With the 2025 NBA Finals concluded and draft week officially beginning, insider speculation and predictions are heating up. Most analysts anticipate that Cooper Flagg from Duke and Dylan Harper from Rutgers will be the first two players selected, heading to the Dallas Mavericks at No. 1 and the San Antonio Spurs at No. 2, respectively. However, the draft picture becomes less clear immediately after these top spots.
As teams gather ahead of the two-day event starting Wednesday at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, the Philadelphia 76ers hold a crucial position with the third pick. VJ Edgecombe is widely considered the likely selection for Philadelphia, although there`s potential for Ace Bailey`s draft stock to shift.
Trade discussions are actively shaping the draft landscape. A notable recent development was the trade sending Kevin Durant from the Suns to the Houston Rockets. As part of this deal, Phoenix acquired the No. 10 pick in the upcoming draft, along with Jalen Green and Dillon Brooks.
Draft analysts are continually updating projections based on the latest team intelligence and player evaluations, with this mock draft version reflecting the most current information available leading up to the draft.
First round
1. Dallas Mavericks
Cooper Flagg, SF/PF, Duke
Freshman | TS%: 60.0
Height without shoes: 6-7¾ | Weight: 221
Standing reach: 8-10½ | Wingspan: 7-0
Cooper Flagg recently visited the Mavericks in Dallas, making a strong positive impression on the team`s leadership. His selection with the first overall pick is widely expected, seen as a significant stroke of luck for Dallas in the draft lottery. Flagg, set to debut in the NBA at just 18 years old, is anticipated to contribute immediately to a Mavericks team aiming for competitiveness in the 2025-26 season. Dallas hopes his integration into a playoff-contending environment will accelerate his development. With Kyrie Irving recovering from an ACL injury, Flagg could help address a potential playmaking need early on. The league will closely watch the immediate impact of Flagg`s versatile two-way game, given the high expectations surrounding his arrival.
2. San Antonio Spurs
Dylan Harper, PG/SG, Rutgers
Freshman | TS%: 59.3
Height without shoes: 6-4½ | Weight: 213
Standing reach: 8-6 | Wingspan: 6-10½
Dylan Harper is considered virtually certain to be the second pick. Competing teams report that the Spurs have shown no willingness to discuss trading this pick, indicating their commitment to adding him as a foundational piece alongside Victor Wembanyama. Harper has met with the Spurs both in San Antonio and privately, reportedly showing considerable enthusiasm for joining the franchise`s effort to return to championship contention.
At 19 years old, Harper`s combination of physical size, ability to create shots, creative passing, effective finishing, and innate scoring sense makes him the kind of lead guard and offensive initiator highly valued in the modern NBA. His solid build suggests he is well-suited to handle the physical demands of playoff basketball. The difficulty in acquiring players with these characteristics is a key reason the Spurs are reluctant to pass on this opportunity.
3. Philadelphia 76ers
VJ Edgecombe, SG, Baylor
Freshman | TS%: 56.1
Height without shoes: 6-4 | Weight: 193
Standing reach: 8-5½ | Wingspan: 6-7½
VJ Edgecombe appears to be the leading candidate for the No. 3 selection, driven by his distinctive talent. This is also influenced by Ace Bailey`s apparent preference to avoid being drafted by teams in this draft range, potentially creating a challenging situation for the 76ers if they were to select a player who visibly prefers another destination.
While sources indicate Edgecombe seemed somewhat anxious during his private workout in Philadelphia and didn`t perform optimally in the isolated one-on-one setting, his demeanor in interviews and meetings left a strong positive impression, which the front office reportedly values highly.
Similar to Harper in San Antonio, Edgecombe`s immediate fit in Philadelphia`s backcourt alongside Tyrese Maxey and Jared McCain might not be seamless. Nevertheless, his high-level explosiveness offers significant untapped potential, complemented by glimpses he has shown of skill as a passer, shooter, and defender.
