2025 NBA Mock Draft V.2
The No Ceilings crew comes together for V.2 of their 2025 NBA Mock Draft
The intrigue surrounding the 2025 NBA Draft class continues to grow with each passing week. We’ve already started to see a number of prospects start to heat up in the scouting world as players to watch closely for this year. Some prospects have hit the ground running, impressing evaluators with their play on the court. Others are just starting to scratch the surface, reminding each of us to stay patient throughout the grind.
There have also been a number of players who have started to “introduce” themselves to the scouting world, as names that could be “party crashers” for the 2025 class. We’ve seen it every year, but it’s always an important reminder. While the opening months of the college basketball season are exciting for NBA Draft fans, this is the time of the year in which things start to get serious.
This is when we start to see the pieces of the puzzle fall into place.
As is tradition, the No Ceilings crew came together for another “War Room” style NBA Mock Draft. One by one, our team nominated players before endless rounds of heated discussions.
After those discussions, we took it to a vote.
These are the results.
As always, here are some IMPORTANT reminders before diving into the madness.
Top 59 Picks (Shoutout New York Knicks), including analysis for each pick of the first round.
Measurements are from Team Websites (yes, they are always favorable. The combine will be the final boss)
The below order is from the NBA Standings as of December 8th, 2024.
WE LOVE YOU ALL.
#1. WASHINGTON WIZARDS — Cooper Flagg, F, Duke
Profile: 6’9”, 205
Year: Freshman (17)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
17 PTS | 9.1 REB | 3.8 AST | 1.7 STL | 1.4 BLK
44.0 FG% | 24.2 3P% | 71.4 FT%
9 Games | 31.3 MIN
Rucker: Duke freshman forward Cooper Flagg has started to come alive as of late, including recent outings that featured back-to-back 20-point, 10-rebound performances. Flagg continues to be the prized possession of the class. Despite some struggling to buy into the hype, he has all of the tools NBA teams are looking for in a forward with tremendous versatility. For a player of his age and youth, Flagg possesses a tremendous amount of upside once the tools start to fall into place. He’s a player who can star at being a connecting piece with sensational defensive upside. If the Washington Wizards were able to “Capture the Flagg” in the lottery, it would inject a serious boost to their rebuild, giving them a dangerous defensive weapon alongside Alex Sarr, as well as a sensational two-man asset in young guard Bub Carrington.
#2. NEW ORLEANS PELICANS - Dylan Harper, G, Rutgers
Profile: 6’6”, 215
Year: Freshman (18)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
23.1 PTS | 4.3 REB | 4.6 AST | 1.0 STL | 0.3 BLK
50.7 FG% | 31.0 3P% | 80.3 FT%
9 Games | 34.4 MIN
Nick: It has been a lost season for the Pelicans, as they’ve taken the mantle from last year’s Grizzlies as the “injured beyond belief” squad. They do at least have the solace of the rights to their own first round pick this year, and they essentially have the pick of the litter here with Cooper Flagg unsurprisingly being the first name off the board. This Rutgers team has been very inconsistent overall, but Dylan Harper has been consistently excellent on both ends of the floor. The Pelicans are likely to be a very different team personnel-wise next season, but they have an opening at point guard. Harper would be an awesome fit with C.J. McCollum (assuming McCollum isn’t moved), and he has the talent to get the keys to the New Orleans offense sooner rather than later.
#3. UTAH JAZZ — Ace Bailey, F, Rutgers
Profile: 6’10”, 205
Year: Freshman (18)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
17.9 PTS | 6.0 REB | 0.7 AST | 1.3 STL | 0.7 BLK
45.4 FG% | 36.7 3P% | 80.0 FT%
7 Games | 33.9 MIN
Metcalf: Ace Bailey has gotten off to a rocky start to his season, but he still has some of the highest upside in this draft. Bailey’s combination of size and shot-making gives him an incredibly encouraging range of outcomes and an extremely high ceiling. While there may be better fits for the Jazz, they still need to be targeting prospects with the highest upside. Bailey’s game isn’t perfect, but his current production, physical tools, and long-term upside make him one of the most intriguing prospects in this class.
#4. CHARLOTTE HORNETS — Egor Demin, G, BYU
Profile: 6’9”, 190
Year: Freshman (18)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
13.3 PTS | 4.6 REB | 5.8 AST | 1.6 STL | 0.8 BLK
49.3 FG% | 38.5 3P% | 68.0 FT%
8 Games | 29.1 MIN
Jam: In the midst of a rough season, Hornets fans can take solace in the fact that their rebuild could be accelerated by the presence of a developing superstar duo in LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller. With Egor Demin, the Hornets add a playmaking big wing (6’9”) with a valuable floor and high ceiling that fits their play style and timeline. Demin is a real candidate to be the first pick because of his tantalizing blend of size, ball skills, feel, shotmaking upside, and pick-and-roll wizardry. He would alleviate some of the ball-handling and playmaking duties from Ball, which would allow Ball and Miller to both have easier scoring opportunities. A Ball-Miller-Demin trio for Charlotte is a very exciting proposition.
