The 2025 NBA Prolonged Mock Draft 4.0 arrives with all eyes on the “Seize the Flagg” sweepstakes, as groups await the Could 12 NBA Draft Lottery to find out who lands the coveted No. 1 choose. In a yr headlined by generational expertise on the prime, a number of franchises have gone all-in to place themselves for a franchise-altering choice — figuring out that touchdown Cooper Flagg may reshape their trajectory for the subsequent decade. This up to date 30-team mock tasks all first-round alternatives, full with in-depth evaluation of every prospect and team-specific reasoning behind each choose. With rising expertise, shifting boards, and high-stakes lottery implications, the 2025 draft class is loaded with intrigue.
1. Utah Jazz
Cooper Flagg
6-8 205 SF/PF Duke Fr.
Cooper Flagg enters the 2025 NBA Draft as one of the full and sought-after prospects in current reminiscence. At 6’8” with elite two-way versatility, Flagg was the driving drive behind Duke’s run to the Last 4, the place they narrowly fell to Houston in a high-level, back-and-forth contest. Quite than dimming his highlight, the loss solely underscored Flagg’s aggressive hearth — and will gas his motivation as he transitions to the subsequent degree. He averaged 19.2 PPG, 7.5 RPG, and 4.2 APG with a powerful 2:1 assist-to-turnover ratio, whereas exhibiting main progress as a shooter — enhancing from simply 27% from three over his first 13 video games to a scorching 45% over his closing 24. That growth, paired with more and more assured isolation scoring and superior creation off the bounce, has begun to shift his NBA comparability from a flexible glue-guy within the Scottie Pippen mould to a real offensive engine within the vein of Jayson Tatum. On protection, Flagg’s timing, instincts, and talent to protect a number of positions mission him as a future All-Defensive cornerstone. With a mature strategy, polished fundamentals, and relentless work ethic, Flagg has no evident weaknesses. His mixture of ability, IQ, and depth provides him authentic franchise-altering potential. At this level, solely a handful of groups wouldn’t commerce their present star for an opportunity to “Seize the Flagg.”
Why the Jazz Choose Cooper Flagg: If the Utah Jazz land the No. 1 choose within the draft lottery on Could twelfth, there would possibly as nicely be a ticker-tape parade down Essential Avenue in Salt Lake Metropolis the subsequent day. Cooper Flagg is that degree of prospect — a generational cornerstone with elite two-way upside and, when factoring in harm danger, an excellent greater flooring than Victor Wembanyama. Ever since Danny Ainge took over the entrance workplace, Utah has operated with a long-term imaginative and prescient — and positioning themselves for a shot at Flagg (or 2026 phenom AJ Dybantsa) has been central to that plan. Name it tanking, name it calculated roster administration — both manner, the Jazz are poised to reap the rewards. Flagg provides Utah the type of blue-chip centerpiece franchises spend a long time chasing — a fearless competitor, charismatic and intensely marketable, versatile defender, and quickly evolving offensive weapon. If their lottery ball comes up first, the Jazz would possibly simply dash sooner than Usain Bolt to submit his title on draft evening.
NBA Comparability: Jayson Tatum
2. Washington Wizards
Dylan Harper
6-6 215 | PG/SG | Rutgers | Fr.
Dylan Harper enters the draft as the highest backcourt prospect and a confirmed, bodily dominant lead guard. At 6’6″, 215 kilos, Harper makes use of his body and really feel to command the offense and impose his will in opposition to smaller, faster guards. Regardless of an inconsistent workforce season at Rutgers, Harper’s manufacturing remained elite — averaging 19.4 PPG, 4.6 RPG, and 4.0 APG whereas pulling down 33% from past the arc. What makes Harper particular is his management of tempo, means to soak up contact, and manipulate defenses with angles, power, and endurance. He isn’t a bursty athlete, however makes up for it with superior footwork, deliberate pacing, and a knack for holding defenders on his hip. He reads the ground extraordinarily nicely, particularly within the pick-and-roll, and makes high-level passing selections with regularity. Harper attracts pure comparisons to James Harden-lite by way of scoring and facilitation, however his temperament and power extra intently mirror Cade Cunningham. Whereas he’ll want to enhance his exterior shot to completely unlock his ceiling, Harper is broadly seen as one of many most secure bets on this class to change into a starting-caliber NBA guard for years to come back.
Why the Wizards Choose Dylan Harper:
The Wizards want a franchise cornerstone within the backcourt, and Harper matches the invoice as a cultured, bodily prepared lead guard with star upside. His power, poise, and IQ present a foundational piece for Washington’s rebuild, particularly alongside younger wings like Bilal Coulibaly. Whereas the Wizards have lacked path lately, Harper provides them a gentle hand, a real initiator, and somebody who can elevate the roster on each ends together with his management and offensive versatility. He might not have Cooper Flagg’s flash, however Harper tasks as an NBA-ready engine the Wizards can construct round instantly.
NBA Comparability: Cade Cunningham
3. Charlotte Hornets
VJ Edgecombe
6’5″ 190 | SG/PG | Baylor | Freshman
VJ Edgecombe has skyrocketed into top-5 territory within the 2025 NBA Draft after a breakout freshman season, capping off a speedy rise from under-the-radar recruit to elite prospect. Initially from the Bahamas, Edgecombe wasn’t on most recruiting radars till his junior yr, however his mixture of athleticism, motor, and upside shortly made him a coveted title. He averaged 15.0 PPG, 5.6 RPG, and three.2 APG to 1.9 TO whereas capturing 34% from three, steadily enhancing all through the season after a gradual begin. A jaw-dropping athlete, Edgecombe performs above the rim with ease and repeatedly finishes via contact and over defenders. His bodily instruments bounce off the display screen — lengthy arms, explosive leaping means, and fast-twitch reactions give him uncommon upside on each ends of the ground. Although nonetheless uncooked, he’s flashed intriguing level guard potential, exhibiting progress as a secondary ball handler. Nevertheless, he nonetheless wants refinement as a pick-and-roll facilitator and struggles at occasions to create clear appears to be like in isolation. Some scouts are skeptical of his long-term match as a lead guard — if finally seen as a pure two-guard, he would possible mission decrease than No. 3. Defensively, his instruments are elite, however he should change into extra constant together with his focus and energy. Edgecombe’s ceiling is among the many highest within the draft. If he continues to shine his ability set, he has All-Star potential as a dynamic two-way perimeter weapon.
Why the Hornets Choose VJ Edgecombe:
Charlotte enters the 2025 draft searching for a long-term backcourt associate for LaMelo Ball — or doubtlessly his eventual alternative, relying on how the franchise evaluates its stalled trajectory. What they unquestionably want is a high-upside, two-way presence to assist anchor a rebuild, and VJ Edgecombe matches each goals. Whereas taking him at No. 3 could also be a slight attain in comparison with present consensus boards, his meteoric rise, elite athleticism, and positional versatility make him a justifiable swing for the fences. With Ball as a high-usage initiator, Edgecombe’s means to defend opposing guards, run the ground, and thrive off the ball creates a pure match. He brings burst, size, and depth — all traits the Hornets lack — and injects quick power on each ends. Although nonetheless growing as a creator, Edgecombe owns one of many highest athletic ceilings within the class. Charlotte isn’t constructed to contend but, to allow them to afford to be affected person whereas his deal with and reads evolve. If he hits, the Hornets stroll away with an explosive two-way wing able to turning into an All-Star — a defensive tone-setter and slashing scorer who may thrive alongside a younger core nonetheless discovering its identification.
