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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
Coated the NBA and NBA draft for Sports activities Illustrated from 2015-2023
The 2025 NBA Finals are within the rearview, NBA draft week is underway, and the intrigue continues to swirl behind the scenes. Duke’s Cooper Flagg and Rutgers’ Dylan Harper are anticipated to come back off the board at No. 1 and No. 2 to the Dallas Mavericks and the San Antonio Spurs, respectively. After that, the image is much less clear.
Forward of the two-day draft, which begins Wednesday at 8 p.m. ET (on ABC, ESPN and the ESPN app) at Barclays Heart in Brooklyn, New York, the Philadelphia 76ers maintain the keys to the beginning of the draft at No. 3 with VJ Edgecombe the presumptive favourite and Ace Bailey probably falling down the board.
Commerce talks proceed behind the scenes as NBA groups huddle this week, with a significant domino falling on Sunday with the Suns and Rockets agreeing to ship Kevin Durant to Houston, a deal that noticed the No. 10 choose go to Phoenix as a part of a bundle together with Jalen Inexperienced and Dillon Brooks.
ESPN draft analysts Jonathan Givony and Jeremy Woo shall be monitoring information and staff and participant info till the Mavericks go on the clock Wednesday, with this model of the mock draft present process updates till draft time, based mostly on our newest intel.
Final up to date: Monday at 6:30 a.m. ET.
In the course of the draft: Comply with ESPN’s stay NBA Draftcast with prompt evaluation
Notes: The New York Knicks’ second-round choose was rescinded by the NBA after an investigation into Jalen Brunson’s free company signing in the summertime of 2022. … All heights are listed because the barefoot numbers from the NBA.
Extra NBA draft protection:
Commerce affords for No. 1 | Lottery choose comps
Closing huge board for 100 prospects | Prime 20 expertise
Draft information | Pelton’s high 30 | Extra
First spherical
Cooper Flagg, SF/PF, Duke
Freshman | TS%: 60.0
Top with out sneakers: 6-7¾ | Weight: 221
Standing attain: 8-10½ | Wingspan: 7-0
Flagg made his option to Dallas this week for a go to along with his projected new staff in Dallas, touring the town and staff services, holding an on-court exercise and leaving a powerful impression on Mavericks brass all through. There proceed to be no secrets and techniques round what to anticipate right here: Dallas may need caught an all-time lottery break in leaping its odds from No. 11 to land the No. 1 choose.
Set to make his NBA debut at 18 years previous, Flagg shall be positioned to make a right away affect for a Mavericks franchise that intends to be aggressive in 2025-26. Dallas will hope that strolling into what figures to be a successful scenario will assist fast-track his progress much more, as Dallas has a playmaking void on the outset of subsequent season with Kyrie Irving recovering from an ACL tear. The league shall be watching what kind of affect Flagg can present instantly, along with his versatile two-way talent set offering a powerful start line as he begins his skilled profession with excessive expectations. — Woo
1:50
See why Cooper Flagg is the No. 1 prospect within the NBA draft
Try one of the best performs from Duke freshman Cooper Flagg forward of the 2025 NBA draft.
Dylan Harper, PG/SG, Rutgers
Freshman | TS%: 59.3
Top with out sneakers: 6-4½ | Weight: 213
Standing attain: 8-6 | Wingspan: 6-10½
Harper is all however assured to listen to his identify known as with the No. 2 choose, with rival groups saying the Spurs have proven zero curiosity in partaking in commerce conversations. The franchise is taking a affected person strategy to constructing out their roster round Victor Wembanyama, viewing Harper as one other cornerstone. Harper has visited the Spurs in San Antonio, and hosted the entrance workplace privately, showing to have appreciable enthusiasm for becoming a member of the storied franchise because the Spurs look to return to championship competition.
The 19-year-old’s mixture of dimension, shot-creating prowess, passing creativity, ending talent and scoring instincts makes him the kind of lead guard and offensive engine that’s coveted in at the moment’s NBA, as his robust body seems well-suited for enjoying via the bodily demanding vigor required within the playoffs. The problem of buying these kind of gamers has made the Spurs reluctant to cross on the chance so as to add Harper. — Givony
VJ Edgecombe, SG, Baylor
Freshman | TS%: 56.1
Top with out sneakers: 6-4 | Weight: 193
Standing attain: 8-5½ | Wingspan: 6-7½
Edgecombe seems in pole place to listen to his identify known as at No. 3 due to his distinctive expertise, but additionally as a result of Ace Bailey’s clear willpower to keep away from groups on this vary places Philadelphia in a tough place, probably choosing somebody who clearly doesn’t wish to play for them.
