2025 NBA Mock Draft: What We Would Do
The No Ceilings crew puts together their second-to-last Mock Draft of the 2025 NBA Draft cycle.
WARNING: THIS IS NOT AN INTEL MOCK DRAFT
That comes on Wednesday. Now that we’ve gotten that out of the way, let’s have ourselves a conversation.
The 2025 NBA Draft is in TWO DAYS, FOLKS.
Monday of draft week is a day full of madness. There will be rumors all over the place. There’s going to be more smoke thrown out than you can imagine. Teams around the league are gathering their scouting department together and having their final “intel” conversations to try to target who could be available with their selections.
So today, we warn you to take everything on the Internet with a big grain of salt.
HERE’S THIS WEEK’S TEAM-WIDE SCHEDULE UP TO THE MAIN EVENT
TODAY:
“What Would WE Do” Mock Draft.
That means we are simply having some fun with our last mock draft that’s NOT intel based.
TUESDAY:
FINAL Big Board
WEDNESDAY (AM):
The GRAND FINALE.
INTEL MOCK DRAFT (AKA “What We’re Hearing”)
WEDNESDAY (PM):
2025 NBA Draft Round One STREAM on YouTube
Today, let’s have some fun. Our whole No Ceilings team got together for one final
”enjoyable” experience when it came to putting a mock draft together. Our whole panel goes around the room and gives nominations for each team, then we take it to a vote.
** NEW FOR THIS MOCK: We’ve added who the nominations were for each pick and what the final vote came down to.
Enjoy, ladies and gentlemen—and we’re going to have a LOT of intel goodies for you on Wednesday morning…(a lot).
#1. DALLAS MAVERICKS — Cooper Flagg | F | Duke
Nominations: Cooper Flagg
Vote: Cooper Flagg (Unanimous)
Profile: 6’9”, 221
Year: Freshman (18)
19.2 PTS | 7.5 REB | 4.2 AST | 1.4 STL | 1.4 BLK
48.1 FG% | 38.5 3P% | 84.0 FT%
37 Games | 30.5 MIN
Corey: The Dallas Mavericks winning the NBA’s version of Capture the Flagg proves that the basketball gods either don’t exist or are sadists. Either way, the Duke product arrives as the most complete two-way player in this class, boasting an elite combination of skill, athleticism, and feel that makes him an immediate franchise cornerstone. Flagg's versatility is staggering. Already a reliable shooter and shot maker, utilizing a high-release jumper that's nearly impossible to contest. His midrange game is already advanced (40.8% on pull-ups), featuring sharp footwork and a mature understanding of space to get to his spots. Mavs fans shouldn’t mistake Flagg’s playmaking for the creativity and showmanship of Luka, but he’s already a plus passer who can make high-level reads all over the floor. Defensively, he's a nightmare for opponents—capable of comfortably guarding 1-4 with elite anticipation (2.8 stocks per game), a F5 motor, and rare processing speed for an 18-year-old. His combination of measurable production (16.4 BPM, third-best freshman BPM since 2008) and untapped upside makes him the clear prize of this draft class, giving Dallas a transformative talent to build around for as long as Nico Harrison allows.
#2. SAN ANTONIO SPURS — Dylan Harper | G | Rutgers
Nominations: Dylan Harper
Vote: Dylan Harper (Unanimous)
Profile: 6’6”, 213
Year: Freshman (19)
19.4 PTS | 4.6 REB | 4.0 AST | 1.4 STL | 0.6 BLK
48.4 FG% | 33.3 3P% | 75.0 FT%
29 Games | 32.7 MIN
Metcalf: The fit is a little clunky with Dylan Harper, De’Aaron Fox, and Stephon Castle, but you have to be swinging for the fences with the second pick. Harper is a phenomenal prospect with star upside. He’s terrific getting downhill and creating advantages, and he has a lot of defensive upside. The biggest question with Harper is the shot, but he was more effective off the catch than the bounce this year as a shooter. For the Spurs, they just need to bet that the talent and the people will figure out the fit. Harper can play myriad roles and has the highest upside (with a very reasonable floor) out of anyone on the board.
#3. PHILADELPHIA 76ERS — Kon Knueppel | W | Duke
Nominations: Kon Knueppel, VJ Edgecombe
Vote: Kon Knueppel (6) over VJ Edgecombe (3)
Profile: 6’6”, 219
Year: Freshman (19)
14.4 PTS | 4.0 REB | 2.7 AST | 1.0 STL | 0.2 BLK
47.9 FG% | 40.6 3P% | 91.4 FT%
39 Games | 30.5 MIN
Nathan: There has been a lot of speculation surrounding what will happen with the third overall pick currently held by the Philadelphia 76ers. Is this an opportunity for Philly to trade up, or down? Should the 76ers stay at #3, which players are actually the best fit for a team that’s looking to both win now and establish a clear long-term future? The Ace Bailey saga is one of the weirder pre-draft storylines we’ve seen in recent memory, but there’s concern about the fit that extends beyond these unusual circumstances. Kon Knueppel would provide Philadelphia with a legitimate high floor and a sneaky ceiling as a wing shooter with enough creative juice to play off secondary actions. Knueppel has enough size and strength to compete defensively, and projects to be at worst a rotation-level shooter with upside as a secondary or tertiary option on a great team. His instincts, quick decision-making, and awareness on both sides of the ball should fit in well around Tyrese Maxey, Jared McCain, and the rest of the franchise cornerstones in Joel Embiid and Paul George.
