Now that the 2025 NBA draft mix — full with measurements, athletic testing, drills and 5-on-5 scrimmages — is over, it is time to hear what league insiders are saying concerning the high prospects and look nearer at how every participant’s efficiency in Chicago affected his draft inventory.
Are there any questions surrounding the Dallas Mavericks’ most blatant alternative at drafting Cooper Flagg with the No. 1 choose? The Brooklyn Nets, with 4 first-round picks, have choices, however which gamers match finest? Who will the Philadelphia 76ers goal at No. 3 with a big selection of prospects consisting of Ace Bailey, VJ Edgecombe, Tre Johnson, Khaman Maluach, and Kon Knueppel possible on the board?
Many worldwide prospects, together with Joan Beringer and Noa Essengue, could not attend the mix as a result of they had been enjoying with their golf equipment, so they may have should attend a mix organized by the NBA in Treviso, Italy, June 4-7. NBA groups can even maintain particular person exercises that may assist them slim their boards and get a greater deal with on whom they could choose throughout the June 25-26 draft in Brooklyn, New York (8 p.m. ET, ABC and ESPN).
Jonathan Givony and Jeremy Woo share their post-combine mock draft of the 59 picks, which displays a radical analysis of the 2025 class and considers intel from scouts and entrance workplace personnel. The New York Knicks’ second-round choose was rescinded by the NBA after an investigation into Jalen Brunson’s free company signing in summer time 2022.
Extra NBA draft protection:
Mix: Risers, fallers | Lottery workforce questions
Draft belongings | High 100 rankings | Pelton’s high 30
First spherical
Cooper Flagg, SF/PF, Duke
Freshman | TS%: 60.0
Mix measurements:
Top with out footwear: 6-7 ¾ | Weight: 221
Standing attain: 8-10 ½ | Wingspan: 7-0
Intel and match: Lightning struck the Mavericks in an unbelievable stroke of fortune, permitting their beleaguered fan base to show the web page from the Luka Doncic commerce and concentrate on buying one of many future faces of the NBA in Flagg. ESPN’s Tim MacMahon reported shortly after the draft lottery that Mavericks possession won’t entertain commerce alternatives and plans to pick out Flagg No. 1, as anticipated.
All indications from Flagg’s camp are that he’s thrilled with probably becoming a member of a playoff-contending workforce with robust veterans, regardless of initially showing shocked by the lottery’s end result. Sources inform ESPN that Flagg is scheduling a go to to Dallas.
Flagg had a spectacular freshman season at Duke, eliminating doubt about who would be the No. 1 choose June 25. Simply the fourth freshman to win the Wood Award as probably the most excellent participant in school basketball, Flagg introduced distinctive competitiveness and defensive versatility whereas impacting the sport in each aspect. He made jumpers from all around the ground, shouldered important shot-creation accountability and made teammates higher along with his passing and unselfishness.
Scouts’ solely query is whether or not Flagg initiatives as “merely” an NBA All-Star, or if, as some scouts counsel, he can develop into one of many league’s most impactful gamers on each ends of the ground in coming years. — Givony
1:12
Cooper Flagg: I have never thought a ton but how I might slot in with Mavs
Cooper Flagg discusses year-over-year enhancements and what it might be wish to play on the Dallas Mavericks because the No. 1 choose within the NBA draft.
Dylan Harper, PG/SG, Rutgers
Freshman | TS%: 59.3
Mix measurements:
Top with out footwear: 6-4 ½ | Weight: 213
Standing attain: 8-6 | Wingspan: 6-10 ½
Intel and match: Already working from one of many strongest long-term positions within the league, the Spurs drew lottery luck for the third straight yr, leaping six spots to No. 2 and incomes the best to pick out Harper, the consensus possibility after Flagg goes off the board.
San Antonio was thrilled with its lottery luck, and early indicators point out that the Spurs are very snug with Harper, prioritizing one of the best out there expertise over match issues in a backcourt that options De’Aaron Fox and NBA Rookie of the Yr Stephon Fortress. Constructing round 21-year-old Victor Wembanyama, 20-year-old Fortress and 19-year-old Harper on rookie contracts is an enviable basis that gives super short-term flexibility from a wage cap perspective. This choice would increase questions on their taking pictures and splitting up ballhandling duties among the many Spurs guards, however Harper has substantial expertise, and deciding on him is straightforward to justify.
Although commerce hypothesis has swirled round San Antonio and this choose since lottery night time, at this stage of the method, it seems to be merely that. The Spurs need to get Wembanyama to the playoffs, however do not should rush right into a blockbuster deal, be it for Giannis Antetokounmpo, ought to he develop into out there, or a unique star.