Whereas sources say Edgecombe appeared nervous throughout his personal exercise in Philadelphia and didn’t shoot the ball notably effectively in an unnatural one-on-one setting, he made a powerful impression in interviews and conferences, one thing the entrance workplace values extra extremely.
Like Harper in San Antonio, Edgecombe’s slot in Philadelphia’s backcourt with Tyrese Maxey and Jared McCain does not seem like seamless. Nonetheless, there’s important upside to faucet into with the high-level explosiveness Edgecombe possesses, in addition to the flashes he has proven as a passer, shooter and defender. — Givony
1:25
VJ Edgecombe’s high-flying sport is prepared for the following degree
Try highlights from Baylor freshman VJ Edgecombe forward of the 2025 NBA draft.
Kon Knueppel, SG/SF, Duke
Freshman | TS%: 64.8
Top with out sneakers: 6-5 | Weight: 219
Standing attain: 8-5½ | Wingspan: 6-6¼
Ought to Edgecombe (whom the Hornets are mentioned to be excessive on) come off the board at No. 3, Charlotte will possible be selecting between trade-down situations or choosing amongst Knueppel, Jeremiah Fears, Bailey, and Tre Johnson. The truth that Fears and Bailey haven’t labored out for the Hornets does not seem like a big hindrance of their decision-making course of.
Rival groups consider the Hornets will in the end prioritize Knueppel’s robust perimeter capturing, playmaking and management expertise, in addition to his robust match with the likes of LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller. The Hornets can be going for a safer possibility in Knueppel after swinging for the fences with Tidjane Salaun in final yr’s draft at No. 6.
Knueppel charges effectively in analytics-based draft fashions, however the Hornets would possibly ponder whether or not they might nonetheless add him in the event that they elect to maneuver down just a few slots and purchase further belongings within the course of. — Givony
Jeremiah Fears, PG, Oklahoma
Freshman | TS%: 57.0
Top with out sneakers: 6-2½ | Weight: 179
Standing attain: 8-2½ | Wingspan: 6-5¼
Underneath new management in Austin Ainge, it is unlikely the Jazz shall be married to earlier draft picks who’ve but to point out they’re surefire long-term keepers.
With star energy being a big want for the Jazz, it is smart to make the leap on a expertise comparable to Fears, who had an excellent season at Oklahoma regardless of being one of many youngest gamers in school basketball at 18 years previous. His mixture of dimension, pace, tempo, shotmaking and shot creation provides him important long-term upside, as he can get anyplace on the ground to create for teammates whereas dishing on the transfer, end skillfully within the lane or draw fouls.
The Jazz acquired their first have a look at Fears in a personal one-on-zero exercise on Thursday. He’s additionally mentioned to be drawing appreciable curiosity from each New Orleans and Brooklyn at Nos. 7 and eight ought to he not hear his identify known as right here, with the Hornets at No. 4 additionally not ruling out choosing him regardless of already having a place to begin guard on the roster in LaMelo Ball. — Givony
Ace Bailey, SG/SF, Rutgers
Freshman | TS%: 54.0
Top with out sneakers: 6-7½ | Weight: 202
Standing attain: 8-11 | Wingspan: 7-0½
Bailey, the No. 3 prospect on our huge board, is the one U.S. prospect but to go to an NBA staff facility, persevering with to say no exercise invitations from Philadelphia, Charlotte, and Utah, and seemingly preferring the group of groups ranked exterior the highest 5, particularly Washington, New Orleans, and Brooklyn at Nos. 6-7-8. This kind of slide might value him between $10-to-$15 million {dollars} if it occurs.
Bailey’s camp states they “really feel assured going into the draft course of,” which most NBA groups interpret as that means he has acquired assurances of being chosen by a staff thought-about extra advantageous to Bailey in the long run, contemplating components like geography, minutes, position, alternative and growth.
Nonetheless, this isn’t an unprecedented scenario. Simply final yr, Alex Sarr appeared to discourage Atlanta from contemplating him with the No. 1 choose, in the end dropping to Washington at No. 2 as he had hoped.
Regardless of the unfavorable publicity this transfer has generated, rival brokers are carefully monitoring Bailey’s technique, recognizing the clear advantages of guiding shoppers to extra favorable conditions with a watch on maximizing long-term incomes potential. Bailey might probably recoup the cash he loses in his first contract with a a lot bigger second contract, particularly if he achieves his very excessive ceiling as an All-Star caliber shotmaking wing. — Givony
Tre Johnson, SG, Texas
Freshman | TS%: 56.1
Top with out sneakers: 6-4¾ | Weight: 190
Standing attain: 8-5 | Wingspan: 6-10¼
Johnson has been seen by many groups as having a considerably slim band of touchdown spots, between picks No. 4 and 6, however there are sensible situations like this one the place he slips out of that group.
