It’s draft day! If there’s one thing front-office executives are all expecting: trades. Lots of trades. Teams moving up and down one or two or three spots, looking to leapfrog teams for their preferred player. Here’s my two-round mock draft based on all the latest intel. For scouting reports of every player, check out my 2025 NBA Draft Guide.
[2025 NBA Draft: How to watch, start time, top picks and more]
1. Dallas Mavericks: Cooper Flagg, F, Duke
No surprises here. Flagg can help Dallas in both the short term and long term as a do-it-all forward who hustles, makes his teammates better as a passer and has dialed in a knockdown jumper. He’s both the best offensive and defensive prospect in this draft class, making him the safest No. 1 pick in ages. As long as his jumper falls, he could play as a small forward next to Anthony Davis and another big. It’s his growth as a shot creator that will decide if he reaches his All-Star floor or soars to his Hall of Fame ceiling.
2. San Antonio Spurs: Dylan Harper, G, Rutgers
In all likelihood, the Spurs will keep this pick and draft Harper, but league sources say they are listening to trade offers from teams drafting in the handful of spots behind them. “They want a ridiculous haul,” said a front-office executive. “Far more than I’d expect anyone to give up.” Harper is a big-bodied lefty combo guard who has a high floor with the skill, poise and playmaking instincts to dictate the game at his pace. If Flagg had never reclassified, Harper would be the consensus top pick with star upside. But he made only 36.8% of his catch-and-shoot 3s and just 28.7% of his dribble jumpers. De’Aaron Fox and Stephon Castle are more interior-focused guards, too, and so is Jeremy Sochan in the frontcourt. How many shaky shooters can the Spurs really put around Victor Wembanyama? That’s the whole reason why San Antonio would even listen to offers. But unless there’s a Giannis Antetokounmpo or Jaylen Brown curveball coming, suitors are left thinking the Spurs will just take Harper, bank on his massive upside and figure out team fit later.
3. Philadelphia 76ers: VJ Edgecombe, G, Baylor
It appears Edgecombe is the favorite here over Ace Bailey. Some front-office executives wonder if it’s all a smokescreen for Philadelphia general manager Daryl Morey to gain leverage. But on paper, Edgecombe makes total sense for the Sixers. He is an explosive, high-motor wing who flies out of nowhere for poster dunks and chase-down blocks. He pairs his elite athleticism with a knockdown spot-up jumper and fearless slashing. Though he needs to improve his shot creation to become more of a primary creator, the Sixers have enough in that department as is, so Edgecombe would get time to develop on his own timeline.
4. Charlotte Hornets: Kon Knueppel, G/F, Duke
Knueppel has a sharpshooter’s stroke, brainy pick-and-roll playmaking and crafty scoring feel. He’s the type of player who can come in right away and fit on any team, including perfectly between LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller. He’s got a slick midrange bag and strength scoring inside, but to become a player who takes over games he’ll need to overcome his average athleticism. This would matter a bit less playing in Charlotte, since he could be one of multiple ball-handlers on the team. For my interview with Knueppel, you can check it out on YouTube, Spotify and wherever you get your podcasts. You can also read a written version here on Yahoo Sports.
5. Utah Jazz: Jeremiah Fears, G, Oklahoma
When Austin Ainge left Boston to become the general manager in Utah, one of the first things teams drafting in the lottery wondered was: Does this mean the Jazz will take Fears? Ainge has apparently long had a draft crush on Fears, but it’s different when you’re not selecting in the lottery to actually having the choice. Nonetheless, Fears gets the nod here because he’d give the Jazz their point guard of the future. Fears is a dynamic guard with a twitchy attacking style and a knack for coming through as a clutch shooter. He was one of college basketball’s youngest freshmen, and it showed with his shaky decision-making as a shooter and passer. But he has a feel for shot creation and a handle that lets him get anywhere on the floor, so he may only need time to emerge as a star. All that said, Fears could be available a couple spots down, and league sources fully expect the Pelicans and Nets to be among the teams looking to move into this spot.
6. Washington Wizards: Ace Bailey, F, Rutgers
Maybe there’s a method to the madness in Bailey’s camp, steering him to a team where he can get more shots and be surrounded by veterans like he could be for the Wizards. There’s a chance teams could move above Washington to get Bailey, but most executives around the NBA expect the Rutgers freshman to be the choice if he’s still on the board. Bailey is a ridiculous shot-making machine, capable of splashing contested jumpers from every spot on the floor and with the swagger of a throwback bucket-getter. But his raw edges as a shot creator and defender need sanding down to turn him into a full-on star.
7. New Orleans Pelicans: Khaman Maluach, C, Duke
League sources have said for weeks the Pelicans are one of the most active teams looking to trade up, with the belief being Bailey is their target. If he’s not on the board, then Maluach could be the pick in this slot. The Duke freshman is a towering rim protector with switchable mobility, erasing shots at the rim and shadowing quick guards on the perimeter. But beyond dunking lobs, he’s a work in progress on offense with a lack of seasoning as a screener, shooter and creator. Such a raw skill-set should come as no surprise since the South Sudan native didn’t start playing basketball until he was 13. Maluach’s upside has him ranked in the top two or three on some team draft boards, and he’s one of the most popular trade-up targets, according to sources.
