two components restrict his projectable ceiling.
His vary seems to begin at No. 10 with the Rockets — a crew that is smart as a match, but in addition one that might commerce their choose — and ends round right here within the teenagers.
The Thunder enter the draft with supreme flexibility due to their deep, proficient roster and their enormous cache of future draft capital, enabling them to maneuver round within the draft and goal who they need. Murray-Boyles’ toughness and basketball IQ align with the standards Oklahoma Metropolis tends to focus on, making this a possible touchdown spot for him. — Woo
Jase Richardson, PG/SG, Michigan State
Freshman | TS%: 63.2
Top with out footwear: 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 package deal together with this draft’s No. 16 choose.
The Grizzlies are precisely the kind of crew that could possibly be involved in an ultra-efficient, productive younger prospect reminiscent of Richardson, who charges extremely in draft fashions that analytics-savvy groups like Memphis usually take note of.
Richardson possesses a wonderful really feel for the sport, hit 41% of his 3-pointers this season, brings robust defensive depth and appears adept at enjoying off the star energy of a teammate like Ja Morant, whose future in Memphis is to be decided. As Richardson’s shot-creation variety and offensive aggressiveness evolve, he could possibly be somebody who ultimately inherits extra important ballhandling obligations, if the Grizzlies resolve to pivot towards a youth motion. — Givony
Thomas Sorber, C, Georgetown
Freshman | TS%: 58.7
Top with out footwear: 6-9¼ | Weight: 262
Standing attain: 9-1 | Wingspan: 7-6
Sorber remains to be recovering from February foot surgical procedure and has been unable to partake in basketball actions on the exercise circuit, with groups counting on movie and the interview course of to finish his analysis. However, he has strong curiosity inside the highest 20, as groups are drawn to his defensive affect and long-term outlook after rising this season as a shock one-and-done participant.
Minnesota is dealing with potential roster modifications subsequent season, with Naz Reid and Julius Randle set to check free company and the Timberwolves presently tied as a Kevin Durant touchdown spot. There is a good case for including frontcourt depth right here, with quite a lot of bigs projected inside the highest 20, and the Wolves additionally holding the No. 31 choose. — Woo
18. Washington Wizards (by way of Memphis)
Asa Newell, PF/C, Georgia
Freshman | TS%: 62.0
Top with out footwear: 6-9 | Weight: 224
Standing attain: 8-11½ | Wingspan: 6-11¼
With 4 picks within the high 40 and no actual strain but to win simply two years right into a complete roster teardown, the Wizards can go in a large number of instructions on this a part of the draft. After taking a fringe participant with their first choose at No. 6, including frontcourt depth might make sense.
Newell’s mobility, aggressiveness and depth degree are important property that allowed him to have a extremely productive, environment friendly freshman marketing campaign at Georgia, making 26 3-pointers in 33 video games and changing 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 way of Milwaukee)
Will Riley, SG/SF, Illinois
Freshman | TS%: 53.8
Top with out footwear: 6-8¼ | Weight: 185
Standing attain: 8-8 | Wingspan: 6-8¾
That is the second of the Nets’ 4 first-round picks, with Brooklyn unlikely to roster all of those choices and actively exploring a variety of choices in consequence. In the event that they keep put, the Nets have sufficient berth from a timeline perspective to take swings on youthful prospects like Riley, who would possibly want a season or two to turn out to be a contributor.
Riley is one other participant whose vary is on the broader aspect in the mean time. He has groups’ curiosity as excessive because the early teenagers, however there are additionally eventualities in play the place he might slip into the 20s. His advocates across the NBA see main upside as a result of his glorious measurement, offensive really feel and taking pictures potential, but it surely’s understood that it’s going to take him time so as to add bodily energy and hopefully, enhance defensively. — Woo
20. Miami Warmth (by way of Golden State)
Liam McNeeley, SG/SF, UConn
Freshman | TS%: 53.6
Top with out footwear: 6-6¾ | Weight: 214
Standing attain: 8-3½ | Wingspan: 6-8½
Including backcourt expertise will seemingly be a precedence for the Warmth this offseason, but it surely’s not straightforward to level to any surefire guard contributors on this vary. McNeeley’s measurement, shot-making prowess, really feel for the sport and toughness are important attributes that NBA groups worth on the wing place. He must remind them of his profitable qualities all through the predraft course of, following an inefficient season by which he transformed 44% of his 2-pointers and 32% of his 3-pointers.