Right here, Fears strikes into the highest 5, Bailey makes it to what seems to be a comfortable touchdown spot in Washington and Johnson turns into the participant who slides.
The Pelicans are thought to have curiosity in Bailey and Fears — and a few across the league have been curious whether or not New Orleans would possibly in the end try to commerce up, notably after buying the No. 23 choose from Indiana final week. However additionally they have the power to easily sit at No. 7 and see who from this tier of prospects falls to them.
On paper, Johnson is smart as a match for the Pelicans, contemplating their want for added perimeter capturing in addition to youthful backcourt reinforcements, with Dejounte Murray injured and CJ McCollum turning 34 in September and coming into the ultimate yr of his contract. On high of these components, there’s an argument for him as best-available right here, contemplating his scoring prowess.
Khaman Maluach is one other participant into account for New Orleans right here, along with his rim safety probably including a distinct dimension to the Pelicans’ protection. — Woo
Khaman Maluach, C, Duke
Freshman | TS%: 74.7
Top with out sneakers: 7-0¾ | Weight: 252
Standing attain: 9-6 | Wingspan: 7-6¾
Maluach seems firmly in consideration in New Orleans and Brooklyn, however can be seen by some groups because the more than likely among the many second-tier gamers within the Nos. 3-to-8 vary to expertise a slight drop if a stunning prospect disrupts this a part of the draft, although maybe only some slots down the board.
Maluach fills a transparent want that many groups are on the lookout for: He is a real middle who can function a defensive anchor within the paint and has important potential for progress each bodily and skill-wise. He performs with large depth and is beloved by coaches and teammates due to his distinctive off-court intangibles.
His capability to guard the rim, cowl floor in quite a lot of pick-and-roll schemes, and supply vertical spacing as a curler and cutter, whereas sprinting aggressively in transition, will enchantment to any staff looking for a middle to construct round in the long run. — Givony
1:36
The highlights that make Khaman Maluach an thrilling NBA prospect
Try the highest performs from Duke freshman Khaman Maluach forward of the 2025 NBA draft.
Noa Essengue, PF, Ratiopharm Ulm
Germany | TS%: 61.1
Essengue’s predraft course of continues to be placed on maintain as his season is extended, with Ulm now up 2-1 and in place to safe the championship with a win Tuesday. No matter when he arrives within the U.S., he won’t conduct any personal exercises for groups.
The Raptors are a franchise that rival groups have had a tough time pegging by way of their intentions, partially due to the wide selection of prospects that might be thought-about on this tier, and partially due to their roster, which has appreciable depth at each place, moreover maybe middle.
Essengue’s size, mobility and defensive versatility will surely match the Raptors’ DNA, even when his inconsistent perimeter capturing would create some challenges in spacing the ground successfully for the likes of Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram. His youth, instruments, two-way instincts and speedy price of enchancment this season recommend a excessive ceiling that some groups on this a part of the draft might absolutely wish to faucet into. — Givony
Collin Murray-Boyles, PF/C, South Carolina
Sophomore | TS%: 64.0
Top with out sneakers: 6-6½ | Weight: 239
Standing attain: 8-10 | Wingspan: 7-0¾
It is not straightforward to peg Murray-Boyles’ draft vary, with most pointing to the Nos. 10-to-16 vary, which incorporates among the most analytics-influenced groups within the NBA, Atlanta, Oklahoma Metropolis and Memphis. NBA groups say Murray-Boyles charges traditionally effectively of their draft fashions, because of his robust passing, foul-drawing capability, 2-point capturing, defensive playmaking and youth, which can enchantment to a number of groups on this vary.
Murray-Boyles’ toughness, unselfishness, defensive versatility and playmaking give him a excessive ground, even when his lack of dimension and perimeter capturing would possibly make him a situational slot in sure lineup configurations.
On Sunday, the Suns agreed on a blockbuster commerce, sending Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets for Jalen Inexperienced, Dillon Brooks, the No. 10 choose on this yr’s draft and 5 second-round picks, sources informed ESPN on Sunday.
