Which NBA franchises hold the keys to the draft, both for the upcoming June event and over the next seven seasons?
For successful teams like the Oklahoma City Thunder and Houston Rockets, these valuable collections of picks offer opportunities to enhance already competitive rosters, either by adding depth or trading for a star player.
Teams near the bottom of the standings, including the Utah Jazz, Washington Wizards, and Charlotte Hornets, are hoping for luck in the draft lottery to land the projected top pick, Cooper Flagg.
Conversely, teams such as the Los Angeles Lakers, Milwaukee Bucks, and Denver Nuggets are unlikely to significantly improve their rosters through the draft this offseason due to limited assets.
Let`s delve into the future draft assets for all 30 teams and the potential strategies they might employ during the 2025 draft, scheduled for June 25-26 in Brooklyn.
1. Oklahoma City Thunder
2025 draft picks
- First round: No. 15 (via Miami), No. 25 (via LA Clippers)
- Second round: No. 44 (via Atlanta)
The Thunder possess two first-round picks and could potentially gain a third depending on the lottery results, as Philadelphia`s pick is top-six protected and currently sits fifth in the odds. Regardless of that outcome, consolidation is a key consideration, as OKC has 15 players under contract entering the offseason and needs roster spots for any draft selections. Therefore, expect the Thunder to be active around the draft period, balancing the addition of young talent with broader roster management. General Manager Sam Presti has positioned the franchise exceptionally well, making these essentially positive challenges.
Incoming future first-round picks: 13
- All seven of their own
- Unprotected from LA Clippers (2026)
- Top-four protected from Houston (2026)
- Top-eight protected from Utah (2026)
- Top-four protected from Philadelphia (2026 and 2027)
- Top-five protected from Denver (2027, top-five protected in 2028)
- Top-five protected from Denver (2029, if first conveyed in 2027, top-five protected in 2030 if first is conveyed by 2028)
- Swap rights: LA Clippers (2027)
- Swap rights: Houston (2025, top-10 protected)
- Swap rights: Dallas (2028)
Maximum tradeable future first-round picks: 10
Future second-round picks: 17
Future outgoing first-round picks: None
Notes
- In 2026, Oklahoma City owns two of the most favorable picks among their own, Houston (if 5-30), and LA Clippers. The least favorable of these three firsts will be conveyed to Philadelphia.
- In 2027, the Thunder have the right to swap the more favorable pick between their own and Denver (if 6-30) with the LA Clippers.
2. Brooklyn Nets
2025 draft picks
- First round: No. 6, No. 19 (via Milwaukee), No. 26 (via New York), No. 27 (via Houston)
- Second round: No. 36
The Nets, currently in a rebuilding phase, head into the pre-draft period with a league-high five selections in the top 40. They also possess significant salary cap space, providing an opportunity to reconstruct their roster. Realistically, it`s unlikely they will roster five rookies, and they could also free up additional cap space by consolidating some of their first-round picks. Roster-wise, Brooklyn could benefit from perimeter help, but given the team`s fluid situation and lack of a clear long-term cornerstone, they should prioritize adding talent regardless of positional need. A favorable outcome in the lottery could be very impactful.
Incoming future first-round picks: 12
- All seven of their own
- Three unprotected from New York (2027, 2029 and 2031)
- Top-eight protected from Philadelphia (2027 or 2028)
- Least favorable of Dallas, Phoenix and Houston (2029)
- Swap rights: Phoenix or New York (2028)
Maximum tradeable future first-round picks: 9
Future second-round picks: 15
Future outgoing first-round picks:
- Swap rights with Houston (2027)
3. Utah Jazz
2025 draft picks
- First round: No. 1, No. 21 (via Minnesota)
- Second round: No. 42/43 (via Dallas), No. 53 (via LA Clippers)
The Jazz hold the top position in the lottery odds and will eagerly await May 12, hoping to secure a star player to anchor their roster. If they land Cooper Flagg or Dylan Harper, the decision is straightforward. If they fall lower in the draft order, the choice becomes more complex. While Utah has acquired some promising young talent, they still lack a top-tier prospect for their rebuild. The Jazz have shown patience in recent seasons and may consider playing the lottery again in 2026, which is projected to have a strong top class. They have the time to develop a raw prospect like VJ Edgecombe or Ace Bailey, but falling out of the top four would be a significant setback.
