2025 NBA mock draft: 59 picks as commerce talks warmth up for 30 groups

Sports News


With the 2025 NBA draft eight days away (June 25-26, 8 p.m. ET on ABC and ESPN), 30 groups are deep into their predraft course of, figuring out prime prospects and narrowing down their draft boards in preparation for the two-round occasion.

The Dallas Mavericks, homeowners of the No. 1 decide due to successful the draft lottery regardless of a 1.8% likelihood of doing so, don’t have any plans to work out some other prospects aside from Duke’s Cooper Flagg for the best choice. The Mavericks have scheduled a private visit with the nationwide participant of the yr on Tuesday.

This globe mock draft, which displays a radical analysis of the 2025 class and considers intel from scouts and front-office personnel, has a little bit of a shake-up from earlier ones as half of the highest 10 has new gamers slotted to completely different groups, together with the projection for Rutgers star Ace Bailey.

Sunday’s blockbuster trade between the Orlando Magic and Memphis Grizzlies impacted this draft, with the Magic sending the Grizzlies their No. 16 decide amongst different future picks. Across the league, commerce talks are nonetheless taking form as completely different situations are being laid out from NBA decision-makers relying on how the draft evolves.

One such situation that might have draft ramifications consists of the actual fact NBA groups have been anticipating that Kevin Durant could be traded ever because the Phoenix Suns engaged in talks across the February commerce deadline. On Saturday night time, sources advised ESPN’s Shams Charania that the Miami Heat, San Antonio Spurs and Houston Rockets are Durant’s most well-liked commerce locations.

Amid the leaguewide commerce discussions and what we’re listening to on how groups are evaluating prospects, this is our globe mock draft of the 59 picks:

Be aware: The New York Knicks‘ second-round decide was rescinded by the NBA after an investigation into Jalen Brunson‘s free agency signing in the summertime of 2022.

Extra NBA draft protection:
Trade offers for No. 1 | Lottery pick comps
Latest mock draft: Need vs. best value
Draft assets | Top 100 rankings | Pelton’s top 30

First spherical

Cooper Flagg, SF/PF, Duke
Freshman
| TS%: 60.0

Peak with out sneakers: 6-7¾ | Weight: 221
Standing attain: 8-10½ | Wingspan: 7-0

There isn’t any suspense to be discovered at No. 1 this season. Flagg is about to visit the Mavericks on Tuesday, a formality within the course of as Dallas prepares to pick him on the primary night time of the draft (June 25). The Mavs’ distinctive lottery luck means Flagg will stroll right into a aggressive crew from Day 1, with Dallas pushing for the playoffs subsequent season as Kyrie Irving recovers from an ACL tear.

Flagg enters the league with not solely a flexible talent set, however the requisite psychological make-up to succeed beneath strain because the de facto successor to Luka Doncic because the face of the Mavericks’ franchise. His offensive development in what might be a big playmaking position out of the gate will probably be an enchanting subplot to start the 2025-26 season. — Woo

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What Stephen A. must see for Cooper Flagg to reside as much as the hype

Stephen A. Smith explains what Cooper Flagg must do within the NBA to reside as much as the hype.


Dylan Harper, PG/SG, Rutgers
Freshman
| TS%: 59.3

Peak with out sneakers: 6-4½ | Weight: 213
Standing attain: 8-6 | Wingspan: 6-10½

Most expertise evaluators contemplate Harper to be in a tier of his personal because the draft’s clear-cut second-best prospect, overriding potential considerations the Spurs may need about his imperfect backcourt match with De’Aaron Fox and Stephon Castle, attributable to a definite lack of perimeter capturing.

Rival groups trying to have interaction in commerce talks with the Spurs have come away with the impression it is unlikely they transfer down or off the decide at No. 2; it appears San Antonio is worked up about the potential of including a expertise of Harper’s caliber and is prepared to be affected person, determining roster building considerations later.