He’ll seemingly be requested to play a distinct position within the NBA, leaning extra closely into his capability as a dynamic perimeter shooter, which was extra evident in different settings earlier than faculty. McNeeley has some momentum behind him now, following some constructive exercises, serving to to remind groups of what made him so extremely regarded getting into the season. — Givony
1:38
See why Liam McNeeley is an intriguing NBA prospect
Try highlights from UConn’s Liam McNeeley forward of the 2025 NBA draft.
21. Utah Jazz (by way of Minnesota)
Cedric Coward, SF, Washington State/Duke
Junior | TS%: 71.0
Top with out footwear: 6-5¼ | Weight: 213
Standing attain: 8-10 | Wingspan: 7-2¼
Simply how excessive Coward will hear his identify known as has been a sizzling subject across the league of late. Whereas at floor degree, his lack of high-level pedigree and efficiency pattern is a significant downside, NBA groups have come away enamored along with his interviews and intrigued by his bodily toolbox and taking pictures capability on the wing.
Coward’s quick rise within the course of can also be a referendum on the form of this draft, as some groups really feel the category flattens out arduous round No. 20 or so, and there is a determined lack of 3-and-D wings who warrant first-round grades, an archetype many are prepared to take an opportunity on — all of that seems set to play in Coward’s favor on draft evening.
Utah, holding a number of choices, might use a participant in Coward’s mould and will see worth in him. — Woo
22. Atlanta Hawks (by way of Los Angeles Lakers)
Danny Wolf, PF, Michigan
Junior | TS%: 56.6
Top with out footwear: 6-10½ | Weight: 251
Standing attain: 9-1 | Wingspan: 7-2¼
Suggestions on Wolf from groups has been blended within the predraft course of, as he is a considerably unorthodox prospect who some view as a extra situational match. His inside-out versatility and passing abilities at his measurement separate him from the opposite bigs on this class. There are additionally actual questions he has to reply surrounding his inconsistent taking pictures and foul line struggles (34% on 3-pointers, 59% on free throws), and whether or not he’ll defend at a excessive degree.
If the Hawks go along with a fringe participant with their choose at No. 13, including an enormous later within the draft at No. 22 is smart, with Wolf making for an attention-grabbing slot in huge, versatile lineups with Jalen Johnson and Onyeka Okongwu up entrance. — Woo
Nique Clifford, SG, Colorado State
Tremendous Senior | TS%: 60.9
Top with out footwear: 6-5¼ | Weight: 202
Standing attain: 8-6½ | Wingspan: 6-8
Clifford has acquired constructive suggestions on the exercise circuit, drawing curiosity within the teenagers along with his vary working into the 20s. Coming off an enormous season at Colorado State, Clifford’s expertise and plug-and-play, two-way talent set has made him a viable choice for NBA groups seeking wing assist.
Amid a exceptional playoff run that has underscored the depth and high quality of Indiana’s roster, the Pacers are mentioned to be open to shifting their first-round choose, making this one in every of many choices on this vary that might change palms. With Myles Turner due for a brand new contract that might take the Pacers into the luxurious tax — one thing the group has lengthy averted — the prospect of utilizing this choose to create monetary financial savings, assist maintain the present roster intact, and extract worth by different means is smart.
If Indiana does choose a participant right here at No. 23, including one who can contribute instantly appears prudent. — Woo
Hugo Gonzalez, SG/SF, Actual Madrid
EuroLeague | TS%: 50.9
The Thunder may not actually have a roster spot at their disposal for each of their first-round picks, so it is unclear precisely which route they’ll go on draft evening.
Gonzalez might match Oklahoma Metropolis’s type of play with the spectacular bodily instruments and frenetic power he brings defensively, which has enabled him to carve out a robust position for Actual Madrid within the Spanish Liga ACB playoffs just lately. There’s additionally the likelihood a crew might persuade Gonzalez to be stashed for one more 12 months in Europe — one thing that certainly would not be interesting to his camp at this stage — however is likely to be a necessity if the numerous buyout in his contract does not receives a commission this offseason (it is an choice Actual Madrid would certainly be open to, contemplating his impactful play). — Givony
0:54
Hugo Gonzalez’s NBA draft profile
Try a few of the highlights which have made Hugo Gonzalez a high NBA draft prospect.