#4. CHARLOTTE HORNETS — VJ Edgecombe | G | Baylor
Nominations: Tre Johnson, VJ Edgecombe, Ace Bailey
Vote: VJ Edgecombe (4) over Tre Johnson (3) and Ace Bailey (2)
Profile: 6’5”, 193
Year: Freshman (19)
15.0 PTS | 5.6 REB | 3.2 AST | 2.1 STL | 0.6 BLK
43.6 FG% | 34.0 3P% | 78.2 FT%
33 Games | 32.8 MIN
Albert: Not knowing what the Hornets are trying to do this summer with their roster, but adding an exciting talent like Edgecombe to plug in next to Lamelo and Brandon Miller would be an incredible choice. Adding a supreme athlete who is dynamic on both sides of the ball is smart for most teams, but specifically in this context, Edgecombe makes a ton of sense because he doesn’t need the ball in his hands to make an impact on the game. The Hornets instantly become a League Pass team to watch, given what they might do in transition, and if Edgecombe can continue to grow as a shooter, there’s a ton to like for the future.
#5. UTAH JAZZ — Ace Bailey | F | Rutgers
Nominations: Ace Bailey, Tre Johnson
Vote: Ace Bailey (5) over Tre Johnson (3)
Profile: 6’9”, 202
Year: Freshman (18)
17.6 PTS | 7.2 REB | 1.3 AST | 1.0 STL | 1.3 BLK
46.0 FG% | 34.6 3P% | 69.2 FT%
30 Games | 33.4 MIN
Stephen: The news around Ace Bailey has been a bit…different. He hasn’t worked out for a single team, which really makes projecting him hard in of itself. Add to that mix that he is a “hooper” with quotes that could make Anthony Edwards blush, and you have yourself a talented but polarizing prospect. One thing we know about how the Ainges have drafted before is that they love going after the prospects who have been heavily favored by the consensus and have a pedigree. Ace has been the #3 prospect the majority of the season, plus he has some star upside on the offensive end. Defensively, he is almost unanimously lauded for his ability to stick with his man while also having good help instincts. Utah doesn’t really have anyone with a clear, superstar trajectory, but adding Bailey at #5 could remedy that need.
#6. WASHINGTON WIZARDS — Derik Queen | C | Maryland
Nominations: Khaman Maluach, Derik Queen, Tre Johnson
Vote: Derik Queen (4) over Tre Johnson (2) and Khaman Maluach (1)
Profile: 6’10”, 247
Year: Freshman (20)
16.5 PTS | 9.0 REB | 1.9 AST | 1.1 STL | 1.1 BLK
52.6 FG% | 20.0 3P% | 76.6 FT%
36 Games | 30.4 MIN
Rucker: There’s plenty of buzz going around the Top 5, but many are pointing at the Washington Wizards as the swing spot in this draft. Washington has a number of different directions they could go in, and they could be eying a potential debate of Ace Bailey still being on the board for some reason. For now, the Wizards swing a bit on trying to find a presence in the paint alongside last year’s big man, Alex Sarr. Despite the questions about Queen’s defense, there’s no denying he has the talent to be a heck of an asset in the interior. Queen has great touch around the basket, paired with fantastic footwork and vision. Adding him to the paint gives the Wizards a big personality who could be dangerous if the motor is unlocked.
#7. NEW ORLEANS PELICANS — Tre Johnson | G | Texas
Nominations: Tre Johnson
Vote: Tre Johnson (Unanimous)
Profile: 6’6”, 190
Year: Freshman (19)
19.9 PTS | 3.1 REB | 2.7 AST | 0.9 STL | 0.3 BLK
42.7 FG% | 39.7 3P% | 85.8 FT%
33 Games | 34.8 MIN
Jam: In Tre Johnson, the Pelicans land one of the best three-point shooters (39.7% on 6.8 3PA) and tough shotmakers in the class. His skill set and upside would allow him to contribute immediately in a supporting role around the current leading trio of Zion, Murphy, and Murray while growing into more on-ball usage when called upon. This is the type of safe floor-high upside selection all teams are looking for in the draft.
#8. BROOKLYN NETS — Khaman Maluach | C | Duke
Nominations: Khaman Maluach, Jeremiah Fears
Vote: Khaman Maluach (5) over Jeremiah Fears (4)
Profile: 7’2”, 252
Year: Freshman (18)
8.6 PTS | 6.6 REB | 0.5 AST | 0.2 STL | 1.3 BLK
71.2 FG% | 25.0 3P% | 76.6 FT%
39 Games | 21.2 MIN
Nick: The Brooklyn Nets project to be a vastly different team next season–especially if some of their restricted free agents end up signing elsewhere. Regardless of who sticks around, though, the Nets have no seven-footers on the roster and one of their two centers (Day’Ron Sharpe) is on that list of restricted free agents. Khaman Maluach would fit the bill as a center with room to grow; he is an exceptional rim-runner already who has shown flashes of shooting potential in addition to strong rim protection. Maluach still has plenty of room to develop, but his most ready-made NBA skills will allow him to earn playing time in Brooklyn right away as he continues to round out his game going forward.
#9. TORONTO RAPTORS — Carter Bryant | F | Arizona
Nominations: Carter Bryant, Joan Beringer, Kasparas Jakucionis
Vote: Carter Bryant (6) over Kasparas Jakucionis (2) and Joan Beringer (1)
Profile: 6’8”, 214
Year: Freshman (19)
6.5 PTS | 4.1 REB | 1.0 AST | 0.9 STL | 1 BLK
46.0 FG% | 37.1 3P% | 69.5 FT%
37 Games | 19.3 MIN
Maxwell: The Toronto Raptors find themselves at a bit of a crossroads. They have an interesting young core, but have struggled to get over the hump. Carter Bryant could be an excellent complementary piece for them. Simply put, he knows how to play, and he has an NBA-ready frame. He’s a good shooter, a stellar defensive playmaker, and a reliable connective passer. While Carter may lack upside as a creator and playmaker, two-way wings provide immense value while making lives easier for their teammates. That’s what Carter Bryant projects to do.