The 19-year-old’s mixture of measurement, shot-creating prowess, passing creativity, ending talent and scoring instincts makes him the kind of lead guard, offensive engine that’s coveted in in the present day’s NBA, as his sturdy body seems well-suited for enjoying by way of the bodily demanding vigor required within the playoffs. The problem of buying these kinds of gamers makes it tough to check the Spurs passing on the chance so as to add Harper in the end. — Givony


VJ Edgecombe, SG, Baylor
Freshman
| TS%: 56.1

Peak with out sneakers: 6-4 | Weight: 193
Standing attain: 8-5½ | Wingspan: 6-7½

Edgecombe takes over this spot from Ace Bailey in ESPN’s mock draft after a constructive go to to Philadelphia, the place sources say he made a powerful impression in a personal exercise in addition to in conferences with the entrance workplace and possession. He seems to be “the chief within the clubhouse” at present, with Bailey dropping momentum after refusing to go to, initially unhappy along with his seek for a confirmed pathway to growth. Nevertheless, Bailey is scheduled to work out in Philadelphia on the finish of this week, and we’ll see if he is capable of sway the tides in his favor.

The suggestions from his interviews on the draft mix in Chicago was not all that constructive, with some groups expressing concern about his lack of preparation and focus. NBA executives say Bailey has been polarizing in inside front-office conversations due to questions on his really feel for the sport and lack of polish, making a wider draft vary than initially anticipated.

Surrounding the hyper-explosive Edgecombe with prolific 3-point shooters akin to Tyrese Maxey, Jared McCain, Quentin Grimes and Paul George might add one other dimension to the Sixers’ offense, particularly if the crew buys into the event of his passing skill long-term.

Ought to Edgecombe not be chosen right here, most groups count on him to be drafted one decide later by Charlotte at No. 4, however he has additionally labored out in entrance of Washington within the predraft course of, a sign there may be some commerce situations in play with the Wizards transferring up, probably as excessive as No. 3. — Givony


Kon Knueppel, SG/SF, Duke
Freshman
| TS%: 64.8

Peak with out sneakers: 6-5 | Weight: 219
Standing attain: 8-5½ | Wingspan: 6-6¼

Knueppel has some actual followers amongst NBA groups on this portion of the draft, with proponents highlighting his elite motion and spot-up capturing (emphasis on his skill to shoot off motion versus his precise motion), defensive smarts and playmaking, in addition to an analytics-friendly profile that shines by way of in crew draft fashions. Knueppel’s really feel for the sport, selfless model of play, power and toughness ought to make him straightforward to play with, particularly alongside the likes of LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller, who he seems to enrich fairly properly.

The Hornets and Jazz are two groups that seem to have curiosity in him, along with his ground seemingly no decrease than No. 8. He is the kind of prospect a playoff-caliber crew might additionally goal in a commerce, as he has a plug-and-play talent set and appears prone to deliver worth all through his cost-controlled rookie-scale contract. — Givony


Tre Johnson, SG, Texas
Freshman
| TS%: 56.1

Peak with out sneakers: 6-4¾ | Weight: 190
Standing attain: 8-5 | Wingspan: 6-10¼

The Jazz, now led by Austin Ainge, have main choices forward as they work to navigate their manner out of what has turn into a protracted rebuild. Whereas rival groups nonetheless suspect Utah may have curiosity in a powerful prime of the 2026 lottery — noting that their first-round decide has top-eight safety (in any other case conveying to Oklahoma Metropolis) — the group’s public stance has been that the crew is finished tanking.

Nonetheless, not one of the perimeter gamers obtainable to Utah at this spot will probably be prepared to show across the franchise instantly, permitting the Jazz to easily swing on their most well-liked expertise.

Johnson’s wonderful perimeter capturing and room to develop as an all-around scorer will make him attractive. Bailey, who continues sliding down the board on this situation, would not seem to have a lot curiosity in Utah and is considered by most groups as a riskier guess. Anticipate Jeremiah Fears, and Knueppel, if obtainable, to obtain lengthy seems as properly. — Woo


Airious “Ace” Bailey, SG/SF, Rutgers
Freshman
| TS%: 54.0

Peak with out sneakers: 6-7½ | Weight: 202
Standing attain: 8-11 | Wingspan: 7-0½

Bailey’s predraft exercise technique has perplexed some observers, as he has but to conduct a single recognized exercise up to now, having declined invites from a number of groups inside his draft vary. Sources say Bailey’s camp has knowledgeable groups that they imagine he’s a top-3 participant within the draft, but additionally seeks a transparent pathway to stardom, maybe feeling comfy {that a} crew will commerce as much as get him at Nos. 3 or 4, ought to he drop.

Some groups query whether or not Bailey has obtained assurances of being chosen by a crew at present exterior the highest 5, to a state of affairs deemed extra advantageous from a geographic and enjoying time perspective.