NBA Comparability: Russell Westbrook
4. New Orleans Pelicans
Ace Bailey
6’8″ 200 | SF | Rutgers | Freshman
Ace Bailey is among the most intriguing and high-upside prospects, projected firmly throughout the prime 5 of this yr’s draft. A humble, soft-spoken child from Chattanooga, Tennessee, Bailey rose to prominence enjoying prominence enjoying for McEachern Excessive Faculty within the state of Georgia and completed as a consensus top-three recruit within the 2024 highschool class. Whereas his unpolished interviews might not absolutely seize it, Bailey is thought behind the scenes as being passionate concerning the sport and pushed to succeed. In a turbulent season for Rutgers, Bailey averaged 17.6 PPG, 7.2 RPG, and 1.3 APG whereas capturing 33.4% from three. He missed a number of video games because of nagging accidents, together with a mid-season ankle sprain that slowed his rhythm. His elite mixture of size, athleticism, and capturing contact makes him a prototypical fashionable wing with two-way potential. The important thing debate surrounding Bailey’s draft vary — doubtlessly No. 2 or sliding barely decrease — will heart on how a lot of Rutgers’ underwhelming season is positioned on his shoulders. He stays the draft’s final swing-for-the-fences choose: large upside as a star-caliber wing, however with a barely decrease flooring than a few of the class’s extra polished prospects.
Why the Pelicans Choose Ace Bailey:
The Pelicans have already got a dynamic frontcourt headed by Zion Williamson, however his future with the workforce stays unsure — and Bailey affords a possible long-term alternative or complement. Along with his dimension, athleticism, and perimeter scoring upside, Bailey matches the mould of a contemporary NBA wing who can guard a number of positions and house the ground. His excessive ceiling aligns with New Orleans’ want to stay aggressive whereas constructing for the longer term, and his versatility may thrive subsequent to playmakers like CJ McCollum and Trey Murphy III. Even when it takes time for him to develop, Bailey provides the Pelicans a possible All-Star wing with instruments that few gamers on this class can match.
NBA Comparability: Paul George
5. Philadelphia 76ers
Jeremiah Fears
6’3″ 190 | PG | Oklahoma | Freshman
Along with his inventory steadily rising and a authentic shot to crack the highest 5, Jeremiah Fears has emerged as one of many largest climbers within the 2025 NBA Draft class. A local of Joliet, Illinois, Fears made his title on the EYBL circuit and completed as a top-30 recruit out of Compass Prep (AZ). The youthful brother of Michigan State’s Jeremy Fears Jr., Jeremiah selected to carve his personal path at Oklahoma, the place he embraced the problem of being “the person” from day one. He responded with a powerful freshman marketing campaign, averaging 17.6 PPG, 5.3 APG, and three.9 RPG whereas capturing 37% from past the arc. Fears stood out for his management, toughness, and maturity—uncommon traits for a freshman guard. He persistently beat defenders off the dribble together with his elite burst, showcasing a complicated deal with and the flexibility to create offense each in isolation and transition. A fierce competitor, he thrived in large moments and saved a few of his finest basketball for the postseason, the place he confirmed noticeable progress as a shooter and decision-maker. Along with his mix of scoring, playmaking, and intangibles, Fears profiles as one of the dynamic and aggressive lead guards within the class.
Why the 76ers Choose Jeremiah Fears:
With Tyrese Maxey blossoming into an All-Star and Joel Embiid anchoring the paint, Philadelphia wants a gentle third choice who can provoke offense, present scoring, and convey toughness to the backcourt. Fears matches that mould completely. His means to interrupt down defenses, play with tempo, and stretch the ground provides the Sixers one other weapon in each halfcourt and transition settings. He’s additionally a powerful complement to Maxey as a combo guard who can share ball-handling duties whereas defending opposing ones. With James Harden lengthy gone and the workforce in want of extra youth and upside, Fears brings a aggressive edge and long-term potential that align with Philadelphia’s timeline and identification.
NBA Comparability: John Wall
6. Brooklyn Nets
Tre Johnson
6’6″ 190 | SG | Texas | Freshman
Tre Johnson, a cultured scoring guard from Dallas, Texas, enters the 2025 NBA Draft as a projected lottery choose after a powerful and considerably shocking freshman season at Texas. A former top-5 highschool prospect out of Hyperlink Academy, Johnson starred on the AAU circuit with Workforce Griffin, averaging 23.1 PPG, 5.2 RPG, and three.3 APG in his senior yr. At Texas, he posted 19.9 PPG, 3.1 RPG, and a pair of.7 APG whereas posting a 42.7 FG%, 39.7 3P%, 87.1 FT% capturing break up. With a 6’6” body, 6’9” wingspan, and a 35-inch vertical, Johnson blends positional dimension with a excessive ability degree. His {smooth} jumper, superior footwork, and talent to create within the pick-and-roll make him one of many extra refined offensive guards within the draft. He’s additionally an underrated passer, exhibiting good imaginative and prescient when drawing assist, although not all the time absolutely constant as a decision-maker. His father performed faculty ball at Baylor, and Johnson selected Texas to remain near residence, however scouts have quietly raised questions on his maturity at occasions. Nonetheless, his scoring instincts and upside as a three-level menace make him a possible steal within the mid-lottery.
Why the Nets Choose Tre Johnson:
Brooklyn enters the 2025 draft seeking scoring punch and perimeter creativity, and Tre Johnson checks each containers. With Cam Johnson, Ziaire Williams and Cam Thomas in place as off-ball scorers, Johnson brings a high-level shot creation part that may elevate the offense. His means to get buckets in any respect three ranges, work out of the pick-and-roll, and stretch the ground makes him a plug-and-play scoring choice. Whereas the Nets are nonetheless rebuilding, Johnson matches their younger core and timeline. His {smooth} mechanics and pure really feel as a scorer give Brooklyn a possible future 20-point-per-game choice, with the flexibility to play alongside a number of backcourt companions. This additionally marks a significant second for the franchise — the Nets are making their first lottery choose since 2010, a uncommon alternative to inject high-end expertise via the draft. With continued maturity and progress, Johnson may change into a foundational piece on the wing and one of many cornerstones of Brooklyn’s rebuild.
NBA Comparability: Brad Beal
7. Toronto Raptors
Nolan Traore
6’4″ 185 | PG | Saint-Quentin (France) | 2006
Nolan Traoré is a protracted, artful lead guard with intriguing long-term upside and mid-lottery potential within the 2025 NBA Draft. Hailing from Lyon, France, Traoré boasts glorious positional dimension at 6’5” with a 6’8” wingspan and an 8’6.25” standing attain—excellent measurables for an NBA level guard. Although nonetheless bodily growing at simply 185 kilos, added power ought to elevate his sport on each ends. Traoré averaged 11.2 PPG, 3.7 RPG, and 5.5 APG this season for Saint-Quentin in France’s prime league, exhibiting flashes of elite playmaking and courtroom imaginative and prescient. A pure facilitator, he thrives in transition and pick-and-roll conditions, persistently making high-level reads. Nevertheless, his capturing effectivity stays a priority. He related on simply 27% from three and 68% from the free-throw line, limiting his scoring influence. After a breakout 18-point efficiency on the 2024 Nike Hoop Summit, expectations skyrocketed—however his inconsistency this season cooled a few of that hype. Nonetheless, his really feel for the sport, size, and talent to create offense are engaging. If he can enhance his jumper and add power, Traoré has the instruments to be a high-level NBA guard. He may change into one of many draft’s larger steals if he slips exterior the lottery.
Why the Raptors Choose Nolan Traoré:
With Toronto shifting right into a longer-term rebuild centered round Scottie Barnes, the Raptors are prioritizing upside and flexibility at each place. Traoré matches that imaginative and prescient completely. Whereas nonetheless uncooked, his mix of dimension, imaginative and prescient, and pure level guard instincts provides Toronto a possible long-term lead ball handler to groom behind or alongside Immanuel Quickley. He brings a degree of playmaking and transition aptitude that the present roster lacks, and the Raptors have a powerful observe document of worldwide growth. His lack of capturing might restrict his short-term influence, however with time and bodily progress, he might be a high-reward funding — particularly for a workforce snug with long-term growth arcs.
NBA Comparability: Tony Parker
8. San Antonio Spurs
Thomas Sorber
6’10” 230 | C/PF | Georgetown | Fr.