With the Suns desperately needing to improve their frontcourt — particularly after dropping their beginning energy ahead in Durant — Murray-Boyles is probably going somebody the staff will contemplate closely in the event that they preserve the choose, together with a extra conventional huge man comparable to Derik Queen. — Givony
Carter Bryant, SF/PF, Arizona
Freshman | TS%: 59.9
Top with out sneakers: 6-6½ | Weight: 214
Standing attain: 8-10 | Wingspan: 6-11¾
Bryant has had a constructive predraft course of and seems ticketed for the late lottery, with curiosity coming from Phoenix following the Suns’ commerce in at No. 10, and Portland at No. 11 and Atlanta at No. 13 carefully linked as touchdown spots.
The Path Blazers seem set at middle with Donovan Clingan long-term in addition to Deandre Ayton nonetheless below contract, however are in any other case positioned to focus on one of the best accessible expertise right here, having labored out many of the names projected on this vary. Bryant would give them further capturing, perimeter dimension and positional versatility working in behind Deni Avdija and Toumani Camara.
Whereas Bryant is not anticipated to create a lot of his personal offense within the close to future, his capability to shoot from vary, add worth as a passer, and guard throughout defensively along with his wonderful bodily instruments provides him a practical pathway to changing into a lineup fixture. — Woo
1:43
Carter Bryant’s NBA draft profile
Try among the highlights which have made Arizona’s Carter Bryant a high NBA draft prospect.
Kasparas Jakucionis, PG, Illinois
Freshman | TS%: 59.8
Top with out sneakers: 6-4¾ | Weight: 205
Standing attain: 8-3½ | Wingspan: 6-7¾
Contemplating not many groups on this vary have specific backcourt wants, in addition to the uncertainty surrounding potential trades, it has been tough for some groups to confidently determine a touchdown spot for Jakucionis. Most venture him within the Nos. 11-to-14 vary, with the Path Blazers and Bulls thought-about attainable locations, and likewise curiosity from groups within the high 10.
Chicago has a extra obtrusive want within the frontcourt, with Nikola Vucevic on the ultimate yr of his deal and no bigs who’re thought-about long-term keepers. Joan Beringer, Derik Queen, Danny Wolf and Thomas Sorber are regarded as among the many facilities they will contemplate.
Nonetheless, the Bulls are within the means of reimagining the staff transferring ahead, with Josh Giddey due for a brand new contract, Matas Buzelis rising and a glut of different guards who might be commerce candidates. There is a case to easily go best-available at this slot, with Jakucionis holding a great argument on this situation.
Jakucionis’s unselfishness, playmaking and dimension enabling him to play on and off the ball make him a comparatively seamless slot in most locations, with upside long-term contemplating he lately turned 19 years previous. — Woo
Egor Demin, PG/SG, BYU
Freshman | TS%: 51.3
Top with out sneakers: 6-9¼ | Weight: 199
Standing attain: 8-9½ | Wingspan: 6-10¼
Demin is one other participant who has been robust for groups to pin down his touchdown spot, having labored out for the overwhelming majority of groups inside the highest 20. Groups consider he is a candidate for Toronto, Portland, Chicago, and likewise a sleeper goal for Brooklyn, nevertheless it’s attainable he slips previous that — at which level there is a best-available case for a staff such because the Hawks to easily take a swing.
Holding this choose and No. 22, the Hawks have the power to maneuver round within the draft, however are in place to go best-available and pair the picks positionally in the event that they keep put. Different gamers tied to Atlanta embrace Carter Bryant, and many of the bigs on this vary, together with Beringer, Murray-Boyles and others.
At his dimension, Demin’s potential versatility as a fringe playmaker stands out within the context of this class. The event of his jumper, one thing he has labored to showcase in personal, is likely one of the extra pivotal swing expertise for any prospect. — Woo
Joan Beringer, C, Cedevita Olimpija
Adriatic | TS%: 61.5
Top with out sneakers: 6-11 | Weight: 235
Standing attain: 9-3 | Wingspan: 7-4½
Beringer has had a busy schedule since arriving within the U.S. following the conclusion of his season in Slovenia, conducting exercises with Chicago, Brooklyn, San Antonio, Atlanta, Memphis, Minnesota, and Houston, overlaying his bases within the Nos. 8-to-19 vary.
The Spurs seem like patiently constructing out their roster. They may look so as to add frontcourt depth at this stage of the draft, including one other rim protector alongside Victor Wembanyama to shore up their inside protection.
Beringer’s official measurements, carried out final week, point out he has grown an inch and a half up to now yr, now standing over 7 toes in sneakers. His measurements are much like these of Jaren Jackson Jr. and Myles Turner on the identical age, serving to to know why he ranks because the draft’s greatest shot blocker. — Givony
Derik Queen, C, Maryland
Freshman | TS%: 60.0
Top with out sneakers: 6-9¼ | Weight: 247
Standing attain: 9-1½ | Wingspan: 7-0½
Queen continues to obtain blended suggestions on the exercise circuit, with questions nonetheless hovering over his conditioning, capturing mechanics and aggressive on-off change. Though he’s considered probably the most expert huge within the class offensively, he does not seem like maximizing among the components inside his management, and because of this, hasn’t gathered a lot upward momentum throughout the predraft course of.