Bailey is scheduled to conduct a exercise with the 76ers later this week, however it’s unclear if he plans to go to some other groups at this stage. Ought to the Sixers go on him, he might very properly slide to the No. 6 or No. 7 picks, two groups in Washington and New Orleans which might be stated to be extremely intrigued with the 18-year-old’s expertise. And each are conditions through which there seem like loads of minutes and pictures available. — Givony

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Ace Bailey’s electrical sport is prepared for the NBA

Check out highlights from Rutgers freshman Ace Bailey forward of the 2025 NBA draft.


Jeremiah Fears, PG, Oklahoma
Freshman
| TS%: 57.0

Peak with out sneakers: 6-2½ | Weight: 179
Standing attain: 8-2½ | Wingspan: 6-5¼

Fears constructed important momentum with the way in which he completed his season at Oklahoma and has entrance places of work considering onerous about his long-term upside, even with some tough edges left in his sport. His vary is comparatively slim at this level: The Pelicans and Nets are considered by rival groups as touchdown spots, and the Jazz at No. 5 seem like the highest finish.

There’s thought circulating that New Orleans may be his ground if he makes it to this spot — a match that is smart, contemplating the Pelicans’ long-standing want for a starting-caliber lead guard. The Pelicans sit in a worthwhile slot right here, with not less than one among Fears, Johnson, Knueppel or Bailey set to be obtainable to them — however have additionally been a difficult crew to peg so far, with rival groups working to grasp what course the crew’s new management will take. — Woo


Khaman Maluach, C, Duke
Freshman
| TS%: 74.7

Peak with out sneakers: 7-0¾ | Weight: 252
Standing attain: 9-6 | Wingspan: 7-6¾

Maluach has been taking part in aggressive exercises for top-10 groups in opposition to different huge males, aiming to showcase the enhancements he has made in his talent stage and physique. Maluach obtained a clear invoice of well being from NBA medical doctors throughout his medical examination, which is critical contemplating his measurement and a few minor illnesses he skilled earlier throughout Duke’s season. The Nets, drafting No. 8 proper on the finish of a tier of prospects earlier than what appears to be a transparent drop-off, can afford to be opportunistic and wait to see which participant falls to them, whether or not it is Maluach, Fears, Knueppel or another person.

Maluach is likely one of the draft’s youngest prospects, turning 19 on Sept. 14, and has important room for development each bodily and skillswise. He performs with large depth and is beloved by coaches and teammates, attributable to his unique 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, will probably be engaging to any crew searching for a middle to construct round long-term, together with probably the Wizards or Pelicans, which decide at No. 6 and No. 7, respectively. — Givony


Noa Essengue, PF, Ratiopharm Ulm
Germany | TS%:
61.1

Essengue’s predraft course of has stalled as a result of his profitable season in Germany stays ongoing. Ulm superior to the Basketball Bundesliga (BBL) Finals in opposition to Bayern Munich, a best-of-five sequence that started Monday and will very properly run into the draft, with a possible Sport 4 slated for June 24, and Sport 5 on June 26. Essengue (in addition to teammate and draft prospect Ben Saraf) may be unable to conduct non-public exercises stateside previous to draft night time. What does assistance is that this week, Essengue, 18, measured properly formally at 6-10 barefoot with an almost 7-1 wingspan, underscoring his wonderful bodily profile throughout frontcourt positions.

Toronto has largely been linked to frontcourt targets at decide No. 9, together with Maluach, who isn’t any assure to be on the board. The Raptors are additionally one among a number of groups on this vary stated to be concerned in commerce talks round their decide, contemplating the potential of transferring again within the draft so as to add expertise to subsequent season’s roster.

Essengue’s mix of measurement, versatility, excessive youth and burgeoning manufacturing has drawn rising curiosity from groups within the 9-to-15 vary, and he matches an archetype Raptors brass has typically focused in the event that they keep put right here. — Woo

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Noa Essengue’s NBA draft profile

Take a look at a number of the highlights which have made Noa Essengue a prime NBA draft prospect.


Carter Bryant, SF/PF, Arizona
Freshman
| TS%: 59.9

Peak with out sneakers: 6-6½ | Weight: 214
Standing attain: 8-10 | Wingspan: 6-11¾

Bryant has obtained sturdy evaluations all through the predraft course of. He seems prone to hear his title known as someplace within the 9-to-15 vary, with a number of groups prone to be drawn to the frontcourt capturing, defensive versatility, and passing prowess he provides. Bryant wasn’t constantly productive for Arizona coming off the bench, averaging 6.5 factors per sport, as he is not a lot of a shot creator, and has loads of room for development on each ends of the ground.