Thomas Sorber is a talented, high-upside large man with an actual shot at cracking the mid-to-late lottery of the 2025 NBA Draft. Initially from Trenton, New Jersey, Sorber turned heads as a freshman together with his well-rounded manufacturing, averaging 14.5 PPG, 8.5 RPG, and a pair of.9 APG, whereas including 1.9 blocks per sport and capturing 72.4% from the road. Although he related on simply 16% from three, his contact and type recommend room for progress as a flooring spacer. What Sorber lacks in vertical pop or top-end athleticism, he makes up for with size, footwork, and basketball IQ. He has a terrific sense for positioning and timing, significantly as a rim protector and help-side defender. Offensively, he’s one of the superior passing bigs within the class, exhibiting consolation facilitating from the excessive put up and making fast reads. His imaginative and prescient and decision-making enable him to maintain the offense flowing with no need excessive utilization. Whereas his physique nonetheless wants refining — particularly by way of power and conditioning — Sorber’s mix of dimension, instincts, and playmaking give him sturdy long-term upside. With correct growth, he tasks as a contemporary 4/5 who can develop right into a excessive degree starter, with All Star potential.
Why the Spurs Choose Thomas Sorber:
San Antonio has the luxurious of constructing slowly round Victor Wembanyama, and a complementary put up participant like Sorber matches their forward-thinking imaginative and prescient. With this choose, the Spurs add a high-IQ, passing-savvy frontcourt associate who can function from the excessive put up and permit Wemby to drift extra freely as a weak-side disruptor. Sorber’s sport is based on really feel and decision-making — each key traits in San Antonio’s system. Whereas not a bounce out of the health club athlete, he brings a mature, team-oriented ability set and may profit tremendously from the Spurs’ world-class growth infrastructure. An extended-term frontcourt pairing of Sorber and Wembanyama might be a high-IQ, playmaking duo that offers Gregg Popovich loads of inventive lineup choices.
NBA Comparability: Vin Baker
9. Houston Rockets
Kon Knueppel
6’6″ 220 | SF/SG | Duke | Fr.
Knueppel is among the most expert and mentally robust prospects within the 2025 NBA Draft and is drawing severe lottery consideration. A local of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Knueppel performed for Phenom College on the EYBL circuit, the place he led all scorers with 22.5 PPG whereas capturing a blistering 47.5% from three. A highschool legend in Wisconsin, Knueppel dominated the nationwide scene and carried that poise into his freshman season at Duke. At 6’6” with a 6’9” wingspan and a 30-inch vertical, Knueppel might lack elite quickness, however he compensates with distinctive footwork, elite really feel, and basketball IQ. He averaged 14.4 PPG, 4.0 RPG, and a pair of.7 APG whereas capturing 40.6% from three and 91.4% from the road, serving to information Duke to the Last 4. A fierce competitor with high-level decision-making and underrated bodily power, Knueppel has been described by Coach Jon Scheyer because the “final warrior.” Even when his athletic limitations maintain him again defensively, his worst-case final result is a high-level capturing specialist. His ability, toughness, and confirmed profitable résumé give him a excessive flooring and powerful long-term worth.
Why the Rockets Choose Kon Knueppel:
Houston continues to reshape its identification underneath head coach Ime Udoka, putting a premium on toughness, self-discipline, and gamers who can assume the sport. Kon Knueppel checks all these containers. His elite capturing stroke, excessive basketball IQ, and willingness to embrace a team-first position make him a great cultural and schematic match. With dynamic guards like Jalen Inexperienced and Amen Thompson already in place, Knueppel’s means to house the ground, make fast selections, and convey physicality on each ends affords invaluable steadiness. Whereas he’s not an elite athlete, his toughness and aggressive edge will resonate with Udoka, and his mature, plug-and-play profile makes him a powerful addition to Houston’s rising younger core.
NBA Comparability: Chris Mullin
10. Portland Path Blazers
Derik Queen
6’10” 260 | C | Maryland | Fr.
Queen, a extremely expert and bodily large man from Baltimore, Maryland, has emerged as a potential lottery choose after a standout freshman season at Maryland. Measuring 6’10” with a 7’1” wingspan, Queen compensates for below-the-rim athleticism with glorious footwork, sturdy arms, and a terrific really feel for the sport. He selected Maryland to remain near residence and shortly turned the center of the workforce. Queen was a five-star recruit and McDonald’s All-American who dominated at Montverde Academy. A feisty, high-level competitor with superior face-up abilities and mushy contact, Queen thrives within the mid-post and is a talented passer for his place, persistently studying doubles and hitting cutters. He confirmed big-moment confidence, drilling a game-winning shot within the NCAA Event to knock out Colorado State. At Maryland, he averaged 16.5 PPG, 9.0 RPG, and 1.9 APG whereas capturing 76.6% from the road and 20% from three. Whereas not probably the most explosive athlete, his IQ, willpower, toughness, and offensive polish give him a excessive flooring and the potential to be a long-term NBA starter.
Why the Path Blazers Choose Derik Queen:
Portland chosen Donovan Clingan in an analogous draft vary (eighth) in 2024, and whereas the large 7’2” heart has proven actual promise as a rim protector and defensive anchor, the jury continues to be out on his long-term offensive ceiling. Queen would complement Clingan by bolstering Portland’s low-post scoring and including a high-IQ passing large who can function from the elbows or mid-post. His superior footwork and mushy contact may give the Blazers a singular offensive wrinkle, doubtlessly unlocking twin-tower lineups the place Queen serves because the offensive hub and Clingan holds down the paint on protection. With Portland’s backcourt set, including a flexible inside scorer and facilitator like Queen provides them flexibility and steadiness of their frontcourt rotation — and a extra dynamic long-term imaginative and prescient within the frontcourt.
NBA Comparability: Brad Miller
11. Miami Warmth
Rasheer Fleming
6’9″ 230 | PF | St. Joseph’s | Jr.
Rasheer Fleming, a flexible energy ahead, has emerged as a primary spherical prospect due to a powerful junior marketing campaign and main enchancment in his perimeter capturing. The Camden, New Jersey product averaged 14.7 PPG, 8.5 RPG, 1.3 APG, and 1.4 SPG—spectacular numbers, particularly the steals for a frontcourt participant, showcasing his defensive exercise and consciousness. The most important growth in Fleming’s sport has been his three-point shot. After inconsistent capturing in earlier seasons, he knocked down 62 of 159 from deep this yr—good for 39% on excessive quantity (practically two makes per sport). That capturing surge, mixed together with his athletic 6’9” body, nicely over 7-foot wingspan, and powerful bodily instruments, makes him an intriguing fashionable stretch-four prospect. Nevertheless, there are considerations. His scoring tapered off late within the season, and whereas productive, his numbers got here in opposition to Atlantic 10 competitors, which can barely deflate how scouts mission his influence on the subsequent degree. Nonetheless, his dimension, power, defensive instincts, and dependable capturing from past the arc give him translatable traits for at this time’s NBA. Fleming brings actual two-way potential and seems to nonetheless be imroving.. If the shot continues to carry, he may outperform his draft slot as a invaluable rotation ahead.
Why the Warmth Choose Rasheer Fleming:
At No. 11, Fleming would possibly elevate some eyebrows, however Miami has by no means been afraid to go in opposition to consensus once they discover a tradition match. The Warmth worth defensive toughness, capturing, and positional versatility — three traits Fleming brings in spades. His 7’2″ wingspan and talent to stretch the ground make him an enchanting developmental associate alongside Bam Adebayo. Miami’s frontcourt rotation wants dimension, exercise, and offensive spacing, and Fleming checks every of these containers. Along with his defensive instruments and dependable jumper, he profiles as a participant who can contribute early and develop right into a invaluable two-way piece in Miami’s system.
NBA Comparability: Obi Toppin
12. Dallas Mavericks
Asa Newell
6’9″ 220 | PF | Georgia | Fr.