8. Brooklyn Nets: Tre Johnson, G, Texas
Someone’s gonna slip here. In this mock, it’s Johnson, a clutch shot-maker who can hit from all over the floor, drilling step-backs and off-screen jumpers with ease. But he needs to continue developing his point-guard skills while also honing his shot selection and dramatically improving his defense. The Nets have five first-round picks, one-sixth of the entire first round. And though they’re a potential trade-up team, league sources say they’re comfortable using all five firsts and going with a young roster heading into next season.
9. Toronto Raptors: Noa Essengue, F, Ratiopharm Ulm
Essengue’s first visit in North America after leaving his German team Ulm in the middle of the Finals was to Toronto. Some league sources say he’s the most likely pick here. Other sources think the Raptors are more likely to trade down, with teams like the Thunder and Grizzlies eager to move up. If Toronto stays put, the team would be getting a high-upside project with a fluid handle, dynamic finishing package and highly versatile defense. But his long-term upside hinges on the jumper clicking. And if it doesn’t, his defense must reach a level that prevents coaches from keeping him off the floor.
10. Phoenix Suns: Carter Bryant, F, Arizona
The return Phoenix got from Houston for Kevin Durant isn’t so bad, considering Durant is 37 years old and has only one year remaining on his deal. It sure would’ve been nice to get back its first in 2027 or 2029, but a 23-year-old guard in Jalen Green, a valuable starter in Dillon Brooks, five second-round picks and this year’s 10th pick is a solid return nonetheless. With this pick, it would make sense for the Suns to target more defense and it’d only make more sense to turn to a product of Arizona. Bryant is a rangy, athletic forward who projects as a highly versatile defender. And though he’s raw as a ball-handler, he’s a skilled spot-up shooter and a hyper-aware cutter. At a minimum, he has the baseline skills to be a great role player with the upside to someday be much more.
11. Portland Trail Blazers: Collin Murray-Boyles, F, South Carolina
The Trail Blazers made amazing progress this season across the board, and following the All-Star Break they had a top-five defensive rating. And now they acquired Jrue Holiday for Anfernee Simons, a dramatic upgrade defensively. Holiday is reportedly unhappy about landing in Portland. But it continues the defensive theme with Murray-Boyles, who operates like a defensive savant the way he locks down every position, uses his ninja-quick hands to swipe at the ball and inhales rebounds. He’s a special defensive presence, and offensively he’s a bulldozer finisher with a playmaking feel. Improving his jumper would move him out of tweener territory and into All-Star status.
12. Chicago Bulls: Joan Beringer, C, Cedevita Olimpija
Beringer is raw and began playing basketball only three years ago, but that makes his natural talents all the more impressive. He is a center but has the quickness of a guard, giving him immense defensive versatility to build on for years to come. And he’s already a massive lob threat who’s making rapid progress refining the rough edges of his game, like screening and free-throw shooting. Even if it’s not Beringer, most executives league-wide expect the Bulls to target the frontcourt here.
13. Atlanta Hawks: Egor Demin, G, BYU
League sources had said the Hawks were looking to move up from this pick and had called teams drafting in the top five. This was prior to the acquisition of Kristaps Porziņģis. Plans may have changed now. Demin has a rare ability at his size to make dazzling passes, which would give Atlanta another jumbo-sized ball-handler to surround Trae Young. But he’s also struggled to shoot and create his own shot against lengthy defenders, making him more of a love-him-or-hate-him prospect than a sure thing.
14. San Antonio Spurs: Asa Newell, F/C, Georgia
The Spurs should find a center who can play next to and behind Wembanyama. Newell has springs in his legs, regularly slamming lobs and swatting shots. Even though his discipline reflects his youth, his energetic style suggests he’ll someday become a highly versatile defender. He could both back up and play alongside Wemby, giving the Spurs immense lineup flexibility.
15. Oklahoma City Thunder: Cedric Coward, G, Washington State
Congratulations to Oklahoma City for winning the NBA Finals! The broadcast showed general manager Sam Presti texting on his phone with less than 90 seconds left in the game. Was he communicating with a loved one or negotiating a trade? It’d be comical but unsurprising if it were the latter situation, because the champs have every player under contract next season, will have last year’s lottery pick, Nikola Topić, healthy again, have three top-44 picks this year and could have up to four firsts next year. Consolidating could be a priority for Presti. If they stay put with this pick, though, Coward would make perfect sense. Coward has gone from a Division III player to a potential first-round pick in just a few years behind his rapid development into a prospect with a valued 3-and-D skill-set. But he brings even higher upside, thanks to his passing vision. For more on Coward, watch or listen to my one-on-one interview with him.
16. Memphis Grizzlies: Kasparas Jakučionis, G, Illinois
Following the Desmond Bane trade, the Grizzlies could use another backcourt partner for Ja Morant. Jakučionis is a slick shot-creator with a creative passing gene and a fearless scoring ability, carving up defenses with crafty finishes, step-back jumpers and jaw-dropping passes. But as a freshman he’d follow up those highlights with turnover brain-farts that derail the hype train.
17. Minnesota Timberwolves: Nique Clifford, G, Colorado State
Clifford is a tough-as-nails wing who does it all and could fill a number of different roles for the Timberwolves. He defends multiple positions, crashes the boards and scores from everywhere. But as a super senior with only Mountain West pedigree, he lacks experience against high-level competition despite his age. The Timberwolves could look to move this pick, but Clifford would be a nice plug-and-play option across different lineups.