4. Charlotte Hornets
Kon Knueppel, SG/SF, Duke
Freshman | TS%: 64.8
Height without shoes: 6-5 | Weight: 219
Standing reach: 8-5½ | Wingspan: 6-6¼
If VJ Edgecombe, reportedly highly regarded by the Hornets, is selected at No. 3, Charlotte would likely consider trade-down options or choose from prospects including Knueppel, Jeremiah Fears, Ace Bailey, and Tre Johnson. The fact that Fears and Bailey have not worked out for the Hornets does not seem to be a major deterrent for their decision-making process.
Rival organizations anticipate that Charlotte will ultimately prioritize Knueppel`s exceptional perimeter shooting, playmaking abilities, and leadership qualities, seeing him as a strong complement to players like LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller. Selecting Knueppel would represent a safer choice for the Hornets after taking a higher-risk swing with Tidjane Salaun at No. 6 in the previous year`s draft.
Knueppel scores well in analytics-based draft evaluations. However, the Hornets may contemplate whether they could still secure him if they decide to trade down a few spots to accumulate additional draft assets.
5. Utah Jazz
Jeremiah Fears, PG, Oklahoma
Freshman | TS%: 57.0
Height without shoes: 6-2½ | Weight: 179
Standing reach: 8-2½ | Wingspan: 6-5¼
Under new leadership with Austin Ainge, it`s improbable the Jazz will be bound by previous draft selections who haven`t definitively established themselves as long-term core players.
Given the Jazz`s significant need for high-end talent, taking a chance on a player like Fears makes strategic sense. He had a remarkable season at Oklahoma, especially considering he was one of the youngest players in college basketball at 18. His blend of size, speed, control of game pace, shooting ability, and shot creation offers substantial long-term potential. Fears can drive to nearly any spot on the court to create opportunities for teammates, make difficult finishes, or draw fouls.
The Jazz had their first direct evaluation of Fears in a private workout recently. He is also reportedly attracting considerable interest from New Orleans and Brooklyn, holding picks No. 7 and 8, should he not be selected earlier. Charlotte, at No. 4, is also rumored to be considering him despite already having a starting point guard in LaMelo Ball.
6. Washington Wizards
Ace Bailey, SG/SF, Rutgers
Freshman | TS%: 54.0
Height without shoes: 6-7½ | Weight: 202
Standing reach: 8-11 | Wingspan: 7-0½
Ace Bailey, ranked as the No. 3 prospect on our big board, is notably the only top U.S. prospect who has not yet visited an NBA team facility. He has reportedly declined workout invitations from Philadelphia, Charlotte, and Utah, seemingly preferring teams outside the top five, specifically Washington, New Orleans, and Brooklyn (picks 6, 7, and 8). This potential draft slide could cost him a substantial amount in his initial contract.
Bailey`s representation has stated they are “confident going into the draft process.” This is generally interpreted by NBA teams to mean he has received some level of assurance from a team perceived as a more favorable long-term situation, considering factors like location, playing time, role, opportunity for development, and organizational fit.
This situation is not without precedent; last year, Alex Sarr reportedly discouraged Atlanta from considering him at No. 1 and subsequently fell to Washington at No. 2, as he had hoped. Despite some negative attention, rival agents are closely observing Bailey`s strategy, recognizing the potential benefits of guiding clients towards situations that maximize their earning potential over their careers, potentially offsetting initial losses with a larger second contract if they reach their high ceiling as All-Star caliber wings who can create their own shot.
7. New Orleans Pelicans
Tre Johnson, SG, Texas
Freshman | TS%: 56.1
Height without shoes: 6-4¾ | Weight: 190
Standing reach: 8-5 | Wingspan: 6-10¼
Many teams have viewed Tre Johnson as having a relatively narrow range of potential landing spots, typically between picks No. 4 and 6. However, scenarios exist, such as this one, where he might fall outside that group.
In this projection, Jeremiah Fears moves into the top five, and Ace Bailey lands in Washington, which appears to be a preferred destination for him, resulting in Johnson sliding down the board. The Pelicans are known to have interest in both Bailey and Fears. Some observers around the league have speculated whether New Orleans might attempt to trade up, especially after acquiring the No. 23 pick recently. However, the Pelicans also have the option to simply wait at No. 7 and select the best player available from this tier who falls to them.