San Antonio has the long run draft capital to maintain Harper and nonetheless considerably improve its roster at a lesser value. Rival groups anticipate the Spurs will entertain their choices, however the extensive assumption is Harper would be the choose, and barring a blockbuster transfer, anticipate it to be San Antonio deciding on him. — Woo
0:50
Reality or Fiction: Dylan Harper can be an ideal match with the Spurs
Bobby Marks believes Dylan Harper can be an ideal match with the Spurs with the No. 2 choose within the draft.
Airious “Ace” Bailey, SG/SF, Rutgers
Freshman | TS%: 54.0
Mix measurements:
Top with out footwear: 6-7 ½ | Weight: 202
Standing attain: 8-11 | Wingspan: 7-0 ½
Intel and match: That is the place the draft will get actually fascinating, because the 76ers are unsurprisingly signaling they’re taking a look at a large group of prospects, consisting of Bailey, VJ Edgecombe, Tre Johnson, Khaman Maluach, and Kon Knueppel. Bailey — extensively thought of this draft’s third-most gifted prospect — is the pure match right here, as he may seamlessly slide into the Sixers lineup at taking pictures guard, small ahead or energy ahead, working alongside any of their present gamers.
The suggestions popping out of Chicago suggests Bailey is considerably polarizing in inner front-office conversations due to questions on his really feel for the sport and “unpolished” workforce interviews, which one NBA basic supervisor in comparison with Anthony Edwards’ throughout the predraft course of (Minnesota drafted him No. 1 in 2020). Bailey hasn’t come off as “buttoned up” as a few of his lottery friends, however drew robust marks from a handful of executives who appreciated his candor and willingness to show his massive character.
Some groups anticipate the Sixers to be energetic in commerce conversations, with names comparable to Kevin Durant (Phoenix) and Lauri Markkanen (Utah) as potential targets in packages that might embody Paul George and the No. 3 choose. Sixers president of basketball operations Daryl Morey has made a profession of being energetic and aggressive on the commerce entrance, however traditionally, it is uncommon to see a top-three choose being traded.
Including a younger, gifted prospect might be interesting as a reset to the workforce’s timeline, providing long-term hope amongst Joel Embiid’s damage issues and George’s important contract, which could not age effectively. — Givony
VJ Edgecombe, SG, Baylor
Freshman | TS%: 56.1
Mix measurements:
Top with out footwear: 6-4 | Weight: 193
Standing attain: 8-5 ½ | Wingspan: 6-7 ½
Intel and match: Although dropping one slot was disappointing for the Hornets, they had been the one workforce with top-four lottery odds to stay there. The No. 4 choose remains to be advantageous with the way in which the board falls, as Charlotte will function realizing that a minimum of Edgecombe or Bailey can be out there, each of whom would characterize important expertise upgrades. Edgecombe is extensively considered because the safer of the 2 for Charlotte, however there’s not a consensus for groups after Flagg and Harper come off the board, making this vary of the draft fascinating to discern. Contemplating the Hornets’ wants, it would not be shocking to see Tre Johnson obtain a glance right here as effectively.
On paper, Edgecombe is a pure match, sliding between LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller, along with his downhill explosiveness, slashing model and important defensive potential complementing Ball’s imaginative and prescient and creativity and Miller’s shotmaking prowess. He additionally provides room to develop into a bigger ballhandling position, which may make him extra enticing to Charlotte, offering a long-term possibility within the backcourt.
The Hornets took a affected person method on the commerce deadline, and opposing groups are interested by their degree of urgency this offseason, having offered on the commerce deadline but in addition having missed the playoffs 9 straight seasons. — Woo
Jeremiah Fears, PG, Oklahoma
Freshman | TS%: 57.0
Mix measurements:
Top with out footwear: 6-2 ½ | Weight: 179
Standing attain: 8-2 ½ | Wingspan: 6-5 ¼
Intel and match: Dropping from the projected No. 1 slot forward of the lottery to the No. 5 choose was a setback for Utah’s fanbase and entrance workplace, creating questions concerning the workforce’s timeline and the worth of present process one other painful season trying to find a high choose in 2026.
With the roster in important want of star energy, it is sensible to take an extended take a look at a prospect comparable to Fears, who had an impressive season at Oklahoma regardless of — at 18 years outdated — being one of many youngest gamers in school basketball. His mixture of measurement, pace, tempo, shotmaking and shot creation provides him important long-term upside, as he can get wherever on the ground to create for teammates, end skillfully within the lane or head to the free throw line.
Drafting Fears would possible have a roster trickle-down impact, because the Jazz chosen level guards in every of the previous two drafts — Keyonte George and Isaiah Collier. The most important questions revolve across the long-term standing of Markkanen, a two-time All-Star who would have an energetic market if the Jazz had been open to buying and selling him. Going from the NBA’s worst file (17-65) to the No. 5 choose was a stern reminder of the pitfalls of rebuilding, but it surely’s unclear how else the Jazz can take the following step in constructing a championship-contending roster. — Givony
Tre Johnson, SG, Texas
Freshman | TS%: 56.1
Mix measurements:
Top with out footwear: 6-4 ¾ | Weight: 190
Standing attain: 8-5 | Wingspan: 6-10 ¼
Intel and match: The Wizards are in an analogous boat to the Jazz after dropping 4 slots in a worst-case lottery situation, albeit in an earlier stage of their full-scale rebuild.