Incoming future first-round picks: 10
- All seven of their own
- Two of the most favorable from their own, Cleveland, Minnesota (2027)
- Two of the most favorable from their own, Cleveland, Minnesota (if 6-30; 2029)
- Top-four protected from Los Angeles Lakers (2027)
- Unprotected first from Phoenix (2031)
- Swap rights: Minnesota or Cleveland (2026) and Cleveland (2028)
Maximum tradeable future first-round picks: 7
Future second-round picks: 7
Future outgoing first-round picks:
- Top-eight protected to Oklahoma City (2026, or else a 2028 second-round pick)
4. Houston Rockets
2025 draft picks
- First round: No. 9 (via Phoenix)
- Second round: No. 59 (via Oklahoma City)
Phoenix`s struggles in 2024-25 benefited Houston, as the Rockets held swap rights on the Suns` pick, securing a projected top-10 selection to add to their core following a 52-win season. If Reed Sheppard`s limited role this season is any indication, the Rockets` depth means that whoever they draft isn`t guaranteed immediate significant minutes under coach Ime Udoka. While some roster adjustments will eventually be necessary, the Rockets are in a strong position with both future draft capital and developing young talent. This flexibility suggests Houston can approach this pick in various ways, whether by selecting the player with the highest potential (a common Rockets strategy) or using it as a trade asset to enhance their contention status.
Incoming future first-round picks: 9
- All seven of their own
- Unprotected first from Phoenix (2027)
- Two of the more favorable firsts from their own, Dallas and Phoenix (2029)
- First-round swap with Brooklyn (2027)
Maximum tradeable future first-round picks: 5
Future second-round picks: 7
Future outgoing first-round picks:
- Top-four protected first to Oklahoma City (2026)
5. Charlotte Hornets
2025 draft picks
- First round: No. 3
- Second round: No. 33, No. 34 (via New Orleans)
Charlotte`s primary focus will be making the right selection with their lottery pick, which will be no lower than seventh. The team, still a significant distance from consistently competing for the postseason, is in asset-accumulation mode. Last year`s selection of Tidjane Salaun demonstrated the front office`s willingness to prioritize developmental prospects early in the draft. LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller remain the core pieces, but the Hornets should continue focusing on adding the best long-term talent available rather than being overly concerned with immediate fit. The potential overlap with Ball or Miller that players like Dylan Harper or Ace Bailey might create could lead to intriguing decisions depending on where Charlotte picks in the lottery.
Incoming future first-round picks: 10
- All seven of their own
- Least favorable of Phoenix, Washington (if 1-8)
- Orlando and Memphis (2026)
- Top-14 protected first from Miami (2027; unprotected in 2028)
- Top-two protected first from Dallas (2027)
Maximum tradeable future first-round picks: 7
Future second-round picks: 11
Future outgoing first-round picks: None
6. Washington Wizards
2025 draft picks
- First round: No. 2, No. 18 (via Memphis)
- Second round: No. 40 (via Phoenix)
Under Michael Winger and Will Dawkins, the Wizards continue to follow a blueprint similar to the Thunder, taking big swings on talent, providing ample playing time to rookies, and accumulating as much future draft capital as possible through trades. Washington saw positive signs from their 2024 draft class, including Alex Sarr, Bub Carrington, and Kyshawn George. However, they could greatly benefit from the star potential of Cooper Flagg or Dylan Harper if they have lottery luck. If they select lower, the decision becomes more complicated. Regardless, Washington appears committed to a long-term rebuild and will likely have more opportunities for high lottery picks in coming seasons. A favorable outcome on May 12 would significantly enhance their position both in the short and long term.
