2025 NBA mock draft: 59 picks as trade talks heat up for 30 teams

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

The Dallas Mavericks, house owners of the No. 1 choose because of successful the draft lottery regardless of a 1.8% likelihood of doing so, haven’t any plans to work out some other prospects apart from Duke’s Cooper Flagg for the best choice. The Mavericks have scheduled a non-public go to with the nationwide participant of the yr on Tuesday.

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

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

One such state of affairs that might have draft ramifications is that NBA groups have been anticipating Kevin Durant could be traded ever for the reason that Phoenix Suns engaged in talks across the February commerce deadline. On Saturday night time, sources informed ESPN’s Shams Charania that the Miami Warmth, 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 newest mock draft of the 59 picks:

Observe: The New York Knicks’ second-round choose was rescinded by the NBA after an investigation into Jalen Brunson’s free company signing in the summertime of 2022.

Extra NBA draft protection:
Commerce affords for No. 1 | Lottery choose comps
Newest mock draft: Want vs. greatest worth
Draft belongings | Prime 100 rankings | Pelton’s high 30

First spherical

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

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

There isn’t any suspense to be discovered at No. 1 this season. Flagg is ready to go to 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 ability set, however the requisite psychological make-up to succeed below stress because the de facto successor to Luka Doncic because the face of the Mavericks’ franchise. His offensive development in what may very well be a big playmaking function out of the gate will probably be a captivating subplot to start the 2025-26 season. — Woo

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

Peak with out footwear: 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 might need about his imperfect backcourt match with De’Aaron Fox and Stephon Citadel, resulting from a definite lack of perimeter capturing.

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

The 19-year-old’s mixture of dimension, shot-creating prowess, passing creativity, ending ability and scoring instincts makes him the kind of lead guard, offensive engine that’s coveted in right now’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 makes it troublesome to ascertain the Spurs passing on the chance so as to add Harper finally. — Givony

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

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

Edgecombe takes over this spot from Ace Bailey in ESPN’s mock draft after a constructive go to to Philadelphia, the place sources say he made a robust impression in a non-public 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 together with his seek for a confirmed pathway to improvement. Nevertheless, Bailey is scheduled to work out in Philadelphia on the finish of this week, and we’ll see if he is capable of sway the tides in his favor.

The suggestions from his interviews on the draft mix in Chicago was not all that constructive, with some groups expressing concern about his lack of preparation and focus. NBA executives say Bailey has been polarizing in inside entrance workplace 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 comparable 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 capability long run.

Ought to Edgecombe not be chosen right here, most groups anticipate him to be drafted one choose later by Charlotte at No. 4, however he has additionally labored out in entrance of Washington within the predraft course of, a sign there is likely to be some commerce eventualities in play with the Wizards shifting up, doubtlessly as excessive as No. 3. — Givony

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

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

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

The Hornets and Jazz are two groups that seem to have curiosity in him, together with his flooring 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 ability set and appears more likely to convey worth all through his cost-controlled rookie-scale contract. — Givony

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

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

The Jazz, now led by Austin Ainge, have main selections forward as they work to navigate their approach out of what has grow to be a protracted rebuild. Whereas rival groups nonetheless suspect Utah could have curiosity in a robust high of the 2026 lottery — noting that their first-round choose has top-eight safety (in any other case conveying to Oklahoma Metropolis) — the group’s public stance has been that the crew is completed tanking.

Nonetheless, not one of the perimeter gamers out there 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 state of affairs, does not seem to have a lot curiosity in Utah and is considered by most groups as a riskier wager. Anticipate Jeremiah Fears, and Knueppel, if out there, to obtain lengthy appears as nicely. — Woo

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

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

Bailey’s predraft exercise technique has perplexed some observers, as he has but to conduct a single 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 consider 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 scenario deemed extra advantageous from a geographic and taking part in time perspective.

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

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

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

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

There’s thought circulating that New Orleans is likely to be his flooring 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 invaluable slot right here, with no less than certainly one of Fears, Johnson, Knueppel or Bailey set to be out there to them — however have additionally been a tough crew to peg up to now, with rival groups working to know what route the crew’s new management will take. — Woo

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

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

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

Maluach is without doubt one of the draft’s youngest prospects, turning 19 on Sept. 14, and has important room for progress each bodily and skillswise. He performs with large depth and is beloved by coaches and teammates due to his distinctive off-court intangibles.

His capability to anchor a protection together 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 run, together with doubtlessly the Wizards or Pelicans, which choose at No. 6 and No. 7, respectively. — Givony

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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 nicely run into the draft, with a possible Recreation 4 slated for June 24, and Recreation 5 on June 26. Essengue (in addition to teammate and draft prospect Ben Saraf) is likely to be unable to conduct personal exercises stateside previous to draft night time. What does assistance is that this week, Essengue, 18, measured nicely formally at 6-10 barefoot with a virtually 7-1 wingspan, underscoring his wonderful bodily profile throughout frontcourt positions.