On paper, Johnson appears to be a good fit for New Orleans, aligning with their need for additional perimeter shooting and younger backcourt talent, particularly given Dejounte Murray`s injury and CJ McCollum entering the final year of his contract at age 34. Beyond team needs, there is a strong argument for him as the best talent available at this pick, considering his proven scoring ability.
Khaman Maluach is another prospect reportedly under consideration by the Pelicans here, as his ability to protect the rim could add a new defensive dimension to the team.
8. Brooklyn Nets
Khaman Maluach, C, Duke
Freshman | TS%: 74.7
Height without shoes: 7-0¾ | Weight: 252
Standing reach: 9-6 | Wingspan: 7-6¾
Khaman Maluach is squarely in consideration for both New Orleans and Brooklyn. However, some teams believe he is the most likely player among the secondary group (picks 3-8) to drop slightly if an unexpected pick occurs higher in the draft, although perhaps only a few spots down.
Maluach addresses a clear need sought by many teams: a traditional center capable of anchoring the defense in the paint, possessing significant potential for physical and skill development. He plays with intense effort and is highly regarded by coaches and teammates for his exceptional character and off-court qualities.
His capacity for rim protection, ability to defend across various pick-and-roll coverages, and effectiveness as a vertical threat as a roller and cutter, combined with his aggressive transition running, will be highly appealing to any team looking to build around a center long-term.
9. Toronto Raptors
Noa Essengue, PF, Ratiopharm Ulm
Germany | TS%: 61.1
Essengue`s pre-draft process in the U.S. has been postponed because his European season with Ulm is still ongoing, with his team potentially playing in the championship series until late June. Regardless of when he arrives in the U.S., he is not expected to conduct any private workouts for NBA teams.
The Raptors` intentions in the draft are difficult for rival teams to predict, partly due to the wide range of prospects considered in this tier and their roster composition, which has considerable depth at most positions except perhaps center. Essengue`s length, mobility, and defensive versatility would naturally fit the Raptors` organizational profile, even if his inconsistent perimeter shooting might pose spacing challenges alongside players like Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram.
His youth, physical tools, instincts on both ends of the floor, and rapid improvement throughout the season suggest a high potential ceiling that certain teams in this portion of the draft may be eager to develop.
10. Phoenix Suns (via Houston)
Collin Murray-Boyles, PF/C, South Carolina
Sophomore | TS%: 64.0
Height without shoes: 6-6½ | Weight: 239
Standing reach: 8-10 | Wingspan: 7-0¾
Pinpointing Collin Murray-Boyles` exact draft range is challenging, with most projections placing him between picks No. 10 and 16, a range that includes analytically-inclined teams like Atlanta, Oklahoma City, and Memphis. NBA teams report that Murray-Boyles scores historically well in their draft models, thanks to his strong passing, ability to draw fouls, efficiency on 2-point shots, defensive playmaking, and relative youth, traits appealing to several teams in this range.
Murray-Boyles` toughness, unselfishness, defensive versatility, and playmaking provide him with a relatively high floor as a prospect, although his lack of ideal size and consistent perimeter shooting might make him a situational fit depending on lineup configurations.
On Sunday, the Suns finalized a major trade, sending Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets in exchange for Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, the 10th pick in this year`s draft, and multiple future second-round selections. Given the Suns` pressing need to bolster their frontcourt, particularly after trading their starting power forward in Durant, Murray-Boyles is likely a player they will seriously consider if they keep the pick, alongside more traditional big men prospects like Derik Queen.
11. Portland Trail Blazers
Carter Bryant, SF/PF, Arizona
Freshman | TS%: 59.9
Height without shoes: 6-6½ | Weight: 214
Standing reach: 8-10 | Wingspan: 6-11¾
Carter Bryant has had a positive pre-draft evaluation period and is projected to be selected late in the lottery. He has drawn interest from Phoenix (after their trade into No. 10), and both Portland at No. 11 and Atlanta at No. 13 are closely linked as potential destinations. The Trail Blazers seem set at the center position long-term with Donovan Clingan and also have Deandre Ayton under contract, positioning them to focus on selecting the best available talent here. They have worked out many prospects projected in this range. Bryant would provide them with additional shooting, perimeter size, and positional flexibility, potentially playing behind Deni Avdija and Toumani Camara.