The Wizards proceed to seek for star expertise within the draft and can take a swing on whichever participant falls out of the highest 5. On this situation, it is Johnson, who would fill a direct want and likewise provide upside to develop as their potential long-term taking pictures guard. He is among the many draft’s higher perimeter shooters, with strong positional measurement and an aggressive method. He helped himself at Texas whereas showcased in an enormous position.
Johnson has been one other polarizing participant for groups due to questions on his model of play, which has, at occasions, been characterised by scouts as egocentric as he rose by the highschool and school ranks. Popping out of the interview course of in Chicago, these questions stay for some groups — there are lingering issues about his shot choice, and the way he would possibly regulate to diversified utilization long run — however there aren’t many gamers within the class along with his caliber of scoring expertise.
The Wizards can provide him a direct offensive position and develop him as such, making them, on paper, one of many higher suits for Johnson within the high 10. — Woo
2:05
Texas’ Tre Johnson declares for NBA draft
Texas’ Tre Johnson joins “NBA At the moment” to debate his choice to declare for the draft.
Khaman Maluach, C, Duke
Freshman | TS%: 74.7
Mix measurements:
Top with out footwear: 7-0 ¾ | Weight: 252
Standing attain: 9-6 | Wingspan: 7-6 ¾
Intel and match: One other workforce that took a giant slip after a tricky season — the Pelicans have solely the No. 7 choose to indicate for a 21-61 season, a tricky method for brand spanking new lead executives Joe Dumars and Troy Weaver to start out their tenure.
Considerably needing star energy, this choose is taken into account the ground for any of the prospects presently slated to be picked earlier within the draft, comparable to Bailey or Fears. In any other case, deciding on a high-upside massive man comparable to Maluach is sensible.
Maluach is without doubt one of the draft’s youngest prospects, turning 19 on Sept. 14, and has appreciable room for progress bodily and skill-wise. He performs with super depth and is beloved by coaches and teammates, due to his distinctive off-court intangibles.
His skill to anchor a protection along with his wingspan and supply vertical spacing as a curler and cutter whereas sprinting the ground aggressively in transition can be enticing to any workforce searching for a middle to construct round long run, together with probably the Hornets or Wizards, selecting at No. 4 and No. 6, respectively. — Givony
Kon Knueppel, SG/SF, Duke
Freshman | TS%: 64.8
Mix measurements:
Top with out footwear: 6-5 | Weight: 219
Standing attain: 8-5 ½ | Wingspan: 6-6 ¼
Intel and match: Rely the Nets among the many many disillusioned lottery groups, dropping two spots from No. 6 to No. 8 after San Antonio and Dallas jumped, lacking out not solely on a top-four spot but in addition not getting its first alternative throughout the subsequent group of gamers within the mid-lottery.
Brooklyn has veteran gamers, together with Cameron Johnson, 4 first-round picks on this draft and future belongings to dangle if it needs to maneuver greater within the lottery. Groups anticipate the Nets, who’re additionally working within the curiosity of current and future cap house, to consolidate a few of what they’ve.
Knueppel’s dependable offensive play and high-level taking pictures can be a pleasant constructing block for the Nets, along with his ability set augmenting most lineups regardless of how they select to construct long run. League insiders see further scoring and playmaking upside that weren’t featured due to his position at Duke.
There’s additionally an fascinating case for choosing and growing a younger ball handler comparable to Egor Demin or Kasparas Jakucionis if the Nets keep at this spot, in addition to the offensive upside of Derik Queen. — Woo
Collin Murray-Boyles, PF/C, South Carolina
Sophomore | TS%: 64.0
Mix measurements:
Top with out footwear: 6-6 ½ | Weight: 239
Standing attain: 8-10 | Wingspan: 7-0 ¾
Intel and match: The Raptors may go in lots of instructions with this choose, with younger, multipositional gamers scattered all through the roster, and loads of choices with the numerous gamers they’ve assembled by way of the draft and trades in recent times.
Murray-Boyles would slot in from a tradition and toughness standpoint, including extra defensive versatility and playmaking, even when his lack of perimeter taking pictures is not best as a possible floor-spacer for Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram.