Asa Newell is a protracted, fluid ahead with a excessive ceiling who may hear his title known as within the lottery of the 2025 NBA Draft. A former top-15 prospect within the 2024 class out of powerhouse Montverde Academy, Newell made an instantaneous influence as a freshman at Georgia. He averaged 15.4 PPG, 6.9 RPG, and 0.9 APG whereas capturing 29.2% from three and 74.8% from the free-throw line — each stable indicators of long-term capturing potential. With a 7’1” wingspan and spectacular leaping means, Newell brings the type of switchable size and athleticism that NBA groups covet in fashionable forwards. Although nonetheless growing bodily, he’s made noticeable strides in his power and willingness to rebound and take in contact. Whereas his manufacturing hasn’t all the time matched his expertise degree, Newell’s long-term instruments are simple. If he continues to fill out his body, play with better assertiveness, and broaden his offensive sport, he has the potential to change into a two-way influence participant on the subsequent degree — and one of many extra underrated prospects within the class heading into the pre-draft course of.
Why the Mavericks Choose Asa Newell:
Within the aftermath of buying and selling away Luka Dončić—a transfer that may hang-out the franchise for years—Dallas is desperately trying to find a brand new identification. With Anthony Davis battling accidents and nearing the twilight of his profession, the Mavericks’ entrance workplace, led by embattled GM Nico Harrison, faces intense strain to get this choose proper. Asa Newell affords a glimmer of hope. His size, athleticism, and two-way potential give Dallas a contemporary frontcourt piece to start rebuilding round. Whereas nonetheless uncooked, Newell brings the type of defensive versatility and stretch upside that matches at this time’s sport. He’s removed from a completed product, however his timeline aligns with a workforce clearly getting into a brand new period. If developed correctly, Newell may change into a cornerstone in Dallas’s lengthy climb again to relevance—and assist restore some credibility to a entrance workplace in want of redemption.
NBA Comparability: Drew Gooden
13. Chicago Bulls
Noa Essengue
6’10” 200 | SF/PF | ratiopharm Ulm (Germany) | France | 2006-born
Noa Essengue is a flexible combo ahead with long-term upside and is mostly seen as a possible mid-first spherical choose within the 2025 NBA Draft. Hailing from Orléans, France, and presently enjoying for ratiopharm Ulm in Germany, Essengue has impressed together with his size, versatility, and a growing offensive sport. At 6’10”, 200 kilos with a 9’3.25” standing attain, he possesses elite measurables for a contemporary ahead. At simply 18 years previous (born December 18, 2006), Essengue averaged 12.4 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 1.1 APG, and 1.6 SPG in professional competitors — spectacular for his age. Whereas his three-point capturing stays a piece in progress (29.4%), he’s proven regular enchancment and knocked down 73% from the free-throw line, a promising indicator for future growth. Essengue stands out for his ball-handling means at his dimension, permitting him to provoke in transition and assault closeouts. Defensively, he’s switchable with fast toes and energetic arms, producing steals and disrupting passing lanes. Whereas nonetheless uncooked in areas — significantly power and shot choice — his fluid athleticism, body, and two-way potential are exhausting to disregard. With continued ability growth, Essengue tasks as a high-ceiling ahead who can influence the sport on each ends. He’s one of the intriguing worldwide names within the draft class.
Why the Bulls Choose Noa Essengue:
With their frontcourt nonetheless taking form and the franchise searching for long-term upside, the Bulls swing on one of the intriguing worldwide prospects within the class. Noa Essengue affords a stark distinction to 2024 first-round choose Matas Buzelis, who profiles extra as a scorer and offensive shot creator. Essengue, however, brings elite defensive instruments, positional dimension, and connective traits as a ball mover and transition playmaker. His mixture of size, foot pace, and instincts provides Chicago a possible defensive anchor on the ahead spot — somebody who enhances Buzelis relatively than overlaps. Nonetheless uncooked bodily and offensively, Essengue’s skilled expertise at ratiopharm Ulm supplies a invaluable basis as he adapts to NBA pace and power. The Bulls can afford to be affected person, and if he develops as hoped, Essengue may type a high-upside ahead tandem with Buzelis, providing two-way versatility and long-term potential in Chicago’s evolving core.
NBA Comparability: Donyell Marshall
14. Atlanta Hawks (by way of Sacramento)
Egor Demin
6’8″ 200 | SF | BYU | Fr. | Russia
Egor Demin is among the most intriguing worldwide prospects within the 2025 NBA Draft and is firmly on the radar as a mid-first-round choose. Initially from Moscow, Russia, Demin performed for the Russian nationwide youth groups and Actual Madrid’s junior squad (for 3 seasons). At BYU, he struggled at occasions with consistency as a freshman, averaging 10.6 PPG, 3.9 RPG, and 5.5 APG whereas capturing 27.3% from three and 69.5% from the road. With a 6’9” body and a 7’0” wingspan, he affords a uncommon mixture of dimension and perimeter abilities. Demin brings superior ball-handling and playmaking means for his dimension — primarily some extent guard in a small ahead’s physique. His courtroom imaginative and prescient and passing, each in transition and the halfcourt, stand out, and he’s able to initiating offense or thriving as a secondary creator. His father, Vladimir, performed professionally in Russia, and that pedigree exhibits in Demin’s really feel and instincts. He selected BYU to develop underneath head coach Kevin Younger in an NBA-style system. To succeed in his potential, Demin should enhance his exterior capturing and play with extra consistency. Nonetheless, his distinctive ability set as a jumbo creator makes him one of many higher-upside swing prospects on this draft.
Why the Hawks Choose Egor Demin:
With a roster in transition and long-term questions surrounding Trae Younger’s future, Atlanta takes a swing on high-upside playmaking and positional dimension with Egor Demin. The 6’8” Russian guard affords uncommon versatility as a secondary creator with superior really feel, passing imaginative and prescient, and the flexibility to provoke offense in spurts. His tempo and unselfish model match nicely alongside Dejounte Murray and Atlanta’s growing wing core. Whereas Demin’s capturing wants refinement, his defensive instruments and basketball IQ give him a powerful developmental basis. For a Hawks workforce doubtlessly retooling on the fly, Demin affords long-term upside as a jumbo playmaker who can match quite a lot of lineup constructions and evolve right into a high-level connective piece.
NBA Comparability: Josh Giddey
15. San Antonio Spurs (by way of Atlanta)
Kasparas Jakucionis
6-5 190 SG/PG | Illinois | Fr.
Jakucionis (pronounced yah-KOO-cho-nis) is a talented, shot-making combo guard with a world pedigree and lottery potential. Initially from Vilnius, Lithuania, Jakucionis joined Illinois after beginning his profession within the FC Barcelona system, spending time with each the junior and senior membership. He averaged 15.0 PPG, 5.7 RPG, and 4.7 APG whereas capturing 31.8% from three and 84.5% from the free-throw line throughout his freshman marketing campaign. He began the yr on hearth, showcasing superior shot-making and positional versatility, earlier than his capturing numbers cooled late within the season. Jakucionis measured with a 6’5.5” body, 6’6” wingspan, and eight’3.5″ standing attain on the 2024 Nike Hoop Summit. Jakucionis performs with sturdy fundamentals and a mature strategy. Although he performed stretches at level guard in each Europe and faculty, he tasks extra as a combo or two-guard on the NBA degree because of his scoring instincts and restricted pace to defend ones. A high-level shooter with deep vary and assured mechanics, he should enhance at producing separation and creating high quality appears to be like off the bounce. Nonetheless, his really feel, scoring means, and adaptableness in several techniques make him one of many extra polished worldwide guards within the class with lottery upside.
