2025 NBA Mock Draft: Post-Combine Projections

Intel and Fit: The Mavericks experienced incredible lottery luck, securing the top pick and giving their fanbase a new cornerstone piece after the Luka Doncic trade. Dallas ownership reportedly has no intention of trading this pick and plans to select Flagg. Sources suggest Flagg is enthusiastic about potentially joining a playoff team with strong veterans and is scheduling a visit to Dallas.

Flagg`s spectacular freshman season at Duke erased any doubt about his No. 1 status. As a Wooden Award winner, he showcased exceptional competitiveness, defensive versatility, and all-around impact. He demonstrated range as a shooter, took on significant playmaking duties, and elevated his teammates. The only remaining question for scouts is whether he projects as an NBA All-Star or, as some believe, a truly elite, two-way superstar.

Intel and Fit: Already holding a strong position with Victor Wembanyama, the Spurs` third consecutive year of lottery luck saw them jump to No. 2, positioning them to select Dylan Harper, widely considered the next-best prospect after Flagg. San Antonio is reportedly thrilled with the outcome and seems comfortable prioritizing talent over immediate backcourt fit concerns, even with De`Aaron Fox and Stephon Castle on the roster. Building around Wembanyama, Castle, and Harper provides a strong, young foundation with significant salary cap flexibility.

While trade speculation exists, especially regarding a potential blockbuster, the Spurs have the future draft capital to keep Harper and still make significant roster upgrades later. Rival teams anticipate San Antonio will explore trade options, but the consensus expectation is that Harper will be the pick unless a major trade materializes.

Intel and Fit: This pick marks where the draft truly becomes unpredictable. The 76ers are reportedly considering a wide range of prospects, including Bailey, VJ Edgecombe, Tre Johnson, Khaman Maluach, and Kon Knueppel. Bailey, often seen as the third-most talented player in the class, is a natural fit, offering positional versatility at shooting guard, small forward, or power forward alongside current players.

Combine feedback suggests Bailey is somewhat polarizing among front offices, with some questions about his basketball IQ and perceived “unpolished” interviews. However, other executives appreciated his candidness and willingness to show his personality. Some teams expect the Sixers to be active in trade discussions, potentially targeting stars like Kevin Durant or Lauri Markkanen in packages involving Paul George and this pick. While President Daryl Morey is known for aggressive moves, trading a top-three pick is rare. Adding a young, talented prospect like Bailey could offer a valuable reset to the team`s timeline, providing long-term optimism given Joel Embiid`s injury history and George`s potential contract concerns.

Intel and Fit: While dropping one spot was a minor disappointment, the Hornets were the only team among the top four lottery odds to stay put. The No. 4 pick is still valuable, guaranteeing them either Edgecombe or Bailey, both representing significant talent upgrades. Edgecombe is generally viewed as a slightly safer pick for Charlotte, but there`s no strong consensus among teams after the top two. Given the Hornets` needs, Tre Johnson could also be considered here.

Edgecombe fits well on paper, slotting between LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller. His explosive downhill driving, slashing style, and significant defensive potential complement Ball`s passing and Miller`s shooting. He also has potential to grow into a larger ball-handling role, making him a potentially attractive long-term backcourt option for Charlotte. Opposing teams are watching to see the Hornets` urgency this offseason, given their selling at the trade deadline but also nine consecutive playoff misses.

Intel and Fit: Dropping from a projected No. 1 slot before the lottery to No. 5 was a significant setback for the Jazz and their fanbase, raising questions about their rebuilding timeline and the value of enduring another difficult season in pursuit of a high pick in 2026. With a significant need for star power, drafting a high-upside prospect like Fears makes sense.

Despite being one of the youngest players in college basketball at 18, Fears had a strong season at Oklahoma. His combination of size, speed, pace, shooting, and shot creation offers considerable long-term upside. He can attack the basket, create opportunities for teammates, finish effectively, and get to the free-throw line. Drafting Fears would likely impact the roster, particularly their recent point guard selections (Keyonte George and Isaiah Collier). The long-term status of All-Star Lauri Markkanen, who would attract significant trade interest, is also a key consideration. Falling from the worst record to No. 5 was a stark reminder of rebuilding challenges, and it`s unclear how else the Jazz can meaningfully progress toward championship contention.

Intel and Fit: Similar to the Jazz, the Wizards faced a disappointing lottery outcome, dropping four spots in a worst-case scenario, albeit being at an earlier stage of their rebuild. Washington continues to seek star talent and will likely take a swing on the best player available after the top five. In this projection, that`s Tre Johnson, who would address an immediate need and offers upside as a potential long-term starting shooting guard. He`s considered one of the draft`s better perimeter scorers, possessing solid positional size and an aggressive offensive mindset. His performance at Texas, where he played a large role, helped his stock.

Johnson has been another polarizing prospect due to questions about his play style, which some scouts have characterized as selfish at times throughout his development. Concerns about his shot selection and adaptability to varying usage levels persist following combine interviews. However, few players in this class possess his scoring talent. The Wizards can offer him an immediate offensive role and focus on his development, making them a potentially good fit for Johnson in the top 10.

Intel and Fit: The Pelicans also experienced a significant drop after a tough season, ending up with only the No. 7 pick despite a 21-61 record. This presents a challenging start for new executives Joe Dumars and Troy Weaver. New Orleans needs significant star power, but if top prospects like Bailey and Fears are selected earlier, drafting a high-upside big man such as Khaman Maluach becomes a logical choice.