18. Washington Wizards: Derik Queen, C, Maryland
The hometown kid! Queen is from Baltimore, went to college at Maryland and in this mock he lands with the Wizards. Queen is a burly big with guard-like handles who dazzles with spin moves and crafty finishes like his game-winning leaning jumper to send Maryland to the Sweet 16. If he translates his velvet touch to the perimeter he has offensive star upside, though his interior scoring, playmaking chops and magnetic rebounding give him tantalizing potential.
19. Brooklyn Nets: Thomas Sorber, F/C, Georgetown
This is Brooklyn’s second of five firsts this year, and Sorber would be considered a possible steal at this point after rising throughout the pre-draft process despite a foot injury limiting his ability to workout. Sorber has a brick-house frame and the throwback skill set to match with strong screens, soft-touch finishes and gritty drop-coverage instincts. But to be more than a role player, he needs to tap into the flashes he shows as a shooter while also improving his perimeter defense.
20. Miami Heat: Walter Clayton Jr., G, Florida
Clayton didn’t stop rising after leading Florida to the NCAA title — he’s continued excelling in workouts and is getting looks from teams in the top 20. Clayton is a fearless shooter with the versatility to take any shot at any moment, and his defense made strides in the tournament too. Tyler Herro and Clayton could share creation responsibilities in the Miami backcourt, and Bam Adebayo would have another two-man-game partner to work with.
21. Utah Jazz: Liam McNeeley, F, Connecticut
McNeeley is a sharpshooting wing with superb instincts moving without the ball and the touch to splash from deep ranges. Though he doesn’t project as a primary shot creator, his feel as a connective passer gives him the skill to fit into any type of offense. He’d fit right into Utah’s system that emphasizes movement with and without the ball.
22. Brooklyn Nets: Will Riley, F, Illinois
Riley has dynamic driving ability and playmaking instincts that scream upside as a jumbo-sized, shot-creating wing. He’s worked out with teams in the 10-20 range, and there’s a strong chance he doesn’t make it to this point. But his jumper is streaky, and his defense is unreliable since he’s so lean physically and lacks fundamentals. The team that drafts him will need to be patient, just like the Nets could be.
23. New Orleans Pelicans: Nolan Traoré, G, Saint-Quentin
Traoré oozes upside with his size, blazing speed, and shiftiness off the bounce. But he’s an inefficient scorer all over the floor who needs to improve his erratic decision-making to prove he’s worth the big swing. Maluach, Traoré, and Zion Williamson would undoubtedly be one of the most exciting teams to watch. Whether it’d become good is a whole different question.
24. Oklahoma City Thunder: Maxime Raynaud, F/C, Stanford
Though the Thunder already have Isaiah Hartenstein and Chet Holmgren, it wouldn’t hurt to have another big in the rotation to use, aside from Jaylin Williams. Raynaud has leveled up every year at Stanford, turning into a player who pops 3s, slashes to the rim with a smooth handle and makes eye-popping passes. As a talented passer who also offers solid defense, there’s little reason to think the Frenchman won’t carve out an NBA role.
25. Orlando Magic: Jase Richardson, G, Michigan State
Richardson is a skilled combo guard with a lethal midrange game and a poised pick-and-roll feel, looking like he downloaded the experience of his NBA veteran father, Jason Richardson. Jase didn’t inherit his father’s height or dunk contest athleticism though, so his smaller stature could cap his upside. Richardson could be the perfect backup to Jalen Suggs and Desmond Bane early in his career, or even share the floor in some lineup configurations.
26. Brooklyn Nets: Danny Wolf, C, Michigan
Wolf is 6-foot-11 but ran point for Michigan, playing a slick style with risky passes and step-back jumpers that made him a highlight factory. But he’s also a turnover machine and his shooting numbers are shaky, making him more of a raw bet who needs time to prove he can match his flash with substance. Why not take a big swing if you’re Brooklyn?
27. Brooklyn Nets: Drake Powell, G/F, North Carolina
Powell has a chiseled frame that he uses to barrel into defenders at the rim and to contain opponents when he’s on defense. He’s a switch-everything defender who plays with a high motor, and if his spot-up jumper translates he checks all the boxes to be a 3-and-D role player at a minimum. As a former projected lottery pick, maybe the Nets could tap into a higher level of upside in him.
28. Boston Celtics: Ryan Kalkbrenner, C, Creighton
Kalkbrenner is a throwback 7-footer who owns the paint, swatting shots with his giant wingspan and dunking everything in sight. It’s a bit strange he isn’t a better rebounder. But as a super senior, he’s also developed some sneaky passing and shooting skills that hint at higher upside. After trading Kristaps Porziņģis, the Celtics have Luka Kornet entering free agency and Al Horford weighing retirement. A center is a major need.
29. Phoenix Suns: Adou Thiero, F, Arkansas
Thiero is a slasher with a jacked frame and an explosive first step, but he has severe limitations on offense as a shooter. If he’s able to figure out the shot then his length and versatility would make him a classic 3-and-D role player. After selecting Bryant with the 10th choice, the Suns would suddenly feel a lot deeper at the wing and forward spots.
30. L.A. Clippers: Rasheer Fleming, F, Saint Joseph’s
Fleming is a hustler who drains spot-up jumpers and brings energy on defense, swatting shots and snagging boards. But he has some real warts as a ball-handler with a lack of experience against high-level competition, so teams will have to feel real confident his role-player skill set will translate. With Kawhi Leonard and James Harden handling the rock in Los Angeles, Fleming’s positive qualities could allow him to slot in right away.