Why the Spurs Choose Kasparas Jakucionis:
With their second choose within the prime 15, the Spurs pivot to the backcourt and land one of the polished worldwide guards within the class. Jakucionis brings poise, maturity, and floor-spacing means — all traits that complement San Antonio’s current younger core, significantly Victor Wembanyama. His ability set additionally matches seamlessly alongside athletic, defensive-minded guard Stephon Fort, giving the Spurs a balanced duo within the backcourt. Whereas Tre Jones affords regular level guard play, Jakucionis provides long-term worth as a combo guard who can play on or off the ball, stretch the ground, and make sound selections. His worldwide pedigree and really feel for the sport align completely with the Spurs’ observe document of growing abroad expertise. As San Antonio builds out a contemporary, unselfish offense, Jakucionis may emerge as a key piece who brings capturing, versatility, and regular two-way play.
NBA Comparability: Bogdan Bogdanovic
16. Orlando Magic
Nique Clifford
6-6 200 SG | Colorado State | Sr.
A late bloomer and native of Colorado Springs, Nique Clifford has emerged as a possible mid to late first-round choose within the 2025 NBA Draft after a breakout senior season. The 6’6” wing posted spectacular all-around numbers: 18.9 PPG, 9.6 RPG, 4.4 APG, and 0.8 SPG to 1.9 turnovers per sport, whereas capturing 49.6% from the sphere, 37.7% from three, and 77.7% from the road. Clifford is an explosive leaper and finishes nicely on the rim. He’s efficient attacking off the dribble and thrives in pick-and-roll conditions, exhibiting spectacular imaginative and prescient as a passer and luxury as a secondary ball-handler. Defensively, he’s a powerful on-ball presence with the scale and athleticism to protect a number of positions. Although he was as soon as thought-about a job participant, Clifford has steadily developed right into a authentic offensive focus and dependable flooring spacer. His 3-point capturing has come a good distance, including one other dimension to his sport. Born February 9, 2002, Clifford is already 23, which can restrict his perceived upside in comparison with youthful prospects. Nonetheless, his athleticism, versatility, and late-career progress recommend he may carve out a invaluable position early on the subsequent degree.
Why the Magic Choose Nique Clifford:
With an already stable defensive basis in place, Orlando continues to prioritize size, versatility, and maturity on the wing — and Nique Clifford matches that mould completely. The Magic are nonetheless searching for constant manufacturing from their perimeter rotation, and Clifford brings a dependable all-around sport: he can shoot, rebound, defend a number of positions, and create in secondary actions. His excessive IQ and unselfish strategy match nicely alongside Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, permitting him to contribute with no need excessive utilization. Although he’s one of many older prospects within the class, Clifford’s trajectory is clearly upward after a breakout senior yr. For a playoff-hopeful workforce like Orlando, he affords quick depth, toughness, and two-way influence in a rotation-ready position.
NBA Comparability: Eddie Jones
17. Minnesota Timberwolves (by way of Detroit)
Boogie Fland
6-2 180 PG | Arkansas | Fr.
Johnuel “Boogie” Fland, a dynamic level guard hailing from the “Boogie Down” Bronx, New York, entered the school season with mid-lottery-level buzz however noticed his draft inventory dip because of an harm that sidelined him for half the yr. As soon as he returned, he struggled to search out rhythm, although the flashes of elite playmaking remained evident. Regardless of his struggles, Fland nonetheless managed to common 13.5 PPG, 3.2 RPG, and 5.1 APG, exhibiting his means to regulate the sport as a lead guard. A former AAU standout, Fland constructed a popularity as a troublesome, hard-nosed competitor with glorious instincts and really feel for the sport. His electrical quickness and pure wiggle make him a troublesome cowl in isolation, and he’s among the finest passers within the class when absolutely wholesome. He additionally has a dependable floater sport, and his fast arms on protection result in deflections and steals. At 6’2”, he lacks elite dimension, however his instincts and toughness assist compensate. Whether or not he stays on this yr’s draft or returns for an additional season, Fland nonetheless carries NBA starter potential. If a workforce takes an opportunity on him within the mid-to-late first spherical, he may find yourself one of many steals of the draft class.
Why the Timberwolves Choose Boogie Fland:
Minnesota acquired Rob Dillingham with the eighth choose within the 2024 NBA Draft, however with veteran Mike Conley growing old and the long-term level guard spot nonetheless unsettled, including extra competitors and depth on the place is sensible. Boogie Fland provides the Timberwolves one other younger choice within the backcourt — one with big-game pedigree, quickness, and a excessive really feel for the sport. A Bronx native, Fland brings toughness and confidence that matches nicely in a gritty, defense-first system. He has the instruments to push Dillingham and finally emerge as both a lead creator or a dependable second-unit playmaker. If his shot stabilizes post-injury, Fland may change into a invaluable piece in Minnesota’s evolving guard rotation.
NBA Comparability: Cameron Payne
18. Miami Warmth (by way of Golden State)
Jase Richardson
6-3 180 SG/PG | Michigan State | Fr.
Richardson, a proficient lefty combo guard out of Las Vegas, is trending towards potential lottery standing within the 2025 NBA Draft after a powerful freshman season at Michigan State. The son of former NBA Slam Dunk Champion Jason Richardson, Jase overcame a knee harm in highschool however made a rapid and spectacular restoration, regaining his explosiveness and athleticism with out lacking a beat. Measuring 6’3” with a 6’8” wingspan, Richardson is an underrated athlete who flashes a few of the identical bounce and ending means that made his father a family title. Whereas primarily enjoying off the ball in highschool and faculty, he’s proven enchancment as a passer and decision-maker, although nonetheless must refine his flooring basic abilities to tackle full-time lead guard duties. At MSU, he posted 12.1 PPG, 3.3 RPG, and 1.9 APG whereas capturing 41.2% from three and 83.8% from the free-throw line. He’s confirmed to be a clutch performer, pulling down large photographs within the NCAA Event. Richardson’s scoring, athleticism, and basketball pedigree give him actual two-way NBA intrigue.
Why the Warmth Choose Jase Richardson:
With an growing old backcourt, Miami appears to be like to inject youth, toughness, and upside into its guard rotation. Jase Richardson matches the Warmth Tradition mould — he’s explosive, aggressive, and battle-tested. Whereas not a pure level guard, his athleticism, capturing contact, and defensive potential give the Warmth a flexible combo guard to groom behind their veteran core. His NBA bloodlines and resilience following a knee harm in highschool present the kind of character Miami covets. Richardson’s means to play on or off the ball provides invaluable flexibility, and his two-way potential may blossom in Miami’s growth system. He provides the Warmth a long-term weapon within the backcourt who can develop right into a key contributor.
NBA Comparability: Monta Ellis
19. Washington Wizards (by way of Memphis)
Will Riley
6-8 190 SG | Illinois | Fr.
Will Riley, a smooth-scoring wing from Canada, is among the extra intriguing long-term prospects within the 2025 NBA Draft class. A late reclass from the 2025 to 2024 highschool class, Riley dedicated to Illinois and maintained draft eligibility, although there’s nonetheless an opportunity he returns to high school relying on workforce suggestions. At 6’8” with a wiry 190-pound body, he boasts spectacular positional dimension and a cultured capturing stroke that has drawn early comparisons to NBA wings like Gradey Dick. In restricted motion as a freshman, Riley averaged 8.4 PPG, 2.7 RPG, and shot 36.9% from three, largely in a spot-up or secondary position. His sport stands out because of his off-ball motion, clear footwork into jumpers, and contact from midrange and past the arc. Riley wants so as to add important power to deal with the physicality of the NBA, and he’s nonetheless studying the best way to influence video games when his shot isn’t falling. Defensively, he has the size to be disruptive, however he lacks the power and lateral quickness proper now to protect prime scorers. Nonetheless, groups love his demeanor, capturing potential, and body — all indicators level to him turning into a invaluable long-term asset as soon as he matures bodily and positive factors expertise.