Following the Suns’ acquisition of the tenth choose, Queen’s sensible vary seems to begin with the Suns at No. 10 and runs down into the kids, the place at a sure level he turns into tough to cross on.
The Thunder, pivoting to this draft recent off successful the title Sunday night time, is a staff with none obtrusive roster wants however have been primarily linked by rival groups to huge males, together with Beringer and Sorber. Isaiah Hartenstein is below staff management via 2026-27 (Oklahoma Metropolis holds a membership possibility on the ultimate yr), and the thought of discovering and growing a inexpensive alternative holds weight, notably with Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren each eligible to signal what determine to be hefty rookie extensions this summer time.
Queen would merely be a wager on expertise if he fell right here, with the Thunder’s elite protection offering ample cowl for him, and Oklahoma Metropolis higher positioned to climate danger than most. — Woo
Cedric Coward, SF, Washington State/Duke
Junior | TS%: 71.0
Top with out sneakers: 6-5¼ | Weight: 213
Standing attain: 8-10 | Wingspan: 7-2¼
Coward has seen his inventory explode over the previous month, as groups have gotten a better have a look at his spectacular bodily instruments, perimeter capturing, defensive potential, creating a greater understanding of his late-blooming trajectory.
A younger senior who turns 22 on Sept. 11, Coward matches a mould each NBA staff is looking for along with his dimension and body and profession 38% 3-point capturing. He might nonetheless have room to enhance as he was improbably enjoying Division III basketball three years in the past.
He labored out Monday for Memphis (one-on-zero as a result of he nonetheless hasn’t progressed but to three-on-three settings), which simply acquired the No. 16 choose from Orlando. Coward’s additionally getting lengthy seems to be from Phoenix, Chicago, San Antonio and Oklahoma Metropolis, with most groups within the 20s working below the idea that he’ll be passed by that a part of the draft. — Givony
1:58
Cedric Coward’s NBA draft profile
Try among the highlights which have made Cedric Coward a high NBA draft prospect.
Thomas Sorber, C, Georgetown
Freshman | TS%: 58.7
Top with out sneakers: 6-9¼ | Weight: 262
Standing attain: 9-1 | Wingspan: 7-6
Sorber has additionally risen throughout the predraft course of, regardless of being sidelined since February due to a toe damage that necessitated season-ending surgical procedure, which suggests he’ll miss summer time league. NBA groups are keen to amass facilities comparable to Sorber, who can present physicality and rim safety along with his sturdy body and wingspan. The Suns, Bulls, Hawks, Spurs, Thunder, Timberwolves and Nets all seem focused on including girth to their frontcourts.
The Timberwolves face uncertainty within the frontcourt this offseason, as Julius Randle and Naz Reid, who averaged a mixed 60 minutes per sport, possess participant choices of their contracts, giving them the chance to discover free company this summer time.
Sorber’s size, really feel for the sport and growing talent set present him with an opportunity to change into a contributor within the coming years, despite the fact that it would take a while to succeed in that time. — Givony
18. Washington Wizards (through Memphis)
Liam McNeeley, SG/SF, UConn
Freshman | TS%: 53.6
Top with out sneakers: 6-6¾ | Weight: 214
Standing attain: 8-3½ | Wingspan: 6-8½
McNeeley has drawn constructive suggestions on the exercise circuit, the place he reminded groups of his all-around offensive capability, coming off a tough season that was hampered by an ankle damage. He has curiosity all around the again half of the primary spherical, with Washington amongst his potential touchdown spots.
The Wizards have been probably the most dedicated staff within the league final season to giving their rookies significant minutes, and the present entrance workplace has up to now strongly valued positional dimension and really feel within the draft. McNeeley might be a pleasant addition to their group of wings, as a succesful decision-maker and shooter who additionally brings a degree of toughness. — Woo
1:38
See why Liam McNeeley is an intriguing NBA prospect
Try highlights from UConn’s Liam McNeeley forward of the 2025 NBA draft.