31. Timberwolves: Ben Saraf, G, Ratiopharm Ulm
Saraf is a crafty lefty playmaker who relies on guile, footwork, and body control. Limited shooting and athleticism could cap his upside, but his positional size and skill could be hard to pass up. Especially considering how well he’s played for Ulm in the championship series in BBL.
32. Celtics: Noah Penda, F, Le Mans
Penda plays with a veteran’s mind and a winning mentality, offering connective playmaking, switchable defense, and high-level feel. He’ll need to improve his jumper to stick long-term, but his unselfish game and defensive utility give him a strong foundation.
33. Hornets: Hugo Gonzalez, G/F, Real Madrid
Gonzalez is a high-motor wing with great defensive tools and a slashing style on offense. If his jumper and handle develop, he could be a versatile two-way starter. But he barely even played off the bench overseas.
34. Hornets: Jamir Watkins, G, Florida State
Watkins is a versatile player who can run the show, slash to the paint, and switch across positions on defense. But the development of his jumper is stuck in quicksand, which raises questions about his ability to excel in a less prominent on-ball role.
35. Sixers: Yanic Konan Niederhauser, C/F, Penn State
Konan Niederhauser is an elite athlete who lives above the rim as a finisher and shot blocker, and he displays some intriguing upside as a 7-foot shot creator. But he needs to improve his fundamentals to make it all click.
36. Nets: Hansen Yang, C, Qingdao
Yang is a massive Chinese 7-footer who scores with old-school craft, passes well, and cleans the glass. But how much his slow feet and lack of shooting range can be improved will determine whether he can stick in the pros.
37. Pistons: Hunter Sallis, G, Wake Forest
Sallis is a poised, efficient scorer with body control, defensive tenacity, and the passing feel to hint at more upside. If the jumper proves real, he could play a much larger offensive role than his current projection.
38. Spurs: Chaz Lanier, G, Tennessee
Lanier transferred to Tennessee after four years at North Florida and immediately thrived as a knockdown shooter with shot-making creativity. But without great size or playmaking at his age, he’s a second-round prospect.
39. Raptors: John Tonje, G, Wisconsin
Tonje will enter the NBA at age 24 with some readymade skills as an off-ball movement scorer and shooter. But his athletic ceiling and defense will determine if he’s more than just a backup.
40. Pelicans: Bogoljub Marković, F, Mega Basket
Marković is a modern stretch forward who also offers skill as a passer and post scorer. But to handle the rigors of the NBA and become a positive defender, he needs to add a ton of muscle.
41. Warriors: Koby Brea, G, Kentucky
Brea projects as a shooting specialist who has a clear path to becoming a rotation player because of his highly sought after skill. But in order to avoid being a weak link on defense, he’ll need to make improvements to his athleticism.
42. Kings: Ryan Nembhard, G, Gonzaga
Nembhard is an excellent floor general who excels in pick-and-roll situations and made great progress as a scorer during his senior year. But with his small stature, he has natural limitations that put a cap on his upside.
43. Jazz: Kam Jones, G, Marquette
Jones offers crafty combo guard skills with advanced shot creation and a blossoming playmaking feel. But his so-so athleticism and streaky shooting paint him as just a cog rather than the rare star upperclassman set to enter the league.
44. Thunder: Alijah Martin, G, Florida
Martin is a hyper-athletic, high-energy guard who plays bigger than his size and impacts the game with his toughness, rebounding, and defensive grit. But his positional tweener status, streaky shooting, and limited creation ability complicate his ability to carve out a specialized role.
45. Bulls: Sion James, G, Duke
James is a versatile defender who sets a tone with his hustle, and after years of laying bricks he’s worked hard to become a dead-eye, spot-up shooter. And he brings much more than shooting as a crafty playmaker who keeps the ball moving. But without the handle of a primary creator, it’s critical he sustains his newfound success as a shooter.
46. Magic: Tyrese Proctor, G, Duke
Proctor is a tall combo guard with great passing vision that was expected to go one-and-done, but has taken until his junior year to look ready for the NBA. At this point, he’s sharpened his jumper and become an even better defender.
47. Bucks: Eric Dixon, F, Villanova
Dixon is a burly forward who brings a toughness and physicality to the game. As Villanova’s all-time leading scorer, he showed versatile scoring skills, but in the NBA his lack of athleticism will put a limit on the type of usage he can receive.
48. Grizzlies: Micah Peavy, G/F, Georgetown
Peavy is a switchable wing stopper with NBA-ready defense, instincts, and passing feel. If his improved jumper proves real, he’s a rotation-level player for a decade.
49. Cavs: Alex Toohey, F, Sydney Kings
Toohey is a jack-of-all-trades Australian forward who grinds on defense and loves to dish the ball around. But his scoring comes and goes with his streaky jumper since he’s not someone who generates many of his own shots.
50. Knicks: Amari Williams, C, Kentucky
Williams is a massive, smart-passing center with good instincts around the rim and legitimate size to defend the paint. But he needs to add perimeter mobility to defend the modern game.
51. Clippers: Johni Broome, F/C, Auburn
Broome is a super senior who brings a ready-made game as an interior finisher with a passing feel and tone-setting defense. But his shaky jumper hasn’t progressed as much as NBA teams would hope.