#5. PHILADELPHIA 76ERS — Kasparas Jakucionis, G, Illinois
Profile: 6’6”, 205
Year: Freshman (18)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
14.4 PTS | 6.5 REB | 6.1 AST | 1.5 STL | 0.1 BLK
48.5 FG% | 42.9 3P% | 87.2 FT%
8 Games | 31.0 MIN
Albert: The Sixers have had a less-than-ideal start to their season, with injuries to each of their three main stars. To see them picking fifth here in our mock draft is a shocker to everyone. If this becomes their reality, adding a jumbo guard like Kasparas Jakucionis, with his elite size, passing vision, and shot-making ability, would make everyone in Philadelphia feel a little bit better. Heading into his freshman season, there were some questions about how Kasparas would acclimate to the College game and if he’d be able to find the right balance between passing the ball and hunting his own shot. Kasparas has been sensational to start the season with ridiculous shooting splits and has showcased a ton of his elite passing vision. As a 6’6” lead guard, with his ability to play on-ball and off, there are no issues in terms of fit either. He’d be great next to Tyrese Maxey and could become the building blocks of a potential Post-Joel Embiid world for the Sixers.
#6. TORONTO RAPTORS — Asa Newell, F/C, Georgia
Profile: 6’10”, 220
Year: Freshman (19)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
15.9 PTS | 6.6 REB | 1.2 AST | 1.3 STL | 1.2 BLK
56.0 FG% | 15.8 3P% | 62.1 FT%
9 Games | 26.9 MIN
Nathan: The Toronto Raptors have made multiple trades and draft selections over the past few seasons to address multiple positions on the perimeter around forward Scottie Barnes. Immanuel Quickley, Gradey Dick, and RJ Barrett all seem poised to captain the Raptors roster in both the short and long term. There is, however, a potential hole from a depth perspective at center. Both Jakob Poeltl and Kelly Olynyk could be on new teams come February, and given Toronto’s current standing in the Eastern Conference, there’s likely to be a level of patience from the front office in selecting a new frontcourt mate for Barnes. Asa Newell has plenty of upside at 6’11” as an engaged two-way big who crashes the glass, makes plays all over the floor defensively, and can finish through and above defenders. His jump shot is a work in progress, but Newell has produced in every other area across the board as a freshman.
#7. PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS — Liam McNeeley, G/F, UConn
Profile: 6’7”, 210
Year: Freshman (19)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
12.4 PTS | 5.9 REB | 1.9 AST | 0.5 STL | 0.4 BLK
41.3 FG% | 34.7 3P% | 83.8 FT%
10 Games | 30.6 MIN
Metcalf: The Trail Blazers clearly have a type in big, toolsy wings. Unfortunately, not many of them have proven that they can consistently shoot. Despite what his current shooting numbers portray, Liam McNeeley can shoot. With a long track record of being a lethal spot-up shooter, McNeeley would quickly provide the Trail Blazers’ on-ball creators with a reliable outlet. McNeeley is also a smart defender; he can attack closeouts, make high-level passing reads, and crash boards.
#8. DETROIT PISTONS — Tre Johnson, G, Texas
Profile: 6’6”, 190
Year: Freshman (18)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
21.1 PTS | 2.7 REB | 2.0 AST | 0.9 STL | 0.3 BLK
48.2 FG% | 43.8 3P% | 83.9 FT%
9 Games | 32.4 MIN
Nathan: This season has been up and down for the majority of the Texas Longhorns roster, but the good news is that Tre Johnson has taken advantage to showcase how lethal of a scoring prospect he is—even as a freshman in the Big 12. Johnson’s reliability on the perimeter has single-handedly carried Texas at times in the halfcourt, and he continues to make it rain buckets at volume with high levels of efficiency. As of now, there are no other guards his age in the projected 2025 draft class who have come out of the gates doing what he’s done offensively. As Johnson continues to refine his defensive game and passing chops, there’s a real argument for him to end up amongst the top prospects long term. The Detroit Pistons have found success already this year with shoot-first perimeter threats in a similar mold to Johnson in terms of Tim Hardaway Jr. and Malik Beasley. Johnson could grow his game and develop in a similar fashion while providing value on a rookie-scale contract.
#9. CHICAGO BULLS — Derik Queen, F/C, Maryland
Profile: 6’10”, 244
Year: Freshman (19)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
17.5 PTS | 8.7 REB | 2.4 AST | 1.2 STL | 1.1 BLK
60.9 FG% | 13.3 3P% | 78.0 FT%
10 Games | 27.5 MIN
Rucker: An argument could be made that Maryland freshman Derik Queen has been one of the most impressive freshmen in college basketball this year. An incredibly skilled big man, Queen is a monster inside the paint with a high feel for the game. After a strong start to the year, Queen’s game has only gotten more impressive. He’s averaged 20.0 points and 10.2 rebounds in his last five games while shooting 62.3% from the field. Queen’s stock continues to be red hot; if the defensive concerns can be answered moving forward, he’s going to be a name that continues to trend upward. Chicago landing Queen here would be a heck of an addition. Adding his offensive weaponry alongside some of the pieces in place would give the Bulls an offensive force in the paint to develop as they look to build toward the future.