The Rockets, flush with younger prospects, may not be in the end choosing right here, as the potential of including a confirmed veteran will seemingly be completely explored. Recent off an excellent season that concluded with the NBA’s fourth-best file (52-30) and flush with younger expertise all through the roster, it is difficult to pinpoint particular wants for the Rockets, except for maybe addressing Fred VanVleet‘s crew possibility.

Rival groups count on Houston’s entrance workplace to be energetic the week of the draft. — Givony


Kasparas Jakucionis, PG, Illinois
Freshman
| TS%: 59.8

Peak with out sneakers: 6-4¾ | Weight: 205
Standing attain: 8-3½ | Wingspan: 6-7¾

The Path Blazers are arrange entrance for the foreseeable future with Donovan Clingan at heart and do not have an specific positional want, however gamers akin to Jakucionis, Bryant and Essengue might all be obtainable right here and produce broadly completely different talent units.

Jakucionis’ unselfish model and skill to boost ball motion would assist Portland’s backcourt combine, with gamers akin to Scoot Henderson, Shaedon Sharpe and Anfernee Simons all extra scoring-oriented. He might feasibly slide into multi-playmaker lineups alongside the opposite guards in a extra connective position.

Jakucionis seems ticketed for this 10-to-15 vary, along with his playmaking, versatility and intangibles holding sturdy attraction in a wide range of contexts. — Woo


Derik Queen, C, Maryland
Freshman
| TS%: 60.0

Peak with out sneakers: 6-9¼ | Weight: 247
Standing attain: 9-1½ | Wingspan: 7-0½

The Bulls do not have a lot in the way in which of long-term keepers within the big-man division, with Nikola Vucevic, 35, a commerce candidate coming into the ultimate yr of his contract. Queen, Joan Beringer, and Thomas Sorber are stated to be among the many prospects they may contemplate with this decide at No. 12.

Queen is probably the most expert huge man on this class. He’s a terrific goal in pick-and-roll, can create his personal shot going through the basket with a big selection of strikes and has intriguing passing skill.

Queen’s conditioning, occasional apathy defensively and lack of capturing vary are issues NBA groups choosing on this space (or earlier) try to get a greater deal with on within the predraft course of, areas that we have heard combined suggestions about based mostly on a few of his early exercises. — Givony


Egor Demin, PG/SG, BYU
Freshman
| TS%: 51.3

Peak with out sneakers: 6-9¼ | Weight: 199
Standing attain: 8-9½ | Wingspan: 6-10¼

Rival groups’ learn on the Hawks has been that they will look to pair a giant man and a guard, presuming they hold each of their first-round picks (Nos. 13 and 22). The order they go about prioritizing these wants may hinge on what occurs in entrance of them. Demin’s playmaking expertise turns into an intriguing worth guess if he makes it to this a part of the draft, with huge males together with Essengue, Joan Beringer and Asa Newell amongst potential candidates at this slot.

Demin has forged a large web on the exercise circuit, scheduling a variety of groups whereas seeking to showcase his expertise in aggressive settings. He has curiosity from groups inside the highest 10, however situations are additionally in play the place he might slip out of the lottery. His mixture of fantastic measurement and passing imaginative and prescient ought to enable him to play everywhere in the perimeter, offered he makes progress along with his bounce shot, an space he demonstrated successfully throughout a formidable professional day exercise. — Woo


Joan Beringer, C, Cedevita Olimpija
Adriatic |
TS%: 61.5

Peak with out sneakers: 6-11 | Weight: 235
Standing attain: 9-3 | Wingspan: 7-4½

The Spurs will seemingly discover varied choices with this No. 14 decide, together with the potential of including a veteran who’s extra able to contribute because the crew pivots towards playoff rivalry. Including frontcourt depth may be a precedence, particularly if the Spurs use Victor Wembanyama as extra of an influence ahead alongside one other rim protector ultimately, which might be very tough to attain in opposition to.

Together with his season in Slovenia lastly concluded, Beringer made his method to america, beginning in Chicago and Brooklyn, New York, the place he accomplished his necessary NBA mix participation. That included official measurements, which point out he has grown an inch and a half up to now yr, now standing over 7-feet in sneakers, 235 kilos with a 7-4 1/2 wingspan and 9-3 standing attain, comparable measurements to Jaren Jackson Jr. and Myles Turner on the similar age.