Selecting ninth in what many NBA insiders take into account an eight-player group composing the highest tiers of the category, a best-player-available technique is sensible for Toronto, a plan this entrance workplace has adopted up to now. Murray-Boyles’ distinctive mix of passing, foul drawing, ending prowess and defensive playmaking has him rated as a possible top-5 choose in some NBA workforce analytic fashions, particularly as a result of he does not flip 20 till mid-June. — Givony
Kasparas Jakucionis, PG, Illinois
Freshman | TS%: 59.8
Mix measurements:
Top with out footwear: 6-4 ¾ | Weight: 205
Standing attain: 8-3 ½ | Wingspan: 6-7 ¾
Intel and match: This choose is considered across the league as a luxurious asset for the Rockets, who’re incessantly talked about by different groups as a big-trade candidate to construct on what they achieved this season. Houston has the draft belongings and younger expertise to focus on whichever star turns into out there subsequent, in addition to Reed Sheppard, who presumably is ready to tackle extra minutes subsequent season.
If Houston retains the choose, that is possible a best-available state of affairs, and Jakucionis holds a very good case at No. 10. His playmaking imaginative and prescient, taking pictures skill and intangibles coupled with glorious positional measurement for a ball handler (he measured equally to Terance Mann in 2019 and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope in 2013) make him a flexible backcourt addition for practically any workforce.
He might want to sharpen his decision-making and reduce down on turnovers to see most time on the ball long run. Although some groups have speculated he may slip out of the highest 10 due to how the board is falling, Jakucionis’ vary seems pretty strong within the Nos. 8-to-12 vary at this stage. — Woo
Egor Demin, PG/SG, BYU
Freshman | TS%: 51.3
Mix measurements:
Top with out footwear: 6-9 ¼ | Weight: 199
Standing attain: 8-9 ½ | Wingspan: 6-10 ¼
Intel and match: Demin had a constructive week on the mix in Chicago, measuring greater than anticipated at 6-9½ in footwear after which placing on one of the vital spectacular professional day performances we have seen in a while, inflicting even probably the most skeptical of NBA evaluators to acknowledge his plain expertise.
Demin has made important beneficial properties along with his physique and can proceed to fill out along with his youthful look, whereas making a barrage of 3-pointers with picture-perfect mechanics and a lightning-quick launch that provided important room for optimism regardless of hitting 27% of his 3-pointers in his lone season at BYU. Additionally, NBA groups raved about his interviews in Chicago, the place he got here off as critical.
The Path Blazers can go in a number of instructions with this choose, and including a giant guard with a robust really feel for the sport who can slide into totally different roster configurations might be fascinating long run. — Givony
Derik Queen, C, Maryland
Freshman | TS%: 60.0
Mix measurements:
Top with out footwear: 6-9 ¼ | Weight: 247
Standing attain: 9-1 ½ | Wingspan: 7-0 ½
Intel and match: The Bulls reacquired this as soon as top-10 protected choose on the deadline within the Zach LaVine commerce, guaranteeing they might add a prospect as they navigate out of the center of the Jap Convention standings. Chicago is in place to draft one of the best out there expertise, however is in larger want of frontcourt assist, which is able to make Queen an fascinating possibility if he slips to No. 12.
Queen had a wonderful season at Maryland and is within the combine for groups as excessive because the mid-lottery, however appears to be like to have a little bit of a wider vary. He got here in at a reliable 6-10 in footwear, however fared poorly in athletic testing on the mix and did not shoot convincingly in drills. Although unsurprising, these are two key areas for his long-term improvement that groups will query as he hits the exercise circuit.
He is a serious offensive expertise whose ability set separates him from the opposite bigs on this class — finally, his movie ought to converse louder than the mix knowledge — and whichever workforce selects him will imagine it may well get probably the most out of him. His proponents across the league see an clever participant whose potential is excessive in the long term. — Woo
1:42
Maryland’s Derik Queen pronounces NBA choice
Maryland massive man Derik Queen joins Scott Van Pelt to announce his intention to enter the NBA draft.
Joan Beringer, C, Cedevita Olimpija
Adriatic | TS%: 61.5
Intel and match: It is troublesome to invest which course the Hawks will go along with this choose till we see what their entrance workplace appears to be like like after the ouster of basic supervisor Landry Fields final month. The Hawks have held discussions with a number of the most distinguished brokers within the business, in addition to some big-name NBA executives. They may elect to rent extra of a senior advisor determine to work alongside new GM Onsi Saleh.
With the primary of two first-round picks, taking a swing on a high-upside prospect comparable to Beringer would make sense, particularly with beginning middle Clint Capela getting into free company. Beringer, 18, has been surprisingly impactful for Cedevita this season, main the Adriatic League in block proportion.
His super bodily instruments, mixed along with his skill to cowl floor on the perimeter, change onto smaller gamers, and shield the rim, present he has important potential, particularly as a result of he has been enjoying basketball for under three years. — Givony
Carter Bryant, SF/PF, Arizona
Freshman | TS%: 59.9
Mix measurements:
Top with out footwear: 6-6 ½ | Weight: 214
Standing attain: 8-10 | Wingspan: 6-11 ¾
Intel and match: Even earlier than the possible addition of Harper at No. 2 grew to become believable, the Spurs wanted maximal spacing round Victor Wembanyama and their guards. They need to have a possibility to handle that with their second first-round choose. Bryant is a robust match on paper if he is out there at No. 14.