#10. PHOENIX SUNS (via HOU) — Cedric Coward | F | Washington State
Nominations: Cedric Coward, Jeremiah Fears
Vote: Cedric Coward (5) over Jeremiah Fears (4)
Profile: 6’6”, 213
Year: Senior (21)
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
Rucker: After FINALLY coming to a resolution with the Kevin Durant trade, the Phoenix Suns find themselves getting their original pick back. Now, all eyes are locked in on the Suns with what direction they could go in at 10. Phoenix could look at the backcourt depth in this class and be intrigued, but there’s also some fascinating talent on the wings to look at here. The Suns decide to go with Cedric Coward here, who has been a popular name in the process. Coward has some shades of Mikal Bridges to his game, which should get Suns fans on the edge of their seats. He’s not the consistent type of defender that Bridges was out of Villanova, but Coward makes up for it with his offensive game. The tools, intangibles, and position versatility would be a great get for the Suns organization.
#11. PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS — Kasparas Jakucionis | G | Illinois
Nominations: Kasparas Jakucionis
Vote: Kasparas Jakucionis (Unanimous)
Profile: 6’6”, 205
Year: Freshman (18)
15.0 PTS | 5.7 REB | 4.7 AST | 0.9 STL | 0.3 BLK
44.0 FG% | 31.8 3P% | 84.5 FT%
33 Games | 31.9 MIN
Nick: What do you get for a team with solid starters at every position and decent depth behind them? Answer: you get the best player available. Kasparas Jakucionis, who was considered a Top 5 pick for a significant stretch of the season, ends up being the pick for Portland after falling all the way to #11. Jakucionis shot much better early in the season before an arm injury limited him the rest of the season, but even through the injury, he showed elite passing chops. Jakucionis’s size (he measured in at 6’4.75” barefoot at the combine) allows Portland to be flexible with playing him in multi-guard lineups; if his shooting pre-injury is more indicative of his numbers going forward, Jakucionis would be an exceptional pickup here for the Trail Blazers.
#12. CHICAGO BULLS — Collin Murray-Boyles | F | South Carolina
Nominations: Collin Murray-Boyles, Egor Demin, Joan Beringer
Vote: Collin Murray Boyles (4) over Egor Demin (3) and Joan Beringer (2)
Profile: 6’8”, 239
Year: Sophomore (20)
16.8 PTS | 8.3 REB | 2.4 AST | 1.5 STL | 1.3 BLK
58.6 FG% | 26.5 3P% | 70.7 FT%
32 Games | 30.7 MIN
Corey: With the 12th pick, the Chicago Bulls select South Carolina forward Collin Murray-Boyles, adding one of the draft's most versatile defenders and high-floor contributors. At ~6'8" in shoes with a 7'0.75" wingspan and a strong 239-pound frame, CMB brings immediate defensive value with his ability to guard multiple positions, make smart rotations, and create defensive events (2.9 STL%, 4.7 BLK%). Offensively, he's an efficient finisher (66.9% at rim) with crafty footwork and soft touch around the basket, though his outside shot remains a very clear work in progress (26.5% from three). CMB’s playmaking (21.1 AST%) and quick processing should translate well to the way that Chicago wants to play. While the lack of shooting limits his ceiling somewhat, Murray-Boyles's defensive versatility, basketball IQ, and physical tools make him a safe rotation player with some star potential if he can develop even a passable jumper.
#13. ATLANTA HAWKS (via SAC) — Joan Beringer | C | Olimpija
Nominations: Joan Beringer, Thomas Sorber, Nique Clifford
Vote: Joan Beringer (4) over Thomas Sorber and Nique Clifford
Profile: 7’0”, 234
Year: 2006 Born (18)
5.4 PTS | 4.9 REB | 0.5 AST | 0.5 STL | 1.4 BLK
64.4 FG% | 0.0 3P% | 56.6 FT%
64 Games | 18.8 MIN
Stephen: Bonjour! Joan Beringer is a prospect who has picked up a TON of steam in the latter portion of the draft cycle. The French prospect has a ways to go in a number of areas, but he figures to be a defensive anchor sooner rather than later. His athleticism figures to translate to this Atlanta team, however, as he has shown the ability to run the floor well, while also being a reliable finisher out of the roll. Beringer finished with 77 dunks on the season and drew 91 fouls. He’ll need to flesh out some feel as a playmaker, but there are flashes of it already. On defense, Joan had 116 stocks (steals plus blocks)--showing a proclivity for being a defensive playmaker. As he continues to get stronger, Atlanta will have a potential two-way contributor for years to come.
#14. SAN ANTONIO SPURS (via ATL) — Danny Wolf | C | Michigan
Nominations: Danny Wolf, Egor Demin, Nique Clifford
Vote: Danny Wolf (5) over Egor Demin (3) and Nique Clifford (1)
Profile: 7’0”, 251
Year: Junior (20)
13.2 PTS | 9.7 REB | 3.6 AST | 0.7 STL | 1.4 BLK
49.7 FG% | 33.6 3P% | 59.4 FT%
37 Games | 30.4 MIN
Albert: The frontcourt pairing of Victor Wembanyama and Danny Wolf could be the most fun tandem to watch in the league. Wolf is interesting because of his skills as a big man and his ability to compete on the boards. While Wolf is lacking as a rim protector, Victor instantly cleans that up. The offensive versatility you’d also gain with the type of ball screen actions you can run, given that both bigs are good shooters, is also very interesting.
#15. OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER (via MIA) — Thomas Sorber | C | Georgetown
Nominations: Thomas Sorber, Egor Demin, Nique Clifford
Vote: Thomas Sorber (4) over Egor Demin (2) and Nique Clifford (1)
Profile: 6’10”, 262
Year: Freshman (19)
14.5 PTS | 8.5 REB | 2.4 AST | 1.5 STL | 2.0 BLK
53.2 FG% | 16.2 3P% | 72.4 FT%
24 Games | 31.4 MIN
Jam: There aren't many needs for a Thunder squad that appears poised to be amongst the NBA elite for a long time. However, adding another big man to the Holmgren-Hartenstein-Williams should be at the top of the list. Sorber is a two-way, defensively tilted big man with skill and shooting upside who can operate as the lone big or allow OKC to continue to play two big lineups alongside either Holmgren or Hartenstein.