52. Suns: Rocco Zikarsky, C, Brisbane
Zikarsky is a big Australian center who plays a traditional role as an interior finisher and rim protector. He doesn’t offer much else at this stage of his career, though, and hasn’t shown many signs that he will.
53. Jazz: Brice Williams, G, Nebraska
Williams is a big wing who thrives on making tough midrange jumpers and movement 3s off the catch. He’s an older prospect at age 24, but still belongs on the draft radar because of his sparkplug scoring skill-set.
54. Pacers: Lachlan Olbrich, C, Illawarra
High-motor Aussie big who projects as a screen-and-dive reserve and plays with a tone-setting level of toughness that could keep him in a rotation.
55. Lakers: Vladislav Goldin, C, Michigan
Goldin is a large Russian center who excels at scoring at the rim with soft touch, and as a senior he began to shoot jumpers. Concerns about his defense and athleticism put him in the second round, but he has the overall skills to be a rotation big.
56. Grizzlies: Javon Small, G, West Virginia
Small is an undersized guard who plays bigger than his body thanks to his excellent athleticism and gritty nature. He’s a knockdown shooter off the catch and a solid lead guard, though his lack of size puts a natural cap on his upside.
57. Magic: Tamar Bates, G, Missouri
Bates is a 3-and-D style guard with a knockdown shooting stroke, though his lack of strength and playmaking put a cap on his ceiling as a low-usage specialist.
58. Cavs: Chucky Hepburn, G, Louisville
Hepburn is a bulldog defender who sets a tone for his team. He brings good instincts and a feel for passing on offense, but needs to prove he can shoot to overcome his size limitations.
59. Suns: RJ Luis, G/F, St. John’s
Luis is a rugged wing who sets a tone on defense with his versatility and intensity. But on offense his shaky shooting and decision-making overshadow his downhill attacking style.
For scouting reports of every player, check out my 2025 NBA Draft Guide.
It’s draft day! If there’s one thing front-office executives are all expecting: trades. Lots of trades. Teams moving up and down one or two or three spots, looking to leapfrog teams for their preferred player. Here’s my first-round mock draft based on all the latest intel. For a full second round, plus scouting reports of every player, check out my 2025 NBA Draft Guide.
[2025 NBA Draft: How to watch, start time, top picks and more]
No surprises here. Flagg can help Dallas in both the short term and long term as a do-it-all forward who hustles, makes his teammates better as a passer and has dialed in a knockdown jumper. He’s both the best offensive and defensive prospect in this draft class, making him the safest No. 1 pick in ages. As long as his jumper falls, he could play as a small forward next to Anthony Davis and another big. It’s his growth as a shot creator that will decide if he reaches his All-Star floor or soars to his Hall of Fame ceiling.
In all likelihood, the Spurs will keep this pick and draft Harper, but league sources say they are listening to trade offers from teams drafting in the handful of spots behind them. “They want a ridiculous haul,” said a front-office executive. “Far more than I’d expect anyone to give up.” Harper is a big-bodied lefty combo guard who has a high floor with the skill, poise and playmaking instincts to dictate the game at his pace. If Flagg had never reclassified, Harper would be the consensus top pick with star upside. But he made only 36.8% of his catch-and-shoot 3s and just 28.7% of his dribble jumpers. De’Aaron Fox and Stephon Castle are more interior-focused guards, too, and so is Jeremy Sochan in the frontcourt. How many shaky shooters can the Spurs really put around Victor Wembanyama? That’s the whole reason why San Antonio would even listen to offers. But unless there’s a Giannis Antetokounmpo or Jaylen Brown curveball coming, suitors are left thinking the Spurs will just take Harper, bank on his massive upside and figure out team fit later.
It appears Edgecombe is the favorite here over Ace Bailey. Some front-office executives wonder if it’s all a smokescreen for Philadelphia general manager Daryl Morey to gain leverage. But on paper, Edgecombe makes total sense for the Sixers. He is an explosive, high-motor wing who flies out of nowhere for poster dunks and chase-down blocks. He pairs his elite athleticism with a knockdown spot-up jumper and fearless slashing. Though he needs to improve his shot creation to become more of a primary creator, the Sixers have enough in that department as is, so Edgecombe would get time to develop on his own timeline.
Knueppel has a sharpshooter’s stroke, brainy pick-and-roll playmaking and crafty scoring feel. He’s the type of player who can come in right away and fit on any team, including perfectly between LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller. He’s got a slick midrange bag and strength scoring inside, but to become a player who takes over games he’ll need to overcome his average athleticism. This would matter a bit less playing in Charlotte, since he could be one of multiple ball-handlers on the team. For my interview with Knueppel, you can check it out on YouTube, Spotify and wherever you get your podcasts. You can also read a written version here on Yahoo Sports.
When Austin Ainge left Boston to become the general manager in Utah, one of the first things teams drafting in the lottery wondered was: Does this mean the Jazz will take Fears? Ainge has apparently long had a draft crush on Fears, but it’s different when you’re not selecting in the lottery to actually having the choice. Nonetheless, Fears gets the nod here because he’d give the Jazz their point guard of the future. Fears is a dynamic guard with a twitchy attacking style and a knack for coming through as a clutch shooter. He was one of college basketball’s youngest freshmen, and it showed with his shaky decision-making as a shooter and passer. But he has a feel for shot creation and a handle that lets him get anywhere on the floor, so he may only need time to emerge as a star. All that said, Fears could be available a couple spots down, and league sources fully expect the Pelicans and Nets to be among the teams looking to move into this spot.