19. Brooklyn Nets (through Milwaukee)
Asa Newell, PF/C, Georgia
Freshman | TS%: 62.0
Top with out sneakers: 6-9 | Weight: 224
Standing attain: 8-11½ | Wingspan: 6-11¼
Newell is one other participant who seems to have helped himself within the predraft course of, having showcased his bodily instruments and room for progress as a shooter, serving to some groups higher perceive the potential versatility he might present as a stretch-4. Nonetheless, he has a considerably wider vary on draft night time, drawing consideration from groups within the again half of the lottery, however with situations additionally in play the place he might slip into the late teenagers or early 20s.
The Nets have understandably been among the many busiest groups within the predraft course of, holding picks in each a part of the primary spherical and 5 choices within the high 40. Most across the league count on Brooklyn to be lively in trades this week, although it isn’t but clear precisely what that may appear to be, the prospect of buying and selling up from right here to amass a second lottery choose is among the many situations the Nets might discover.
Whereas they’re unlikely to roster 5 rookies, Brooklyn has introduced within the overwhelming majority of the draft for exercises, giving them extra first-hand info on the category than some other staff — the Nets are additionally seen as a fascinating vacation spot by many brokers, as a result of minutes and alternative they’ve accessible subsequent season. Newell’s long-term upside might be interesting to them as a developmental addition right here. — Woo
20. Miami Warmth (through Golden State)
Walter Clayton Jr., PG, Florida
Senior | TS%: 61.1
Top with out sneakers: 6-2 | Weight: 199
Standing attain: 8-1½ | Wingspan: 6-4
Clayton has showcased his dynamic shotmaking in exercises and labored his approach up boards in a primary spherical that has formed up considerably gentle on level guard choices. He has followers in entrance workplaces choosing larger than this, and he seems to be well-positioned to probably land inside the highest 20. His explosiveness and talent to create his personal shot are robust calling playing cards that ought to give him a pathway to being a helpful bench scorer, at worst.
Miami is perennially among the many hardest groups for rival organizations, in addition to participant brokers, to get a learn on, with a tight-lipped strategy to how they conduct their predraft course of. Contemplating the Warmth’s want for a correct level guard and the best way Clayton appears to suit their mould, this match is smart on paper. — Woo
1:56
See what makes Walter Clayton Jr. an intriguing NBA prospect
Try highlights from Florida’s Walter Clayton Jr. forward of the 2025 NBA draft.
21. Utah Jazz (through Minnesota)
Hugo Gonzalez, SG/SF, Actual Madrid
EuroLeague | TS%: 50.9
Gonzalez’s Actual Madrid is at the moment competing within the finals of the ACB playoffs, that means he will be unable to conduct any exercises within the U.S. earlier than the draft, because the collection would possibly probably prolong to June 30.
Gonzalez completed the common season robust, however his minutes have since light because the playoffs progressed, with him enjoying solely 10 whole minutes up to now 4 video games. He’s nonetheless a prospect {that a} staff within the 20s will possible resolve to pick, regardless, because of the spectacular bodily instruments, robust really feel for the sport and frenetic vitality he brings defensively.
Utah has clear wants on the wing and will give him the kind of runway wanted to succeed in the numerous potential he confirmed at each stage of his profession earlier than this season. — Givony
22. Atlanta Hawks (through Los Angeles Lakers)
Danny Wolf, PF, Michigan
Junior | TS%: 56.6
Top with out sneakers: 6-10½ | Weight: 251
Standing attain: 9-1 | Wingspan: 7-2¼
Wolf has one of many wider ranges within the first spherical, with curiosity from a number of groups within the again half of the lottery, in addition to a number of potential touchdown spots within the high 20, together with Memphis, Minnesota and Brooklyn.
The uncertainty round the place he winds up is due partially to a spread of potential commerce situations that would happen, but additionally the truth that Wolf’s unusual mixture of dimension and talent set has been a polarizing analysis for a lot of across the NBA. His playmaking capability within the frontcourt might be a slot in Atlanta ought to he fall right here, though there seems to be a rising likelihood he does not make all of it the best way to this spot. — Woo
Nique Clifford, SG, Colorado State
Tremendous Senior | TS%: 60.9
Top with out sneakers: 6-5¼ | Weight: 202
Standing attain: 8-6½ | Wingspan: 6-8
New Orleans acquired this choose from Indiana final week, sending the Pacers’ 2026 first-rounder again to them with the intention to transfer again into the draft. Following Tyrese Haliburton’s damage in Sport 7 of the Finals, on account of that commerce, the Pacers will possible really feel some slight reduction in controlling their very own choose with a protracted absence probably on the horizon for his or her star
That call to commerce with the Pacers raised the query amongst rival groups as as to whether the Pelicans would dangle this choose to try to transfer up from No. 7, however New Orleans is assumed to have real curiosity in a number of gamers on this vary.