#16. MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES (via ORL) — Nique Clifford | W | Colorado State
Nominations: Nique Clifford, Egor Demin
Vote: Nique Clifford (6) over Egor Demin (1)
Profile: 6’6”, 202
Year: Senior (23)
18.9 PTS | 9.6 REB | 4.4 AST | 1.2 STL | 0.6 BLK
49.6 FG% | 37.7 3P% | 77.7 FT%
36 Games | 35.4 MIN
Maxwell: The Memphis Grizzlies have begun to do some retooling. Still, this is a team that has long been knocking on the door of contender status. Nique Clifford slots in well with their situation. He’s a devastating downhill driver and crafty on-the-go passer who increased his volume and percentage from deep in a leading man role. Throw in a history as a disruptive defender and some of the best wing rebounding metrics in this class, and Clifford is as well-rounded as it gets. He could provide value quickly on a rookie deal, which is significant for a competitive team. Clifford’s lack of ideal length and age might put a cap on his ceiling, but he checks every role player box you could ask a prospect to check.
#17. MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES (via DET) — Egor Demin | G | BYU
Nominations: Jeremiah Fears, Egor Demin, Noa Essengue
Vote: Egor Demin (5) over Jeremiah Fears (1) and Noa Essengue (1)
Profile: 6’9”, 190
Year: Freshman (19)
10.6 PTS | 3.9 REB | 5.5 AST | 1.2 STL | 0.4 BLK
41.2 FG% | 27.3 3P% | 69.5 FT%
33 Games | 27.5 MIN
Metcalf: The lack of ball-handling and playmaking for the Timberwolves hurt them yet again in these playoffs. At 6’9”, Egor Demin may be the best playmaker in the class. His size also affords him some positional versatility on both ends. Demin didn’t shoot it well this year and could get too passive with his creation, but in a situation where he isn’t THE guy, his overall impact should continue to improve. Demin is great at running the pick-and-roll, getting downhill, and creating for others. Whether he’s setting up Anthony Edwards or playing off him when defenses send the double, Demin should help improve the team’s ball security and playmaking capabilities.
#18. WASHINGTON WIZARDS (via MEM) — Jeremiah Fears | G | Oklahoma
Nominations: Jeremiah Fears, Noa Essengue
Vote: Jeremiah Fears (6) over Noa Essengue (2)
Profile: 6’4”, 182
Year: Freshman (18)
17.1 PTS | 4.1 REB | 4.1 AST | 1.6 STL | 0.1 BLK
43.4 FG% | 28.4 3P% | 85.1 FT%
34 Games | 30.1 MIN
Nathan: Washington Wizards fans would be thrilled with how the board broke here, as Jeremiah Fears is legitimately in play to be taken much higher with Washington’s first selection. Fears has his concerns as a young guard who struggled at times with making decisions and acting as a primary scoring option. However, Fears also reclassified and led an Oklahoma team in one of the toughest college basketball conferences we’ve seen in quite some time. Fears projects to fill out his 6’4” frame well, and has the type of electrifying speed to consistently get a step on the defense and generate paint touches at will. Part of creating efficient offense in the NBA is collapsing the defense to open up shooters or the opportunity for a swing pass. With more refinement in pick-and-roll schemes, along with improvements as a shooter, Fears has the elements of a potential star given his competitive nature and athleticism. The Wizards don’t have a true point guard of the future at this moment in time, so allowing him to set the table for dynamic shooters like Bub Carrington and Kyshawn George, while also having two bigs to play off of in Derik Queen and Alex Sarr, could be a recipe for Fears’s developmental success. One fun storyline to come from a Fears to Washington outcome: Marcus Smart is still on the team, and could be a great veteran role model for Fears to improve on the defensive end.
#19. BROOKLYN NETS (via MIL) — Walter Clayton Jr. | G | Florida
Nominations: Noa Essengue, Nolan Traore, Walter Clayton Jr.
Vote: Walter Clayton Jr. (5) over Noa Essengue (1) and Nolan Traore (1)
Profile: 6’3”, 199
Year: Senior (22)
18.5 PTS | 3.7 REB | 4.1 AST | 1.2 STL | 0.5 BLK
45.1 FG% | 39.2 3P% | 87.1 FT%
38 Games | 32.4 MIN
Jam: After nabbing their potential two-way defensive anchor in Khaman Maluach, Brooklyn turns to the backcourt and selects Walter Clayton Jr., WCJ, an elite shooter and dynamic shotmaker with ball skills and defensive playmaking chops. As an older prospect (22) who led Florida to the national championship, WCJ steps into a Nets situation where the roster is in flux and playing time should be plentiful for a prospect that’s ready to make an impact both in the short and long term. His ability to thrive on and off the ball makes him a malleable piece that fits any direction that Brooklyn wants to go with their roster.