Why the Wizards Choose Will Riley:
Washington stays within the early phases of a full rebuild, and so they’ve prioritized high-upside, developmental prospects who can develop into long-term standouts. Will Riley matches that timeline completely. A smooth-shooting wing with glorious positional dimension, Riley provides the Wizards a possible future flooring spacer and off-ball scorer to pair with their younger backcourt. His capturing mechanics, really feel, and size align with Washington’s want to encompass their core with versatile scorers who can stretch the ground. Whereas he may have time within the G League so as to add power and modify to NBA pace, Riley affords sturdy long-term worth. For a franchise enjoying the lengthy sport, he’s the type of guess that would pay main dividends.
NBA Comparability: Gradey Dick
20. Brooklyn Nets (by way of Milwaukee)
Walter Clayton
6-2 190 PG/SG | Florida | Sr.
Walter Clayton Jr., a local of Lake Wales, Florida, proved himself as one among faculty basketball’s premier closers throughout Florida’s run to the nationwide championship. The 6’2” guard earned Most Excellent Participant honors after guiding the Gators with clutch scoring, poise, and management in key moments. He averaged 18.5 PPG, 3.7 RPG, and 4.1 APG, with 0.8 SPG and simply 1.9 turnovers per sport—showcasing effectivity and management as a combo guard. Clayton is a fearless late-game performer with a cultured scoring bundle. He shot 45.1% from the sphere, an elite 39.2% from three, and 87.1% on the free-throw line—proving himself as a high-level shot-maker in any respect three ranges. Whether or not pulling up from deep or attacking closeouts, Clayton thrives underneath strain and persistently hits large photographs. Whereas he brings toughness, confidence, and profitable intangibles, there are questions on his match on the subsequent degree. He lacks excellent dimension for a conventional level guard and might want to enhance his decision-making and general command of the offense to thrive in a lead position. Nonetheless, his elite capturing, clutch gene, and scoring instincts make him a powerful candidate for groups in want of backcourt firepower within the 20–25 vary of the primary spherical.
Why the Nets Choose Walter Clayton:
With a younger core nonetheless forming and the franchise searching for stability after years of roster turnover, the Nets seize one of the skilled and environment friendly guards within the class. Walter Clayton brings elite capturing, toughness, and late-game poise — traits Brooklyn sorely wants in its backcourt. Whereas Cam Thomas and Dennis Schröder present scoring in spurts, neither affords the reliable capturing or clutch shot-making Clayton brings. Although not a giant guard, he makes up for it with really feel, maturity, and aggressive hearth. Because the Nets look to construct a extra balanced and structured offense, Clayton provides them a low-maintenance, plug-and-play contributor who matches nicely alongside high-usage wings and supplies spacing, management, and clutch manufacturing.
NBA Comparability: Fred VanVleet
21. Utah Jazz (by way of Minnesota)
Tahaad Pettiford
6-1 180 PG | Auburn | Fr.
Tahaad Pettiford, a dynamic level guard from Jersey Metropolis, New Jersey, made a significant influence in his freshman season at Auburn, serving to lead the Tigers to a No. 1 general seed and a Last 4 look. Although he got here off the bench, Pettiford shortly emerged as one of the harmful instant-offense guards within the nation. He averaged 11.6 PPG, 2.2 RPG, 3.0 APG, and 0.9 SPG whereas capturing 42.1% from the sphere, 36.6% from three, and 80.4% from the road—environment friendly numbers for a freshman enjoying a key position on a loaded roster. Pettiford performs with jitterbug pace and elite shiftiness, utilizing his fast first step and superior ball-handling to interrupt down defenders. He has a ton of “wiggle” to his sport and thrives in house, each as a scorer and facilitator. A fearless competitor, Pettiford doesn’t draw back from large moments and introduced a spark each time he stepped on the ground. At simply 6’1”, dimension and defensive effectivity are considerations on the subsequent degree, however his quickness, shot-making, and creativity give him actual NBA worth. Projected as a late first-rounder, Pettiford is among the prime freshmen within the nation and a possible steal if his sport continues to evolve. His physique kind and ability set compares to a smaller Jeff Teague or Brandon Jennings kind for the NBA degree.
Why the Jazz Choose Tahaad Pettiford:
With this choose by way of Minnesota, the Jazz add some much-needed tempo and shot creation to their backcourt by deciding on one of the electrical freshman guards within the nation. Tahaad Pettiford’s lightning-quick first step and microwave scoring means supply one thing Utah presently lacks — a change-of-pace playmaker who can strain defenses off the dribble. Whereas his 6’1” body might restrict his defensive upside, his pace, aptitude, and capturing vary give him actual worth as a sparkplug off the bench or potential long-term scoring guard. With isaiah Collier entrenched as the present starter and Collin Sexton’s position unsure and Keyonte George nonetheless growing, Pettiford provides the Jazz one other younger choice to energise their offense behind and push tempo. If he continues to develop as a decision-maker, he may change into a dynamic contributor in Utah’s evolving backcourt rotation.
NBA Comparability: Jeff Teague
22. Atlanta Hawks (by way of LA Lakers)
Liam McNeeley
6-7 210 SF | UConn | Fr.
Liam McNeeley, a talented ahead from Richardson, Texas, enters the 2025 NBA Draft dialog as a possible late first-round choose due to his excessive basketball IQ, toughness, capturing mechanics, and really feel for the sport. In his freshman season, McNeeley averaged 14.5 PPG, 6.0 RPG, and a pair of.3 APG, together with 0.8 SPG and 1.9 turnovers per sport. He shot 31.7% from three, 86.6% from the road, and 38.1% from the sphere. McNeeley’s biggest power lies in his spot-up capturing and flooring spacing. Regardless of underwhelming percentages, his {smooth} mechanics and free throw accuracy recommend he tasks as a dependable shooter on the subsequent degree. He overcomes a evident lack of foot pace and vertical burst with sturdy fundamentals, high-level decision-making, and the flexibility to play inside an offense. His limitations change into extra obvious when attacking the rim or enjoying in transition, the place his athleticism doesn’t enable him to complete persistently or separate from defenders. A scarcity of a standout level guard teammate on the faculty degree additionally hindered his effectivity, typically forcing him into contested photographs. Whereas McNeeley isn’t a flashy prospect, his toughness, intelligence, and capturing give him a excessive flooring as a rotational wing who can contribute in a structured NBA system.
Why the Hawks Choose Liam McNeeley:
With this choose by way of the Lakers, Atlanta takes a swing on one of many smartest and most system-ready wings within the draft. Liam McNeeley might not be a high-flying athlete, however his basketball IQ, unselfish play, and capturing mechanics make him a powerful match alongside a younger core that features Jalen Johnson and Kobe Bufkin. With the Hawks doubtlessly pivoting towards a extra balanced and development-focused roster, McNeeley affords a plug-and-play choice who gained’t demand touches to be efficient. His means to stretch the ground, play inside construction, and make sound reads provides depth and spacing to Atlanta’s wing rotation. If his capturing percentages enhance with higher shot high quality, he may change into a gentle, high-floor contributor within the years forward.
NBA Comparability: Corey Kispert
23. Indiana Pacers
Khaman Maluach
7-2 260 C | Duke | Fr.
Khaman Maluach, a 7’2” heart from South Sudan, is among the most fascinating long-term prospects within the 2025 NBA Draft and will hear his title known as within the lottery. A product of the NBA Academy, his age is listed as simply 18, and he measured with a 7’6” wingspan and 9’6.5” standing attain on the 2024 Nike Hoop Summit — making him one of the bodily imposing gamers within the class. Whereas the 1.3 blocks per sport stat doesn’t leap off the web page, it fails to seize his game-changing influence as a rim protector. His size, instincts, and vertical timing persistently alter photographs and disrupt opponents’ decision-making across the rim. Offensively, his fluid free throw movement hints at long-term capturing potential, although most of his present manufacturing comes by way of alley-oops, drop-offs, and clean-up performs across the basket. He struggled within the Last 4, together with a zero-rebound sport in opposition to Houston — a pink flag for somebody together with his bodily instruments — and nonetheless wants refinement defending in house and in opposition to switches. Stability and power stay points, and he’ll want to enhance his core power to carry place in opposition to NBA bigs and end via contact. Nonetheless, Maluach’s ceiling is tantalizing, and his instruments, youth, and defensive upside make him a traditional swing-for-the-fences choose with legit starter potential.