Clifford has curiosity within the teenagers, starting with Memphis, along with his vary operating down into the 20s. He has gotten constructive suggestions on the exercise circuit, seen as a possible plug-and-play rotation possibility as a consequence of his versatility coming off a powerful yr at Colorado State.
He is among the many gamers regarded as within the combine for the Pelicans at this slot, with the course they go position-wise hinging on what occurs with their lottery choose. — Woo
Will Riley, SG/SF, Illinois
Freshman | TS%: 53.8
Top with out sneakers: 6-8¼ | Weight: 185
Standing attain: 8-8 | Wingspan: 6-8¾
Factoring within the Thunder’s wealth of younger expertise and crowded roster scenario, most across the league consider Oklahoma Metropolis will in the end decide to commerce this choose. What that truly seems to be like stays to be seen — the Thunder might bundle it to try to transfer up from No. 15 and goal precisely who they need. They seem to be a staff that has traditionally been lively in draft-night offers.
Riley has followers in entrance workplaces within the high 20 however might additionally wind up falling into this vary, with potential touchdown spots forward of this, together with Brooklyn, Atlanta and New Orleans. His advocates across the NBA see main upside due to his wonderful dimension, offensive really feel and capturing potential, nevertheless it’s understood that it’s going to take him time so as to add bodily power and, hopefully, enhance defensively. — Woo
25. Orlando Magic (through Denver)
Jase Richardson, PG/SG, Michigan State
Freshman | TS%: 63.2
Top with out sneakers: 6-0½ | Weight: 178
Standing attain: 8-2½ | Wingspan: 6-6
Richardson is the highest-ranked participant (No. 18) on the ESPN huge board to not get invited to the NBA draft inexperienced room (24 gamers invited), leaving some uncertainty about the place he would possibly find yourself being chosen.
His draft vary begins round No. 16 with Memphis, which has drafted a number of gamers up to now few years with related statistical profiles, and would possibly find yourself having a backcourt void to fill quickly, all the best way to the mid-20s portion of the primary spherical.
The Magic are one other staff that would look so as to add capturing and backcourt depth and is perhaps intrigued by Richardson’s scoring effectivity, defensive depth and talent to play with out the ball. — Givony
1:41
Jase Richardson’s NBA draft profile
Try among the highlights which have made Michigan State’s Jase Richardson a high NBA draft prospect.
Nolan Traore, PG, Saint-Quentin
France | TS%: 51.0
Top with out sneakers: 6-3 | Weight: 175
Standing attain: 8-5½ | Wingspan: 6-8
With 4 first-round picks at their disposal, it would not be stunning to see the Nets take a number of expertise swings, hoping to uncover gems with a few of their later choices.
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 lots to love along with his dimension, ballhandling, playmaking creativity and upside, making him a worthy gamble for a staff 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 sneakers: 6-8¼ | Weight: 232
Standing attain: 9-1 | Wingspan: 7-5¼
As beforehand talked about, these Nets picks — notably the pair within the 20s — are seen across the league as fluid, relying on what strikes Brooklyn in the end decides to pursue this week.
Fleming was not invited to the NBA draft inexperienced room, pointing to the probability he would possibly fall to the again of the primary spherical. He hasn’t gathered a lot momentum over the previous month however stays in consideration as a consequence of his bodily instruments and bettering 3-point capturing. Whereas not a flashy participant or immensely expert, his size, enchancment monitor and late-blooming trajectory level to untapped potential. — Woo
Maxime Raynaud, PF/C, Stanford
Senior | TS%: 56.1
Top with out sneakers: 7-0¼ | Weight: 236
Standing attain: 9-2 | Wingspan: 7-1¼
Raynaud has performed himself into late first-round consideration alongside a considerably quick record of facilities, which additionally consists of Ryan Kalkbrenner and Yanic Konan Niederhauser. He’s broadly seen as having probably the most untapped upside of that trio, as a consequence of his flashes of offensive talent and extra developed capability to house the ground. His displaying on the draft mix helped to reaffirm that, and the very fact he solely picked up basketball full-time as a highschool senior coupled with robust intangibles has helped his inventory.
The Celtics are anticipated to be lively this offseason, with a prerogative to trim payroll and Jayson Tatum out for an prolonged time period. These components allow them to go most any course with this choose and at No. 32, with the give attention to cultivating long-term roster high quality extra so than addressing short-term wants this late within the draft. Raynaud would offer a viable depth possibility up entrance as he continues to develop. — Woo
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Maxime Raynaud’s NBA draft profile
Try among the highlights which have made Maxime Raynaud a high NBA draft prospect.