The draft’s greatest shot blocker, Beringer has flashed appreciable upside all season, which has put him in lottery consideration since January. — Givony


Collin Murray-Boyles, PF/C, South Carolina
Sophomore
| TS%: 64.0

Peak with out sneakers: 6-6½ | Weight: 239
Standing attain: 8-10 | Wingspan: 7-0¾

Murray-Boyles has been one of many extra divisive gamers amongst executives we have spoken with — some are enamored along with his defensive versatility and all-around manufacturing and see an excellent NBA position participant, whereas others harp on his restricted positional measurement and lack of perimeter capturing, and the way in which these two elements restrict his projectable ceiling.

His vary seems to begin at No. 10 with the Rockets — a crew that is smart as a match, but additionally one that might commerce their decide — and ends round right here within the teenagers.

The Thunder enter the draft with supreme flexibility due to their deep, gifted roster and their big cache of future draft capital, enabling them to maneuver round within the draft and goal who they need. Murray-Boyles’ toughness and basketball IQ align with the factors Oklahoma Metropolis tends to focus on, making this a possible touchdown spot for him. — Woo


Jase Richardson, PG/SG, Michigan State
Freshman
| TS%: 63.2

Peak with out sneakers: 6-0½ | Weight: 178
Standing attain: 8-2½ | Wingspan: 6-6

The Magic and Grizzlies pulled off a blockbuster trade Sunday, with Desmond Bane headed to Orlando in return for a bundle together with this draft’s No. 16 decide.

The Grizzlies are precisely the kind of crew that might be focused on an ultra-efficient, productive younger prospect akin to Richardson, who charges extremely in draft fashions that analytics-savvy groups like Memphis typically take note of.

Richardson possesses a wonderful really feel for the sport, hit 41% of his 3-pointers this season, brings sturdy defensive depth and appears adept at enjoying off the star energy of a teammate like Ja Morant, whose future in Memphis is to be decided. As Richardson’s shot-creation range and offensive aggressiveness evolve, he might be somebody who ultimately inherits extra important ballhandling duties, if the Grizzlies resolve to pivot towards a youth motion. — Givony


Thomas Sorber, C, Georgetown
Freshman
| TS%: 58.7

Peak with out sneakers: 6-9¼ | Weight: 262
Standing attain: 9-1 | Wingspan: 7-6

Sorber continues to be recovering from February foot surgery and has been unable to partake in basketball actions on the exercise circuit, with groups counting on movie and the interview course of to finish his analysis. However, he has stable curiosity inside the highest 20, as groups are drawn to his defensive influence and long-term outlook after rising this season as a shock one-and-done participant.

Minnesota is going through potential roster adjustments subsequent season, with Naz Reid and Julius Randle set to check free company and the Timberwolves currently tied as a Kevin Durant touchdown spot. There is a good case for including frontcourt depth right here, with a lot of bigs projected inside the highest 20, and the Wolves additionally holding the No. 31 decide. — Woo


18. Washington Wizards (through Memphis)

Asa Newell, PF/C, Georgia
Freshman | TS%:
62.0

Peak with out sneakers: 6-9 | Weight: 224
Standing attain: 8-11½ | Wingspan: 6-11¼

With 4 picks within the prime 40 and no actual strain but to win simply two years right into a complete roster teardown, the Wizards can go in a large number of instructions on this a part of the draft. After taking a fringe participant with their first decide at No. 6, including frontcourt depth might make sense.

Newell’s mobility, aggressiveness and depth stage are important property that allowed him to have a extremely productive, environment friendly freshman marketing campaign at Georgia, making 26 3-pointers in 33 video games and changing 75% of his free throws, pointing to floor-stretching potential. — Givony

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Asa Newell drills a trey for Georgia

Asa Newell splashes a nook trey for Georgia vs. No. 1 Auburn.


19. Brooklyn Nets (through Milwaukee)

Will Riley, SG/SF, Illinois
Freshman
| TS%: 53.8

Peak with out sneakers: 6-8¼ | Weight: 185
Standing attain: 8-8 | Wingspan: 6-8¾

That is the second of the Nets’ 4 first-round picks, with Brooklyn unlikely to roster all of those alternatives and actively exploring a variety of choices in consequence. In the event that they keep put, the Nets have sufficient berth from a timeline perspective to take swings on youthful prospects like Riley, who may want a season or two to turn into a contributor.