25. Orlando Magic (by way of Denver)
Maxime Raynaud, PF/C, Stanford
Senior | TS%: 56.1
Top with out footwear: 7-0¼ | Weight: 236
Standing attain: 9-2 | Wingspan: 7-1¼
It is not clear what the Magic’s urge for food shall be for including two rookie youngsters to an already younger roster, maybe inflicting them to discover extra mature upperclassmen like Raynaud, who would deliver some much-needed frontcourt spacing that the roster presently lacks.
Raynaud hit 67 3-pointers this season in 35 video games and had a robust exhibiting on the draft mix, suggesting there’s upside nonetheless left to faucet into as a result of his late-blooming trajectory, having centered full-time on basketball solely as a highschool senior. Raynaud’s capability to stretch the ground as a middle is effective in immediately’s NBA, one thing that might certainly attraction to the Magic from a spacing perspective. — Givony
Nolan Traore, PG, Saint-Quentin
France | TS%: 51.0
Top with out footwear: 6-3 | Weight: 175
Standing attain: 8-5½ | Wingspan: 6-8
With 4 first-round picks at their disposal, it would not be shocking to see the Nets take a number of expertise swings, hoping to uncover gems with a few of their later picks.
The Nets have a void within the backcourt, relying on what they do with their first few picks, and this example shall be thought-about extremely enticing to any of the guards slated to be picked on this vary.
After beginning the season projected as a top-10 choose, Traore’s draft inventory dropped due to inconsistent play, however there’s nonetheless loads to love along with his measurement, ballhandling, playmaking creativity and upside, making him a worthy gamble for a crew in Brooklyn’s scenario and at this level within the draft. — Givony
Rasheer Fleming, PF, Saint Joseph’s
Junior | TS%: 64.4
Top with out footwear: 6-8¼ | Weight: 232
Standing attain: 9-1 | Wingspan: 7-5¼
It appears unlikely the Nets, who additionally maintain the No. 36 choose, will in the end roster all 5 of their draft picks. Rely them amongst many groups within the 20s who’re open for enterprise involving their choices. This vary of the draft is seen by groups and brokers as extraordinarily fluid, with each choose between Nos. 21 and 27 both seen as obtainable and/or belonging to groups with a number of choices.
Fleming is among the many gamers more likely to come off the board within the again half of the primary spherical. His bodily instruments and bettering 3-point taking pictures give him a path to carving out a rotation spot, and a few groups view him as a participant that may assist instantly. Whereas not a flashy participant nor immensely expert, Fleming’s size, enchancment monitor and late-blooming trajectory level to untapped potential. — Woo
1:31
Rasheer Fleming’s NBA draft profile
Try a few of the highlights which have made Rasheer Fleming a high NBA draft prospect.
Drake Powell, SG/SF, North Carolina
Freshman | TS%: 61.1
Top with out footwear: 6-5¼ | Weight: 200
Standing attain: 8-7 | Wingspan: 7-0
The Celtics have some huge wants to deal with within the wake of Jayson Tatum’s season-ending Achilles damage, however they can not have any actual expectation to deal with them within the draft, definitely not this late within the first spherical.
Discovering a wing like Powell, who’s able to absorbing minutes, hopefully gaining some expertise and maybe rising as able to including worth in a 12 months from now, can be a significant win. NBA groups like Powell’s really feel for the sport and long-term upside, particularly his capability to protect everybody from level guards to energy forwards whereas flying round to guard the rim, crash the glass and shut out with function on the perimeter. He performs exceptionally arduous, has great mobility overlaying floor, rotating all around the ground — with the query being whether or not he is an aggressive sufficient scorer or correct sufficient shooter to carry his personal on that finish of the ground. — Givony
Walter Clayton Jr., PG, Florida
Senior | TS%: 61.1
Top with out footwear: 6-2 | Weight: 199
Standing attain: 8-1½ | Wingspan: 6-4
The Suns seem involved in getting youthful and remaking their roster, with the prospect of a Durant commerce additionally creating eventualities by which Phoenix might choose up extra draft picks earlier within the first spherical.
