点击查看原文：2025 NBA mock draft: Pick projections ahead of March Madness
2025 NBA mock draft: Pick projections ahead of March Madness
March Madness is here, and there’s no better time than this week and next to watch projected 2025 NBA draft picks play in their respective conference tournaments and the NCAA tournament.
There are a host of projected first-round prospects, including Duke’s Cooper Flagg, Maryland’s Derik Queen, Baylor’s VJ Edgecombe and Oklahoma’s Jeremiah Fears, whose teams are projected to be in the Big Dance.
NBA executives will lean on the next month to scout how players will perform under pressure in some of the biggest games of their careers.
The first- and second-round order was generated by ESPN’s BPI forecast, which predicts how well all 30 NBA teams will perform during the rest of the season.
Notes: The draft order, as updated through Tuesday morning, reflects picks owed and owned via trades. True shooting percentage (TS%) is a formula that blends field goal percentage with free throw shooting and 3-point shooting into one catch-all ratio.
More NBA draft coverage:\
Execs on Rutgers’ Dylan Harper, Ace Bailey\
15 top freshmen, 15 big questions\
Top 100 rankings | Previous mock draft | More
First round
1. Washington Wizards
**Cooper Flagg, SF/PF, Duke\
Freshman** | TS%: 61.0%
Scouting report: Flagg has solidified his standing as the consensus No. 1 pick in a phenomenal freshman season that saw him improve every facet of his game, helping him exceed the expectations with which he had when he entered college. Now approaching the biggest games of his young career in the coming weeks, Flagg will try to help Duke solidify its candidacy as the No. 1 overall seed with an ACC tournament championship before trying to win six NCAA tournament games and cut down the national championship nets at the Final Four in San Antonio.
NBA intel and fit: The Wizards have done well to position themselves in the Flagg sweepstakes, sporting the NBA’s worst point-differential (-12.2) by a wide margin. The Wizards would be thrilled to add a talent such as Flagg to their young core, putting in the building blocks for what could be a dynamic defensive frontcourt with Alex Sarr, last year’s No. 2 pick. – Givony
2. Utah Jazz
**Dylan Harper, SG/PG, Rutgers\
Freshman** | TS%: 59.5%
Scouting report: Harper has held steady as the No. 2 pick for many in NBA front offices despite a 15-17 season for Rutgers – a season that likely ended Wednesday with a double-overtime loss to USC in the Big Ten tournament, bringing Harper’s college career to a close. He has a blend of size, strength and intuitive playmaking that makes him attractive to any team in need of a perimeter creator. While Harper isn’t viewed as a likely challenger to Flagg at No. 1, he presents an excellent option for whichever team lands the second pick in the lottery.
NBA intel and fit: Utah has leaned heavily into its youth movement over the past month, due in part to injuries, but has been able to grant valuable development time to its recent draftees, such as guard Isaiah Collier. A byproduct of that will be another strong chance for the Jazz in the lottery, where any of the top four players would elevate the talent level of their young core. Being able to put the ball in Harper’s hands next season would be a big step in the right direction for this team. – Woo
3. Charlotte Hornets
**Ace Bailey, SG/SF, Rutgers\
Freshman** | TS%: 53.8%
Scouting report: Bailey had a relatively quiet February and his college career likely ended in the Big Ten tournament on Wednesday with a double-overtime loss to USC, but he remains highly regarded by NBA teams for his shot-making talent. He is viewed as more of a project and one who will require careful, hands-on development to succeed – but there’s no player in this draft who can score the way he does. Bailey’s predraft process will be pivotal in persuading teams he can discover the consistency needed to be a star at the next level.
NBA intel and fit: The Hornets remain in asset-gathering mode, owning all their future draft picks and are demonstrably willing to take big upside swings, like they did last season with No. 6 pick Tidjane Salaun. Charlotte should be attracted to the draft’s top available talent regardless of position in the interest of long-term roster development. While there might be some broad duplication with Bailey and Brandon Miller, the Hornets might find it difficult to pass on long-term upside. – Woo
More: NBA execs on what they see in Rutgers’ Harper, Bailey
4. New Orleans Pelicans
**VJ Edgecombe, SG, Baylor\
Freshman** | TS%: 56.5%%
Scouting report: Edgecombe, the Big 12 freshman of the year, has shown quite a bit of skill over the course of the season and is possibly the most explosive athlete in this draft class. He’s an event-creator defensively who made 39% of his 3-pointers in conference play. His improved shot creation and passing prowess bode well for his long-term development. Baylor (18-13) didn’t have the season it had hoped for and will need Edgecombe at his absolute best in the Big 12 and NCAA tournaments to have any chance of extending the Bears’ season.