#10. INDIANA PACERS — VJ Edgecombe, G, Baylor
Profile: 6’5”, 180
Year: Freshman (19)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
11.4 PTS | 5.5 REB | 3.0 AST | 2.4 STL | 1.5 BLK
40.0 FG% | 24.2 3P% | 65.2 FT%
8 Games | 27.9 MIN
Albert: The Indiana Pacers are another potential playoff team that hasn’t had the start to the season that they were hoping to see. With guys like Aaron Nesmith being out since the start of November, Indiana has really struggled defensively. The Pacers are currently 24th in the league in Defensive rating and 23rd in overall net rating. Even with Benedict Mathurin's return from his injury last season, the Pacers have dragged themselves to a 10-15 record. VJ Edgecombe would be an extremely enticing option for the Pacers because he’d add a jolt of athleticism and defensive intensity on the perimeter. Standing at 6’5” with elite athletic tools, Edgecombe would offer a different type of wing presence that the Pacers do not have. Edgecombe is still a work in progress on the offensive side of the ball, but his competitive spirit and team-first mentality would be a welcome addition, and he’d have no problem fitting in with the roster. Edgecombe rarely needs the ball in his hands, and as he develops his outside jumper, he’ll only become more dangerous.
#11. SACRAMENTO KINGS — Kon Knueppel, F, Duke
Profile: 6’6”, 217
Year: Freshman (19)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
12.4 PTS | 3.6 REB | 3.6 AST | 0.8 STL | 0.0 BLK
41.5 FG% | 33.3 3P% | 94.1 FT%
9 Games | 30.8 MIN
Nick: It’s been a disappointing start to the season for the Sacramento Kings, and they would certainly hope that they’re not in this kind of lottery position by the end of the season. If they are, though, the Kings desperately need size on the wing and could also use a bit more shooting touch outside of their main guys. Knueppel checks both of those boxes; his defense will not be his calling card, but the 6’7” forward can get to passable on that end of the floor–and he doesn’t need to be much more than that for a Kings squad that has been above-average defensively since Keon Ellis was elevated to the starting lineup last February. Knueppel’s recent cold shooting is definitely a concern, but on paper, he can cover a lot of gaps for a Kings team in need of what he can provide.
#12. SAN ANTONIO SPURS — Ben Saraf, G, Ratiopharm Ulm
Profile: 6’5”, 201
Year: 2006 Born (18)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
12.7 PTS | 2.9 REB | 4.3 AST | 1.2 STL | 0.2 BLK
44.3 FG% | 31.4 3P% | 75.0 FT%
17 Games | 23.6 MIN
Jam: With Chris Paul’s one-year deal up at the end of the season, San Antonio adds a playmaker with positional size (6’5”) in Saraf, to split duties with Stephon Castle and form their backcourt of the future around Vassell and Wemby. Despite his shooting inconsistencies, Saraf has shown that he can leverage his crafty ball skills, feel, vision, and shotmaking ability to impact games already as a pro. Whether he ends up becoming a high-level connective piece or more of a primary option, San Antonio’s history of development and international scouting success make Saraf a perfect fit.
#13. ATLANTA HAWKS (via LAL) — Khaman Maluach, C, Duke
Profile: 7’2”, 250
Year: Freshman (18)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
7.0 PTS | 4.4 REB | 0.1 AST | 0.2 STL | 0.9 BLK
77.1 FG% | 33.3 3P% | 80.0 FT%
9 Games | 17.3 MIN
Albert: It feels like Clint Capela has been an Atlanta Hawk forever, but it may be time for the Hawks to find his successor finally. It’s been five years now since the Hawks brought in Onyeka Okongwu, and many thought he was Capela's heir apparent. Five years into his career, it’s still unclear if the Hawks see him as the center of the future. With that in mind, Maluach could be a really interesting piece to add to their frontcourt. Maluach is a legitimate 7’2” with great length and a strong frame to build on. He also has flashed some outside shooting ability as well. Maluach doesn’t have the lightest feet in the world and has struggled a bit in his freshman season for the Duke Blue Devils. As always, though, you have to give the big fellas more time to develop.
#14. ORLANDO MAGIC (via DEN) — Will Riley, G, Illinois
Profile: 6’8”, 195
Year: Freshman (18)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
15.0 PTS | 4.4 REB | 1.9 AST | 0.3 STL | 0.4 BLK
45.5 FG% | 42.9 3P% | 66.7 FT%
8 Games | 26.0 MIN
Nick: The Orlando Magic have been spectacular this season even despite serious injury woes, but their offense is still a slog; as of writing, they have the 24th-ranked Offensive Rating in the league, per Basketball-Reference. Enter Will Riley, who would provide instant offense for a team in need of it. Other than his frame (which is still concerningly thin), Riley has answered pretty much all of the questions that people had about him after he reclassified into last year’s high school class to play for the Fighting Illini this year. The Magic are good enough to be patient with Riley’s growth as he adds more weight to his frame. In the meantime, his exemplary shot-making talent would inject instant energy off the bench for a team that is solidifying itself as one of the best teams in the NBA this year, even without Paolo Banchero for most of the season so far and Franz Wagner for the last few games. Riley’s offensive punch could help take them to the next level.