Incoming future first-round picks: 9
- All seven of their own
- Less favorable of Oklahoma City, Houston (if 5-30) and LA Clippers (2026)
- Swap with Milwaukee (2028)
- Second-most favorable of Portland, Boston, Milwaukee (2029)
- Top-20 protected first from Golden State (2030, or else a 2030 second)
Maximum tradeable future first-round picks: 6
Future second-round picks: 14
Future outgoing first-round picks:
- Top-eight protected first to New York (2026, or else a 2026 and 2027 second)
7. Detroit Pistons
2025 draft picks
- First round: None
- Second round: No. 37 (via Toronto)
Following Detroit`s surprising run to the playoffs, their protected first-round pick was conveyed to Minnesota. The Pistons hold only one pick in this draft, a second-rounder that could be used on a player signed to a standard contract, making them a more appealing destination for pre-draft workouts. With several recent lottery picks needing playing time and cap flexibility to add veterans, any player they select likely won`t need to contribute immediately. It`s early in Trajan Langdon`s tenure as team president, but the Pistons seem focused on adding toughness to their supporting cast as they build around All-Star Cade Cunningham.
Incoming future first-round picks: 7
- All seven of their own
Maximum tradeable future first-round picks: 4
Future second-round picks: 13
Future outgoing first-round picks: None
8. Sacramento Kings
2025 draft picks
- First round: None
- Second round: No. 42/43 (via Chicago)
The Kings` only possibility of keeping their pick is if it jumps into the top four from No. 13, which has a mere 3.8% chance. Otherwise, they will have just a second-rounder in the first draft under new leadership with Scott Perry. The Kings control their future draft picks, offering roster flexibility, and their offseason will heavily involve decisions regarding existing players like Zach LaVine and Domantas Sabonis, both offense-focused stars on max contracts.
Incoming future first-round picks: 9
- All seven of their own
- San Antonio unprotected first (2027)
- Minnesota unprotected first (2031)
Maximum tradeable future first-round picks: 6
Future second-round picks: 3
Future outgoing first-round picks:
- Swap rights with San Antonio (2031)
9. Orlando Magic
2025 draft picks
- First round: No. 16, No. 24 (via Denver)
- Second round: No. 46, No. 57 (via Boston)
The Magic have several options with four selections, including two in the first round, and have historically emphasized building their current team through the draft. Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner are the key players at forward, and Orlando has been looking to improve shooting and defense around them. Expect the Magic to continue evaluating perimeter players, with Jeff Weltman and his front office valuing positional size and basketball IQ in recent drafts. At some point, Orlando may need to trade some players to acquire a backcourt upgrade, although Jalen Suggs and Anthony Black are still developing. The organization has patiently molded this group into a playoff team, preferring to keep their own picks and maintain flexibility. If an opportunity arises to move up by combining picks No. 16 and No. 24, the Magic have enough depth and young talent across positions to consider it.
Incoming future first-round picks: 7
- All seven of their own
- More favorable swap of their own and less favorable Phoenix or Washington (if 1-8) in 2026
Maximum tradeable future first-round picks: 4
Future second-round picks: 11
Future outgoing first-round picks: None
10. Toronto Raptors
2025 draft picks
- First round: No. 7
- Second round: No. 39/40 (via Portland)
The acquisition of Brandon Ingram at the trade deadline signaled Toronto`s intent to push closer to playoff contention, potentially making this their most significant draft pick for some time. Whether they move up in the lottery or not, this is a good opportunity for Toronto to take a swing on a high-potential talent. They have accumulated numerous wings and forwards, many of whom prefer to handle the ball, which is an issue they`ll need to address next season. Top guard prospects like Jeremiah Fears and Kasparas Jakucionis are likely candidates for consideration. Toronto could also benefit from added depth in the frontcourt, potentially bringing players like Khaman Maluach and Derik Queen into play.