Why the Pacers Choose Khaman Maluach:
With Tyrese Haliburton locked in because the franchise cornerstone, Indiana makes use of this choose to put money into a long-term rim protector who may anchor their protection for years to come back. Whereas Myles Turner continues to be productive, his future in Indiana is unsure, and Maluach supplies a possible successor with a very completely different bodily profile. At 7’2″ with a 7’6″ wingspan, Maluach has the elite size and defensive instincts to develop right into a game-changing inside presence. Although nonetheless uncooked offensively, his contact on the free-throw line hints at future stretch potential. The Pacers don’t want an instantaneous contributor right here — making this the right spot to take a high-upside swing on a participant who, if developed correctly, may change into the defensive spine of a playoff workforce.
NBA Comparability: Jakob Poeltl
24. Orlando Magix (by way of Denver)
Hugo Gonzalez
6-6 200 SG | Actual Madrid | 2006 | Spain
Hugo González is a proficient Spanish wing with long-term lottery potential, although he presently tasks as a mid-to-late first-round choose within the 2025 NBA Draft. Born February 5, 2006, in Madrid, Spain, González has been a standout in his age group for years, incomes recognition for his {smooth} offensive sport and talent to create in isolation. At 6’7” with a reported 6’10” wingspan and a 36-inch vertical, González has the bodily instruments to thrive on the wing on the subsequent degree. Taking part in restricted minutes (12.6 MPG) for Actual Madrid’s powerhouse senior workforce, he averaged 4.6 PPG whereas capturing simply 27% from three on low quantity—highlighting the necessity for continued growth and confidence in his perimeter shot. Regardless of the numbers, his flashes are simple. González is fluid with the ball, has a inventive deal with, and performs with a aptitude that’s uncommon for his age. His father Paco González performed professionally in Spain, and that basketball background is clear in his courtroom consciousness and pure really feel. Nonetheless simply 18 years previous, he stays a high-upside worldwide prospect. Whether or not he retains his title within the draft or returns for additional seasoning, González is seen as a long-term funding who may reward endurance with actual two-way potential.
Why the Magic Choose Hugo González:
With a deep and versatile core already in place, Orlando makes use of this choose to take a long-view swing on one of the naturally gifted worldwide wings within the class. González brings size, fluidity, and on-ball creativity — traits that would finally add a dynamic layer to the Magic’s wing rotation behind Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero. Whereas his exterior shot continues to be growing, his means to deal with in house, make instinctive reads, and contribute defensively provides him intriguing long-term worth. Coming from Actual Madrid’s elite growth system, González has been battle-tested in a high-level professional atmosphere. With Orlando in no rush, this is a perfect touchdown spot for him to develop at his personal tempo whereas offering flashes of upside off the bench.
NBA Comparability: Rudy Fernandez
25. Oklahoma Metropolis Thunder (From LA Clippers)
Yaxel Lendeborg
6-9 240 PF/C | UAB | Sr. | Puerto Rico
Hailing from Pennsauken, New Jersey, and born in Puerto Rico, Yaxel Lendeborg has turned heads together with his versatile stat line this previous season: 17.7 PPG, 11.4 RPG, and 4.2 APG, coupled with 1.7 SPG to only 2.2 turnovers. Regardless of not being particularly quick or explosive, Lendeborg makes use of his spectacular 7’2” wingspan to snare rebounds, disrupt passing lanes, and generate steals. He shot 52.2% from the sphere, 35.7% from three, and 75.7% on the foul line — stable numbers that point out each effectivity and capturing potential. A high-IQ passer, Lendeborg excels find open teammates, significantly from the excessive put up or off dribble handoffs. His size additionally makes him a menace in transition, the place he can end above defenders or provoke offense on the transfer. Nevertheless, questions stay about how his sport will translate in opposition to elite-level athletes. He often goes chilly from the perimeter and should carry out nicely in exercises to solidify his draft inventory. Regardless of being 22 years of age, Lendeborg’s size and ability set give him intriguing upside, however scouts will wish to see him show that he can deal with extra bodily, fast-paced competitors. He faces a pivotal resolution: return to school and showcase his growth at his new switch vacation spot, Michigan, or maintain his title within the draft and pursue a possible long-term assured NBA contract. If he can present consistency and keep give attention to each ends, he has the instruments to emerge as a invaluable, do-it-all ahead on the subsequent degree.
Why the Thunder Choose Yaxel Lendeborg:
Oklahoma Metropolis continues to prioritize versatility, size, and basketball IQ — and Yaxel Lendeborg checks all these containers. A do-it-all ahead with rebounding instincts, passing chops, and defensive versatility, Lendeborg provides the Thunder one other connective piece who can thrive in a number of roles with out dominating touches. His means to defend a number of positions, function from the excessive put up, and push the tempo matches seamlessly into OKC’s fashionable, free-flowing system. Whereas he might not be a knockdown shooter or rim protector, his really feel, exercise, and toughness make him a great depth piece behind Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams. At this stage within the draft, OKC bets on basketball substance and system match over flash.
NBA Comparability: Kyle Anderson
26. Brooklyn Nets {by way of New York}
Joan Beringer
6-10 230 C | France | 2006
Joan Beringer, a promising younger heart from Montpellier, France, has steadily gained buzz as a possible first-rounder within the 2025 NBA Draft because of his instruments, mobility, and inside presence. At 6’10” with a 7’2” wingspan and a projectable body, Beringer has impressed scouts together with his motor, rebounding, and shot-blocking means in French junior league and U21 competitors. This previous season, he averaged 10.8 PPG, 7.6 RPG, and 1.9 BPG in 22 minutes per sport whereas capturing 58% from the sphere, primarily scoring off putbacks, dump-offs, and rim rolls. His bodily traits and defensive timing pop on movie — he alters photographs, slides nicely for his dimension, and performs with excessive power. Offensively, nonetheless, Beringer stays restricted. He lacks a dependable jumper and has but to indicate superior contact or really feel on post-ups. There’s skepticism in scouting circles that the worldwide hype surrounding him could also be a bit untimely. Whereas he flashes some brief roll passing and has respectable arms, his means to develop right into a reliable scoring choice continues to be a query mark. Nonetheless, for groups just like the Knicks searching for athletic, defensive-minded bigs with upside, Beringer affords long-term potential if given time and construction to develop.
Why the Nets Choose Joan Beringer:
With their third first-round choose, the Brooklyn Nets proceed their youth-focused rebuild by deciding on French heart Joan Beringer. At 6’11” with a 7’3″ wingspan, Beringer affords elite bodily instruments and defensive upside that align with Brooklyn’s long-term imaginative and prescient. His mobility and rim safety talents make him a promising match within the Nets’ switch-heavy defensive schemes. Whereas his offensive sport continues to be growing, his excessive motor and rebounding instincts present quick worth. Given the Nets’ depth in draft belongings and dedication to participant growth, they’ll afford to be affected person with Beringer, permitting him to develop into a possible rotational anchor within the frontcourt. This choice underscores Brooklyn’s technique of investing in high-upside expertise to construct a sustainable and aggressive roster for the longer term.
NBA Comparability: Yves Missi
27. Brooklyn Nets (From Houston)
Collin Murray-Boyles
6-7 250 PF | South Carolina | So.
