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Jonathan Givony
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Jonathan Givony
ESPN
- NBA draft analyst and author
Joined ESPN.com in July 2017
Founder and co-owner of DraftExpress.com, a personal scouting and analytics service utilized by NBA, NCAA and worldwide groups -
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 Middle 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.
Trade talks proceed behind the scenes as NBA groups huddle this week, with a serious 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 Green and Dillon Brooks.
ESPN draft analysts Jonathan Givony and Jeremy Woo shall be monitoring information and group and participant data till the Mavericks go on the clock Wednesday, with this model of the mock draft present process updates till draft time, primarily based on our athletics intel.
Final up to date: Monday at 6:30 a.m. ET.
Throughout the draft: Follow ESPN’s live NBA Draftcast with instant analysis
Notes: The New York Knicks‘ second-round choose was rescinded by the NBA after an investigation into Jalen Brunson‘s free agency signing in the summertime of 2022. … All heights are listed because the barefoot numbers from the NBA.
Extra NBA draft protection:
Trade offers for No. 1 | Lottery pick comps
Final big board for 100 prospects | Top 20 skills
Draft guide | Pelton’s top 30 | More
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
Flagg made his strategy to Dallas this week for a go to together with his projected new group in Dallas, touring town and group amenities, 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 might 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 direct affect for a Mavericks franchise that intends to be aggressive in 2025-26. Dallas will hope that strolling into what figures to be a profitable state of affairs will assist fast-track his development 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 sort of affect Flagg can present instantly, together with his versatile two-way talent set offering a powerful place to begin 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
Take a look at the perfect performs from Duke freshman Cooper Flagg forward of the 2025 NBA draft.
Dylan Harper, PG/SG, Rutgers
Freshman | TS%: 59.3
Top with out footwear: 6-4½ | Weight: 213
Standing attain: 8-6 | Wingspan: 6-10½
Harper is all however assured to listen to his title referred to 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 measurement, 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 this time’s NBA, as his sturdy body seems well-suited for enjoying by the bodily demanding vigor required within the playoffs. The problem of buying a majority of these gamers has made the Spurs reluctant to go on the chance so as to add Harper. — 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 seems in pole place to listen to his title referred to as at No. 3 due to his distinctive expertise, but in addition as a result of Ace Bailey‘s clear determination to avoid teams in this range 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 non-public exercise in Philadelphia and didn’t shoot the ball significantly nicely 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 would 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 stage
Take a look at highlights from Baylor freshman VJ Edgecombe forward of the 2025 NBA draft.
Kon Knueppel, SG/SF, Duke
Freshman | TS%: 64.8
Top with out footwear: 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 doubtless be selecting between trade-down eventualities or choosing amongst Knueppel, Jeremiah Fears, Bailey, and Tre Johnson. The truth that Fears and Bailey haven’t labored out for the Hornets would not seem like a big hindrance of their decision-making course of.
Rival groups consider the Hornets will in the end prioritize Knueppel’s sturdy perimeter taking pictures, playmaking and management expertise, in addition to his sturdy match with the likes of LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller. The Hornets could 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 nicely in analytics-based draft fashions, however the Hornets may ponder whether or not they may nonetheless add him in the event that they elect to maneuver down a number of slots and purchase extra property within the course of. — Givony
Jeremiah Fears, PG, Oklahoma
Freshman | TS%: 57.0
Top with out footwear: 6-2½ | Weight: 179
Standing attain: 8-2½ | Wingspan: 6-5¼
Underneath new leadership in Austin Ainge, it is unlikely the Jazz shall be married to earlier draft picks who’ve but to indicate they’re surefire long-term keepers.
With star energy being a big want for the Jazz, it is sensible to make the leap on a expertise akin 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 measurement, 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 take 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 title referred to 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 footwear: 6-7½ | Weight: 202
Standing attain: 8-11 | Wingspan: 7-0½
Bailey, the No. 3 prospect on our big board, is the one U.S. prospect yet to visit an NBA team 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 sort of slide may price 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 obtained assurances of being chosen by a group thought-about extra advantageous to Bailey in the long run, contemplating elements like geography, minutes, function, alternative and growth.