#15. BROOKLYN NETS — Noa Essengue, F, Ratiopharm Ulm
Profile: 6’9”, 200
Year: 2006 Born (17)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
10.5 PTS | 4.7 REB | 1.1 AST | 0.8 STL | 0.6 BLK
47.7 FG% | 26.3 3P% | 69.6 FT%
20 Games | 22.6 MIN
Rucker: The Brooklyn Nets are going to come into the 2025 NBA Draft class locked and loaded with a treasure chest of draft capital. That means that Brooklyn can be active in trying to balance between best player available picks and high upside swings in this stacked class. International forward Noa Essengue continues to be a name that is buzzing in draft circles. Essengue has been playing overseas with Ratiopharm Ulm and is a raw product with serious tools and untapped potential. He’s a lengthy forward who has continued to show improvements on both sides of the ball, including his outside shot. For one of the youngest players in this class, Essengue would be a tremendous get for a rebuilding team like the Nets.
#16. BROOKLYN NETS (via MIL) — Boogie Fland, G, Arkansas
Profile: 6’2”, 175
Year: Freshman (18)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
15.0 PTS | 3.8 REB | 5.2 AST | 1.6 STL | 0.0 BLK
42.2 FG% | 40.5 3P% | 82.1 FT%
9 Games | 32.3 MIN
Jam: Even in a crowded Arkansas backcourt, Boogie Fland has been able to showcase the talents as a shifty scorer and playmaker that made him such a highly-regarded high school prospect. With the uncertain futures of Cam Thomas and Dennis Schroder, what Fland provides could be exactly what Brooklyn needs.
#17. OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER (via MIA) — Nique Clifford, G, Colorado State
Profile: 6’6”, 200
Year: Senior (22)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
17.9 PTS | 10.7 REB | 3.1 AST | 0.4 STL | 0.9 BLK
53.4 FG% | 38.1 3P% | 65.5 FT%
9 Games | 36.0 MIN
Metcalf: Nique Clifford is having an incredible year so far and showing massive improvement in the areas that matter. Clifford’s exquisite defense is now beautifully complimented by his improved shooting, scoring versatility, and playmaking. The Thunder value positional size, feel, and versatility; all of which Clifford has shown in spades this year. If he continues playing like this, it wouldn’t be shocking if he goes earlier.
#18. SAN ANTONIO SPURS (via ATL) — Alex Karaban, F, UConn
Profile: 6’8”, 225
Year: Junior (21)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
16.5 PTS | 5.0 REB | 3.4 AST | 0.6 STL | 2.0 BLK
49.4 FG% | 48.1 3P% | 83.3 FT%
8 Games | 33.3 MIN
Nathan: The San Antonio Spurs have success early to start this season, given the leap of Victor Wembanyama around veterans like Chris Paul and Harrison Barnes. Not to mention Stephon Castle has produced quicker than some may have expected as a playmaking defensive ace alongside Wembanyama. With the Play-In Tournament potentially in sight, the Spurs could look in the direction of experienced collegiate talent in the form of Alex Karaban from UConn. Karaban’s game may not be flashy, but he’s been incredibly effective for the Huskies over multiple seasons. Karaban has already improved upon most of his numbers across the board, and has even spelled some of their point guards by taking over a share of the halfcourt playmaking duties. A cerebral defender, instinctual passer, and proven shooter, Karaban’s game fits on any NBA roster as a ready-made power forward. What more could the Spurs want in terms of impact contributors between Wembanyama and Castle?
#19. HOUSTON ROCKETS (via PHX) — Collin Murray-Boyles, F, South Carolina
Profile: 6’8”, 245
Year: Sophomore (19)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
16.2 PTS | 9.4 REB | 1.9 AST | 1.2 STL | 1.1 BLK
65.9 FG% | 37.5 3P% | 64.3 FT%
9 Games | 29.6 MIN
Rucker: Despite being a productive machine in his sophomore season, South Carolina forward Collin Murray-Boyles could become a bit “fit dependent” with this class. CMB has been a beast on the defensive side of the ball throughout his collegiate career. He’s also been a monster on the boards, offering some toughness and relentlessness on the glass. While the outside shot continues to develop, Murray-Boyles would be a tremendous addition for a team that is looking to take advantage of his strengths. At 19, the Houston Rockets would jump all over the opportunity to add another piece with versatility who can be an asset with his strengths on the court.
#20. UTAH JAZZ (via MIN) — Kam Jones, G, Marquette
Profile: 6’5”, 200
Year: Senior (22)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
20.3 PTS | 4.7 REB | 6.5 AST | 1.7 STL | 0.3 BLK
58.6 FG% | 42.2 3P% | 71.4 FT%
10 Games | 31.7 MIN
Metcalf: Kam Jones is making the rare evolution from spark plug sixth man to offensive engine. Jones’s growth as a playmaker, defender, and decision-maker this year has been astounding. Despite losing Tyler Kolek and Oso Ighodaro, Marquette hasn’t lost a step—largely due to Jones’s ascendence. While Jones is a really fun player, he is also a great fit for the Jazz. He can act as a table setter for their plethora of scorers, run a tremendous two-man game, and defend at a competent level. Whether it’s as a backup point guard or a long-term starting option, Jones would help provide some needed point guard depth.