Riley is one other participant whose vary is on the broader aspect for the time being. He has groups’ curiosity as excessive because the early teenagers, however there are additionally situations in play the place he might slip into the 20s. His advocates across the NBA see main upside attributable to his wonderful measurement, offensive really feel and capturing potential, however it’s understood that it’s going to take him time so as to add bodily power and hopefully, enhance defensively. — Woo


20. Miami Heat (through Golden State)

Liam McNeeley, SG/SF, UConn
Freshman
| TS%: 53.6

Peak with out sneakers: 6-6¾ | Weight: 214
Standing attain: 8-3½ | Wingspan: 6-8½

Including backcourt expertise will seemingly be a precedence for the Warmth this offseason, however it’s not straightforward to level to any surefire guard contributors on this vary. McNeeley’s measurement, shot-making prowess, really feel for the sport and toughness are vital attributes that NBA groups worth on the wing place. He must remind them of his successful qualities all through the predraft course of, following an inefficient season through which he transformed 44% of his 2-pointers and 32% of his 3-pointers.

He’ll seemingly be requested to play a special position within the NBA, leaning extra closely into his skill as a dynamic perimeter shooter, which was extra evident in different settings earlier than faculty. McNeeley has some momentum behind him now, following some constructive exercises, serving to to remind groups of what made him so extremely regarded coming into the season. — Givony

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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.


21. Utah Jazz (through Minnesota)

Cedric Coward, SF, Washington State/Duke
Junior | TS%: 71.0

Peak with out sneakers: 6-5¼ | Weight: 213
Standing attain: 8-10 | Wingspan: 7-2¼

Simply how excessive Coward will hear his title known as has been a sizzling matter across the league of late. Whereas at floor stage, his lack of high-level pedigree and efficiency pattern is a serious disadvantage, NBA groups have come away enamored along with his interviews and intrigued by his bodily toolbox and capturing skill on the wing.

Coward’s quick rise within the course of can also be a referendum on the form of this draft, as some groups really feel the category flattens out onerous round No. 20 or so, and there is a determined lack of 3-and-D wings who warrant first-round grades, an archetype many are prepared to take an opportunity on — all of that seems set to play in Coward’s favor on draft night time.

Utah, holding a number of alternatives, might use a participant in Coward’s mould and will see worth in him. — Woo


22. Atlanta Hawks (through Los Angeles Lakers)

Danny Wolf, PF, Michigan
Junior | TS%:
56.6

Peak with out sneakers: 6-10½ | Weight: 251
Standing attain: 9-1 | Wingspan: 7-2¼

Suggestions on Wolf from groups has been combined within the predraft course of, as he is a considerably unorthodox prospect who some view as a extra situational match. His inside-out versatility and passing expertise at his measurement separate him from the opposite bigs on this class. There are additionally actual questions he has to reply surrounding his inconsistent capturing and foul line struggles (34% on 3-pointers, 59% on free throws), and whether or not he’ll defend at a excessive stage.

If the Hawks go along with a fringe participant with their decide at No. 13, including a giant later within the draft at No. 22 is smart, with Wolf making for an fascinating slot in huge, versatile lineups with Jalen Johnson and Onyeka Okongwu up entrance. — Woo


Nique Clifford, SG, Colorado State
Tremendous Senior |
TS%: 60.9

Peak with out sneakers: 6-5¼ | Weight: 202
Standing attain: 8-6½ | Wingspan: 6-8

Clifford has obtained constructive suggestions on the exercise circuit, drawing curiosity within the teenagers along with his vary operating into the 20s. Coming off a giant season at Colorado State, Clifford’s expertise and plug-and-play, two-way talent set has made him a viable possibility for NBA groups in quest of wing assist.

Amid a exceptional playoff run that has underscored the depth and high quality of Indiana’s roster, the Pacers are stated to be open to transferring their first-round decide, making this one among many alternatives on this vary that might change arms. With Myles Turner due for a new contract that will take the Pacers into the luxurious tax — one thing the group has lengthy prevented — the prospect of utilizing this decide to create monetary financial savings, assist hold the present roster intact, and extract worth by different means is smart.

If Indiana does choose a participant right here at No. 23, including one who can contribute instantly appears prudent. — Woo


Hugo Gonzalez, SG/SF, Actual Madrid
EuroLeague | TS%:
50.9

The Thunder may not actually have a roster spot at their disposal for each of their first-round picks, so it is unclear precisely which course they are going to go on draft night time.