Incoming future first-round picks: 7
- All seven of their own
Maximum tradeable future first-round picks: 4
Future second-round picks: 6
Future outgoing first-round picks: None
11. Memphis Grizzlies
2025 draft picks
- First round: None
- Second round: No. 56 (via Houston)
The Grizzlies traded their first-round pick to the Wizards at the deadline to move on from Marcus Smart and gain additional cap flexibility. Although Memphis is at a crossroads this offseason, the front office under Zach Kleiman has found value in various parts of the draft and may try to acquire players they like. The expected return at No. 56 is not particularly high, and Memphis already has young players at every position, having largely built their roster through the draft. Their priority seems to be improving for next season, which may require means other than this draft selection unless they trade up.
Incoming future first-round picks: 7
- All seven of their own
- More favorable swap of their own and least favorable swap of Orlando and Phoenix (2026)
- The right to swap their own with the less favorable first of Phoenix and Washington (2030)
Maximum tradeable future first-round picks: 4
Future second-round picks: 6
Future outgoing first-round picks: None
12. New Orleans Pelicans
2025 draft picks
- First round: No. 4
- Second round: None
The Pelicans will be hoping for favorable lottery outcomes as they transition under the leadership of newly appointed Joe Dumars. New Orleans has long needed a true lead ball handler, which makes Dylan Harper a particularly appealing prospect should they land at No. 2 or have a chance to trade for that pick. The Pelicans are closer to being competitive than their difficult 2024-25 season might suggest, and making the right choice with this lottery pick is crucial for their bounce-back potential. Their lottery position will significantly influence their decision, as the optimal choice is much less clear if Cooper Flagg and Harper are already off the board when they select.
Incoming future first-round picks: 8
- All seven of their own
- Top-four first from Milwaukee (2027)
- Top-four protected first from Indiana (2026, top-4 protected in 2027)
- Swap rights with Milwaukee (2026)
Maximum tradeable future first-round picks: 5
Future second-round picks: 4
Future outgoing first-round picks:
- More favorable of own (if 5-30) or Milwaukee (if 5-30) to Atlanta (2027)
13. San Antonio Spurs
2025 draft picks
- First round: No. 8, No. 14 (via Atlanta)
- Second round: No. 38
The Spurs will be hoping for continued lottery fortune as they build around the last two Rookies of the Year, Victor Wembanyama and Stephon Castle. San Antonio has moved closer to contention with the acquisition of De`Aaron Fox, but there is still room to strengthen their rotation, with needs for supplemental shooting and rebounding. With Fox and Wembanyama (assuming health) providing long-term core pieces and Castle offering significant upside, San Antonio can be more focused in their draft approach, targeting players who complement their existing roster.
Incoming future first-round picks: 8
- Six of their own seven
- Swap rights: Atlanta (2026)
- Unprotected from Atlanta (2027)
- Swap rights: Boston (2028, top-one protected)
- Swap rights: More favorable of Dallas and Minnesota (top-one protected; 2030)
- Swap rights: Sacramento (2031)
Maximum tradeable future first-round picks: 3
Future second-round picks: 15
Future outgoing first-round picks:
- Own unprotected first to Sacramento (2027)
14. Atlanta Hawks
2025 draft picks
- First round: No. 13 (via Sacramento), No. 22 (via L.A. Lakers)
- Second round: None
Atlanta does not hold its own first-round pick this year but recovered draft value via Sacramento, whose late-season finish narrowly conveyed the 13th pick (it had top-12 protection). The Hawks saw some positive developments this season, with Dyson Daniels winning the NBA`s Most Improved Player and 2024 No. 1 overall pick Zaccharie Risacher also validating the franchise`s decision. Atlanta lacks depth in the frontcourt behind the often-injured Jalen Johnson and Onyeka Okongwu, and should seriously consider frontcourt help in the draft. However, the Hawks also have enough young talent to justify selecting the best player available regardless of specific needs. Their two first-round picks should allow them to bolster depth while adding developmental upside to the roster.