#21. OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER (via LAC) — Hugo Gonzalez, G/F, Real Madrid
Profile: 6’6”, 207
Year: 2006 Born (18)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
2.6 PTS | 1.2 REB | 0.6 AST | 0.1 STL | 0.3 BLK
38.5 FG% | 16.7 3P% | 73.3 FT%
17 Games | 8.1 MIN
Albert: Heading into the season, Hugo Gonzalez was viewed by most major outlets as a Top 10 prospect heading into the 2025 NBA Draft. Since then, his stock has fallen quite a bit. Unfortunately, most of the blame isn’t so much on his play but the lack of minutes he’s played for Real Madrid. Real Madrid’s roster is loaded with guys like Mario Hezonja, Dzanan Musa, and Facu Campazzo taking up the lion’s share of the minutes, but the talent with Hugo is undeniable. Gonzalez is a 6’7” wing with good athleticism and a good handle, and he is a versatile defender. Up until this point in his young career, Hugo has struggled with his outside shooting, but the mechanics of the shot look good, and there is belief that he will eventually become a decent to above-average shooter from outside. With the OKC Thunder having a loaded roster, adding a guy like Hugo, who may need more time to develop, might be the perfect choice. Like his current team in Madrid, Gonzalez would struggle to find immediate minutes for the Thunder and will probably see more minutes on their G-League affiliate early on in his NBA career.
#22. GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS — Nolan Traore, G, Saint-Quentin
Profile: 6’4”, 185
Year: 2006 Born (18)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
10.9 PTS | 1.8 REB | 4.7 AST | 0.7 STL | 0.1 BLK
34.8 FG% | 28.4 3P% | 71.4 FT%
15 Games | 22.7 MIN
Nick: Nolan Traore has been one of the unfortunate disappointments of the early part of the season, as his shooting has gone ice-cold following a few strong games in Champions league play to start the season. The Warriors would be perfectly happy to stop his slide here and bet on his potential. Traore still runs the offense with the kind of maturity that you don’t often see from teenage point guards in professional leagues, and there’s still plenty of reason to hold onto hope. However, his cold shooting is closer to his norms from past seasons than is entirely comfortable for those who still believe in his abilities. Still, he’s more than talented enough to make this a steal if he ends up falling to the Warriors here on the first night of the 2025 NBA Draft.
#23. BROOKLYN NETS (via NYK) — Adou Thiero, G/F, Arkansas
Profile: 6’8”, 220
Year: Junior (20)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
18.6 PTS | 6.1 REB | 2.1 AST | 2.2 STL | 0.7 BLK
61.5 FG% | 21.1 3P% | 67.2 FT%
9 Games | 30 MIN
Jam: Adou Thiero is taking a major leap for Arkansas and is playing the best basketball of his collegiate career. Already projected to be a multi-positional defender and defensive playmaker, the explosive wing has been more aggressive and consistent offensively this season as he’s upped his scoring from 7.2 points per game to 18.6 points per game. His three-point shooting (21.1%) still is a glaring concern in terms of him ideally filling a 3-and-D role. However, his tremendous physical tools, play finishing, and defensive versatility are worth betting on and can instantly help Brooklyn.
#24. ORLANDO MAGIC — Rasheer Fleming, F, Saint Joseph’s
Profile: 6’9”, 235
Year: Junior (20)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
14.2 PTS | 9.0 REB | 1.2 AST | 1.7 STL | 1.6 BLK
54.5 FG% | 35.1 3P% | 65.5 FT%
9 Games | 29.9 MIN
Nathan: A sleeper to many before the college season started, Rasheer Fleming has seemingly broken out as a legitimate draft prospect early in the 2024-25 season. An athletic forward who can knock down spot-up threes, run lanes in transition, finish above the basket, and crash the glass on both sides of the ball, Fleming’s game is built for where the NBA is headed. Still a bit of a work-in-progress as far as his off-ball defense and ball handling are concerned, Fleming would fit very well with the Orlando Magic. Multiple ball-handlers on the roster would allow Fleming to catch and finish/shoot with little to worry about as far as needing to put the ball on the deck. In terms of his defense, Fleming would thrive in an environment tailor-made to fill gaps and put players in position to work together rather than operate exclusively on an island. Long-term growth is the name of the game for Fleming, and he would have plenty of opportunity to learn from some of the best young players in the NBA with the Magic.
#25. BROOKLYN NETS (via HOU) — Carter Bryant, F, Arizona
Profile: 6’8”, 225
Year: Freshman (19)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
4.1 PTS | 3.1 REB | 1.1 AST | 1.1 STL | 0.5 BLK
32.3 FG% | 23.8 3P% | 57.1 FT%
8 Games | 15.0 MIN
Rucker: It wasn’t a joke before when stressing the number of draft picks the Brooklyn Nets could have in this class. After adding a couple of intriguing pieces to the mix, the Nets decide to go back to swinging for long-term potential. Despite a slow start to the year, Arizona Wildcats freshman Carter Bryant continues to have plenty of fans in NBA front offices. He’s been a prospect who has continued to take strides over recent years with both his game on the court and physical profile. Bryant continues to see his minutes climb on a veteran-filled Arizona roster and will be a name worth monitoring moving forward. If the production starts to follow, he could be a name that starts to rise quickly in the draft world.