Maybe there’s a method to the madness in Bailey’s camp, steering him to a team where he can get more shots and be surrounded by veterans like he could be for the Wizards. There’s a chance teams could move above Washington to get Bailey, but most executives around the NBA expect the Rutgers freshman to be the choice if he’s still on the board. Bailey is a ridiculous shot-making machine, capable of splashing contested jumpers from every spot on the floor and with the swagger of a throwback bucket-getter. But his raw edges as a shot creator and defender need sanding down to turn him into a full-on star.
League sources have said for weeks the Pelicans are one of the most active teams looking to trade up, with the belief being Bailey is their target. If he’s not on the board, then Maluach could be the pick in this slot. The Duke freshman is a towering rim protector with switchable mobility, erasing shots at the rim and shadowing quick guards on the perimeter. But beyond dunking lobs, he’s a work in progress on offense with a lack of seasoning as a screener, shooter and creator. Such a raw skill-set should come as no surprise since the South Sudan native didn’t start playing basketball until he was 13. Maluach’s upside has him ranked in the top two or three on some team draft boards, and he’s one of the most popular trade-up targets, according to sources.
Someone’s gonna slip here. In this mock, it’s Johnson, a clutch shot-maker who can hit from all over the floor, drilling step-backs and off-screen jumpers with ease. But he needs to continue developing his point-guard skills while also honing his shot selection and dramatically improving his defense. The Nets have five first-round picks, one-sixth of the entire first round. And though they’re a potential trade-up team, league sources say they’re comfortable using all five firsts and going with a young roster heading into next season.
Essengue’s first visit in North America after leaving his German team Ulm in the middle of the Finals was to Toronto. Some league sources say he’s the most likely pick here. Other sources think the Raptors are more likely to trade down, with teams like the Thunder and Grizzlies eager to move up. If Toronto stays put, the team would be getting a high-upside project with a fluid handle, dynamic finishing package and highly versatile defense. But his long-term upside hinges on the jumper clicking. And if it doesn’t, his defense must reach a level that prevents coaches from keeping him off the floor.
The return Phoenix got from Houston for Kevin Durant isn’t so bad, considering Durant is 37 years old and has only one year remaining on his deal. It sure would’ve been nice to get back its first in 2027 or 2029, but a 23-year-old guard in Jalen Green, a valuable starter in Dillon Brooks, five second-round picks and this year’s 10th pick is a solid return nonetheless. With this pick, it would make sense for the Suns to target more defense and it’d only make more sense to turn to a product of Arizona. Bryant is a rangy, athletic forward who projects as a highly versatile defender. And though he’s raw as a ball-handler, he’s a skilled spot-up shooter and a hyper-aware cutter. At a minimum, he has the baseline skills to be a great role player with the upside to someday be much more.
The Trail Blazers made amazing progress this season across the board, and following the All-Star Break they had a top-five defensive rating. And now they acquired Jrue Holiday for Anfernee Simons, a dramatic upgrade defensively. Holiday is reportedly unhappy about landing in Portland. But it continues the defensive theme with Murray-Boyles, who operates like a defensive savant the way he locks down every position, uses his ninja-quick hands to swipe at the ball and inhales rebounds. He’s a special defensive presence, and offensively he’s a bulldozer finisher with a playmaking feel. Improving his jumper would move him out of tweener territory and into All-Star status.
Beringer is raw and began playing basketball only three years ago, but that makes his natural talents all the more impressive. He is a center but has the quickness of a guard, giving him immense defensive versatility to build on for years to come. And he’s already a massive lob threat who’s making rapid progress refining the rough edges of his game, like screening and free-throw shooting. Even if it’s not Beringer, most executives league-wide expect the Bulls to target the frontcourt here.
League sources had said the Hawks were looking to move up from this pick and had called teams drafting in the top five. This was prior to the acquisition of Kristaps Porziņģis. Plans may have changed now. Demin has a rare ability at his size to make dazzling passes, which would give Atlanta another jumbo-sized ball-handler to surround Trae Young. But he’s also struggled to shoot and create his own shot against lengthy defenders, making him more of a love-him-or-hate-him prospect than a sure thing.
The Spurs should find a center who can play next to and behind Wembanyama. Newell has springs in his legs, regularly slamming lobs and swatting shots. Even though his discipline reflects his youth, his energetic style suggests he’ll someday become a highly versatile defender. He could both back up and play alongside Wemby, giving the Spurs immense lineup flexibility.
Congratulations to Oklahoma City for winning the NBA Finals! The broadcast showed general manager Sam Presti texting on his phone with less than 90 seconds left in the game. Was he communicating with a loved one or negotiating a trade? It’d be comical but unsurprising if it were the latter situation, because the champs have every player under contract next season, will have last year’s lottery pick, Nikola Topić, healthy again, have three top-44 picks this year and could have up to four firsts next year. Consolidating could be a priority for Presti. If they stay put with this pick, though, Coward would make perfect sense. Coward has gone from a Division III player to a potential first-round pick in just a few years behind his rapid development into a prospect with a valued 3-and-D skill-set. But he brings even higher upside, thanks to his passing vision. For more on Coward, watch or listen to my one-on-one interview with him.