Incoming future first-round picks: 7
- Own first in 2026, 2028, 2029, 2030, 2031, 2032
- Less favorable of Milwaukee and New Orleans (if both are 5-30; 2026)
- More favorable of less favorable of own and San Antonio, less favorable of Cleveland and more favorable of Utah (if 1-8) and Minnesota
- More favorable of own and less favorable of Cleveland and Utah then other to Cleveland (2028)
Maximum tradeable future first-round picks: 3
Future second-round picks: 6
Future outgoing first-round picks:
- Swap rights with San Antonio (2026)
- Unprotected first to San Antonio (2027)
15. Philadelphia 76ers
2025 draft picks
- First round: No. 5
- Second round: No. 35
The Sixers need their pick to remain within the top six, otherwise, it is conveyed to the Thunder. Following a highly disappointing season, Philadelphia is at a pivotal point, and this pick represents a significant and unexpected chance to add a top prospect to their core. Finding a starting-caliber player who complements Tyrese Maxey and Jared McCain and can provide long-term stability would be a major gain. Daryl Morey has historically been willing to take significant risks on high-upside players. This pick offers the Sixers that opportunity, especially as the health and development of Joel Embiid and Paul George complicate their immediate path to contention.
Incoming future first-round picks: 8
- All seven of their own
- Unprotected first from LA Clippers (2028)
- Top-three protected swap rights with LA Clippers (2029)
Maximum tradeable future first-round picks: 3
Future second-round picks: 7
Future outgoing first-round picks:
- Top-four protected first to Oklahoma City (2026, top-four protected in 2027)
- Top-eight protected first to Brooklyn (2028)
16. Portland Trail Blazers
2025 draft picks
- First round: No. 10
- Second round: None
The Blazers saw positive progress from their young players this season and hold their own lottery pick to add to that group, with GM Joe Cronin receiving a contract extension. They are well-covered at the center position with Deandre Ayton and the developing Donovan Clingan, and are awaiting further improvement from Scoot Henderson. However, Portland should maintain an open mind about targeting high-potential players wherever their pick lands in the lottery. Improving perimeter defense should be a strong consideration, but the Blazers need star power if they can find it at No. 10. If their pick moves up, that task becomes easier.
Incoming future first-round picks: 8
- All seven of their own
- Most and least favorable of own, Boston and Milwaukee (2029)
- Swap rights with Milwaukee (2028 and 2030)
Maximum tradeable future first-round picks: 3
Future second-round picks: 5
Future outgoing first-round picks:
- Top-14 protected first to Chicago (2026, top-14 protected in 2027, 2028)
- Second-most favorable first of own, Boston and Milwaukee to Washington (2029)
17. Chicago Bulls
2025 draft picks
- First round: No. 12
- Second round: No. 42/43 (via Sacramento)
The Bulls valued their previously top-10 protected 2025 first-round pick enough to reacquire full rights to it from San Antonio as the primary compensation for trading Zach LaVine at the deadline. That decision proved significant, as Chicago finished the season better than anticipated and will likely pick 12th. The Bulls appear interested in competing but do not possess a wealth of draft capital beyond their own picks, placing great importance on making successful selections like this one in the lower lottery. Matas Buzelis looks like a strong value pick, but frontcourt depth remains the biggest positional need, particularly as Nikola Vucevic enters the final year of his contract. The center position isn`t a particular strength of this draft class, which might make targeting need less appealing for Chicago.