While Bryant is not expected to be a primary self-creator of offense in the immediate future, his ability to shoot effectively from long range, contribute as a passer, and defend multiple positions with his excellent physical attributes offers a realistic path to becoming a consistent contributor in NBA lineups.
12. Chicago Bulls
Kasparas Jakucionis, PG, Illinois
Freshman | TS%: 59.8
Height without shoes: 6-4¾ | Weight: 205
Standing reach: 8-3½ | Wingspan: 6-7¾
Given that few teams in this draft range have urgent needs for backcourt players, and the uncertainty surrounding potential trades, it has been challenging for some teams to confidently project a landing spot for Kasparas Jakucionis. Most forecasts place him between picks No. 11 and 14, with Portland and Chicago considered probable destinations, although there`s also anticipated interest from teams selecting within the top 10.
Chicago has a more pronounced need for frontcourt depth, particularly with Nikola Vucevic entering the final year of his contract and no established long-term centers on the roster. Prospects like Joan Beringer, Derik Queen, Danny Wolf, and Thomas Sorber are reportedly among the big men the Bulls are evaluating.
However, the Bulls are undergoing a strategic re-evaluation of their roster. Josh Giddey`s contract status requires attention, Matas Buzelis is emerging, and several other guards could become trade candidates. There is a compelling argument to simply draft the best player available at this pick, and Jakucionis makes a strong case in that scenario. His unselfish approach, playmaking abilities, and size which allows him to play both on and off the ball, make him a relatively adaptable fit for most teams, with considerable long-term potential given he recently turned 19.
13. Atlanta Hawks (via Sacramento)
Egor Demin, PG/SG, BYU
Freshman | TS%: 51.3
Height without shoes: 6-9¼ | Weight: 199
Standing reach: 8-9½ | Wingspan: 6-10¼
Egor Demin is another prospect whose draft range is difficult to predict definitively, having conducted workouts for the majority of teams selecting in the top 20. Teams view him as a potential candidate for Toronto, Portland, and Chicago, and he is considered a dark horse possibility for Brooklyn. However, it is plausible he could slip past this group, at which point a team like the Hawks might simply opt to draft him as the best available talent and swing for his upside.
Holding both the 13th and 22nd picks, the Hawks possess flexibility to move around in the draft order. If they remain at their current spots, they are positioned to select the best available player at each pick, potentially addressing different positional needs. Other players linked to Atlanta include Carter Bryant and several big men in this range, including Beringer, Murray-Boyles, and others.
Given his size, Demin`s potential as a versatile perimeter playmaker is particularly noteworthy within this draft class. The progression of his jump shot, which he has actively worked to demonstrate in private workouts, is one of the most critical skills determining his potential impact at the NBA level.
14. San Antonio Spurs (via Atlanta)
Joan Beringer, C, Cedevita Olimpija
Adriatic | TS%: 61.5
Height without shoes: 6-11 | Weight: 235
Standing reach: 9-3 | Wingspan: 7-4½
Joan Beringer has had a busy pre-draft schedule since concluding his season in Slovenia and arriving in the U.S., working out for Chicago, Brooklyn, San Antonio, Atlanta, Memphis, Minnesota, and Houston, effectively covering the range of picks from No. 8 to 19. The Spurs appear to be taking a deliberate approach to roster construction. At this stage of the draft, they might look to strengthen their frontcourt depth, adding another rim protector to pair with Victor Wembanyama and solidify their interior defense.
Beringer`s official measurements, taken recently, show he has grown significantly in the past year, now standing over 7 feet in shoes. His physical dimensions are comparable to those of Jaren Jackson Jr. and Myles Turner at the same age, which helps explain why he is considered the top shot-blocking prospect in the draft class.
15. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Miami)
Derik Queen, C, Maryland
Freshman | TS%: 60.0
Height without shoes: 6-9¼ | Weight: 247
Standing reach: 9-1½ | Wingspan: 7-0½
Derik Queen`s performance on the workout circuit has elicited mixed reactions from teams, with ongoing questions regarding his conditioning, shooting mechanics, and intensity level. Although widely recognized as the most skilled offensive big man in this class, he seemingly hasn`t maximized certain controllable aspects, which has limited his upward movement during the pre-draft period.