A local of Columbia, South Carolina, Collin Murray-Boyles has garnered important consideration after a extremely productive sophomore season at South Carolina. The 6’7” ahead averaged 16.8 PPG, 8.3 RPG, 2.4 APG, and 1.5 SPG whereas capturing a powerful 58.6% from the sphere. Nevertheless, his exterior shot stays a query mark—he related on simply 26.5% from three and 70.7% from the free-throw line. Murray-Boyles performs with a bodily, bully-ball model on offense, utilizing his 7’0” wingspan to create house and end across the rim. He’s efficient in isolation, typically making the most of slower or undersized defenders with highly effective drives and artful footwork. Within the put up, he’s robust to maneuver and exhibits sturdy contact regardless of missing high-end explosiveness. Defensively, he’s stable however not a standout. His pace and lateral quickness are common, limiting his versatility on that finish regardless of his wingspan. At 6’7”, he’s considerably of a tweener who doesn’t but have the capturing consistency to stretch the ground or the quickness to protect wings full-time. Born June 10, 2005, he’s nonetheless younger and has room to develop, however questions on his positional match and lack of elite bodily instruments make his first-round standing curious with out additional growth.
Why the Nets Choose Collin Murray-Boyles:
With their fourth first-round choose within the 2025 NBA Draft, the Brooklyn Nets proceed to prioritize versatility and high-upside expertise by deciding on Collin Murray-Boyles. The 6’7″ ahead from South Carolina brings a singular mix of power, contact, and ending means across the rim, offering an inside scoring presence to enhance the Nets’ perimeter-oriented assault. His physicality and high-efficiency ending might be particularly invaluable off the bench in playoff settings the place toughness is paramount. Whereas not but a floor-spacing menace, Murray-Boyles’ potential to develop a dependable exterior shot makes him an intriguing mission. Given Brooklyn’s depth of draft belongings and dedication to participant growth, they’ll afford to be affected person, banking on inside progress to show him into a flexible rotation piece who can play alongside or behind their current frontcourt choices.
NBA Comparability: Grant Williams
28. Boston Celtics
Carter Bryant
6-8 220 SF | Arizona | Fr.
Bryant, a high-upside wing from Riverside, California, is among the extra polarizing prospects within the 2025 NBA Draft class. As a freshman, he averaged 6.5 PPG, 4.1 RPG, and 1.0 APG, together with 0.9 SPG whereas capturing 46.0% from the sphere, 37.1% from three, and 69.5% from the road. His stats mirror each his promise and his rawness—he flashes NBA-level instruments however has but to indicate the flexibility to influence persistently in a much bigger position. An explosive above-the-rim athlete, Bryant passes the attention take a look at with flying colours. His lengthy body and leaping means make him a prototypical NBA wing, and his capturing mechanics and 3-point effectivity—albeit on restricted makes an attempt—recommend actual potential as a flooring spacer. Nevertheless, questions stay about his general focus, toughness, and motor, as he struggled to earn constant minutes and infrequently pale in bodily matchups. Bryant tasks as a swing-for-the-fences prospect with coveted 3-and-D upside. His excessive ceiling is clear, however so is the danger. With restricted freshman manufacturing, he’s not a completed product, however there’s a rising consensus he’ll land within the 20s if he declares. If he places all of it collectively, Bryant may find yourself as a late-blooming steal on the subsequent degree.
Why the Celtics Choose Carter Bryant:
Boston is in win-now mode however has a deep sufficient roster to take a flier on a high-upside mission like Bryant. With Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown locked into long-term offers, the Celtics can afford to develop a uncooked wing behind them. Bryant’s elite athleticism, body, and promising capturing contact give him actual long-term upside as a two-way contributor. Within the brief time period, he can be taught underneath veteran wings and play a restricted position. In the long run, Boston hopes his bodily instruments and ability set evolve right into a invaluable rotational piece. He’s a traditional late-first-round swing on instruments and potential.
NBA Comparability: Peyton Watson
29. Phoenix Suns (From Cleveland)
Chaz Lanier
6-5 200 SG | Tennessee | Sr.
Lanier has emerged as a possible first-round choose due to his nice scoring means, maturity, and elite capturing contact. Initially from Nashville, Tennessee, Lanier performed for Workforce CP3 on the AAU circuit and was flippantly recruited out of highschool earlier than his faculty profession at North Florida. After transferring to Tennessee, as a fifth-year senior, he shortly turned one of the environment friendly perimeter scorers within the SEC. Lanier averaged 18.0 PPG, 3.9 RPG, and 1.1 APG whereas capturing 39.5% from three and 75.8% from the free-throw line. A knockdown shooter with deep vary and supreme confidence, Lanier thrives in catch-and-shoot conditions and strikes nicely with out the ball. His shot options an unorthodox, low launch, however it’s fast and constant sufficient to make it efficient on the subsequent degree. At 6’4”, he has respectable however not excellent dimension for an NBA capturing guard and isn’t a pure shot creator or playmaker. His age—already 23—additionally caps his long-term upside. He struggled with effectivity through the NCAA Event in opposition to high-level defenders, which raised some considerations. Nonetheless, Lanier’s management, focus, and toughness stand out. He profiles as an instantaneous bench scorer who can stretch the ground, play inside a system, and supply dependable capturing in a contemporary NBA offense.
Why the Suns Choose Chaz Lanier:
After a disappointing 36–46 season that noticed Phoenix miss the playoffs regardless of a record-setting payroll, the Suns are in dire want of cost-effective contributors who could make an instantaneous influence. With restricted draft capital because of earlier trades, they make the most of this late first-round choose to safe Chaz Lanier, a mature and environment friendly scorer from Tennessee. Lanier averaged 18.0 factors per sport whereas capturing practically 40% from three-point vary and over 75% from the free-throw line, showcasing his means to stretch the ground and supply constant scoring. His off-ball motion and catch-and-shoot proficiency make him a great match alongside high-usage stars like Devin Booker and Bradley Beal, providing the Suns a dependable perimeter menace who doesn’t require the ball to be efficient. Whereas Lanier might not possess the best ceiling in comparison with different prospects, his polished sport, toughness, and basketball IQ align nicely with Phoenix’s quick wants. His addition may assist stabilize the Suns’ rotation and supply invaluable bench scoring, addressing one of many workforce’s vital weaknesses from the earlier season.
NBA Comparability: Chris Duarte
30. LA Clippers (by way of Oklahoma Metropolis)
Noah Penda
6-6 215 SF | France | 2005
Penda, a flexible combo ahead born in Paris and raised in Bondy, France, has emerged as a potential first-round choose. A high-IQ, unselfish participant, Penda is averaging 10.0 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 2.5 APG, and 1.4 SPG whereas capturing 51.7% from the sphere, 29.2% from three, and 75.3% from the free-throw line. Penda thrives within the “connector” position—he’s not a major scorer, however he makes profitable performs, retains the ball shifting, and finds methods to contribute on each ends. Defensively, he’s one of many higher perimeter-stopping forwards in his class, with the power and foot pace to protect a number of positions. His versatility and motor make him a high-floor prospect, significantly interesting to playoff groups in want of energetic position gamers who perceive their position. Offensively, he’s nonetheless growing as a shooter, and his perimeter shot stays inconsistent. Nevertheless, his passing and talent to make reads on the transfer assist him to contribute even when he’s not scoring. Born January 7, 2005, Penda nonetheless has room to develop, however his ceiling isn’t as excessive as a few of the flashier prospects. Nonetheless, his defensive upside and team-first mentality make him a pretty late-first or early second-round goal.
Why the Clippers Choose Noah Penda:
With James Harden and Kawhi Leonard main the Clippers into the postseason, Los Angeles seeks a complementary piece who can contribute instantly with out requiring excessive utilization. Noah Penda, a 6’8″ ahead from France, matches this mould completely. Famend for his defensive versatility and excessive basketball IQ, Penda excels in off-ball protection, utilizing sensible positioning and anticipation to disrupt opposing offenses. Offensively, he affords connective playmaking and efficient chopping, although his three-point capturing stays inconsistent. His expertise in France’s prime league with Le Mans Sarthe Basket has ready him for the NBA’s physicality and tempo. Given the Clippers’ want for cost-effective, high-floor gamers, Penda presents a low-maintenance choice who aligns with their emphasis on switchable protection and unselfish play, making him a strategic addition to a contending roster.
NBA Comparability: Boris Diaw