NBA intel and fit: After a miserable start to the season, the Pelicans are 6-6 in their past 12 games, in no small part because of the return of Zion Williamson from injury. But that might not be great news for their lottery odds. There is a pack of teams directly behind New Orleans that would move it into a different tier of drafting a prospect depending on how the draft lottery plays out May 12. A player such as Edgecombe would be an exciting addition, giving them two of the most explosive athletes in the game when paired with Williamson. – Givony
5. Philadelphia 76ers
**Tre Johnson, SG, Texas\
Freshman** | TS%: 56.7%
Scouting report: The No. 5 spot in particular has been open for debate in this class, with Flagg, Harper, Bailey and Edgecombe forming a soft consensus among the top four. Despite a middling season for Texas (17-14), Johnson has endeared himself to scouts, as there’s a willingness to forgive his tricky team context and the ups and downs of his demanding role. He has helped himself as a result, despite pronounced highs (39 points in an overtime loss at Arkansas) and ugly lows (0-for-14 from the field against Oklahoma). Johnson has a huge platform at the SEC tournament, with a huge contingent of NBA decision-makers on hand in Nashville.
NBA intel and fit: The 76ers will likely find themselves sweating the draft lottery in May, with their first-round pick holding top-six protections, but otherwise conveying to the Thunder. After a challenging, injury-filled season in Philadelphia, having a legitimate chance at a top pick provides consolation. The Sixers seem to have found a long-term backcourt pairing in Tyrese Maxey and Jared McCain, but considering it was 2018 when they last had a top-10 draft pick, Philadelphia should swing on the selection with the most upside. Johnson would give them a third young guard to build around. – Woo
6. Brooklyn Nets
**Kasparas Jakucionis, PG, Illinois\
Freshman** | TS%: 60.8%
Scouting report: Jakucionis endured tough moments in conference play, but Illinois righted the ship to win three straight to end its regular season at 20-11. There’s still plenty to like about Jakucionis’ makeup and playmaking savvy, but scouts have also been wary of his streaky scoring and bouts of sloppiness with turnovers. (He averaged 3.4 turnovers a game.) Making a successful jump to the Big Ten as an 18-year-old is impressive in its own right, but he can help his case with a good showing against top competition in the NCAA tournament. Jakucionis likely remains solid in the lottery either way, with the draft becoming much more eye-of-the-beholder after the first four players go off the board.
NBA intel and fit: Brooklyn will enter its offseason with plentiful salary-cap space and draft assets, with its front office having repositioned the franchise over the past 18 months. While the exact timeline toward competing remains unclear – many of the league’s rebuilding teams have to consider the talent at the top of the 2026 draft, as well – landing the best long-term talent with their four first-round picks will be a major offseason task. Jakucionis would be a nice fit, giving the Nets a long-term backcourt player to develop. – Woo
7. Toronto Raptors
**Khaman Maluach, C, Duke\
Freshman** | TS%: 71.9%
Scouting report: Maluach is playing an important role for the No. 1 ranked Blue Devils, anchoring the team’s top-six defense, inhaling rebounds on both ends and providing vertical spacing as a roller and cutter while sprinting the floor aggressively in transition. Some of his offensive limitations have appeared more glaring in ACC competition, and he still has questions to answer regarding his skill level and defensive versatility. How he fares in Duke’s biggest games will shed important insight into his NBA readiness and will likely play a role in determining where he will eventually get selected in June.
NBA intel and fit: The Raptors have been feistier than expected, winning five of their past six games, distancing themselves from the pack of Flagg contenders and inching closer to the play-in tournament territory in the Eastern conference. Unless it is fortunate enough to move into the top-four on lottery night, Toronto will be picking from the next tier of prospects, which includes Maluach, who could be earmarked as a big man to build around long term. – Givony
8. San Antonio Spurs
**Kon Knueppel, SG/SF, Duke\
Freshman** | TS%: 63.3%
Scouting report: Knueppel is in the middle of a highly productive, efficient season as Duke’s second-leading scorer (13.7 points per game) and most prolific outside shooter. He handles a steady share of Duke’s shot-creation duties, playing an intelligent, mistake-free, team-oriented style that should translate well to any setting. Some of Knueppel’s least efficient games came in the first month of the season versus the toughest competition Duke faced, so scouts will be interested to see how he fares against longer and more athletic opponents if Duke makes it deep into the NCAA tournament.