A participant like Clayton, who is likely to be value-additive on a rookie-scale deal instantly, needs to be enticing to the Suns as they navigate a tough wage sheet and attempt to higher place themselves long-term.
Clayton appears to have performed himself into the primary spherical along with his NCAA event heroics, seen as a sparkplug scorer who may also help improve a crew’s bench unit. His confidence and shot-making abilities should cowl for his restricted measurement and questionable protection. — Woo
30. LA Clippers (by way of Oklahoma Metropolis)
Noah Penda, SF/PF, Le Mans
France | TS%: 53.9
Top with out footwear: 6-7¼ | Weight: 242
Standing attain: 8-10½ | Wingspan: 6-11½
As a consequence of their hefty payroll, the Clippers ought to see worth in rostering a rookie who can contribute with this choose. Discovering somebody who can complement their stars on a cost-controlled deal can be a win.
Penda has been an attention-grabbing sleeper identify for groups as a result of his multi-positional versatility, able to enjoying all around the ground on offense and in addition defending a number of spots. Whereas his perimeter taking pictures and restricted run-jump athleticism are query marks for groups, his really feel, talent and measurement are all good promoting factors.
There stays curiosity amongst groups as as to if Penda will comply with be stashed abroad for one more season, one thing that might assist his possibilities of discovering a snug 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 way of Utah)
Ben Saraf, PG/SG, Ratiopharm Ulm (Germany)
32. Boston Celtics (by way of Washington)
Ryan Kalkbrenner, C, Creighton, tremendous senior
33. Charlotte Hornets
Adou Thiero, PF, Arkansas
34. Charlotte Hornets (by way 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 way of Toronto)
Alex Toohey, SF/PF, Sydney (Australia)
38. San Antonio Spurs
Chaz Lanier, SG, Tennessee, tremendous senior
39. Toronto Raptors (by way of Portland)
Bogoljub Markovic, PF/C, Mega Superbet (Adriatic)
40. Washington Wizards (by way of Phoenix)
Johni Broome, C, Auburn, tremendous senior
41. Golden State Warriors (by way of Miami)
Rocco Zikarsky, C, Brisbane (Australia)
42. Sacramento Kings (by way of Chicago)
John Tonje, SF, Wisconsin, tremendous senior
43. Utah Jazz (by way of Dallas)
Tyrese Proctor, PG, Duke, junior
44. Oklahoma Metropolis Thunder (by way of Atlanta)
Eric Dixon, PF, Villanova, tremendous senior
45. Chicago Bulls (by way of Sacramento)
Sion James, SF, Duke, tremendous senior
46. Orlando Magic
Kam Jones, PG/SG, Marquette, senior
47. Milwaukee Bucks (by way of Detroit)
Koby Brea, SG/SF, Kentucky, tremendous senior
48. Memphis Grizzlies (by way of Golden State)
Javon Small, PG, West Virginia, senior
49. Cleveland Cavaliers (by way of Milwaukee)
Vladislav Goldin, C, Michigan, tremendous senior
50. New York Knicks (by way of Memphis)
Lachlan Olbrich, PF/C, Illawarra
51. LA Clippers (by way of Minnesota)
Viktor Lakhin, C, Clemson, tremendous senior
52. Phoenix Suns (by way of Denver)
Kobe Sanders, SG/SF, Nevada, senior
53. Utah Jazz (by way of LA Clippers)
Dink Pate, SG/SF, Mexico Metropolis (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 way of Houston)
Amari Williams, C, Kentucky, senior
57. Orlando Magic (by way of Boston)
Alijah Martin, SG, Florida, senior
58. Cleveland Cavaliers
Ryan Nembhard, PG, Gonzaga, senior
59. Houston Rockets (by way of Oklahoma Metropolis)
RJ Luis Jr., SF/PF, St. John’s, junior
Jonathan Givony is an NBA draft professional and the founder and co-owner of DraftExpress.com, a personal scouting and analytics service utilized by NBA, NCAA and worldwide groups.
Jeremy Woo is an NBA analyst specializing in prospect analysis and the draft. He was beforehand a employees author and draft insider at Sports activities Illustrated.