#20. MIAMI HEAT (via GSW) — Rasheer Fleming | F | Saint Joseph’s
Nominations: Jase Richardson, Noa Essengue, Rasheer Fleming, Ben Saraf, Hugo Gonzalez
Vote:: Rasheer Fleming (3), Ben Saraf (3), Hugo Gonzalez (1), Jase Richardson (1), Noa Essengue (1)
TIE-BREAKER VOTE: Rasheer Fleming (5) over Ben Saraf (4)
Profile: 6’9”, 232
Year: Junior (20)
14.7 PTS | 8.5 REB | 1.3 AST | 1.4 STL | 1.5 BLK
53.1 FG% | 39.0 3P% | 74.3 FT%
35 Games | 31.3 MIN
Nick: The Miami Heat continue to build on their defensive identity by picking up Rasheer Fleming here at #20. Fleming’s ridiculous measurements (6’8.25” barefoot with a double-take inducing 7’5.25” wingspan) only serve to magnify his incredible defensive playmaking (a 2.6% Steal Percentage and a 4.9% Block Percentage) and his shooting (39.0% from three-point range on a healthy 4.5 attempts per game). His breakout as a shooter this year might not be entirely sustainable, but his steady improvement over the course of his college career indicates that he’s moving in the right direction as a shooter. His defensive fit as a space-eating, floor-spacing stretch-four alongside either Bam Adebayo or Kel’el Ware is just too enticing for the Heat to pass on here.
#21. UTAH JAZZ (via MIN) — Ben Saraf | G | Ratiopharm Ulm
Nominations: Ben Saraf
Vote: Ben Saraf (Unanimous)
Profile: 6’7”, 200
Year: 2006 Born (19)
12.3 PTS | 2.8 REB | 4.2 AST | 1.1 STL | 0.3 BLK
45.1 FG% | 29.6 3P% | 75.4 FT%
58 Games | 23.6 MIN
Nathan: Ben Saraf’s season is still not over at the time of this mock draft, as Ratiopharm Ulm is in a championship battle overseas. Saraf is coming off a great playoff stretch that has gotten him firmly back on scouting radars. A 6’6” combo guard/wing, Saraf has the type of game that could translate into a Manu Ginobili-esque upside. He’s crafty in getting downhill and scoring around the basket, and has the handle and pull-up shot inside the arc to generate good looks for himself. Saraf has the size to defend multiple backcourt positions, and he has a baseline passing feel that should allow him to succeed in a ball movement-friendly offense. Adding him to the Utah Jazz young core would be fascinating, as he could both split time on the ball with bench units, and play alongside multiple guards by cutting to the basket and operating in second-side actions. Saraf could be one of the premier steals in this draft class should his three-point jumper and pick-and-roll games hit their fullest potential.
#22. ATLANTA HAWKS (via LAL) — Noa Essengue | F | Ratiopharm Ulm
Nominations: Noa Essengue, Hugo Gonzalez, Asa Newell
Vote: Noa Essengue (7) over Hugo Gonzalez (1) and Asa Newell (1)
Profile: 6’11”, 203
Year: 2006 Born (18)
10.7 PTS | 5.0 REB | 1.2 AST | 0.90 STL | 0.5 BLK
52.1 FG% | 27.6 3P% | 70.7 FT%
60 Games | 22.8 MIN
Rucker: The Atlanta Hawks could go in a number of different directions with two picks in the first round. They’ve been rumored to be a potential trade-up team, perhaps eyeing Khaman Maluach. If Atlanta doesn’t go that route, they will have two first round selections that could see them go in any direction to add to this roster. After swinging for upside with Joan Beringer earlier, the Hawks go all-in with another fascinating upside talent in Noa Essengue. Despite an impressive second half of the season, Essengue still has questions when it comes to his immediate role and general rawness. While he could be a name that goes much earlier on draft night, Atlanta jumps all over the potential and value here at 22.
#23. NEW ORLEANS PELICANS (via IND) — Jase Richardson | G | Michigan State
Nominations: Jase Richardson, Asa Newell, Maxime Raynaud
Vote: Jase Richardson (6) over Maxime Raynaud (2) and Asa Newell (1)
Profile: 6’1”, 178
Year: Freshman (19)
12.1 PTS | 3.3 REB | 1.9 AST | 0.8 STL | 0.3 BLK
49.3 FG% | 41.2 3P% | 83.6 FT%
36 Games | 25.3 MIN
Corey: The Pelicans find unexpected value here in Michigan State’s Jase Richardson, a polished, efficient guard who brings backcourt stability and intriguing offensive upside. The son of former NBA dunk champion Jason Richardson, Jase plays with a maturity beyond his years, combining smooth shooting (41% from three, 84% FT) with advanced footwork and poise in ball-screen situations, weaving in and out of space to create clean looks at his spots. He's a crafty finisher (69% at rim) who uses angles and body control to compensate for his lack of size and average athleticism, and his tight handle allows him to create space for pull-ups (43% midrange) and make good decisions with the rock (14.4 AST% to just 7.9 TOV%). Defensively, he competes on-ball with good length, solid positioning, and active hands, though he'll need to add strength due to his height deficiency. After landing Tre Johnson’s firepower earlier, Jase adds another intriguing piece for the Pels as a complementary, high feel guard who can space the floor next to Zion and relieve some creation duties from CJ McCollum. His ceiling might be capped due to his size, but his floor as a rotation piece is among the safest in this range.
#24. OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER (via LAC) — Liam McNeeley | F | UConn
Nominations: Liam McNeeley, Hugo Gonzalez, Adou Thiero, Asa Newell
Vote: Liam McNeeley (4) over Asa Newell (2), Adou Thiero (2), & Hugo Gonzalez (1)
Profile: 6’8”, 214
Year: Freshman (19)
14.5 PTS | 6 REB | 2.3 AST | 0.6 STL | 0.2 BLK
38.1 FG% | 31.7 3P% | 86.6 FT%
27 Games | 32 MIN
Albert: A loaded team like the Thunder should have no problem taking a bet on a guy like Liam McNeeley. His critics will point to his one season at UConn and question why he struggled so much as a shooter, given that it was the marquee skill for which he was known. It’s important to note that McNeeley missed a big chunk of the season with an ankle injury. Grabbing a guy of his size who has a pedigree of shooting is a luxury that few teams have. It’s also important to note that he’s also shown real flashes of being a solid passer, moves well off the ball, and can help on the boards.