NBA intel and fit: Surrounding Victor Wembanyama with shooting will surely be an organizational priority moving forward, especially with NBA Rookie of the Year contender Stephon Castle’s struggles with shooting from outside (28.3% from 3). Knueppel’s competitiveness, feel for the game and versatility would make him a seamless fit on any NBA roster, but he’s a particularly good match in San Antonio with his strong passing and 40% 3-point shooting. – Givony
9. Portland Trail Blazers
**Egor Demin, PG/SG, BYU\
Freshman** | TS%: 51.6%
Scouting report: Demin continues to produce for a BYU team (23-8) that’s firmly in the NCAA tournament field and riding an eight-game win streak. His season hasn’t produced the star turn many hoped for after a strong start, but he remains a focus for NBA teams thanks to his positional size and passing vision. He’s a divisive pro prospect primarily because of his struggles creating his own offense, shooting from 3 and long-term defensive concerns. A series of good performances under the NCAA tourney microscope would likely stabilize his range, which starts around here at No. 9, but is likely a wide one at this point.
NBA intel and fit: Portland has come back to earth somewhat after a hot start to February, but remains in the play-in picture with a seven-game homestand that started Wednesday, and rivals Dallas and Phoenix going through rough patches of their respective seasons. The Blazers have some key contract decisions coming and have likely torpedoed their chances at attractive lottery odds. Portland has also seen players such as Toumani Camara and Shaedon Sharpe emerge. Demin’s playmaking and connective skills could be a good fit on a roster presently built around backcourt scoring. – Woo
10. Chicago Bulls
**Derik Queen, C, Maryland\
Freshman** | TS%: 59.4%
Scouting report: Queen will play a driving role in whatever success the Terrapins have in the NCAA tournament. Queen is the most offensively gifted big in this draft class, presenting matchup problems with his ability to put the ball on the floor and attack out of different spots on the interior. Despite his productivity, there have been gripes from NBA scouts who have critiqued his consistency, leaving room for doubt particularly on the defensive end, where he can be lethargic. Regardless, the competitive spotlight of March gives Queen a chance to assuage some of those concerns.
NBA intel and fit: The Bulls traded for full rights to their first-round pick at February’s NBA trade deadline and seem to be shifting into full youth movement mode, with Josh Giddey and Coby White due for new contracts. At some point Chicago will have to make decisions on which players they view as core pieces, and how it approaches this likely lottery pick could provide clues in that regard. The Bulls’ dearth of young frontcourt talent would make Queen an interesting consideration. – Woo
11. Houston Rockets (via Phoenix)
**Jeremiah Fears, PG, Oklahoma\
Freshman** | TS%: 56.5%
Scouting report: Oklahoma secured an important bubble win against Georgia on Wednesday night and heads into a big matchup with Kentucky on Thursday. Should the Sooners advance further, it would be a nice reward for Fears’ surprisingly strong freshman campaign. His youth at 18, competitive nature and flashes of improvement this season have put him in lottery conversations, despite his need for physical development and defensive improvement. Teams in search of playmaking will have to consider him early in the draft.
NBA intel and fit: The Rockets are set to swap their pick with the Suns’ first-rounder, giving them potentially another lottery pick to add to their loaded young roster. Houston also controls much of Phoenix’s future, holding the Suns’ picks in 2027 and 2029. With developing talent at every position, the Rockets are in a spot to take a swing, with Fears projected as a potential backcourt partner for Reed Sheppard. – Woo
12. Miami Heat
**Jase Richardson, PG/SG, Michigan State\
Freshman** | TS%: 65.2%
Scouting report: Richardson has taken his game to another level since being inserted into Michigan State’s starting five, finding another notch with his aggressiveness and productivity shouldering greater offensive responsibility while maintaining stellar efficiency. Richardson’s pace, skill level, feel for the game, and shot-making prowess give him an outstanding framework to build off at 19 years old, especially with the intensity he brings defensively. Though his somewhat pedestrian measurements (6-foot-2 in shoes and 185 pounds) might limit his ceiling to an extent in the eyes of teams, the way he is affecting winning on both ends of the court, along with his tremendous statistical profile, can’t be discounted, especially if he can continue to make strides as a slasher and passer.