Nevertheless, this isn’t an unprecedented state of affairs. 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 unfavourable 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 may 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 footwear: 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 reasonable eventualities 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 tender 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 may in the end try to commerce up, significantly after acquiring the No. 23 pick from Indiana final week. However in addition 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 sensible as a match for the Pelicans, contemplating their want for added perimeter taking pictures in addition to youthful backcourt reinforcements, with Dejounte Murray injured and CJ McCollum turning 34 in September and getting into the ultimate yr of his contract. On prime of these elements, there’s an argument for him as best-available right here, contemplating his scoring prowess.
Khaman Maluach is one other participant into consideration for New Orleans right here, together 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 footwear: 7-0¾ | Weight: 252
Standing attain: 9-6 | Wingspan: 7-6¾
Maluach seems firmly in consideration in New Orleans and Brooklyn, however can also be seen by some groups because the almost certainly 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 in search of: He is a real heart who can function a defensive anchor within the paint and has important potential for development each bodily and skill-wise. He performs with great depth and is beloved by coaches and teammates due to his distinctive off-court intangibles.
His potential 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 attraction to any group in search of a middle to construct round in the long run. — Givony
1:36
The highlights that make Khaman Maluach an thrilling NBA prospect
Take a look at 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 non-public exercises for groups.
The Raptors are a franchise that rival groups have had a tough time pegging when it comes to 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, apart from maybe heart.
Essengue’s size, mobility and defensive versatility would definitely match the Raptors’ DNA, even when his inconsistent perimeter taking pictures 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 fast price of enchancment this season counsel a excessive ceiling that some groups on this a part of the draft may certainly wish to faucet into. — 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
It isn’t straightforward to peg Murray-Boyles’ draft vary, with most pointing to the Nos. 10-to-16 vary, which incorporates a number of the most analytics-influenced groups within the NBA, Atlanta, Oklahoma Metropolis and Memphis. NBA groups say Murray-Boyles charges traditionally nicely of their draft fashions, because of his sturdy passing, foul-drawing potential, 2-point taking pictures, defensive playmaking and youth, which is able to attraction to a number of groups on this vary.
Murray-Boyles’ toughness, unselfishness, defensive versatility and playmaking give him a excessive flooring, even when his lack of measurement and perimeter taking pictures may make him a situational slot in sure lineup configurations.
On Sunday, the Suns agreed on a blockbuster trade, sending Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets for Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, the No. 10 choose on this yr’s draft and 5 second-round picks, sources instructed ESPN on Sunday.
With the Suns desperately needing to improve their frontcourt — particularly after shedding their beginning energy ahead in Durant — Murray-Boyles is probably going somebody the group will take into account closely in the event that they preserve the choose, together with a extra conventional massive man akin to Derik Queen. — Givony
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 had a constructive predraft course of and seems ticketed for the late lottery, with curiosity coming from Phoenix following the Suns’ trade 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 heart with Donovan Clingan long-term in addition to Deandre Ayton nonetheless beneath contract, however are in any other case positioned to focus on the perfect accessible expertise right here, having labored out a lot of the names projected on this vary. Bryant would give them extra taking pictures, perimeter measurement 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 potential to shoot from vary, add worth as a passer, and guard throughout defensively together with his wonderful bodily instruments provides him a practical pathway to turning into a lineup fixture. — Woo
1:43
Carter Bryant’s NBA draft profile
Take a look at a number of the highlights which have made Arizona’s Carter Bryant a prime NBA draft prospect.
Kasparas Jakucionis, PG, Illinois
Freshman | TS%: 59.8
Top with out footwear: 6-4¾ | Weight: 205
Standing attain: 8-3½ | Wingspan: 6-7¾
Contemplating not many groups on this vary have categorical backcourt wants, in addition to the uncertainty surrounding potential trades, it has been tough for some groups to confidently establish 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 in addition curiosity from groups within the prime 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 considered among the many facilities they will take into account.
Nonetheless, the Bulls are within the means of reimagining the group shifting 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 an excellent argument on this situation.