Incoming future first-round picks: 8
- All seven of their own
- Top-14 protected first from Portland (2026; top-14 protected through 2028)
Maximum tradeable future first-round picks: 5
Future second-round picks: 5
Future Future outgoing first-round picks: None
18. Indiana Pacers
2025 draft picks
- First round: No. 23
- Second round: No. 54
The Pacers value building through the draft, and hitting on their picks becomes even more critical as their payroll approaches expensive levels. Myles Turner`s pending free agency adds to the need for younger frontcourt assistance and paint protection, a role they addressed by adding Thomas Bryant during the season and one Indiana could look to fill with the No. 23 pick. With recent draftees Bennedict Mathurin, Jarace Walker, and Ben Sheppard taking on larger roles at other positions, and considering they might not have their first-round pick in 2026, there is a strong argument for Indiana to target a big man if appealing options are available in the 20s.
Incoming future first-round picks: 7
- All seven of their own
Maximum tradeable future first-round picks: 3
Future second-round picks: 8
Future outgoing first-round picks:
- Top-four protected first to New Orleans (2026, top-four protected in 2027)
19. Golden State Warriors
2025 draft picks
- First round: None
- Second round: No. 41 (via Miami)
The Warriors possess only the Heat`s second-round pick after trading for Jimmy Butler III. Golden State has had recent success drafting late, selecting Trayce Jackson-Davis and Quinten Post in consecutive drafts, both of whom have become contributors. The Warriors could choose to roster their pick if they find a player they like, or they might keep a roster spot open for a veteran and use the pick on a two-way player who could potentially be converted later. Golden State has heavily emphasized feel for the game and decision-making in recent draftees, seeking prospects who can be integrated quickly.
Incoming future first-round picks: 7
- All seven of their own
Maximum tradeable future first-round picks: 4
Future second-round picks: 1
Future outgoing first-round picks:
- Top-20 protected first to Golden State (2030)
20. Dallas Mavericks
2025 draft picks
- First round: No. 11
- Second round: None
Dallas` sole selection holds significant importance as the Mavericks aim to build a contender following the franchise-altering Luka Doncic trade. The relatively short window for the Kyrie Irving-Anthony Davis pairing might make it preferable to reinforce their depth with veteran players, and the top prospects in this draft tend to be younger. However, the Mavs successfully integrated 2023 No. 12 pick Dereck Lively II immediately and would presumably hope to gain some immediate value from this draft pick as well. There may also be opportunities for Mavs GM Nico Harrison to use this pick to create value through trades and improve the roster in other ways.
Incoming future first-round picks: 7
- Own first in 2026, 2028, 2030, 2031, 2032
- Unprotected from the Lakers (2029)
Maximum tradeable future first-round picks: 3
Future second-round picks: 2
Future outgoing first-round picks:
- Top-two protected first to Charlotte (2027)
- Swap rights with Oklahoma City (2028)
- Unprotected first to Houston or Brooklyn (2029)
- Swap rights with San Antonio (2030)
21. Boston Celtics
2025 draft picks
- First round: No. 28
- Second round: No. 32 (via Washington)
Finding value with cost-controlled players through the middle rounds of the draft is highly important for the Celtics due to their extremely high payroll. They hold two such selections this year, presenting a strong opportunity to add depth for both the present and future. Boston is known for conducting extensive pre-draft workouts and can pursue any direction they deem appropriate, but finding a player ready to contribute off the bench quickly would be a significant success. The Celtics selected wings in their last two drafts (Baylor Scheierman and Jordan Walsh), so this could be a useful chance to add a big man instead, depending on how the draft board unfolds.
Incoming future first-round picks: 6
- Own first in five out of the next seven years
Maximum tradeable future first-round picks: 1
Future second-round picks: 5
Future outgoing first-round picks:
- Unprotected first to Portland or Washington (2029)
- Swap rights with San Antonio (2028; if 2-30)
Note
- Boston`s first-round pick in 2032 is frozen and ineligible to be traded until the team gets under the second apron.