Gonzalez might match Oklahoma Metropolis’s model of play with the spectacular bodily instruments and frenetic vitality he brings defensively, which has enabled him to carve out a powerful position for Actual Madrid within the Spanish Liga ACB playoffs just lately. There’s additionally the likelihood a crew might persuade Gonzalez to be stashed for an additional yr in Europe — one thing that absolutely would not be interesting to his camp at this stage — however may be a necessity if the numerous buyout in his contract would not receives a commission this offseason (it is an possibility Actual Madrid would absolutely be open to, contemplating his impactful play). — Givony

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0:54

Hugo Gonzalez’s NBA draft profile

Take a look at a number of the highlights which have made Hugo Gonzalez a prime NBA draft prospect.


25. Orlando Magic (through Denver)

Maxime Raynaud, PF/C, Stanford
Senior | TS%: 56.1

Peak with out sneakers: 7-0¼ | Weight: 236
Standing attain: 9-2 | Wingspan: 7-1¼

It is not clear what the Magic’s urge for food will probably be for including two rookie youngsters to an already younger roster, maybe inflicting them to discover extra mature upperclassmen like Raynaud, who would deliver some much-needed frontcourt spacing that the roster at present lacks.

Raynaud hit 67 3-pointers this season in 35 video games and had a powerful exhibiting on the draft mix, suggesting there’s upside nonetheless left to faucet into attributable to his late-blooming trajectory, having targeted full-time on basketball solely as a highschool senior. Raynaud’s skill to stretch the ground as a middle is effective in in the present day’s NBA, one thing that might absolutely attraction to the Magic from a spacing perspective. — Givony


Nolan Traore, PG, Saint-Quentin
France
| TS%: 51.0

Peak 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 shocking to see the Nets take a number of expertise swings, hoping to uncover gems with a few of their later picks.

The Nets have a void within the backcourt, relying on what they do with their first few picks, and this case will probably be thought of extremely engaging to any of the guards slated to be picked on this vary.

After beginning the season projected as a top-10 decide, Traore’s draft inventory dropped due to inconsistent play, however there’s nonetheless a lot to love along with his measurement, ballhandling, playmaking creativity and upside, making him a worthy gamble for a crew in Brooklyn’s state of affairs and at this level within the draft. — Givony


Rasheer Fleming, PF, Saint Joseph’s
Junior | TS%:
64.4

Peak with out sneakers: 6-8¼ | Weight: 232
Standing attain: 9-1 | Wingspan: 7-5¼

It appears unlikely the Nets, who additionally maintain the No. 36 decide, will in the end roster all 5 of their draft picks. Depend them amongst many groups within the 20s who’re open for enterprise involving their alternatives. This vary of the draft is considered by groups and brokers as extraordinarily fluid, with each decide between Nos. 21 and 27 both considered as obtainable and/or belonging to groups with a number of alternatives.

Fleming is among the many gamers prone to come off the board within the again half of the primary spherical. His bodily instruments and bettering 3-point capturing give him a path to carving out a rotation spot, and a few groups view him as a participant that may assist instantly. Whereas not a flashy participant nor immensely expert, Fleming’s size, enchancment monitor and late-blooming trajectory level to untapped potential. — Woo

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1:31

Rasheer Fleming’s NBA draft profile

Take a look at a number of the highlights which have made Rasheer Fleming a prime NBA draft prospect.


Drake Powell, SG/SF, North Carolina
Freshman | TS%:
61.1

Peak with out sneakers: 6-5¼ | Weight: 200
Standing attain: 8-7 | Wingspan: 7-0

The Celtics have some huge wants to handle within the wake of Jayson Tatum‘s season-ending Achilles harm, however they can not have any actual expectation to handle them within the draft, definitely not this late within the first spherical.

Discovering a wing like Powell, who’s able to absorbing minutes, hopefully gaining some expertise and maybe rising as able to including worth in a yr from now, could be a serious win. NBA groups like Powell’s really feel for the sport and long-term upside, particularly his skill to protect everybody from level guards to energy forwards whereas flying round to guard the rim, crash the glass and shut out with function on the perimeter. He performs exceptionally onerous, has large mobility masking floor, rotating everywhere in the ground — with the query being whether or not he is an aggressive sufficient scorer or correct sufficient shooter to carry his personal on that finish of the ground. — Givony


Walter Clayton Jr., PG, Florida
Senior | TS%:
61.1

Peak with out sneakers: 6-2 | Weight: 199
Standing attain: 8-1½ | Wingspan: 6-4

The Suns seem focused on getting youthful and remaking their roster, with the prospect of a Durant commerce additionally creating situations through which Phoenix might decide up further draft picks earlier within the first spherical.