Jakucionis’s unselfishness, playmaking and measurement enabling him to play on and off the ball make him a comparatively seamless slot in most locations, with upside long-term contemplating he just lately turned 19 years previous. — Woo
Egor Demin, PG/SG, BYU
Freshman | TS%: 51.3
Top with out footwear: 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 in addition a sleeper goal for Brooklyn, but it surely’s attainable he slips previous that — at which level there is a best-available case for a group 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 a lot of the bigs on this vary, together with Beringer, Murray-Boyles and others.
At his measurement, 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 non-public, 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 footwear: 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, protecting 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, performed final week, point out he has grown an inch and a half up to now yr, now standing over 7 ft in footwear. 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 footwear: 6-9¼ | Weight: 247
Standing attain: 9-1½ | Wingspan: 7-0½
Queen continues to obtain combined suggestions on the exercise circuit, with questions nonetheless hovering over his conditioning, taking pictures mechanics and aggressive on-off change. Though he’s considered essentially the most expert massive within the class offensively, he would not seem like maximizing a number of the elements inside his management, and in consequence, hasn’t gathered a lot upward momentum through the predraft course of.
Following the Suns’ acquisition of the 10th pick, Queen’s reasonable vary seems to begin with the Suns at No. 10 and runs down into the teenagers, the place at a sure level he turns into tough to go on.
The Thunder, pivoting to this draft recent off winning the title Sunday night, is a group with none obtrusive roster wants however have been primarily linked by rival groups to massive males, together with Beringer and Sorber. Isaiah Hartenstein is beneath group management by 2026-27 (Oklahoma Metropolis holds a membership possibility on the ultimate yr), and the concept of discovering and growing a inexpensive alternative holds weight, significantly with Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren each eligible to signal what determine to be hefty rookie extensions this summer season.
Queen would merely be a guess 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 threat than most. — Woo
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
Coward has seen his inventory explode over the previous month, as groups have gotten a better take a look at his spectacular bodily instruments, perimeter taking pictures, defensive potential, creating a greater understanding of his late-blooming trajectory.
A younger senior who turns 22 on Sept. 11, Coward suits a mildew each NBA group is in search of together with his measurement and body and profession 38% 3-point taking pictures. He may 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 beneath the belief that he’ll be passed by that a part of the draft. — Givony
1:58
Cedric Coward’s NBA draft profile
Take a look at a number of the highlights which have made Cedric Coward a prime NBA draft prospect.
Thomas Sorber, C, Georgetown
Freshman | TS%: 58.7
Top with out footwear: 6-9¼ | Weight: 262
Standing attain: 9-1 | Wingspan: 7-6
Sorber has additionally risen through the predraft course of, regardless of being sidelined since February as a result of of a toe injury that necessitated season-ending surgical procedure, which suggests he’ll miss summer season league. NBA groups are keen to amass facilities akin to Sorber, who can present physicality and rim safety together with his sturdy body and wingspan. The Suns, Bulls, Hawks, Spurs, Thunder, Timberwolves and Nets all seem fascinated with 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 season.
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, although it would take a while to achieve that time. — Givony
18. Washington Wizards (by way of Memphis)
Liam McNeeley, SG/SF, UConn
Freshman | TS%: 53.6
Top with out footwear: 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 potential, coming off a tough season that was hampered by an ankle harm. He has curiosity all around the again half of the primary spherical, with Washington amongst his potential touchdown spots.
The Wizards had been essentially the most dedicated group within the league final season to giving their rookies significant minutes, and the present entrance workplace has up to now strongly valued positional measurement 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 stage of toughness. — Woo
1:38
See why Liam McNeeley is an intriguing NBA prospect
Take a look at highlights from UConn’s Liam McNeeley forward of the 2025 NBA draft.