22. Miami Heat
2025 draft picks
- First round: No. 20 (via Golden State)
- Second round: None
The Heat are in a retooling phase and acquired a first-round pick from Golden State in the Butler trade, but they also conveyed their own protected first (No. 15) to Oklahoma City by making the playoffs. Miami has a track record of effectively drafting and developing players and demonstrated a willingness to take a big swing on upside last year by selecting center Kel`el Ware, who had a promising rookie season. The Heat need help in the backcourt, especially at point guard, but will likely approach this pick with a long-term perspective, similar to the Ware selection. Any injection of talent would be beneficial as the Heat determine their future direction. Miami controls their own pick next year and their lottery rights in 2027, providing some flexibility to think long-term while developing their younger players.
Incoming future first-round picks: 6
- Six in the next seven years
Maximum tradeable future first-round picks: 2
Future second-round picks: 1
Future outgoing first-round picks:
- Top-14 protected first to Charlotte (2027, unprotected in 2028)
23. LA Clippers
2025 draft picks
- First round: No. 30 (via Oklahoma City)
- Second round: No. 51 (via Minnesota)
The Clippers remain in win-now mode for the foreseeable future and can utilize the draft to build their bench depth. They selected Kobe Brown with the 30th pick last year, ostensibly a win-now move that didn`t yield huge immediate dividends. Finding a player with a realistic chance to contribute in the short term should be a priority for LA. They could use depth across the roster, especially given Kawhi Leonard`s history of missed games, offering flexibility to focus on the best available player regardless of position. (Backup center, in particular, has been a rotating position.)
Incoming future first-round picks: 5
- Own first in five out of the next seven years
Maximum tradeable future first-round picks: 2
Future second-round picks: 4
Future outgoing first-round picks:
- Unprotected first to Oklahoma City or Washington (2026)
- First-round swap with Oklahoma City or Denver (2027)
- Unprotected first to Philadelphia (2028)
- Top-three protected swap with Philadelphia (2029)
24. New York Knicks
2025 draft picks
- First round: None
- Second round: No. 50 (via Memphis)
The Knicks are in contention mode and hold only the 50th pick. Their recent mid-to-late draft selections have yet to pan out, with coach Tom Thibodeau notably concentrating most minutes among his starters. While New York can consider prospects who need a longer development timeline, much of their salary is tied up in their top players. Finding a player late in the draft with a chance to add some bench value next season would be a success, particularly a wing capable of hitting open shots and playing defense.
Incoming future first-round picks: 4
- 2026, 2028, 2030, 2032
- Top-eight protected first from Washington (2026)
Maximum tradeable future first-round picks: 1
Future second-round picks: 7
Future outgoing first-round picks:
- Unprotected first to Brooklyn (2027, 2029, 2031)
- Swap rights with Brooklyn (2028)
25. Cleveland Cavaliers
2025 draft picks
- First round: None
- Second round: No. 49 (via Milwaukee), No. 58
Without a first-round selection, this draft is not particularly high-leverage for the Cavs, who saw almost everything go their way during the regular season and emerged as top contenders. How they handle their two late second-round selections will depend on their roster plans for next season. Given Cleveland`s high payroll, it`s plausible the Cavs might want to roster one of their second-round picks, and the ability to offer a guaranteed deal instead of a two-way contract later in the draft would likely make them an attractive workout destination for second-round prospects. The Cavs have prioritized basketball IQ and experience in building their solid bench unit.
Incoming first round picks: 5
- Own first in 2026, 2028, 2030, 2031, 2032
Maximum tradeable first-round picks: 1
Future second-round picks: 4
Future outgoing first-round picks:
- Unprotected first to Utah (2027, 2029)
- Swap rights with Utah or Atlanta (2026 and 2028)
26. Los Angeles Lakers
2025 draft picks
- First round: None
- Second round: No. 55
The Lakers do not have a first-round pick in this draft and are unlikely to find an immediate contributor at No. 55. However, any depth they can cultivate with that pick would help bolster what has at times been a thin bench. The more crucial offseason focus will be upgrading the roster with veteran help as they aim to maximize their window after pairing LeBron James with Luka Doncic.