NBA intel and fit: Miami’s playoff aspirations unsurprisingly took a hit after trading Jimmy Butler III to Golden State at the deadline, going 4-11 since making the move. BPI gives the Heat a 57.5% chance of missing the playoffs, in which case they would keep their top-14 protected pick and convey their 2026 first-rounder unprotected to Oklahoma City. Richardson seems like the kind of young guard prospect the Heat could be attracted to, and there could be a strong fit here with an obvious need in the backcourt. – Givony
13. Dallas Mavericks
**Nolan Traore, PG, Saint Quentin (France)\
France** | TS%: 49.3%
Scouting report: After a difficult start to the season, Traore has been on an upswing over the past two months, notching impressive wins against high-level opponents while showcasing his outstanding speed, shot creation and passing prowess. The 18-year-old has taken some lumps in an outsized role, struggling with perimeter shooting, decision-making and physicality on both ends. But he seems to be playing his best basketball lately and still has his team positioned to make the playoffs, providing another two-plus months of opportunity to be evaluated long after the college basketball season is complete.
NBA intel and fit: In the aftermath of trading Luka Doncic and losing Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis to injuries, the Mavs are trying to hold on to a spot in the play-in tournament, with BPI giving them a 12% chance of making the playoffs. The Mavs don’t control their first-round picks from 2027 to 2030, so they must draft wisely this year and next. With Irving probably out for much of next season, the backcourt might be the first place to start. Traore is one of the draft’s youngest prospects, and possesses significant talent with the ball in his hands, with plenty of room to grow long term. – Givony
14. Atlanta Hawks (via Sacramento)
**Liam McNeeley, SG/SF, UConn\
Freshman** | TS%: 55.9%
Scouting report: McNeeley has had several big moments over the course of his freshman season but has lacked consistency, converting 44% on 2-pointers and 35% on 3-pointers while struggling at times on defense. On a team lacking ball handlers, he has been tasked with more shot-creation responsibility than he is equipped for, and probably will be asked to play a very different role in the NBA, leaning more into his dynamic perimeter shooting ability. In the meantime, UConn will need McNeeley at his best in the Big East Conference and NCAA tournaments – and finishing on a strong note would be helpful in solidifying his lottery credentials.
NBA intel and fit: The Hawks will receive this pick provided it falls from 13 to 30, something that won’t crystalize for some time, with the Kings having a 74% chance of missing the playoffs per ESPN’s BPI. Surrounding Trae Young (who is leading the NBA in assists with 11.5 per game) with additional shooting will always be a priority, and McNeeley certainly fits that bill. – Givony
15. Orlando Magic
**Joan Beringer, C, Cedevita Olimpija (France)\
Slovenia** | TS%: 59.2%
Scouting report: Beringer continues to draw a significant audience of NBA decision-makers to Ljubljana, Slovenia, and just had one of his most impactful games of the season with a dominant defensive display in the EuroCup playoffs. Beringer’s agility covering ground on the perimeter and rotating to protect the rim gives him significant versatility to tap into long term, helping him post the highest block percentage of any projected draft pick on either side of the ocean. With Cedevita eliminated from EuroCup competition, his team is now fighting for seeding in the Adriatic league playoffs (slated for May), which NBA executives will heavily scrutinize once teams fully turn their attention to international play with college basketball’s season ending next month.
NBA intel and fit: Orlando’s season has gone off the rails lately, with the team winning only seven over its past 25 games. BPI now gives the Magic a 58% chance of making the playoffs. Improving on offense will be a team priority, something that might be difficult to address short-term with where they are slated to be drafting. Packaging their two draft picks to move up or making bigger moves with existing roster pieces probably will be closely studied, as this draft is short on impactful backcourt options. – Givony
16. San Antonio Spurs (via Atlanta)
**Collin Murray-Boyles, PF/C, South Carolina\
Sophomore** | TS%: 63.7%
Scouting report: It’s hard to pin South Carolina’s 12-19 season all on Murray-Boyles, who was productive during conference play (16.8 points, 7.3 rebounds, 1.5 steals, 1.3 blocks) despite being the focal point for opposing defenses. Though he doesn’t have great size for his position, his toughness, feel, and motor are all attractive role-player qualities that should scale well into a complementary context.