19. Brooklyn Nets (by way of Milwaukee)
Asa Newell, PF/C, Georgia
Freshman | TS%: 62.0
Top with out footwear: 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 development as a shooter, serving to some groups higher perceive the potential versatility he may present as a stretch-4. Nonetheless, he has a considerably wider vary on draft evening, drawing consideration from groups within the again half of the lottery, however with eventualities additionally in play the place he may 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 alternatives within the prime 40. Most across the league count on Brooklyn to be lively in trades this week, although it is not but clear precisely what that can appear like, the prospect of buying and selling up from right here to amass a second lottery choose is among the many eventualities the Nets may 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 data on the category than another group — the Nets are additionally seen as a fascinating vacation spot by many brokers, because of the 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 Heat (by way of Golden State)
Walter Clayton Jr., PG, Florida
Senior | TS%: 61.1
Top with out footwear: 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 mild on level guard choices. He has followers in entrance workplaces choosing greater 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 sturdy 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 mildew, this match is sensible on paper. — Woo
1:56
See what makes Walter Clayton Jr. an intriguing NBA prospect
Take a look at highlights from Florida’s Walter Clayton Jr. forward of the 2025 NBA draft.
21. Utah Jazz (by way of 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 may probably lengthen to June 30.
Gonzalez completed the common season sturdy, 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} group within the 20s will doubtless determine to pick, regardless, because of the spectacular bodily instruments, sturdy really feel for the sport and frenetic power he brings defensively.
Utah has clear wants on the wing and will give him the kind of runway wanted to achieve the numerous potential he confirmed at each stage of his profession earlier than this season. — Givony
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
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 prime 20, together with Memphis, Minnesota and Brooklyn.
The uncertainty round the place he winds up is due partially to a spread of potential commerce eventualities that might happen, but in addition the truth that Wolf’s unusual mixture of measurement and talent set has been a polarizing analysis for a lot of across the NBA. His playmaking potential within the frontcourt might be a slot in Atlanta ought to he fall right here, though there seems to be a rising likelihood he would 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 footwear: 6-5¼ | Weight: 202
Standing attain: 8-6½ | Wingspan: 6-8
New Orleans got this pick from Indiana last week, sending the Pacers’ 2026 first-rounder again to them with a view to transfer again into the draft. Following Tyrese Haliburton‘s harm in Sport 7 of the Finals, because of that commerce, the Pacers will doubtless really feel some slight aid 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 believed to have real curiosity in a number of gamers on this vary.
Clifford has curiosity within the teenagers, starting with Memphis, together with his vary working down into the 20s. He has gotten constructive suggestions on the exercise circuit, seen as a possible plug-and-play rotation possibility resulting from his versatility coming off a powerful yr at Colorado State.
He is among the many gamers considered 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 footwear: 6-8¼ | Weight: 185
Standing attain: 8-8 | Wingspan: 6-8¾
Factoring within the Thunder’s wealth of younger expertise and crowded roster state of affairs, most across the league consider Oklahoma Metropolis will in the end choose to commerce this choose. What that truly seems to be like stays to be seen — the Thunder may bundle it to try to transfer up from No. 15 and goal precisely who they need. They seem to be a group that has traditionally been lively in draft-night offers.
Riley has followers in entrance workplaces within the prime 20 however may 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 measurement, offensive really feel and taking pictures potential, but it surely’s understood that it’ll take him time so as to add bodily energy and, hopefully, enhance defensively. — Woo
25. Orlando Magic (by way of Denver)
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
Richardson is the highest-ranked player (No. 18) on the ESPN massive board to not get invited to the NBA draft inexperienced room (24 gamers invited), leaving some uncertainty about the place he may 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 may 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 group that might look so as to add taking pictures and backcourt depth and may be 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
Take a look at a number of the highlights which have made Michigan State’s Jase Richardson a prime NBA draft prospect.
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 stunning to see the Nets take a number of expertise swings, hoping to uncover gems with a few of their later alternatives.