Ryan Kalkbrenner, C, Creighton
Senior | TS%: 69.3
Top with out sneakers: 7-1 | Weight: 257
Standing attain: 9-4 | Wingspan: 7-6
The Suns had some actual holes to fill of their frontcourt, even earlier than buying and selling their 7-foot energy ahead Kevin Durant for Jalen Inexperienced and Dillon Brooks, a scenario that is solely been amplified.
The 23-year previous Kalkbrenner, a four-time Massive East defensive participant of the yr, seems to be extra prepared to assist a staff on the inside than most gamers on this draft vary, being among the finest shot blockers on this class. The Suns will possible proceed to be lively within the coming days and will proceed to make strikes with their roster and growing trove of first- and second-round picks, offering them considerably extra flexibility than they’ve had as of late. — Givony
30. LA Clippers (through Oklahoma Metropolis)
Noah Penda, SF/PF, Le Mans
France | TS%: 53.9
Top with out sneakers: 6-7¼ | Weight: 242
Standing attain: 8-10½ | Wingspan: 6-11½
Attributable to their hefty payroll, the Clippers will presumably be considering with a short-term lens as they attempt to maximize this aggressive window, with James Harden and Kawhi Leonard now of their mid-30s.
Penda, who can play a number of positions, is younger sufficient to portend upside and is perhaps a dependable bounce shot away from providing some bench worth, makes for an fascinating match right here.
Penda has been an fascinating sleeper identify for groups as a consequence of his versatility, able to enjoying all around the ground on offense and likewise defending a number of spots. Whereas his perimeter capturing and restricted run-jump bodily profile are query marks for groups, his really feel, talent and dimension are all good promoting factors. — Woo
Second spherical
31. Minnesota Timberwolves (through Utah)
Ben Saraf, PG/SG, Ratiopharm Ulm (Germany)
32. Boston Celtics (through Washington)
Drake Powell, SG/SF, North Carolina
33. Charlotte Hornets
Hansen Yang, C, Qingdao (China)
34. Charlotte Hornets (through New Orleans)
Adou Thiero, PF, Arkansas
35. Philadelphia 76ers
Yanic Konan Niederhauser, C, Penn State, junior
36. Brooklyn Nets
Tyrese Proctor, PG, Duke, junior
37. Detroit Pistons (through Toronto)
Jamir Watkins, SG/SF, Florida State, senior
38. San Antonio Spurs
Chaz Lanier, SG, Tennessee, tremendous senior
39. Toronto Raptors (through Portland)
John Tonje, SF, Wisconsin, tremendous senior
40. Washington Wizards (through Phoenix)
Bogoljub Markovic, PF/C, Mega Superbet (Adriatic)
41. Golden State Warriors (through Miami)
Rocco Zikarsky, C, Brisbane (Australia)
42. Sacramento Kings (through Chicago)
Koby Brea, SG/SF, Kentucky, tremendous senior
43. Utah Jazz (through Dallas)
Sion James, SF, Duke, tremendous senior
44. Oklahoma Metropolis Thunder (through Atlanta)
Johni Broome, C, Auburn, tremendous senior
45. Chicago Bulls (through Sacramento)
Alex Toohey, SF/PF, Sydney (Australia)
46. Orlando Magic
Kam Jones, PG/SG, Marquette, senior
47. Milwaukee Bucks (through Detroit)
Micah Peavy, SG/SF, Georgetown, senior
48. Memphis Grizzlies (through Golden State)
Javon Small, PG, West Virginia, senior
49. Cleveland Cavaliers (through Milwaukee)
Vladislav Goldin, C, Michigan, tremendous senior
50. New York Knicks (through Memphis)
Lachlan Olbrich, PF/C, Illawarra
51. LA Clippers (through Minnesota)
Eric Dixon, PF, Villanova, tremendous senior
52. Phoenix Suns (through Denver)
Alijah Martin, SG, Florida, senior
53. Utah Jazz (through LA Clippers)
Amari Williams, C, Kentucky, senior
54. Indiana Pacers
Dink Pate, SG/SF, Mexico Metropolis (G League)
55. Los Angeles Lakers
Viktor Lakhin, C, Clemson, tremendous senior
56. Memphis Grizzlies (through Houston)
Hunter Sallis, SG, Wake Forest, senior
57. Orlando Magic (through Boston)
Kobe Sanders, SG/SF, Nevada, senior
58. Cleveland Cavaliers
Ryan Nembhard, PG, Gonzaga, senior
59. Houston Rockets (through Oklahoma Metropolis)
Saliou Niang, SG/SF, Trento (Italy)
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 workers author and draft insider at Sports activities Illustrated.