NBA intel and fit: BPI gives the Hawks a 78% chance of making the playoffs, sending their unprotected pick to the Spurs as part of the Dejounte Murray trade in 2022. A versatile big man with toughness and a strong feel for the game like Murray-Boyles could be appealing to the Spurs, even if his lack of perimeter shooting isn’t ideal. – Woo
17. Oklahoma City Thunder (via the Clippers)
**Noa Essengue, PF, Ratiopharm Ulm (Germany)\
Germany** | TS%: 60.9%
Scouting report: Essengue has been productive and efficient all season in the EuroCup and BBL against high-level competition, filling up the stat sheet without needing plays called for him. He scores in transition, crashing the glass, cutting off the ball and drawing fouls in bunches because of his outstanding quickness, although he struggles shooting from beyond the arc (25% on 3s). With his team poised for a playoff run (currently tied for first place in Germany), scouts will soon turn their attention to Ulm once the college basketball season ends.
NBA intel and fit: Oklahoma City holds rights to swap its own first-round pick for the better of the Clippers’ and Rockets’ firsts. The Thunder continue to sit on the deepest collection of draft picks and swaps in the league, allowing them to target who they want without a heavy need built in; they could have as many as three firsts in this draft. The Thunder have never been afraid of taking swings on young players with upside in Essengue’s mold, even if there’s no clear pathway to minutes for the forward on this roster. – Givony
18. Indiana Pacers
**Danny Wolf, C, Michigan\
Junior** | TS%: 57.4%
Scouting report: Wolf’s major contributions have been at the center of Michigan’s success this season, although the Wolverines enter the Big Ten tourney having lost three straight games. There’s no prospect quite like Wolf in this draft, with his ability to pass and play on the perimeter at his size (7-foot). His anomalous mix of skills also makes him somewhat divisive – he hasn’t been especially efficient (55.7% TS in conference play) and has struggled with turnovers because of the number of risks he takes. His draft range is among the wider of our current projected first-rounders, and team fit figures to be paramount to his ability to stick long term.
NBA intel and fit: Indiana remains in good shape for a playoff berth entering an important offseason, with Myles Turner hitting free agency and the Pacers potentially reaching the luxury tax (which they haven’t done since 2005-06) if they re-sign him. The Pacers have primarily built their supporting cast through the draft and could use additional frontcourt depth, making Wolf an interesting consideration whether Turner stays put or not. – Woo
19. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Detroit)
**Carter Bryant, SF/PF, Arizona\
Freshman** | TS%: 61.1%
Scouting report: Bryant has shown what makes him interesting long term while coming off the bench for Arizona, bringing strong defensive versatility and the makings of a functional perimeter game. Though not a good ball handler, Bryant is a plus-passer and capable catch-and-shoot player with upside left to tap into. Though it might take time for him to earn minutes at the NBA level, he remains an attractive project pick and will have a chance to benefit from the March spotlight if Arizona can mount a run in the NCAA tournament.
NBA intel and fit: The Timberwolves weren’t expecting to have a first-round pick this season, but with the Pistons squarely in the playoff picture, this top-13 protected first is likely to convey. After committing future capital to draft Rob Dillingham last year, Minnesota could see this pick as an opportunity to add on the wing, with Bryant’s versatility and unselfishness making him a good fit in theory. – Woo
20. Brooklyn Nets (via Milwaukee)
**Asa Newell, PF, Georgia\
Freshman** | TS%: 61.7%
Scouting report: Newell and Georgia bowed out of the first round of the SEC tournament with a loss to Oklahoma, which will lead to a nervous few days on the NCAA tournament bubble heading into Selection Sunday. His size, mobility, aggressiveness and motor helped him to a successful season, as he was selected to the SEC All-Freshman team after leading Georgia in scoring (15.1) and rebounding (6.5). Some questions persist regarding his perimeter shooting, defensive versatility and feel for the game, as he is somewhat of a jack of all trades who is caught between positions with his average length. Nonetheless, he has a solid floor and upside to grow into at 19 years old.