Though his field rating manufacturing was modest in a supporting position at Arizona, NBA groups have been intrigued all season, drawn to his promising taking pictures stroke, passing really feel, and a robust bodily body with related measurements to Los Angeles Lakers ahead Dorian Finney-Smith.
Bryant has room to pack on important power that may give him some defensive versatility, as effectively. As a two-way contributor who will not want on-ball utilization so as to add worth, Bryant can slide neatly into the long-term plans for many any workforce, which may put him in play for groups greater than this. — Woo
Noa Essengue, PF, Ratiopharm Ulm
Germany | TS%: 61.1
Intel and match: With three picks among the many high 44 choices, however 14 gamers anticipated to be below contract subsequent season, it is unclear how a lot room Oklahoma Metropolis has on its roster so as to add extra rookies. Packaging picks to maneuver up within the draft, buying and selling nonrotation gamers to different locations, or kicking the can down the highway, swapping this yr’s picks for future first-rounders, is likely to be choices for the Thunder.
Oklahoma Metropolis would not have an excessive amount of use for a participant comparable to Essengue, but it surely has only a few wants that this draft would assist resolve. The workforce will possible go for a best-talent-available method if it makes use of all of its picks. — Givony
Jase Richardson, PG/SG, Michigan State
Freshman | TS%: 63.2
Mix measurements:
Top with out footwear: 6-0 ½ | Weight: 178
Standing attain: 8-2 ½ | Wingspan: 6-6
Intel and match: After back-to-back playoff appearances, Orlando’s entrance workplace appears intent on serving to the workforce win its first playoff collection since 2010, saying it plans to “look by a extra win-now lens.” That may sign a willingness to half with one or each of the workforce’s first-rounders (the Magic additionally maintain the No. 25 choose) if “confirmed offensive assist” turns into out there, a search that may possible proceed by the offseason.
Ought to the Magic maintain this choose, drafting a participant comparable to Richardson, who possesses a wonderful really feel for the sport, robust defensive depth, and hit 41% of his 3-pointers this season, is sensible. His skill to play off the ball alongside two prolific shot-creators in Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero would even be a plus, as Richardson confirmed along with his willingness to play a task at Michigan State, the place he demonstrated character and successful qualities. — Givony
Danny Wolf, PF, Michigan
Junior | TS%: 56.6
Mix measurements:
Top with out footwear: 6-10 ½ | Weight: 251
Standing attain: 9-1 | Wingspan: 7-2 ¼
Intel and match: The Timberwolves are in the midst of a rivalry window and lucked right into a shock first-round choose in a useful a part of the draft due to the Detroit Pistons incomes a playoff spot and conveying this lotto-protected choice, acquired from New York within the Karl-Anthony Cities commerce, to Minnesota.
This choose figures to be a best-available state of affairs for the workforce that holds the league’s least future draft capital, with the Wolves additionally holding the No. 31 choose as a helpful asset. The 2 picks create a pleasant alternative for Minnesota to search out worth and get youthful round Edwards, its three-time All-Star.
Wolf’s mixture of perimeter performance, passing and inside measurement (he measured at 6-10½ barefoot, placing him near 7 ft in footwear with a 7-2¼ wingspan) makes him an intriguing participant for inventive groups. With Julius Randle and Naz Reid holding participant choices for subsequent season, including a youthful ahead in Wolf to the combo can be an fascinating consideration because the Timberwolves sift by their choices. — Woo
18. Washington Wizards (by way of Memphis)
Liam McNeeley, SG/SF, UConn
Freshman | TS%: 53.6
Mix measurements:
Top with out footwear: 6-6 ¾ | Weight: 214
Standing attain: 8-3 ½ | Wingspan: 6-8 ½
Intel and match: Count on the Wizards to maintain making draft picks as they add to the fifth-youngest roster within the league with a mean age of 25.1. On this situation, after drafting Johnson, Washington would add a extra versatile complementary wing in McNeeley, who would match with its preferences for positional measurement and really feel.
McNeeley measured and examined a little bit higher than anticipated on the mix (6-8 in footwear and 215 kilos) and appears to be trending positively. After an ankle damage hampered him for a piece of his freshman season at UConn, he’ll have a possibility to assist himself on the exercise circuit, the place he can reaffirm a number of the questions round his athleticism and long-range taking pictures, and remind groups why he entered the season considered as a lottery candidate. — Woo
19. Brooklyn Nets (by way of Milwaukee)
Thomas Sorber, C, Georgetown
Freshman | TS%: 58.7
Mix measurements:
Top with out footwear: 6-9 ¼ | Weight: 262
Standing attain: 9-1 | Wingspan: 7-6
Intel and match: With the second of their 4 first-round picks, the Nets may go in lots of instructions, possible taking swings on expertise whereas contemplating the significance of buying measurement in a league that has swayed again towards significantly valuing massive males.