#26. MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES — Labaron Philon, G, Alabama
Profile: 6’4”, 177
Year: Freshman (19)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
11.0 PTS | 4.0 REB | 4.0 AST | 1.2 STL | 0.6 BLK
52.0 FG% | 27.3 3P% | 71.4 FT%
9 Games | 24.4 MIN
Nathan: If you’re a guard in the NBA, you have to be able to shoot it nowadays, no questions asked. That’s the biggest unknown in regards to Philon’s early play for the Alabama Crimson Tide, but it’s also one of the only main question marks in regards to his two-way game. An electric guard both in transition and in the halfcourt, Philon knows how to get to his spots using a combination of burst and quick-twitch maneuvers to consistently create paint touches. Philon can finish amongst the trees, or dish it back out to the open shooter. He crashes the glass well for a guard, and he has routinely logged his fair share of forced turnovers on defense. Philon may still be underrated in NBA Draft circles, but he’s already proven he just has that winning edge about him. He would fit seamlessly alongside other up-tempo wings and playmakers in the Memphis Grizzlies organization.
#27. DALLAS MAVERICKS — Mackenzie Mgbako, F, Indiana
Profile: 6’8”, 217
Year: Sophomore (20)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
15.1 PTS | 5.1 REB | 1.6 AST | 0.5 STL | 0.4 BLK
51.4 FG% | 43.9 3P% | 92.6 FT%
10 Games | 27.8 MIN
Nick: Mackenzie Mgbako has been on an absolute heater to start the season, averaging 15.1 points per game on spectacular 51/44/93 shooting splits. When you add in Mgbako’s exceptional athletic gifts and NBA-ready 6’8” frame, it’s easy to see him fitting in with pretty much any team. The Mavericks have decent options on the perimeter, but would benefit from another spot-up player with size and mismatch capabilities. This would provide the potential for the Mavericks to play Mgbako at the four in smaller lineups. If Mgbako continues to shoot like this, he’ll almost certainly go higher; even if the shooting comes back to Earth a bit (as it already has after he was above 50% from deep in his first seven games), his all-around game will be enticing to teams looking for one more rotation contributor in this range of the draft.
#28. LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS (via OKC) — Jeremiah Fears, G, Oklahoma
Profile: 6’4”, 182
Year: Freshman (18)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
16.7 PTS | 3.6 REB | 4.7 AST | 2.6 STL | 0.0 BLK
46.9 FG% | 30.3 3P% | 87.3 FT%
9 Games | 27.8 MIN
Jam: The Clippers get a lottery ticket here and arguably the best bucket-getter in the draft. The 18-year-old Fears has been one of the biggest risers and best stories of the draft cycle so far. He’s been unafraid of the stage and has excelled thanks to dynamic ball skills, tough shotmaking, and innate scoring instincts. It might take some time, but Fears has a sky-high ceiling; he’s worth nurturing and waiting for in terms of an NBA breakout.
#29. BOSTON CELTICS — Thomas Sorber, F/C, Georgetown
Profile: 6’10”, 255
Year: Freshman (18)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
15.4 PTS | 8.3 REB | 2.8 AST | 1.6 STL | 1.7 BLK
59.0 FG% | 33.3 3P% | 78.7 FT%
9 Games | 27.1 MIN
Metcalf: Few players in the country are producing like Thomas Sorber is. Sorber has a unique blend of size and skill, and he continues to show a ton of scoring versatility and some really intriguing ball skills. His defense comes and goes, but there are some fantastic flashes of defensive playmaking. Sorber is still pretty raw, but there aren’t many franchises that would be a better situation for him to develop with on both ends of the floor.
#30. UTAH JAZZ (via CLE) — Kanon Catchings, F, BYU
Profile: 6’9”, 195
Year: Freshman (19)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
10.5 PTS | 3.9 REB | 1.4 AST | 0.8 STL | 1.0 BLK
36.6 FG% | 32.7 3P% | 43.8 FT%
8 Games | 25.7 MIN
Albert: At this point in the draft, you’re either looking for a lotto ticket or an older prospect who has a lower ceiling but has a defined skill. Kanon Catchings is more of a lotto ticket, but there’s real intrigue with his set of skills and size. Catchings is a bouncy forward at 6’9” who can handle the ball a little bit and has some outside shooting ability. Catchings is a work in progress due to his shot selection, slim frame, and lack of discipline on the defensive side of the ball. Still, the size, athleticism, and offensive versatility are intriguing enough to warrant him being taken at the end of the first round. If he continues to tighten things up with his shooting efficiency and decision-making, we could see him taken even higher.