The Nets have a void within the backcourt, relying on what they do with their first few picks, and this case 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 a lot to love together with his measurement, ballhandling, playmaking creativity and upside, making him a worthy gamble for a group in Brooklyn’s state of affairs 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
As beforehand talked about, these Nets picks — significantly 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 green room, pointing to the probability he may fall to the again of the primary spherical. He hasn’t gathered a lot momentum over the previous month however stays in consideration resulting from his bodily instruments and bettering 3-point taking pictures. 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 footwear: 7-0¼ | Weight: 236
Standing attain: 9-2 | Wingspan: 7-1¼
Raynaud has performed himself into late first-round consideration alongside a considerably brief record of facilities, which additionally consists of Ryan Kalkbrenner and Yanic Konan Niederhauser. He’s broadly seen as having essentially the most untapped upside of that trio, resulting from his flashes of offensive talent and extra developed capability to area the ground. His displaying on the draft mix helped to reaffirm that, and the actual fact he solely picked up basketball full-time as a highschool senior coupled with sturdy 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 elements allow them to go most any course with this choose and at No. 32, with the deal with cultivating long-term roster high quality extra so than addressing short-term wants this late within the draft. Raynaud would supply a viable depth possibility up entrance as he continues to develop. — Woo
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Maxime Raynaud’s NBA draft profile
Take a look at a number of the highlights which have made Maxime Raynaud a prime NBA draft prospect.
Ryan Kalkbrenner, C, Creighton
Senior | TS%: 69.3
Top with out footwear: 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 Green and Dillon Brooks, a state of affairs that is solely been amplified.
The 23-year previous Kalkbrenner, a four-time Large East defensive participant of the yr, seems to be extra prepared to assist a group on the inside than most gamers on this draft vary, being the most effective shot blockers on this class. The Suns will doubtless proceed to be lively within the coming days and will proceed to make strikes with their roster and rising trove of first- and second-round picks, offering them considerably extra flexibility than they’ve had as of late. — Givony
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 will presumably be pondering 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 may be a dependable bounce shot away from providing some bench worth, makes for an attention-grabbing match right here.
Penda has been an attention-grabbing sleeper title for groups resulting from his versatility, able to enjoying all around the flooring on offense and in addition defending a number of spots. Whereas his perimeter taking pictures and restricted run-jump bodily profile are query marks for groups, his really feel, talent and measurement are all good promoting factors. — Woo
Second spherical
31. Minnesota Timberwolves (by way of Utah)
Ben Saraf, PG/SG, Ratiopharm Ulm (Germany)
32. Boston Celtics (by way of Washington)
Drake Powell, SG/SF, North Carolina
33. Charlotte Hornets
Hansen Yang, C, Qingdao (China)
34. Charlotte Hornets (by way of 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 (by way of Toronto)
Jamir Watkins, SG/SF, Florida State, senior
38. San Antonio Spurs
Chaz Lanier, SG, Tennessee, tremendous senior
39. Toronto Raptors (by way of Portland)
John Tonje, SF, Wisconsin, tremendous senior
40. Washington Wizards (by way of Phoenix)
Bogoljub Markovic, PF/C, Mega Superbet (Adriatic)
41. Golden State Warriors (by way of Miami)
Rocco Zikarsky, C, Brisbane (Australia)
42. Sacramento Kings (by way of Chicago)
Koby Brea, SG/SF, Kentucky, tremendous senior
43. Utah Jazz (by way of Dallas)
Sion James, SF, Duke, tremendous senior
44. Oklahoma City Thunder (by way of Atlanta)
Johni Broome, C, Auburn, tremendous senior
45. Chicago Bulls (by way of Sacramento)
Alex Toohey, SF/PF, Sydney (Australia)
46. Orlando Magic
Kam Jones, PG/SG, Marquette, senior
47. Milwaukee Bucks (by way of Detroit)
Micah Peavy, SG/SF, Georgetown, 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)
Eric Dixon, PF, Villanova, tremendous senior
52. Phoenix Suns (by way of Denver)
Alijah Martin, SG, Florida, senior
53. Utah Jazz (by way of 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 (by way of Houston)
Hunter Sallis, SG, Wake Forest, senior
57. Orlando Magic (by way of Boston)
Kobe Sanders, SG/SF, Nevada, senior
58. Cleveland Cavaliers
Ryan Nembhard, PG, Gonzaga, senior
59. Houston Rockets (by way of Oklahoma Metropolis)
Saliou Niang, SG/SF, Trento (Italy)
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.