NBA intel and fit: Milwaukee will convey this pick to Brooklyn as one of four first-round selections headed the Nets’ way. Though most NBA teams would never consider rostering four rookies, the Nets have few players under guaranteed contracts next season and might be in position to keep all four if they like their options on June 26. Newell is a fairly easy player to plug into most rosters with his ability to crash the offensive glass, score off cuts and rolls, and connect on occasional spot 3s, making him a solid option for teams picking in this range. – Givony
21. Utah Jazz (via Minnesota)
**Rasheer Fleming, PF, Saint Joseph’s\
Junior** | TS%: 67.2%
Scouting report: Fleming has had an outstanding season from a productivity and efficiency perspective, converting 67% of his 2-pointers and 42% of his 3s. He fits a mold NBA teams are searching for as a stretch big with strong finishing prowess who can theoretically guard all over the court with his 7-foot-5 wingspan. Saint Joseph’s 11-7 finish in the Atlantic 10 means the Hawks will have to win four games in four days as the No. 6 seed in the conference tournament to secure an NCAA tournament bid, as NBA scouts surely wouldn’t mind seeing him play another game or two against high major competition.
NBA intel and fit: This is the second of four first-round picks acquired by Utah from Minnesota in the Rudy Gobert trade, with two more to come in 2027 and 2029. BPI gives Minnesota an 87% chance of making the playoffs, despite currently being slated for the play-in tournament as a No. 7 seed in the West. Still at an early stage of a rebuild, the Jazz can afford to go in any direction with this pick, and could very well target a prospect such as Fleming, despite clear overlap with Taylor Hendricks, Utah’s No. 9 overall pick in 2023. – Givony
22. Miami Heat (via Golden State)
**Will Riley, SG/SF, Illinois\
Freshman** | TS%: 52.8%
Scouting report: After appearing to hit a wall in January, Riley finished the regular season on a better note, scoring in double figures in 10 of his last 11 games. Though many NBA execs are fans of his potential as a shooter at his size, his statistical case isn’t particularly attractive, making just 48.6% on 2-pointers and 32% on 3-pointers in the regular season. He needs to get stronger long term to maximize his NBA chances. A big game or two from Riley in March would help, as Illinois will need scorers to step up alongside Jakucionis.
NBA intel and fit: The Heat acquired this pick from the Warriors in the Jimmy Butler III trade, guaranteeing them at least one first-rounder in this draft depending what happens with their own selection. With Miami retooling around Bam Adebayo, Tyler Herro, and emerging center Kel’el Ware, developing a player such as Riley to eventually boost their offense on the wing could be an attractive fit. – Woo
23. Brooklyn Nets (via Houston)
**Hugo Gonzalez, SG/SF, Real Madrid (Spain)\
Spain** | TS%: 51.3%
Scouting report: Gonzalez earned a more consistent role with Madrid over the course of the season, and though his box score contributions haven’t been major, scouts remain drawn to his energy and athletic tools as a possible long-term NBA role player. Though his production hasn’t been great, his ability to fit in alongside more experienced talent at a good level in Europe at age 19 is noteworthy. It’ll be interesting to see how teams view the suboptimal context of his season, and it’s unclear how much of the predraft process he’ll be available for, with Madrid’s season potentially running into June.
NBA intel and fit: The Nets hold a league-high four first-round picks in this draft, and though they might not make all of them, it’s a big opportunity to strengthen their collection of young players. Brooklyn could be a smooth fit for Gonzalez, with the Nets having a Spanish coach in Jordi Fernandez, and presumably a strong level of familiarity with the situation. – Woo
24. Washington Wizards (via Memphis)
**Ben Saraf, PG/SG, Ratiopharm Ulm (Germany)\
Germany** | TS%: 52.3%
Scouting report: After a strong start to the season, Saraf hit a bit of a lull, struggling with turnovers and poor outside shooting for both Ulm and the Israeli national team. NBA teams love Saraf’s size (6-6), feel for the game and creativity, but have mixed views on his ability to play a primary shot-creation role with his lack of explosiveness. With his team gearing up for a deep playoff run – currently in first place in the BBL – Saraf will be scrutinized closely by scouts deep into May once the college basketball season concludes. How he performs against top-level competition probably will play a role in how he’s viewed by NBA teams.