SECOND ROUND
#31. BOSTON CELTICS (via WAS) — KJ Lewis, G, Arizona
Profile: 6’5”, 200
Year: Senior (22)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
10.3 PTS | 5.6 REB | 2.3 AST | 1.5 STL | 0.9 BLK
48.3 FG% | 29.4 3P% | 82.6 FT%
8 Games | 26.0 MIN
#32. CHARLOTTE HORNETS (via NOLA) — Tucker DeVries, G/F, West Virginia
Profile: 6’7”, 210
Year: Senior (21)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
14.9 PTS | 4.9 REB | 2.8 AST | 1.8 STL | 1.5 BLK
41.2 FG% | 47.3 3P% | 82.1 FT%
8 Games | 34.6 MIN
#33. MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES (via UTA) — Noah Penda, F, Le Mans
Profile: 6’8”, 225
Year: 2005 Born (19)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
10.8 PTS | 5.7 REB | 2.5 AST | 1.5 STL | 1.2 BLK
43.5 FG% | 40.5 3P% | 65.9 FT%
13 Games | 26.9 MIN
#34. CHARLOTTE HORNETS — Ryan Kalkbrenner, C, Creighton
Profile: 7’1”, 270
Year: Senior (22)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
17.3 PTS | 8.4 REB | 1.2 AST | 0.7 STL | 2.6 BLK
73.8 FG% | 42.9 3P% | 77.8 FT%
9 Games | 31.2 MIN
#35. DALLAS MAVERICKS (via PHI) — Michael Ruzic, F, Joventut
Profile: 6’10”, 220
Year: 2006 Born (18)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
4.4 PTS | 2.4 REB | 0.2 AST | 0.2 STL | 0.6 BLK
43.8 FG% | 26.7 3P% | 30.0 FT%
8 Games | 16.9 MIN
#36. DETROIT PISTONS (via TOR) — Jase Richardson, G, Michigan State
Profile: 6’3”, 185
Year: Freshman (19)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
10.3 PTS | 2.6 REB | 2.0 AST | 0.8 STL | 0.2 BLK
63.5 FG% | 50.0 3P% | 85.7 FT%
9 Games | 20.7 MIN
#37. TORONTO RAPTORS (via POR) — Drake Powell, G/F, North Carolina
Profile: 6’6”, 195
Year: Freshman (19)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
5.6 PTS | 3.3 REB | 0.9 AST | 0.8 STL | 0.8 BLK
47.5 FG% | 38.9 3P% | 83.3 FT%
9 Games | 21.9 MIN
#38. WASHINGTON WIZARDS (via DET) — JT Toppin, F, Texas Tech
Profile: 6’9”, 225
Year: Sophomore (19)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
18.6 PTS | 11.0 REB | 1.1 AST | 1.6 STL | 1.9 BLK
58.0 FG% | 28.6 3P% | 76.5 FT%
7 Games | 26.4 MIN
#39. INDIANA PACERS — Maxime Raynaud, F, Stanford
Profile: 7’1”, 250
Year: Senior (21)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
22.1 PTS | 11.3 REB | 1.9 AST | 1.4 STL | 1.1 BLK
50.9 FG% | 40.0 3P% | 68.9 FT%
10 Games | 34.3 MIN
#40. SAN ANTONIO SPURS (via CHI) — John Mobley Jr., G, Ohio State
Profile: 6’1”, 175
Year: Freshman (19)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
12.9 PTS | 1.1 REB | 1.2 AST | 0.9 STL | 0.1 BLK
49.3 FG% | 55.6 3P% | 86.4 FT%
9 Games | 20.4 MIN
#41. BROOKLYN NETS — Rocco Zikarsky, C, Brisbane
Profile: 7’2”, 227
Year: 2006 Born (18)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
4.9 PTS | 3.8 REB | 0.4 AST | 0.4 STL | 0.7 BLK
50.9 FG% | 25.0 3P% | 57.7 FT%
15 Games | 13.0 MIN
#42. CHICAGO BULLS (via SAC) — Donnie Freeman, F, Syracuse
Profile: 6’9”, 205
Year: Freshman (19)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
12.8 PTS | 8.8 REB | 1.1 AST | 0.4 STL | 0.3 BLK
46.2 FG% | 15.8 3P% | 84.4 FT%
8 Games | 26.3 MIN
#43. SAN ANTONIO SPURS — Ian Jackson, G, North Carolina
Profile: 6’4”, 190
Year: Freshman (19)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
11.5 PTS | 2.5 REB | 0.5 AST | 0.4 STL | 0.1 BLK
47.1 FG% | 46.2 3P% | 84.2 FT%
8 Games | 19.8 MIN
#44. CLEVELAND CAVALIERS (via MIL) - Cedric Coward, G, Washington State
Profile: 6’6”, 206
Year: Senior (21)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
17.7 PTS | 7.0 REB | 3.7 AST | 0.8 STL | 1.7 BLK
55.7 FG% | 40.0 3P% | 83.9 FT%
6 Games | 32.8 MIN
#45. LOS ANGELES LAKERS — RJ Luis Jr., G, St. John’s
Profile: 6’7”, 210
Year: Junior (22)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
16.9 PTS | 6.9 REB | 2.9 AST | 1.4 STL | 0.9 BLK
45.8 FG% | 31.3 3P% | 75.6 FT%