Incoming first round picks: 6
- Six in the next seven years
Maximum tradeable future first-round picks: 1
Future second-round picks: 1
Future outgoing first-round picks
- Top-four protected first to Utah (2027)
- Unprotected first to Dallas (2029)
27. Phoenix Suns
2025 draft picks
- First round: No. 29 (via Cleveland)
- Second round: No. 52 (via Denver)
This is a critical offseason for the Suns, with larger issues at play than just draft selections. The possibility of a Kevin Durant trade, another head coaching change, and various missteps during Mat Ishbia`s short ownership tenure have put Phoenix on unstable ground and deep into salary cap difficulties. Finding contributors with these picks remains important, as the Suns might need their draft picks to play minutes depending on how much roster turnover occurs in the coming months. Point guard and center have been areas of need, and any form of stability they can gain from a rookie contributor would be valuable, particularly given the transaction limitations Phoenix faces as a second-apron team.
Incoming future first-round picks: 4
- Own in 2028, 2030
- Least favorable of Cleveland, Minnesota, Utah (2027)
- Least favorable of Cleveland, Minnesota (if 6-30), Utah (2029)
Maximum tradeable future first-round picks: 1
Future second-round picks: 2
Future outgoing first-round picks:
- Least favorable of Phoenix, Orlando, Washington (if 1-8) and Memphis to Charlotte (2026)
- Unprotected first to Houston (2027)
- Unprotected first to Houston or Brooklyn (2029)
- Unprotected first to Utah (2031)
- Swap rights with Orlando, Washington (if 1-8) and Memphis (2026)
- Swap rights with Washington, Brooklyn, New York (2028)
- Swap rights with Washington and Memphis (2030)
Note
- Phoenix`s first-round pick in 2032 is frozen and ineligible to be traded until the team gets under the second apron.
28. Milwaukee Bucks
2025 draft picks
- First round: None
- Second round: No. 47 (via Detroit)
The Bucks are at an organizational turning point, with much of their supporting cast entering free agency, Damian Lillard expected to miss extended time after tearing his Achilles, and the idea of trading Giannis Antetokounmpo seemingly more feasible than ever. However, Milwaukee has heavily invested in building around their two-time MVP and does not control their own draft picks until 2031, leaving no simple path to a rebuild. The Bucks hold only the 47th pick in this draft. Considering the need for playable depth regardless of their roster direction, the focus should be on finding an undervalued prospect who might potentially contribute off the bench.
Incoming future first-round picks: 4
- Own first in five of the next seven years
Maximum tradeable future first-round picks: 1
Future second-round picks: 2
Future outgoing first-round picks:
- Swap with New Orleans (2026)
- Unprotected first to New Orleans or Atlanta (2027, if 5-30)
- Swap with Portland or Washington (2028)
- Unprotected first to Portland or Washington (2029)
- Swap with Portland (2030)
29. Denver Nuggets
2025 draft picks
- First round: None
- Second round: None
The Nuggets hold no selections in this draft and lack significant assets to acquire one, making this a low-stakes period following the departure of GM Calvin Booth and head coach Michael Malone. Under Booth, the Nuggets placed a high value on adding cost-controlled talent through the draft. How Denver plans to upgrade its roster around Nikola Jokic remains uncertain as the front office and coaching situations unfold this offseason.
Incoming future first round picks: 5
- Own first in five of the next seven years
Maximum tradeable future first-round picks: 1
Future second-round picks: 1
Future outgoing first-round picks:
- Top-five protected first to Oklahoma City (2027, top-five protected in 2028, 2029)
- Top-five protected first to Oklahoma City (2029, top-five protected in 2030)
30. Minnesota Timberwolves
2025 draft picks