Following the Desmond Bane trade, the Grizzlies could use another backcourt partner for Ja Morant. Jakučionis is a slick shot-creator with a creative passing gene and a fearless scoring ability, carving up defenses with crafty finishes, step-back jumpers and jaw-dropping passes. But as a freshman he’d follow up those highlights with turnover brain-farts that derail the hype train.
Clifford is a tough-as-nails wing who does it all and could fill a number of different roles for the Timberwolves. He defends multiple positions, crashes the boards and scores from everywhere. But as a super senior with only Mountain West pedigree, he lacks experience against high-level competition despite his age. The Timberwolves could look to move this pick, but Clifford would be a nice plug-and-play option across different lineups.
The hometown kid! Queen is from Baltimore, went to college at Maryland and in this mock he lands with the Wizards. Queen is a burly big with guard-like handles who dazzles with spin moves and crafty finishes like his game-winning leaning jumper to send Maryland to the Sweet 16. If he translates his velvet touch to the perimeter he has offensive star upside, though his interior scoring, playmaking chops and magnetic rebounding give him tantalizing potential.
This is Brooklyn’s second of five firsts this year, and Sorber would be considered a possible steal at this point after rising throughout the pre-draft process despite a foot injury limiting his ability to workout. Sorber has a brick-house frame and the throwback skill set to match with strong screens, soft-touch finishes and gritty drop-coverage instincts. But to be more than a role player, he needs to tap into the flashes he shows as a shooter while also improving his perimeter defense.
Clayton didn’t stop rising after leading Florida to the NCAA title — he’s continued excelling in workouts and is getting looks from teams in the top 20. Clayton is a fearless shooter with the versatility to take any shot at any moment, and his defense made strides in the tournament too. Tyler Herro and Clayton could share creation responsibilities in the Miami backcourt, and Bam Adebayo would have another two-man-game partner to work with.
McNeeley is a sharpshooting wing with superb instincts moving without the ball and the touch to splash from deep ranges. Though he doesn’t project as a primary shot creator, his feel as a connective passer gives him the skill to fit into any type of offense. He’d fit right into Utah’s system that emphasizes movement with and without the ball.
Riley has dynamic driving ability and playmaking instincts that scream upside as a jumbo-sized, shot-creating wing. He’s worked out with teams in the 10-20 range, and there’s a strong chance he doesn’t make it to this point. But his jumper is streaky, and his defense is unreliable since he’s so lean physically and lacks fundamentals. The team that drafts him will need to be patient, just like the Nets could be.
Traoré oozes upside with his size, blazing speed, and shiftiness off the bounce. But he’s an inefficient scorer all over the floor who needs to improve his erratic decision-making to prove he’s worth the big swing. Maluach, Traoré, and Zion Williamson would undoubtedly be one of the most exciting teams to watch. Whether it’d become good is a whole different question.
Though the Thunder already have Isaiah Hartenstein and Chet Holmgren, it wouldn’t hurt to have another big in the rotation to use, aside from Jaylin Williams. Raynaud has leveled up every year at Stanford, turning into a player who pops 3s, slashes to the rim with a smooth handle and makes eye-popping passes. As a talented passer who also offers solid defense, there’s little reason to think the Frenchman won’t carve out an NBA role.
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Richardson is a skilled combo guard with a lethal midrange game and a poised pick-and-roll feel, looking like he downloaded the experience of his NBA veteran father, Jason Richardson. Jase didn’t inherit his father’s height or dunk contest athleticism though, so his smaller stature could cap his upside. Richardson could be the perfect backup to Jalen Suggs and Desmond Bane early in his career, or even share the floor in some lineup configurations.
Wolf is 6-foot-11 but ran point for Michigan, playing a slick style with risky passes and step-back jumpers that made him a highlight factory. But he’s also a turnover machine and his shooting numbers are shaky, making him more of a raw bet who needs time to prove he can match his flash with substance. Why not take a big swing if you’re Brooklyn?
Powell has a chiseled frame that he uses to barrel into defenders at the rim and to contain opponents when he’s on defense. He’s a switch-everything defender who plays with a high motor, and if his spot-up jumper translates he checks all the boxes to be a 3-and-D role player at a minimum. As a former projected lottery pick, maybe the Nets could tap into a higher level of upside in him.
Kalkbrenner is a throwback 7-footer who owns the paint, swatting shots with his giant wingspan and dunking everything in sight. It’s a bit strange he isn’t a better rebounder. But as a super senior, he’s also developed some sneaky passing and shooting skills that hint at higher upside. After trading Kristaps Porziņģis, the Celtics have Luka Kornet entering free agency and Al Horford weighing retirement. A center is a major need.
Thiero is a slasher with a jacked frame and an explosive first step, but he has severe limitations on offense as a shooter. If he’s able to figure out the shot then his length and versatility would make him a classic 3-and-D role player. After selecting Bryant with the 10th choice, the Suns would suddenly feel a lot deeper at the wing and forward spots.
Fleming is a hustler who drains spot-up jumpers and brings energy on defense, swatting shots and snagging boards. But he has some real warts as a ball-handler with a lack of experience against high-level competition, so teams will have to feel real confident his role-player skill set will translate. With Kawhi Leonard and James Harden handling the rock in Los Angeles, Fleming’s positive qualities could allow him to slot in right away.