#25. ORLANDO MAGIC (via DEN) — Asa Newell | F/C | Georgia
Nominations: Asa Newell, Maxime Raynaud
Vote: Asa Newell (6) over Maxime Raynaud (3)
Profile: 6’10”, 223
Year: Freshman (19)
15.4 PTS | 6.9 REB | 0.9 AST | 1.0 STL | 1.0 BLK
54.3 FG% | 29.2 3P% | 74.8 FT%
33 Games | 29.1 MIN
Maxwell: The Magic’s frontcourt has dealt with a plethora of injuries over the past few years. Still, there’s no shortage of talent there, so it wouldn’t hurt to get a young up-and-comer in the building to slowly develop. Newell is an athletic four/five hybrid who plays with a relentless motor. He’s a tremendous offensive rebounder and lob target who can guard multiple positions defensively. The issue is that he’s a bit undersized for the five without the requisite jumper or ball skills to play the four. Still, he’s a willing shooter who’s hit threes at lower levels. There’s something real to work with between his overall productivity, motor, and tools. As a result, he could be a worthwhile developmental bet for Orlando at this spot on the board.
#26. BROOKLYN NETS (via NYK) — Hugo Gonzalez | W | Real Madrid
Nominations: Hugo Gonzalez
Vote: Hugo Gonzalez (Unanimous)
Profile: 6’7”, 222
Year: 2006 Born (19)
3.4 PTS | 1.8 REB | 0.6 AST | 0.3 STL | 0.3 BLK
40.8 FG% | 28.4 3P% | 75.8 FT%
69 Games | 10.7 MIN
Metcalf: The Nets are swinging for the fences in this draft. Hugo Gonzalez was one of the most anticipated international prospects in this class, but his consensus stock has fallen given his lack of opportunity on an absolutely loaded Real Madrid team. Gonzalez is at his best with the ball in the open court. He’s a terrific athlete who plays with a lot of attitude. Whether he’s pushing in transition, curling off screens, or running a pick-and-roll, Gonzalez is great at getting to the rim and has shown some really fun playmaking flashes. Additionally, Gonzalez measured well, which only makes his defense that much more intriguing. The problem is that the shot has never really been there for Gonzalez. If he’s put in a 3-and-D role, the results could look ugly. However, if he’s given some freedom to create with the ball, he could be a steal in this draft.
#27. BROOKLYN NETS (via HOU) — Adou Thiero | W | Arkansas
Nominations: Adou Thiero, Will Riley
Vote: Adou Thiero (6) over Will Riley (3)
Profile: 6’7”, 218
Year: Junior (20)
15.1 PTS | 5.8 REB | 1.9 AST | 1.6 STL | 0.7 BLK
54.5 FG% | 25.6 3P% | 68.6 FT%
27 Games | 27.5 MIN
Stephen: The Brooklyn Nets are able to go in a million directions with any of their picks this year. With the team already grabbing their big man of the future, as well as another guard threat, the Nets made a smart move by selecting defensive star Adou Thiero. Thiero’s biggest struggle will come from shooting the ball, but you can pencil him in for points coming by way of put-backs and creating an extra possession on defense. Adou finished nearly neutral on stocks (65) to fouls committed (69). His size and athleticism will allow him to toggle up and down the lineup defensively–something this team just doesn’t have right now. While the shot is a concern, Thiero is an intelligent player in terms of passing (1:1 ATO) and making timely moves to the rim (97th percentile on cuts).
#28. BOSTON CELTICS — Ryan Kalkbrenner | C | Creighton
Nominations: Ryan Kalkbrenner, Maxime Raynaud
Vote: Ryan Kalkbrenner (6) over Maxime Raynaud (3)
Profile: 7’2”, 257
Year: Senior (23)
19.2 PTS | 8.7 REB | 1.5 AST | 0.5 STL | 2.7 BLK
65.3 FG% | 34.4 3P% | 68.1 FT%
35 Games | 34.4 MIN
Rucker: Boston has two valuable assets in this draft class. Not only do they have one of the last picks in Day One of the draft, but they also have the second pick to kick off Day Two. That could be a little enticing for a team like Boston, as they could be answering calls for potential trades. However, the Celtics also have a team that suddenly needs to add some depth given their cap situation and potential moves this offseason. Boston needs to add some pieces, especially when it comes to the big man position. One name that continues to be linked to the Celtics is Creighton big man Ryan Kalkbrenner. As our own Tyler Metcalf put it, “drafting Kalkbrenner is like taking an NFL Guard in the first round.” You might not love it, but your team needs it to succeed. Kalkbrenner has the tools to be a heck of a rotation asset, especially when it comes to his defensive ability as a drop coverage big.
#29. PHOENIX SUNS (via CLE) — Kam Jones | G | Marquette
Nominations: Nolan Traore, Kam Jones, Johni Broome, Javon Small
Vote: Kam Jones (6) over Nolan Traore (1), Johni Broome (1), and Javon Small (1)
Profile: 6’5”, 200
Year: Senior (23)
19.2 PTS | 4.5 REB | 5.9 AST | 1.4 STL | 0.3 BLK
48.3 FG% | 31.1 3P% | 64.8 FT%
34 Games | 33.8 MIN
Stephen: The Suns have holes to fill at the point and at the pivot. While they didn’t address that with their first pick in the draft, Phoenix does a great job here to come away with a versatile guard in Kam Jones. Back when Oso Ighodaro and Tyler Kolek were at Marquette, Jones was the leading scorer on the team, and he shot just under 40% from deep. As the lead guy for the Golden Eagles this season, Kam grew as a playmaker, rounding out into a complete offensive threat. Jones has shown the ability to be a solid defender against both backcourt positions, which will come in handy with him taking on a scaled-down role in the NBA. Now that he will be able to play with other ball-handlers, Kam’s shooting should even out to the point where he will be a threat from deep.