Sorber is not anticipated to conduct on-court exercise throughout the predraft course of as he recovers from foot surgical procedure in February. Nonetheless, his robust really feel for the sport, defensive versatility, size, physicality and ability degree as a pick-and-roll finisher are enticing qualities at 19 years outdated that ought to draw loads of consideration on this portion of the draft.
In Chicago, his wingspan was measured at 7-6, permitting him to play a lot greater than his 6-10½ (in footwear) top. — Givony
20. Miami Warmth (by way of Golden State)
Nolan Traore, PG, Saint-Quentin
France | TS%: 51.0
Intel and match: The Warmth obtained this choose within the Jimmy Butler III commerce and have had success deciding on in the midst of the draft in recent times, including Jaime Jaquez Jr. at No. 18 and Kel’el Ware at No. 15 up to now two drafts. Miami has performed Tyler Herro on the ball fairly a bit however would profit from including a real level guard to carry down the backcourt long run, with a giant shot-creation void to fill on the roster sans Butler.
Traore would quantity to a giant swing if he falls to this spot. Some scouts view him as a lottery-worthy expertise, however an inconsistent season in France has put a damper on his draft inventory. His measurement and pace, playmaking skill and promise as a shooter provide apparent upside if he can put all the things collectively.
This far down within the draft, Traore is a sexy choose for a workforce just like the Warmth, who’ve traditionally had success growing prospects inside their program. — Woo
21. Utah Jazz (by way of Minnesota)
Asa Newell, PF/C, Georgia
Freshman | TS%: 62.0
Mix measurements:
Top with out footwear: 6-9 | Weight: 224
Standing attain: 8-11 ½ | Wingspan: 6-11 ¼
Intel and match: The Jazz personal this second first-round choose by the use of Minnesota within the Rudy Gobert commerce. After deciding on a degree guard in Fears within the lottery, taking a swing on a gifted younger massive man comparable to Newell is sensible.
Groups trying to find frontcourt assist earlier within the draft are additionally serious about him. Newell’s mix measurements will possible imply he’ll play principally energy ahead within the NBA.
However, his mobility, aggressiveness and depth are important belongings that allowed him to have a extremely productive, environment friendly freshman marketing campaign. Newell made 26 3-pointers in 33 video games and transformed 75% of his free throws, constructive indicators that scouts imagine may level to him changing into a extra constant outdoors shooter (29% 3-point proportion). — Givony
0:20
Asa Newell will get the ring and the hurt
Asa Newell will get the ring and the hurt
22. Atlanta Hawks (by way of Los Angeles Lakers)
Will Riley, SG/SF, Illinois
Freshman | TS%: 53.8
Mix measurements:
Top with out footwear: 6-8 ¼ | Weight: 185
Standing attain: 8-8 | Wingspan: 6-8 ¾
Intel and match: It is troublesome to determine a transparent course for the Hawks, as beforehand talked about, till Atlanta finalizes a rent to steer its entrance workplace. However with the Hawks already including massive man Beringer, they will take a best-available method with Riley, one other younger participant who has substantial long-term upside as his physique and ability set mature.
He can be within the dialogue for groups deciding on greater than this, with glorious measurement for a wing (measuring over 6-8 barefoot on the mix) and room so as to add power. His terrific offensive instincts and potential to make photographs from the perimeter at a excessive degree verify necessary packing containers if a workforce can afford him some endurance. — Woo
Nique Clifford, SG, Colorado State
Tremendous Senior | TS%: 60.9
Mix measurements:
Top with out footwear: 6-5 ¼ | Weight: 202
Standing attain: 8-6 ½ | Wingspan: 6-8
Intel and match: In the midst of a heavyweight battle with the New York Knicks for a visit to the NBA Finals, the Pacers may not be as centered on the draft as a few of their league counterparts.
Each workforce is actively searching for wing depth, and Clifford can be getting appears to be like greater than this due to his plug-and-play, Swiss Military knife-type profile, combining a wonderful really feel for the sport with robust defensive versatility whereas changing 38% of his 3-pointers the previous two seasons. — Givony
Maxime Raynaud, PF/C, Stanford
Senior | TS%: 56.1
Mix measurements:
Top with out footwear: 7-0 ¼ | Weight: 236
Standing attain: 9-2 | Wingspan: 7-1 ¼
Intel and match: It is troublesome to ascertain Oklahoma Metropolis utilizing its three picks among the many high 44 choices with its present roster state of affairs. However, the Thunder have a number of months to find out a plan, and there can be no scarcity of suitors in the event that they elect to commerce picks.