Following the Suns` acquisition of the 10th pick, Queen`s realistic draft range appears to commence around No. 10 and extends into the mid-teens, reaching a point where teams might find it difficult to overlook his talent. The Thunder, having recently won the championship, have no glaring roster weaknesses but have been predominantly linked by rival teams to centers, including Beringer and Sorber. With Isaiah Hartenstein under team control until 2026-27 (with a club option), the concept of identifying and developing a less expensive future replacement holds strategic value, particularly as Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren are eligible for significant rookie contract extensions soon.
Selecting Queen here would essentially be a talent-based gamble. The Thunder`s elite defense provides a strong safety net for developing a player like Queen, and Oklahoma City is better positioned to absorb such a risk than most teams.
16. Memphis Grizzlies (via Orlando)
Cedric Coward, SF, Washington State/Duke
Junior | TS%: 71.0
Height without shoes: 6-5¼ | Weight: 213
Standing reach: 8-10 | Wingspan: 7-2¼
Cedric Coward`s draft stock has surged considerably in the past month as teams have had closer looks at his impressive physical attributes, perimeter shooting proficiency, and defensive upside. This process has helped teams better understand his trajectory as a late-blooming prospect.
As a “young senior” turning 22 in early September, Coward fits the mold that every NBA team seeks: good size, a solid frame, and a proven career 3-point shooting percentage around 38%. He potentially still has room for further improvement, especially considering he was playing Division III basketball just three years ago.
He recently worked out for Memphis (in a one-on-zero setting as he is still progressing towards full 3-on-3 activities) after they acquired the 16th pick from Orlando. Coward is also being seriously considered by Phoenix, Chicago, San Antonio, and Oklahoma City, with most teams selecting in the 20s operating under the assumption that he will be off the board by that point in the draft.
17. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Detroit)
Thomas Sorber, C, Georgetown
Freshman | TS%: 58.7
Height without shoes: 6-9¼ | Weight: 262
Standing reach: 9-1 | Wingspan: 7-6
Thomas Sorber has also seen his stock rise during the pre-draft process, despite being sidelined since February due to a toe injury requiring season-ending surgery, which means he will miss summer league participation. NBA teams are keen to acquire centers with Sorber`s characteristics – capable of providing physicality and rim protection thanks to his robust build and impressive wingspan. Teams like Phoenix, Chicago, Atlanta, San Antonio, Oklahoma City, Minnesota, and Brooklyn appear interested in adding size to their frontcourts.
The Timberwolves face potential uncertainty in their frontcourt this offseason. Julius Randle and Naz Reid, who collectively averaged significant playing time, hold player options that could lead them to explore free agency this summer.
Sorber`s length, understanding of the game, and developing skill set give him a realistic opportunity to become a valuable contributor in the coming years, even if his full impact might take some time to materialize.
18. Washington Wizards (via Memphis)
Liam McNeeley, SG/SF, UConn
Freshman | TS%: 53.6
Height without shoes: 6-6¾ | Weight: 214
Standing reach: 8-3½ | Wingspan: 6-8½
Liam McNeeley has received positive evaluations during the pre-draft workout circuit. He has effectively reminded teams of his versatile offensive skills following a challenging season partially affected by an ankle injury. He is generating interest across the latter half of the first round, with Washington being one of his potential landing spots.
Last season, the Wizards were among the teams most committed to providing meaningful playing time to their rookie players. Their current front office has consistently prioritized positional size and basketball intelligence in the draft. McNeeley could be a valuable addition to their group of wings, offering reliable decision-making, shooting ability, and a desirable level of toughness.
19. Brooklyn Nets (via Milwaukee)
Asa Newell, PF/C, Georgia
Freshman | TS%: 62.0
Height without shoes: 6-9 | Weight: 224
Standing reach: 8-11½ | Wingspan: 6-11¼
Asa Newell is another player whose draft position seems variable. He appears to have improved his stock during the pre-draft process by showcasing his physical tools and potential for growth as a shooter, helping some teams better envision his versatility as a stretch-4. Despite this, his potential landing spot varies, drawing consideration from teams in the back half of the lottery, but also facing scenarios where he could fall into the late teens or early twenties.