#30. LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS (via OKC) — Yanic Konan Niederhauser | C | Penn State
Nominations: Yanic Konan Niederhauser, Johni Broome
Vote: Yanic Konan Niederhauser (5) over Johni Broome (2)
Profile: 7’0”, 243
Year: Junior (22)
12.9 PTS | 6.3 REB | 0.8 AST | 0.7 STL | 2.3 BLK
61.1 FG% | 9.1 3P% | 66.4 FT%
29 Games | 25.1 MIN
Jam: Outside of their L.A. counterpart, there might not be a better fit for Yanic Konan Niederhauser than the Clippers. Desperate for backup big for one of the best bigs in the game in Ivica Zubac, Konan Niederhauser provides the Clippers with an NBA ready play finisher who can thrive as the roll man with a pick-and-roll wizard like James Harden and a lob/drop-off threat off the scoring gravity of Harden, Leonard, and Powell. Defensively, while likely not an anchor, he's mobile and impactful as a weak-side shot-blocking presence–something that’s lacking for the Clippers when Zubac isn't in the game.
SECOND ROUND
#31. MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES (via UTA) — Bogoljub Markovic | F | Mega Bemax
Profile: 6’11”, 200
Year: 2005 Born (19)
13.9 PTS | 6.9 REB | 2.6 AST | 0.8 STL | 0.9 BLK
54.6 FG% | 38.8 3P% | 76.5 FT%
32 Games | 29.2 MIN
#32. BOSTON CELTICS (via WAS) — Koby Brea | W | Kentucky
Profile: 6’7”, 215
Year: Senior (22)
11.6 PTS | 3.2 REB | 1.3 AST | 0.5 STL | 0.3 BLK
47.0 FG% | 43.5 3P% | 91.4 FT%
36 Games | 28.1 MIN
#33. CHARLOTTE HORNETS — Maxime Raynaud | C | Stanford
Profile: 7’1”, 236
Year: Senior (22)
20.2 PTS | 10.6 REB | 1.7 AST | 0.9 STL | 1.4 BLK
46.7 FG% | 34.5 3P% | 77.0 FT%
35 Games | 33.5 MIN
#34. CHARLOTTE HORNETS (via NOLA) — Noah Penda | F | Le Mans
Profile: 6’8”, 225
Year: 2005 Born (20)
10.2 PTS | 5.5 REB | 2.7 AST | 1.2 STL | 0.9 BLK
44.7 FG% | 32.2 3P% | 66.7 FT%
37 Games | 27.3 MIN
#35. PHILADELPHIA 76ERS — Johni Broome | C | Auburn
Profile: 6’10”, 249
Year: Senior (22)
18.6 PTS | 10.8 REB | 2.9 AST | 0.9 STL | 2.1 BLK
51.0 FG% | 27.8 3P% | 58.7 FT%
36 Games | 30.3 MIN
#36. BROOKLYN NETS — Nolan Traore | G | Saint Quentin
Profile: 6’4”, 175
Year: 2006 Born (18)
12.2 PTS | 1.9 REB | 4.7 AST | 0.7 STL | 0.0 BLK
41.0 FG% | 31.4 3P% | 71.1 FT%
44 Games | 22.7 MIN
#37. DETROIT PISTONS (via TOR) — Will Riley | F | Illinois
Profile: 6’9”, 195
Year: Freshman (19)
12.6 PTS | 4.1 REB | 2.2 AST | 0.3 STL | 0.3 BLK
43.2 FG% | 32.6 3P% | 72.4 FT%
35 Games | 25.5 MIN
#38. SAN ANTONIO SPURS — Chaz Lanier | W | Tennessee
Profile: 6’5”, 206
Year: Senior (23)
18.0 PTS | 3.9 REB | 1.1 AST | 0.9 STL | 0.1 BLK
43.1 FG% | 39.5 3P% | 75.8 FT%
38 Games | 31.3 MIN
#39. TORONTO RAPTORS (via POR) — Jamir Watkins | W | Florida State
Profile: 6’6”, 214
Year: Senior (23)
18.4 PTS | 5.7 REB | 2.4 AST | 1.2 STL | 0.5 BLK
42.7 FG% | 32.1 3P% | 74.7 FT%
32 Games | 30.9 MIN
#40. WASHINGTON WIZARDS (via PHX) — Drake Powell | F | North Carolina
Profile: 6’6”, 200
Year: Freshman (19)
7.4 PTS | 3.4 REB | 1.1 AST | 0.7 STL | 0.7 BLK
48.3 FG% | 37.9 3P% | 64.8 FT%
37 Games | 25.6 MIN
#41. GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS (via MIA) — Alijah Martin | G | Florida
Profile: 6’3”, 208
Year: Senior (23)
14.4 PTS | 4.5 REB | 2.2 AST | 1.5 STL | 0.2 BLK
45.2 FG% | 35 3P% | 76.1 FT%
38 Games | 30.3 MIN
#42. SACRAMENTO KINGS (via CHI) — Kobe Sanders | G | Nevada
Profile: 6’9”, 207
Year: Senior (22)
15.8 PTS | 3.9 REB | 4.5 AST | 1.1 STL | 0.3 BLK
46.0 FG% | 34.2 3P% | 79.5 FT%
33 Games | 31.7 MIN
#43. UTAH JAZZ (via DAL) — Micah Peavy | W | Georgetown
Profile: 6’7”, 211
Year: Senior (23)
17.2 PTS | 5.8 REB | 3.6 AST | 2.3 STL | 0.5 BLK
48.1 FG% | 40.0 3P% | 65.9 FT
32 Games | 37 MIN
#44. OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER (via ATL) — Hansen Yang | C | Qingdao
Profile: 7’2”, 250
Year: 2005 Born (19)