Raynaud was one of many massive winners on the mix, being arguably probably the most spectacular performer of the scrimmages, after measuring over 7 ft barefoot with an enormous 9-2 standing attain. Raynaud’s skill to stretch the ground as a middle is efficacious in right this moment’s NBA, however the truth he greater than held his personal defensively in Chicago, each hedging screens out to the 3-point line and altering photographs on the rim, was simply as necessary. — Givony
25. Orlando Magic (by way of Denver)
Hugo Gonzalez, SG/SF, Actual Madrid
EuroLeague | TS%: 50.9
Intel and match: That is the Magic’s second first-round choice, acquired from Denver in 2021 within the Aaron Gordon commerce. It is unclear whether or not the entrance workplace will add two extra rookies to what’s already one of many youngest rosters within the NBA, particularly with few roster spots out there. Nonetheless, hitting on these picks may have important worth projecting long run with the cost-controlled nature of rookie-scale contracts, particularly in a deep draft like this.
Gonzalez, 19, has had problem gaining traction this season amid inconsistent enjoying time with Actual Madrid, hitting 29% of his 3-pointers. When given the chance, Gonzalez has proven his defensive depth, really feel for the sport and explosiveness. He can guard a number of positions, and has proven glimpses of the passing prowess and successful qualities that made him a extremely regarded prospect at a younger age.
His troublesome workforce context and the truth that he may not be capable of journey to the USA for personal exercises would possibly trigger him to be under-drafted relative to the expertise he displayed in earlier settings, the place he seemed like a clear-cut lottery choose. — Givony
Yaxel Lendeborg, PF/C, UAB/Michigan
Senior | TS%: 61.3
Mix measurements:
Top with out footwear: 6-8 ½ | Weight: 234
Standing attain: 9-0 ½ | Wingspan: 7-4
Intel and match: Rival groups anticipate the Nets to discover transferring one or each of those picks within the 20s, as they handle their roster and wage cap state of affairs to finest place themselves transferring ahead.
Lendeborg confronted one of many highest-profile, stay-or-go choices amongst prospects on the mix, measuring fairly effectively and handing over a strong, if not spectacular, displaying in scrimmages, with Michigan coach Dusty Might and members of his employees in Chicago to help him. NBA groups are conscious Lendeborg has a multimillion-dollar NIL package deal to attend Michigan subsequent season, and it wasn’t clear by the tip of the week as as to whether he had performed sufficient to safe the kind of assure that may maintain him within the draft.
He was extremely productive final season at UAB and can step into an enormous position with the Wolverines because the ostensible alternative for Wolf, giving him a possibility to enhance his draft inventory if he withdraws now. — Woo
Rasheer Fleming, PF, Saint Joseph’s
Junior | TS%: 64.4
Mix measurements:
Top with out footwear: 6-8 ¼ | Weight: 232
Standing attain: 9-1 | Wingspan: 7-5 ¼
Intel and match: The Nets may not be the workforce deciding on right here, which might make these picks within the late 20s fascinating swing spots.
Fleming did not take part in 5-on-5 scrimmages on the mix, however had spectacular measurements. His glorious measurement and the way successfully he scored this season for Saint Joseph’s give him some enticing role-player qualities.
As a late-blooming participant who remains to be missing in ball abilities and general consciousness at occasions, Fleming is extra of a developmental addition than a real plug-and-play possibility within the late first spherical. — Woo
Noah Penda, SF/PF, Le Mans
France | TS%: 55.5
Intel and match: Rival groups anticipated modifications to the Celtics’ roster subsequent season due to their huge payroll, even earlier than Jayson Tatum’s Achilles damage. Boston seems headed towards an energetic summer time to reposition the franchise for extra sustainable success. Although a full-on teardown is not possible, the Celtics management their first-round choose in 2026 and 2027, giving them a runway to rethink issues relying on the state of their roster and the course of Tatum’s restoration.
Penda’s robust really feel for the sport and two-way impression, after a productive and well-rounded season in France, would make him an fascinating sleeper goal on this a part of the draft. He provides glorious role-player traits as a sensible decision-maker and defensive playmaker if he could make sufficient photographs to earn NBA minutes. It stays to be seen what his availability can be for stateside exercises, with the Professional A season nonetheless ongoing. — Woo
Walter Clayton Jr., PG, Florida
Senior | TS%: 61.1
Mix measurements:
Top with out footwear: 6-2 | Weight: 199
Standing attain: 8-1 ½ | Wingspan: 6-4
The Suns final yr drafted two ready-made contributors in Ryan Dunn and Oso Ighodaro and plugged them of their rotation, and would have a possibility to do the identical with Clayton, the NCAA event’s most excellent participant after serving to Florida win a nationwide championship.
Regardless of measuring smaller than anticipated on the mix, Clayton brings super shotmaking prowess and all-around scoring expertise, making massive performs in clutch moments all season whereas creating chaos for opposing defenses along with his pace and unpredictability. The very fact he can play on or off the ball, alongside Kevin Durant, Devin Booker and Bradley Beal, might be enticing. — Givony
1:19
Walter Clayton Jr. explains the final play in opposition to Houston and his draft inventory
Walter Clayton Jr. joins “First Take” to debate Florida successful the nationwide championship and his NBA draft inventory.