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

Essengue’s mix of dimension, versatility, excessive youth and burgeoning manufacturing has drawn growing curiosity from groups within the 9-to-15 vary, and he suits an archetype that Raptors brass has typically focused if the crew stays put right here. — Woo

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

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

Bryant has obtained sturdy critiques all through the predraft course of. He seems more likely to hear his title referred to as someplace within the 9-to-15 vary, with a number of groups more likely to be interested in the frontcourt capturing, defensive versatility and passing prowess he affords. Bryant wasn’t constantly productive for Arizona coming off the bench, averaging 6.5 factors per sport, as he isn’t a lot of a shot creator, and has loads of room for progress on each ends of the ground.

The Rockets, flush with younger prospects, may not be finally selecting right here, as the potential of including a confirmed veteran will probably be totally explored. Recent off an impressive 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, other than maybe addressing Fred VanVleet’s crew possibility.

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

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

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

The Path Blazers are arrange entrance for the foreseeable future with Donovan Clingan at heart and haven’t got an categorical positional want, however gamers comparable to Jakucionis, Bryant and Essengue might all be out there right here and produce broadly totally different ability units.

Jakucionis’ unselfish model and talent to reinforce ball motion would assist Portland’s backcourt combine, with gamers comparable 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 function.

Jakucionis seems ticketed for this 10-to-15 vary, together with his playmaking, versatility and intangibles holding sturdy enchantment in quite a lot of contexts. — Woo

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

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

The Bulls haven’t got 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 mentioned to be among the many prospects they could contemplate with this choose at No. 12.

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

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

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

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

Rival groups’ learn on the Hawks has been that they’re going to look to pair 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 wager if he makes it to this a part of the draft, with huge males together with Essengue, Joan Beringer and Asa Newell amongst potential candidates at this slot.

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

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

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

The Spurs will probably discover numerous choices with this No. 14 choose, together with the potential of including a veteran who’s extra able to contribute because the crew pivots towards playoff 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 troublesome to attain in opposition to.

Together with his season in Slovenia lastly concluded, Beringer made his solution to america, beginning in Chicago and Brooklyn, New York, the place he accomplished his obligatory NBA mix participation. That included official measurements, which point out he has grown an inch and a half previously yr, now standing over 7-feet in footwear, 235 kilos with a 7-4½ wingspan and 9-3 standing attain, comparable measurements to Jaren Jackson Jr. and Myles Turner on the identical age.

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

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

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

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

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

The Thunder enter the draft with supreme flexibility because of their deep, proficient 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

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

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

The Magic and Grizzlies pulled off a blockbuster commerce Sunday, with Desmond Bane headed to Orlando in return for a package deal together with this draft’s No. 16 choose.

The Grizzlies are precisely the kind of crew that may very well be all in favour of an ultra-efficient, productive younger prospect comparable 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 taking part in off the star energy of a teammate like Ja Morant, whose future in Memphis is to be decided. As Richardson’s shot-creation variety and offensive aggressiveness evolve, he may very well be somebody who ultimately inherits extra important ballhandling duties, if the Grizzlies resolve to pivot towards a youth motion. — Givony

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

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

Sorber remains to be recovering from February foot surgical procedure and has been unable to partake in basketball actions on the exercise circuit, with groups counting on movie and the interview course of to finish his analysis. Nonetheless, he has strong 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 dealing with potential roster adjustments subsequent season, with Naz Reid and Julius Randle set to check free company and the Timberwolves at present tied as a Kevin Durant touchdown spot. There is a good case for including frontcourt depth right here, with numerous bigs projected inside the highest 20, and the Wolves additionally holding the No. 31 choose. — Woo

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18. Washington Wizards (by way of Memphis)

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

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

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

Newell’s mobility, aggressiveness and depth stage are important belongings 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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19. Brooklyn Nets (by way of Milwaukee)

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

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

That is the second of the Nets’ 4 first-round picks, with Brooklyn unlikely to roster all of those alternatives and actively exploring a variety of choices because of this. 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 grow to be a contributor.

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

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20. Miami Warmth (by way of Golden State)

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

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

Including backcourt expertise will probably be a precedence for the Warmth this offseason, but it surely’s not simple to level to any surefire guard contributors on this vary. McNeeley’s dimension, 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 during which he transformed 44% of his 2-pointers and 32% of his 3-pointers.