Saraf is a crafty lefty playmaker who relies on guile, footwork, and body control. Limited shooting and athleticism could cap his upside, but his positional size and skill could be hard to pass up. Especially considering how well he’s played for Ulm in the championship series in BBL.
Penda plays with a veteran’s mind and a winning mentality, offering connective playmaking, switchable defense, and high-level feel. He’ll need to improve his jumper to stick long-term, but his unselfish game and defensive utility give him a strong foundation.
Gonzalez is a high-motor wing with great defensive tools and a slashing style on offense. If his jumper and handle develop, he could be a versatile two-way starter. But he barely even played off the bench overseas.
Watkins is a versatile player who can run the show, slash to the paint, and switch across positions on defense. But the development of his jumper is stuck in quicksand, which raises questions about his ability to excel in a less prominent on-ball role.
Konan Niederhauser is an elite athlete who lives above the rim as a finisher and shot blocker, and he displays some intriguing upside as a 7-foot shot creator. But he needs to improve his fundamentals to make it all click.
Yang is a massive Chinese 7-footer who scores with old-school craft, passes well, and cleans the glass. But how much his slow feet and lack of shooting range can be improved will determine whether he can stick in the pros.
Sallis is a poised, efficient scorer with body control, defensive tenacity, and the passing feel to hint at more upside. If the jumper proves real, he could play a much larger offensive role than his current projection.
Lanier transferred to Tennessee after four years at North Florida and immediately thrived as a knockdown shooter with shot-making creativity. But without great size or playmaking at his age, he’s a second-round prospect.
Tonje will enter the NBA at age 24 with some readymade skills as an off-ball movement scorer and shooter. But his athletic ceiling and defense will determine if he’s more than just a backup.
Markovic is a modern stretch forward who also offers skill as a passer and post scorer. But to handle the rigors of the NBA and become a positive defender, he needs to add a ton of muscle.
Brea projects as a shooting specialist who has a clear path to becoming a rotation player because of his highly sought after skill. But in order to avoid being a weak link on defense, he’ll need to make improvements to his athleticism.
Nembhard is an excellent floor general who excels in pick-and-roll situations and made great progress as a scorer during his senior year. But with his small stature, he has natural limitations that put a cap on his upside.
Jones offers crafty combo guard skills with advanced shot creation and a blossoming playmaking feel. But his so-so athleticism and streaky shooting paint him as just a cog rather than the rare star upperclassman set to enter the league.
Martin is a hyper-athletic, high-energy guard who plays bigger than his size and impacts the game with his toughness, rebounding, and defensive grit. But his positional tweener status, streaky shooting, and limited creation ability complicate his ability to carve out a specialized role.
James is a versatile defender who sets a tone with his hustle, and after years of laying bricks he’s worked hard to become a dead-eye, spot-up shooter. And he brings much more than shooting as a crafty playmaker who keeps the ball moving. But without the handle of a primary creator, it’s critical he sustains his newfound success as a shooter.
Proctor is a tall combo guard with great passing vision that was expected to go one-and-done, but has taken until his junior year to look ready for the NBA. At this point, he’s sharpened his jumper and become an even better defender.
Dixon is a burly forward who brings a toughness and physicality to the game. As Villanova’s all-time leading scorer, he showed versatile scoring skills, but in the NBA his lack of athleticism will put a limit on the type of usage he can receive.
Peavy is a switchable wing stopper with NBA-ready defense, instincts, and passing feel. If his improved jumper proves real, he’s a rotation-level player for a decade.
Toohey is a jack-of-all-trades Australian forward who grinds on defense and loves to dish the ball around. But his scoring comes and goes with his streaky jumper since he’s not someone who generates many of his own shots.
Williams is a massive, smart-passing center with good instincts around the rim and legitimate size to defend the paint. But he needs to add perimeter mobility to defend the modern game.
Broome is a super senior who brings a ready-made game as an interior finisher with a passing feel and tone-setting defense. But his shaky jumper hasn’t progressed as much as NBA teams would hope.
Zikarsky is a big Australian center who plays a traditional role as an interior finisher and rim protector. He doesn’t offer much else at this stage of his career, though, and hasn’t shown many signs that he will.
Williams is a big wing who thrives on making tough midrange jumpers and movement 3s off the catch. He’s an older prospect at age 24, but still belongs on the draft radar because of his sparkplug scoring skill-set.
High-motor Aussie big who projects as a screen-and-dive reserve and plays with a tone-setting level of toughness that could keep him in a rotation.
Goldin is a large Russian center who excels at scoring at the rim with soft touch, and as a senior he began to shoot jumpers. Concerns about his defense and athleticism put him in the second round, but he has the overall skills to be a rotation big.
Small is an undersized guard who plays bigger than his body thanks to his excellent athleticism and gritty nature. He’s a knockdown shooter off the catch and a solid lead guard, though his lack of size puts a natural cap on his upside.
Bates is a 3-and-D style guard with a knockdown shooting stroke, though his lack of strength and playmaking put a cap on his ceiling as a low-usage specialist.
Hepburn is a bulldog defender who sets a tone for his team. He brings good instincts and a feel for passing on offense, but needs to prove he can shoot to overcome his size limitations.
Luis is a rugged wing who sets a tone on defense with his versatility and intensity. But on offense his shaky shooting and decision-making overshadow his downhill attacking style.
For a full second round, plus scouting reports of every player, check out my 2025 NBA Draft Guide.