NBA intel and fit: The Wizards acquired this pick at the February trade deadline from Memphis in exchange for taking on Marcus Smart’s contract, a tidy bit of business as part of their rebuilding effort. With wins and losses not a primary concern at this point of the season, the Wizards can afford to take a swing on an 18-year-old such as Saraf and empower him with significant playmaking responsibility to see how far his talent can carry him. – Givony
25. Atlanta Hawks (via the Lakers)
**Thomas Sorber, C, Georgetown\
Freshman** | TS%: 58.7%
Scouting report: Sorber is out for the season after requiring foot surgery but is still expected to declare for the draft to gauge his standing among NBA teams. It remains to be seen what kind of predraft process Sorber will undergo, which might play a role in whether he elects to return to college. Nevertheless, Sorber’s strong feel for the game, defensive versatility, length, physicality and skill level as a pick-and-roll finisher are attractive qualities at 19 years old, and the dearth of true center options in this draft range could help his standing as well.
NBA intel and fit: The Hawks will receive the Lakers’ pick as part of the Dejounte Murray deal, giving them another opportunity to add a young player on a controlled rookie scale contract, an important factor considering the Hawks’ salary cap situation. Clint Capela becoming an unrestricted free agent this summer might very well prompt the Hawks to explore adding a young center such as Sorber to develop alongside Onyeka Okongwu over the next few years. – Givony
26. Brooklyn Nets (via New York)
**Alex Condon, C, Florida\
Sophomore** | TS%: 58.8%
Scouting report: Condon is playing a significant role for No. 4 Florida, operating as an important playmaking hub on offense while being tasked with switching all over the court on defense. His combination of skill, feel for the game and intensity gives him the versatility to play both power forward and center, especially when he’s making shots from the perimeter as he has inconsistently (15-for-43 on 3-pointers, 35%). The longer Condon and Florida play in the NCAA tournament, the better he’ll be positioned in this draft class.
NBA intel and fit: Armed with four first-round picks, the Nets have great flexibility with how to approach this draft. Condon’s ability to play either frontcourt spot could be attractive, especially if the Nets believe he can stretch the court consistently long term. – Givony
27. Orlando Magic (via Denver)
**Drake Powell, SG/SF, North Carolina\
Freshman** | TS%: 60.4%
Scouting report: Powell might face a difficult stay-or-go decision this spring, with North Carolina ramping up its NIL efforts in a major way for next season and probably compelled to retain Powell and freshman teammate Ian Jackson. This is just one of many cases in which NIL spending power makes the option to turn pro less clear-cut for prospects who are not guaranteed to be first-round picks. A poor team context as well as limited offensive skills made this a somewhat forgettable freshman season for Powell – and though teams still like his defensive upside in the long run, he’ll have work to do in the predraft process to enhance his standing.
NBA intel and fit: Orlando has built much of its roster through the draft and holds two first-round picks. The Magic are in need of wing defenders and improved floor spacing, with the signing of Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (who hasn’t had a stellar season) intended to address that issue. Though Powell isn’t there yet as a shooter, his defensive acumen could make him a viable developmental pick. – Woo
28. Boston Celtics
**Adou Thiero, PF, Arkansas\
Junior** | TS%: 62.0%
Scouting report: Thiero has sat out five games and counting because of a knee injury and might be done for the season, with his status still unclear at the SEC tournament. He remains one of the draft’s biggest gambles on pure physical ability. A productive season still didn’t quite address the concerns about his limited feel and shooting. He’s one of this draft’s best athletes, allowing him to make plays defensively and finish around the rim at a high level, and to some extent covering for other holes in his game. There’s interesting role-player upside here if Thiero lands with a team that can maximize his strengths, helped by the fact he plays with a strong motor. That upside continues to make him a valid bet at the end of the first round, presuming his health checks out.
NBA intel and fit: The defending champion Celtics have assembled an enviable, if expensive roster, making this pick (as well as Washington’s second-round pick, which Boston holds) a good opportunity to add cost-controlled talent. Thiero would benefit from a situation such as Boston’s, where he’d be surrounded with experienced players to smooth his transition into a bench role. – Woo
29. LA Clippers (via Oklahoma City)
**Noah Penda, SF/PF, Le Mans (France)\
France** | TS%: 54.7%
Scouting report: Penda’s versatility and strong feel for the game have played an important role for playoff-bound Le Mans. He is an intelligent passer who slides all over the court on defense and plays a mature style of basketball for a 20-year-old getting his first action of high-level European basketball. His streaky shooting – making 29% of his 3-pointers this season – is something NBA teams will want to learn more about in the predraft process, along with his average explosiveness.