A participant like Clayton, who may be value-additive on a rookie-scale deal instantly, needs to be engaging to the Suns as they navigate a tough wage sheet and attempt to higher place themselves long-term.

Clayton appears to have performed himself into the primary spherical along with his NCAA event heroics, considered as a sparkplug scorer who may also help improve a crew’s bench unit. His confidence and shot-making expertise must cowl for his restricted measurement and questionable protection. — Woo


30. LA Clippers (through Oklahoma Metropolis)

Noah Penda, SF/PF, Le Mans
France | TS%:
53.9

Peak with out sneakers: 6-7¼ | Weight: 242
Standing attain: 8-10½ | Wingspan: 6-11½

On account of their hefty payroll, the Clippers ought to see worth in rostering a rookie who can contribute with this decide. Discovering somebody who can complement their stars on a cost-controlled deal could be a win.

Penda has been an fascinating sleeper title for groups attributable to his multi-positional versatility, able to enjoying everywhere in the ground on offense and in addition defending a number of spots. Whereas his perimeter capturing and restricted run-jump athleticism are query marks for groups, his really feel, talent and measurement are all good promoting factors.

There stays curiosity amongst groups as as to whether Penda will comply with be stashed abroad for an additional season, one thing that might assist his possibilities of discovering a snug draft slot. — Woo

play

0:20

Jamir Watkins with the and-1 bucket

Jamir Watkins with the and-1 bucket

Second spherical

31. Minnesota Timberwolves (through Utah)
Ben Saraf, PG/SG, Ratiopharm Ulm (Germany)

32. Boston Celtics (through Washington)
Ryan Kalkbrenner, C, Creighton, tremendous senior

33. Charlotte Hornets
Adou Thiero, PF, Arkansas

34. Charlotte Hornets (through New Orleans)
Yanic Konan Niederhauser, C, Penn State, junior

35. Philadelphia 76ers
Hansen Yang, C, Qingdao (China)

36. Brooklyn Nets
Jamir Watkins, SG/SF, Florida State, senior

37. Detroit Pistons (through Toronto)
Alex Toohey, SF/PF, Sydney (Australia)

38. San Antonio Spurs
Chaz Lanier, SG, Tennessee, tremendous senior

39. Toronto Raptors (through Portland)
Bogoljub Markovic, PF/C, Mega Superbet (Adriatic)

40. Washington Wizards (through Phoenix)
Johni Broome, C, Auburn, tremendous senior

41. Golden State Warriors (through Miami)
Rocco Zikarsky, C, Brisbane (Australia)

42. Sacramento Kings (through Chicago)
John Tonje, SF, Wisconsin, tremendous senior

43. Utah Jazz (through Dallas)
Tyrese Proctor, PG, Duke, junior

44. Oklahoma City Thunder (through Atlanta)
Eric Dixon, PF, Villanova, tremendous senior

45. Chicago Bulls (through Sacramento)
Sion James, SF, Duke, tremendous senior

46. Orlando Magic
Kam Jones, PG/SG, Marquette, senior

47. Milwaukee Bucks (through Detroit)
Koby Brea, SG/SF, Kentucky, tremendous 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)
Viktor Lakhin, C, Clemson, tremendous senior

52. Phoenix Suns (through Denver)
Kobe Sanders, SG/SF, Nevada, senior

53. Utah Jazz (through LA Clippers)
Dink Pate, SG/SF, Mexico Metropolis (G League)

54. Indiana Pacers
Micah Peavy, SG/SF, Georgetown, senior

55. Los Angeles Lakers
Hunter Sallis, SG, Wake Forest, senior

56. Memphis Grizzlies (through Houston)
Amari Williams, C, Kentucky, senior

57. Orlando Magic (through Boston)
Alijah Martin, SG, Florida, senior

58. Cleveland Cavaliers
Ryan Nembhard, PG, Gonzaga, senior

59. Houston Rockets (through Oklahoma Metropolis)
RJ Luis Jr., SF/PF, St. John’s, junior


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.



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