9 Games | 28.7 MIN
#46. BROOKLYN NETS (via MIA) — Tahaad Pettiford, G, Auburn
Profile: 6’1”, 175
Year: Freshman (19)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
11.3 PTS | 1.4 REB | 2.8 AST | 1.0 STL | 0.1 BLK
44.9 FG% | 42.6 3P% | 100.0 FT%
9 Games | 19.7 MIN
#47. CHARLOTTE HORNETS (via DEN) — Hunter Sallis, G, Wake Forest
Profile: 6’5”, 185
Year: Senior (21)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
16.3 PTS | 3.5 REB | 3.0 AST | 1.5 STL | 0.5 BLK
40.5 FG% | 24.6 3P% | 85.1 FT%
11 Games | 34.7 MIN
#48. OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER (via ATL) — Derrion Reid, F, Alabama
Profile: 6’8”, 200
Year: Freshman (18)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
7.1 PTS | 3.7 REB | 0.8 AST | 0.1 STL | 0.4 BLK
43.4 FG% | 34.8 3P% | 47.6 FT%
9 Games | 17.6 MIN
#49. ATLANTA HAWKS (via MIN) — Joson Sanon, G, Arizona State
Profile: 6’5”, 195
Year: Freshman (18)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
15.9 PTS | 3.6 REB | 1.4 AST | 0.4 STL | 0.2 BLK
52.1 FG% | 54.3 3P% | 69.2 FT%
9 Games | 27.7 MIN
#50. WASHINGTON WIZARDS (via PHX) — Payton Sandfort, F, Iowa
Profile: 6’7”, 215
Year: Senior (22)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
16.4 PTS | 5.8 REB | 4.0 AST | 1 STL | 0.7 BLK
38.6 FG% | 31.5 3P% | 84.4 FT%
9 Games | 31.4 MIN
#51. LOS ANGELES LAKERS (via LAC) — Joseph Tugler, F, Houston
Profile: 6’7”, 215
Year: Senior (22)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
5.8 PTS | 6.3 REB | 1.2 AST | 0.7 STL | 2.2 BLK
50.0 FG% | 50.0 3P% | 45.0 FT%
9 Games | 21.6 MIN
#52. WASHINGTON WIZARDS (via GSW) — Tyrese Proctor, G, Duke
Profile: 6’5”, 183
Year: Junior (20)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
12.4 PTS | 4.0 REB | 2.1 AST | 0.8 STL | 0.2 BLK
43.7 FG% | 43.3 3P% | 76.9 FT%
9 Games | 29.4 MIN
#53. NEW YORK KNICKS — Forfeited
#54. ORLANDO MAGIC — Dink Pate, G/F, Mexico City Capitanes
Profile: 6’8”, 210
Year: 2006 Born (18)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
9.8 PTS | 3.7 REB | 1.1 AST | 1.0 STL | 0.2 BLK
42.2 FG% | 34.3 3P% | 72.2 FT%
12 Games | 19.3 MIN
#55. MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES (via HOU) — Johni Broome, C, Auburn
Profile: 6’10”, 240
Year: Senior (22)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
19.6 PTS | 11.9 REB | 3.6 AST | 0.7 STL | 2.8 BLK
56.6 FG% | 29.0 3P% | 58.3 FT%
9 Games | 30.3 MIN
#56. DALLAS MAVERICKS — Chase Ross, G, Marquette
Profile: 6’5”, 205
Year: Junior (21)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
10.7 PTS | 4.5 REB | 2.6 AST | 2.5 STL | 0.4 BLK
50.0 FG% | 37.9 3P% | 73.3 FT%
10 Games | 29.2 MIN
#57. NEW YORK KNICKS (via MEM) — Xaivian Lee, G, Princeton
Profile: 6’4”, 180
Year: Junior (20)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
15.2 PTS | 5.5 REB | 5.5 AST | 1.1 STL | 0.4 BLK
43.8 FG% | 40.5 3P% | 73.5 FT%
11 Games | 29.5 MIN
#58. HOUSTON ROCKETS (via OKC) — Miles Byrd, G, San Diego State
Profile: 6’7”, 190
Year: RS Sophomore
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
12.3 PTS | 5.1 REB | 2.4 AST | 1.9 STL | 1.3 BLK
40.8 FG% | 35.1 3P% | 93.8 FT%
7 Games | 29.6 MIN
#59. ORLANDO MAGIC (via BOS) — Igor Milicic Jr., F/C, Tennessee
Profile: 6’10”, 225
Year: Senior (22)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
12.5 PTS | 7.1 REB | 2.4 AST | 0.6 STL | 0.6 BLK
57.8 FG% | 31.8 3P% | 79.2 FT%
8 Games | 23.5 MIN
#60. CLEVELAND CAVALIERS — Jaland Lowe, G, Pittsburgh
Profile: 6’3”, 175
Year: Sophomore (20)
Stats (as of 12/10/24):
17.1 PTS | 5.5 REB | 4.9 AST | 2.0 STL | 0.4 BLK
38.5 FG% | 28.3 3P% | 88.5 FT%
10 Games | 35.2 MIN
for detroit (if they keep their pick this year) i once again absolutely love it
why so low on lowe? (no pun intended) he looks like a wonderful prospect IMO and has been on fire for pitt.