NBA intel and fit: The Clippers dodged a potential headache in declining to extend All-Star guard Paul George, and haven’t taken much of a step back; BPI gives them an 76% chance of making the playoffs. With precious few draft assets coming their way in the next few years because of myriad trades made to acquire George and James Harden, the Clippers will need to draft wisely moving forward to stay competitive. A versatile role player such as Penda who can slide across different positions and play alongside better players could be attractive here. – Givony
30. Phoenix Suns (via Cleveland)
**Ryan Kalkbrenner, C, Creighton\
Super senior** | TS%: 70.2%
Scouting report: Kalkbrenner, 23, is a well-known prospect for NBA teams after playing five seasons for the Bluejays. He has been one of the most productive players in college basketball, offering reliable finishing at the rim and quality paint protection, a recipe that hasn’t changed much. At his age, there’s not much perception of upside left to glean from his profile, but a team in search of backup center depth at a lower cost might see value in him as high as the late first round.
NBA intel and fit: It seems Phoenix is due for more offseason change with whispers of a potential deal with Kevin Durant further upending a franchise that has burned through most of its levers to improve the roster. The Suns are the type of team that might find value in hitting a figurative single or double at pick No. 30, with an experienced player such as Kalkbrenner not likely to burn a hole in their pockets considering their heavy need for depth up front. – Woo
Second round
31. Boston Celtics (via Washington)\
Nique Clifford, SG, Colorado State, super senior
32. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Utah)\
Sergio De Larrea, PG/SG, Valencia ACB (Spain)
33. Charlotte Hornets\
Alex Karaban, PF, Connecticut, junior
34. Charlotte Hornets (via New Orleans)\
Ian Jackson, SG, North Carolina, freshman
35. Philadelphia 76ers\
Michael Ruzic, PF, Joventut (Spain)
36. Brooklyn Nets\
Maxime Raynaud, C, Stanford, senior
37. Detroit Pistons (via Toronto)\
Alex Toohey, SF/PF, Sydney (Australia)
38. San Antonio Spurs\
Boogie Fland, PG, Arkansas, freshman
39. Toronto Raptors (via Portland)\
Miles Byrd, SG, San Diego State, sophomore
40. Sacramento Kings (via Chicago)\
Chaz Lanier, SG, Tennessee, super senior
41. Washington Wizards (via Phoenix)\
Johni Broome, C, Auburn, super senior
42. Golden State Warriors (via Miami)\
Isaiah Evans, SG/SF, Duke, freshman
43. Utah Jazz (via Dallas)\
Tyrese Proctor, PG, Duke, junior
44. Chicago Bulls (via Sacramento)\
Darrion Williams, SF/PF, Texas Tech, junior
45. Orlando Magic\
Eric Dixon, C, Villanova, super senior
46. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Atlanta)\
Kam Jones, PG/SG, Marquette, senior
47. Utah Jazz (via LA Clippers)\
Sion James, SF, Duke, super senior
48. Indiana Pacers\
Dink Pate, SG/SF, Mexico City Capitanes (G League)
49. Milwaukee Bucks (via Washington)\
Cedric Coward, SF, Washington State, senior
50. Cleveland Cavaliers (via Milwaukee)\
Johann Grunloh, C, Vechta (Germany)
51. LA Clippers (via Minnesota)\
Rocco Zikarsky, C, Brisbane (Australia)
52. Memphis Grizzlies (via Washington)\
Bogoljub Markovic, PF/C, Mega MIS Adriatic (Serbia)
53. Memphis Grizzlies (via Houston)\
Yaxel Lendeborg, PF/C, UAB, senior
54. New York Knicks (via Memphis)\
JT Toppin, PF, Texas Tech, sophomore
55. Los Angeles Lakers\
Bennett Stirtz, PG/SG, Drake, junior
56. Phoenix Suns (via Denver)\
Mouhamed Faye, C, Reggio Emilia (Italy)
57. Orlando Magic (via Boston)\
John Tonje, SF, Wisconsin, super senior
58. Houston Rockets (Oklahoma City)\
Koby Brea, SG/SF, Kentucky, super senior
59. Cleveland Cavaliers\
Malique Lewis, SF/PF, South East Melbourne (Australia)
Note: The New York Knicks forfeited their 2025 second-round pick.