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

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21. Utah Jazz (by way of Minnesota)

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

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

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

Coward’s quick rise within the course of can be a referendum on the form of this draft, as some groups really feel the category flattens out laborious 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

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22. Atlanta Hawks (by way of Los Angeles Lakers)

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

Peak with out footwear: 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 abilities at his dimension 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 choose 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

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

Peak with out footwear: 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 together with his vary operating into the 20s. Coming off a giant season at Colorado State, Clifford’s expertise and plug-and-play, two-way ability 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 mentioned to be open to shifting their first-round choose, making this certainly one of many alternatives on this vary that might change palms. With Myles Turner due for a brand new contract that might take the Pacers into the posh tax — one thing the group has lengthy prevented — the prospect of utilizing this choose 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

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

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

Gonzalez might match Oklahoma Metropolis’s model of play with the spectacular bodily instruments and frenetic power he brings defensively, which has enabled him to carve out a robust function for Actual Madrid within the Spanish Liga ACB playoffs not too long ago. There’s additionally the chance 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 is likely to be a necessity if the numerous buyout in his contract does 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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25. Orlando Magic (by way of Denver)

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

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

It is not clear what the Magic’s urge for food 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 convey 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 robust displaying on the draft mix, suggesting there’s upside nonetheless left to faucet into resulting from his late-blooming trajectory, having targeted full-time on basketball solely as a highschool senior. Raynaud’s capability to stretch the ground as a middle is efficacious in right now’s NBA, one thing that might absolutely enchantment to the Magic from a spacing perspective. — Givony

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

Peak 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 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 choose, Traore’s draft inventory dropped due to inconsistent play, however there’s nonetheless lots to love together with his dimension, ballhandling, playmaking creativity and upside, making him a worthy gamble for a crew in Brooklyn’s scenario and at this level within the draft. — Givony

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

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

It appears unlikely the Nets, who additionally maintain the No. 36 choose, will finally roster all 5 of their draft picks. Rely 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 choose between Nos. 21 and 27 both considered as out there and/or belonging to groups with a number of alternatives.

Fleming is among the many gamers more likely to come off the board within the again half of the primary spherical. His bodily instruments and enhancing 3-point capturing give him a path to carving out a rotation spot, and a few groups view him as a participant who may help 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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Drake Powell, SG/SF, North Carolina
Freshman | TS%: 61.1

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

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

Discovering a wing like Powell, who’s able to absorbing minutes, hopefully gaining some expertise and maybe rising as able to including worth in a yr from now, could be a significant win. NBA groups like Powell’s really feel for the sport and long-term upside, particularly his capability to protect everybody from level guards to energy forwards whereas flying round to guard the rim, crash the glass and shut out with goal on the perimeter. He performs exceptionally laborious, has large mobility overlaying floor, rotating everywhere in the flooring — 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

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

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

The Suns seem all in favour of getting youthful and remaking their roster, with the prospect of a Durant commerce additionally creating eventualities during which Phoenix might choose up extra draft picks earlier within the first spherical.

A participant like Clayton, who is likely to be value-additive on a rookie-scale deal instantly, ought to be engaging to the Suns as they navigate a troublesome wage sheet and attempt to higher place themselves long run.

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

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30. LA Clippers (by way of Oklahoma Metropolis)

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

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

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

Penda has been an fascinating sleeper title for groups resulting from his multipositional versatility, able to taking part in everywhere in the flooring 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, ability and dimension are all good promoting factors.

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

Second spherical

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

32. Boston Celtics (by way of Washington)
Ryan Kalkbrenner, C, Creighton, tremendous senior

33. Charlotte Hornets
Adou Thiero, PF, Arkansas

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

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

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

37. Detroit Pistons (by way of Toronto)
Alex Toohey, SF/PF, Sydney (Australia)

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

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

40. Washington Wizards (by way of Phoenix)
Johni Broome, C, Auburn, tremendous senior

41. Golden State Warriors (by way of Miami)
Rocco Zikarsky, C, Brisbane (Australia)

42. Sacramento Kings (by way of Chicago)
John Tonje, SF, Wisconsin, tremendous senior

43. Utah Jazz (by way of Dallas)
Tyrese Proctor, PG, Duke, junior

44. Oklahoma Metropolis Thunder (by way of Atlanta)
Eric Dixon, PF, Villanova, tremendous senior

45. Chicago Bulls (by way of Sacramento)
Sion James, SF, Duke, tremendous senior

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

47. Milwaukee Bucks (by way of Detroit)
Koby Brea, SG/SF, Kentucky, tremendous senior

48. Memphis Grizzlies (by way of Golden State)
Javon Small, PG, West Virginia, senior

49. Cleveland Cavaliers (by way of Milwaukee)
Vladislav Goldin, C, Michigan, tremendous senior

50. New York Knicks (by way of Memphis)
Lachlan Olbrich, PF/C, Illawarra

51. LA Clippers (by way of Minnesota)
Viktor Lakhin, C, Clemson, tremendous senior

52. Phoenix Suns (by way of Denver)
Kobe Sanders, SG/SF, Nevada, senior

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

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

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

56. Memphis Grizzlies (by way of Houston)
Amari Williams, C, Kentucky, senior

57. Orlando Magic (by way of Boston)
Alijah Martin, SG, Florida, senior

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

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

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Jonathan Givony is an NBA draft skilled and the founder and co-owner of DraftExpress.com, a non-public scouting and analytics service utilized by NBA, NCAA and worldwide groups.

Jeremy Woo is an NBA analyst specializing in prospect analysis and the draft. He was beforehand a workers author and draft insider at Sports activities Illustrated.