16.2 PTS | 10.0 REB | 2.8 AST | 0.9 STL | 2.8 BLK
59.3 FG% | 29.1 3P% | 68.0 FT%
52 Games | 32.9 MIN
#45. CHICAGO BULLS (via SAC) — Rocco Zikarsky | C | Brisbane
Profile: 7’4”, 257
Year: 2006 Born (18)
4.5 PTS | 3.5 REB | 0.3 AST | 0.3 STL | 0.7 BLK
50.0 FG% | 20.0 3P% | 62.5 FT%
20 Games | 12.2 MIN
#46. ORLANDO MAGIC — Javon Small | G | West Virginia
Profile: 6’3”, 190
Year: Senior (22)
18.6 PTS | 4.1 REB | 5.6 AST | 1.5 STL | 0.3 BLK
41.8 FG% | 35.3 3P% | 88.0 FT%
32 Games | 36.1 MIN
#47. MILWAUKEE BUCKS (via DET) — Tyrese Proctor | G | Duke
Profile: 6’5”, 183
Year: Junior (21)
12.4 PTS | 3.0 REB | 2.3 AST | 0.8 STL | 0.1 BLK
45.2 FG% | 40.5 3P% | 68.0 FT%
38 Games | 30 MIN
#48. MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES (via GSW) — Brice Williams | W | Nebraska
Profile: 6’7”, 205
Year: Senior (23)
20.4 PTS | 4.1 REB | 2.9 AST | 1.1 STL | 0.3 BLK
47.2 FG% | 36.9 3P% | 88.8 FT%
34 Games | 34.1 MIN
#49. CLEVELAND CAVALIERS (via MIL) — Sion James | W | Duke
Profile: 6’5”, 217
Year: Senior (22)
8.6 PTS | 4.2 REB | 2.9 AST | 0.8 STL | 0.3 BLK
51.6 FG% | 41.3 3P% | 81.0 FT%
39 Games | 25.6 MIN
#50. NEW YORK KNICKS (via MEM) — Eric Dixon | F/C | Villanova
Profile: 6’9”, 259
Year: Senior (24)
23.3 PTS | 5.1 REB | 1.9 AST | 0.8 STL | 0.3 BLK
45.1 FG% | 40.7 3P% | 81.3 FT%
35 Games | 34.8 MIN
#51. LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS (via MIN) — Alex Toohey | F | Sydney Kings
Profile: 6’8”, 225
Year: 2004 Born (21)
11.4 PTS | 3.8 REB | 1.3 AST | 1.4 STL | 0.8 BLK
46.5 FG% | 34.0 3P% | 73.8 FT%
32 Games | 23.5 MIN
#52. PHOENIX SUNS (via DEN) — Viktor Lakhin | C | Clemson
Profile: 6’11”, 252
Year: Senior (23)
11.4 PTS | 6.4 REB | 1.5 AST | 1.0 STL | 1.5 BLK
50.7 FG% | 37.5 3P% | 69.6 FT%
34 Games | 23.5 MIN
#53. UTAH JAZZ (via LAC) — Vladislav Goldin | C | Michigan
Profile: 7’1”, 253
Year: Senior (24)
16.6 PTS | 7.0 REB | 1.1 AST | 0.5 STL | 1.4 BLK
60.7 FG% | 33.3 3P% | 73.1 FT%
37 Games | 27.5 MIN
#54. INDIANA PACERS — Will Richard | W | Florida
Profile: 6’4”, 206
Year: Senior (22)
13.3 PTS | 4.6 REB | 1.9 AST | 1.7 STL | 0.3 BLK
48.7 FG% | 35.9 3P% | 84.4 FT%
40 Games | 31.6 MIN
#55. LOS ANGELES LAKERS — Dylan Cardwell | C | Auburn
Profile: 6’11”, 261
Year: Senior (23)
5.0 PTS | 5.1 REB | 1.6 AST | 0.8 STL | 1.4 BLK
70.0 FG% | 50.0 3P% | 32.4 FT%
38 Games | 20.3 MIN
#56. NEW YORK KNICKS — FORFEITED
#57. MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES (via HOU) — Max Shulga | G | VCU
Profile: 6’5”, 206
Year: Senior (22)
15.0 PTS | 5.9 REB | 4.0 AST | 1.8 STL | 0.1 BLK
43.5 FG% | 38.7 3P% | 78.3 FT%
35 Games | 32.8 MIN
#58. ORLANDO MAGIC (via BOS) — Payton Sandfort | F | Iowa
Profile: 6’7”, 212
Year: Senior (22)
16.7 PTS | 6.0 REB | 2.9 AST | 0.8 STL | 0.6 BLK
40.7 FG% | 34.0 3P% | 89.1 FT%
33 Games | 31.9 MIN
#59. CLEVELAND CAVALIERS — Jonathan Pierre | F | Belmont
Profile: 6’9”, 213
Year: Senior (22)
13.8 PTS | 6.3 REB | 3.5 AST | 0.8 STL | 0.4 BLK
40.2 FG% | 36.9 3P% | 76.8 FT%
33 Games | 27.8 MIN
#60. HOUSTON ROCKETS (via OKC) — Arthur Kaluma | F | Texas
Profile: 6’7”, 225
Year: Senior (23)
12.3 PTS | 7.5 REB | 1.8 AST | 0.9 STL | 0.9 BLK
46.2 FG% | 35.9 3P% | 78.4 FT%
33 Games | 29.3 MIN
I am with you on the top 15 and love Egor to Minny, but Demin just feels like the kind of player Memphis loves. I could easily see them taking him.
I’d love to see Cedric Coward in a Suns uniform—his skill set and energy would be a welcome addition. The challenge, though, with both Coward and Kam Jones is timing. As talented as they are, the Suns are already overflowing with guards. What they truly need now is size—versatile, athletic size that can defend, rebound, and shift the dynamic of the roster.
Until that balance is addressed, even great guard prospects may end up as luxuries Phoenix can’t afford.