30. LA Clippers (by way of Oklahoma Metropolis)
Cedric Coward, SF, Washington State/Duke
Junior | TS%: 71.0
Mix measurements:
Top with out footwear: 6-5 ¼ | Weight: 213
Standing attain: 8-10 | Wingspan: 7-2 ¼
Intel and match: The Clippers will not management their draft for the following 4 seasons, with picks and swaps outgoing till 2030 and the workforce in win-now mode. Taking a big gamble on a comparatively unproven prospect comparable to Coward can be a high-risk, high-reward method.
There was loads of buzz round Coward of late, with indicators out of Chicago pointing to him remaining within the draft, regardless of a switch dedication to Duke for subsequent season. Many NBA groups we spoke with are hesitant about his shocking rise, given the truth that he performed six video games at Washington State earlier than a shoulder damage ended his season. However his uncommon trajectory from Division III to Jap Washington to what seems to be guaranteed-contract territory is fascinating.
Although his lack of movie in opposition to high-level school competitors is a priority for NBA groups, Coward is the kind of wing groups love draft, and it issues that he was environment friendly and productive at Jap Washington. Nonetheless not cleared for contact as of final week, Coward measured with a 7-2¼ wingspan on the mix, shot the ball effectively in drills, and seemed the half as he made his case to NBA groups. Regardless of not having performed competitively since November, his draft projection appears to be transferring in his favor. — Woo
Second spherical
0:13
Drake Powell will get the and-1 to fall
Drake Powell will get the and-1 to fall
31. Minnesota Timberwolves (by way of Utah)
Drake Powell, SG/SF, North Carolina, freshman
32. Boston Celtics (by way of Washington)
Ben Saraf, PG/SG, Ratiopharm Ulm (Germany)
33. Charlotte Hornets
Labaron Philon, PG/SG, Alabama, freshman
34. Charlotte Hornets (by way of New Orleans)
Adou Thiero, PF, Arkansas
35. Philadelphia 76ers
Ryan Kalkbrenner, C, Creighton, tremendous senior
36. Brooklyn Nets
Yanic Konan Niederhauser, C, Penn State, junior
37. Detroit Pistons (by way of Toronto)
Tahaad Pettiford, PG, Auburn, freshman
38. San Antonio Spurs
Alex Condon, C, Florida, sophomore
39. Toronto Raptors (by way of Portland)
Alex Toohey, SF/PF, Sydney (Australia)
40. Washington Wizards (by way of Phoenix)
Chaz Lanier, SG, Tennessee, tremendous senior
41. Golden State Warriors (by way of Miami)
Hansen Yang, C, Qingdao (China)
42. Sacramento Kings (by way of Chicago)
Bogoljub Markovic, PF/C, Mega Superbet (Adriatic)
43. Utah Jazz (by way of Dallas)
Miles Byrd, SG, San Diego State, sophomore
44. Oklahoma Metropolis Thunder (by way of Atlanta)
Jamir Watkins, SG/SF, Florida State, senior
45. Chicago Bulls (by way of Sacramento)
Johni Broome, C, Auburn, tremendous senior
46. Orlando Magic
Rocco Zikarsky, C, Brisbane (Australia)
47. Milwaukee Bucks (by way of Detroit)
Darrion Williams, SF/PF, Texas Tech, junior
48. Memphis Grizzlies (by way of Golden State)
John Tonje, SF, Wisconsin, tremendous senior
49. Cleveland Cavaliers (by way of Milwaukee)
Michael Ruzic, PF/C, Joventut (ACB)
50. New York Knicks (by way of Memphis)
Eric Dixon, PF, Villanova, tremendous senior
51. LA Clippers (by way of Minnesota)
Tyrese Proctor, PG, Duke, junior
52. Phoenix Suns (by way of Denver)
Sion James, SF, Duke, tremendous senior
53. Utah Jazz (by way of LA Clippers)
Kam Jones, PG/SG, Marquette, senior
54. Indiana Pacers
Koby Brea, SG/SF, Kentucky, tremendous senior
55. Los Angeles Lakers
Vladislav Goldin, C, Michigan, tremendous senior
56. Memphis Grizzlies (by way of Houston)
Javon Small, PG, West Virginia, senior
57. Orlando Magic (by way of Boston)
Neoklis Avdalas, SF, Peristeri (Greece)
58. Cleveland Cavaliers
Mackenzie Mgbako, SF/PF, Indiana, sophomore
59. Houston Rockets (by way of Oklahoma Metropolis)
Viktor Lakhin, C, Clemson, tremendous senior
Jonathan Givony is an NBA draft skilled 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.