The Nets have predictably been one of the most active teams in the pre-draft period, holding multiple first-round picks and several selections within the top 40. League observers anticipate that Brooklyn will be active in trade discussions this week, although the specifics remain unclear. The possibility of trading up from this pick to acquire a second lottery selection is reportedly among the scenarios the Nets are considering.
Although the team is unlikely to keep all their potential picks on the active roster, Brooklyn has hosted a significant number of draft prospects for workouts, giving them extensive first-hand information on the class. The Nets are also seen by many agents as a desirable destination for players, due to the available playing time and opportunities next season. Newell`s long-term potential as a developmental addition could be appealing to them at this pick.
20. Miami Heat (via Golden State)
Walter Clayton Jr., PG, Florida
Senior | TS%: 61.1
Height without shoes: 6-2 | Weight: 199
Standing reach: 8-1½ | Wingspan: 6-4
Walter Clayton Jr. has impressed teams with his dynamic shotmaking ability in workouts and has consequently risen on draft boards, particularly in a first round that appears somewhat thin on point guard options. He has supporters in front offices selecting higher than this pick and seems well-positioned to potentially land within the top 20. His explosiveness and capacity to create his own scoring opportunities are strong assets that should provide him with a pathway to being, at minimum, a valuable bench scorer.
Miami consistently remains one of the most difficult teams for rival organizations and player agents to gauge, known for a highly secretive approach to their pre-draft evaluation process. Considering the Heat`s need for a capable point guard and how Clayton appears to fit their organizational prototype, this potential pairing makes sense on paper.
21. Utah Jazz (via Minnesota)
Hugo Gonzalez, SG/SF, Real Madrid
EuroLeague | TS%: 50.9
Hugo Gonzalez`s team, Real Madrid, is currently competing in the finals of the ACB playoffs, meaning he will not be able to participate in any workouts in the U.S. before the draft, as the series could potentially extend through June 30th.
Gonzalez concluded the regular season strongly, but his playing time has decreased as the playoffs have progressed, with him playing minimal minutes recently. Nonetheless, he is a prospect that a team selecting in the twenties is likely to choose, attracted by his impressive physical tools, strong feel for the game, and intense defensive energy. Utah has clear needs for talent on the wing and could offer him the necessary opportunity and developmental environment to reach the significant potential he displayed throughout his career prior to this past season.
22. Atlanta Hawks (via Los Angeles Lakers)
Danny Wolf, PF, Michigan
Junior | TS%: 56.6
Height without shoes: 6-10½ | Weight: 251
Standing reach: 9-1 | Wingspan: 7-2¼
Danny Wolf is another prospect with a wide projected draft range, drawing interest from several teams in the latter part of the lottery as well as multiple potential destinations in the top 20, including Memphis, Minnesota, and Brooklyn. The uncertainty surrounding his potential landing spot is partly due to the various potential trade scenarios that could unfold and partly because Wolf`s unusual combination of size and skill set has resulted in differing evaluations among NBA personnel. His ability to make plays from the frontcourt position could align well with Atlanta`s needs if he is still available here, although there seems to be a growing possibility that he might be selected before this pick.
23. New Orleans Pelicans (via Indiana)
Nique Clifford, SG, Colorado State
Super Senior | TS%: 60.9
Height without shoes: 6-5¼ | Weight: 202
Standing reach: 8-6½ | Wingspan: 6-8
New Orleans acquired this pick from Indiana recently, sending the Pacers` 2026 first-round pick back to them to move back into the first round of the current draft. Following Tyrese Haliburton`s injury in Game 7 of the Finals, the Pacers might feel some relief in regaining control of their own future pick, especially with the possibility of a significant absence for their star player. The decision to trade with the Pacers led rival teams to wonder if the Pelicans might use this pick to try and trade up from their No. 7 spot. However, New Orleans is believed to have genuine interest in several prospects projected in this range.
Nique Clifford is drawing interest starting from the mid-teens with Memphis, and his range extends into the twenties. He has received positive feedback from workout performances, seen as a potential ready-to-contribute rotation player due to his versatility shown during a strong senior year at Colorado State. He is among the players…