Maluach is one of the draft`s youngest players (turning 19 in September) and has considerable potential for physical and skill development. He plays with tremendous intensity and is highly regarded by coaches and teammates for his exceptional character. His ability to anchor a defense with his impressive wingspan, provide vertical spacing as a roll man, and run the floor aggressively in transition makes him an appealing long-term center prospect for any team, including potentially the Hornets or Wizards picking ahead of them.

Intel and Fit: The Nets were among the disappointed lottery teams, dropping two spots from No. 6 to No. 8. Brooklyn possesses veteran players like Cameron Johnson, four first-round picks in this draft, and future assets, giving them flexibility to potentially move up. League insiders anticipate the Nets, who are also mindful of current and future cap space, may consolidate some of their assets.

Kon Knueppel`s reliable offensive game and high-level shooting would be a solid addition for the Nets, a skillset that complements most lineups regardless of how the roster evolves. League sources see potential for additional scoring and playmaking from the versatile wing. There`s also a case for the Nets to consider developing a young guard like Egor Demin or Kasparas Jakucionis, or leaning into the offensive upside of Derik Queen if they remain at this pick.

Intel and Fit: The Raptors have several roster directions they could pursue, with a mix of young, versatile players already assembled through drafts and trades. Murray-Boyles` skillset aligns with a culture of toughness and defensive versatility, adding playmaking from the frontcourt, although his lack of perimeter shooting might not be ideal for floor spacing around Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram.

Picking ninth in a draft widely perceived to have a top tier of around eight players suggests a “best player available” strategy makes sense for Toronto, a path this front office has followed previously. Murray-Boyles` unique combination of passing, ability to draw fouls, finishing near the basket, and defensive disruption has reportedly positioned him as high as a potential top-5 pick in some team analytics models, especially given he won`t turn 20 until mid-June.

Intel and Fit: This pick is viewed around the league as a valuable asset for the Rockets, who are frequently mentioned as potential trade partners following their progress this season. Houston possesses both draft capital and young talent, positioning them to target a star player should one become available. Reed Sheppard, already on the roster, is presumably expected to take on a larger role next season.

If the Rockets keep the pick, a “best available” approach is likely, and Kasparas Jakucionis presents a strong case at No. 10. His vision as a playmaker, shooting promise, strong intangibles, and excellent positional size for a guard make him a versatile addition for almost any team. He will need to improve his decision-making and reduce turnovers to maximize his potential as a primary ball-handler long term. While some teams speculated he could fall slightly, Jakucionis appears relatively secure in the 8-12 range at this stage.

Intel and Fit: Egor Demin had a positive week at the Chicago combine, measuring taller than anticipated at 6-9½ in shoes and delivering one of the most impressive pro day performances, convincing even skeptical evaluators of his talent. Demin has shown significant physical development and is expected to continue filling out his frame. He demonstrated a smooth, quick release on his 3-pointers, offering optimism for his perimeter shooting despite a 27% mark from three in his lone season at BYU. NBA teams were also reportedly impressed with his interviews in Chicago.

The Trail Blazers have flexibility with this pick, and adding a large guard with strong feel for the game who can adapt to different lineup configurations could be an intriguing long-term prospect for them.

Intel and Fit: The Bulls reacquired this lottery-protected pick in the Zach LaVine trade, ensuring they would add a prospect as they attempt to move out of the Eastern Conference middle tier. Chicago is positioned to draft the best talent available but has a greater need for frontcourt help, making Queen an interesting option if he is available at No. 12. Queen had an excellent season at Maryland and is in consideration for teams as high as the mid-lottery, but his potential range is wider.

He measured a legitimate 6-10 in shoes but performed poorly in athletic testing at the combine and didn`t shoot particularly well in drills. While not unexpected, these are areas teams will focus on during his workout circuit. Despite this, he is a significant offensive talent whose unique skillset stands out among centers in this class. Ultimately, his game film should outweigh the combine data. Teams selecting him will believe they can maximize his potential. Supporters around the league see him as an intelligent player with high upside.

Intel and Fit: It is challenging to predict the Hawks` draft direction until they finalize their front office structure following the departure of general manager Landry Fields. The Hawks have reportedly engaged with prominent agents and NBA executives regarding potential hires. With the first of their two first-round picks, taking a high-upside prospect like Joan Beringer could make sense, especially with starting center Clint Capela entering free agency.

Beringer, just 18, has shown surprising impact this season, leading the Adriatic League in block percentage. His excellent physical tools, combined with his ability to cover ground on the perimeter, switch onto smaller players, and protect the rim, indicate significant potential, particularly given he has only been playing organized basketball for three years. He would be an attractive long-term center prospect for many teams.

Intel and Fit: Even before the possibility of adding Dylan Harper at No. 2, the Spurs recognized the need for maximum floor spacing around Victor Wembanyama and their guards. Their second first-round pick offers an opportunity to address this. Carter Bryant is a strong fit on paper if he is available at No. 14. Although his stats were modest in a supporting role at Arizona, NBA teams have been intrigued by his promising shooting stroke, passing instincts, and solid physical frame (with measurements similar to Dorian Finney-Smith).

Bryant has room to add strength, which would enhance his defensive versatility. As a player who can contribute on both ends without needing high usage, Bryant could integrate smoothly into most teams` long-term plans, potentially putting him in play for teams higher than this spot.

Intel and Fit: With three picks among the top 44 selections and 14 players expected to be under contract next season, it`s uncertain how much roster space Oklahoma City will have for new rookies. Potential options for the Thunder include packaging picks to move up, trading non-rotation players, or deferring picks to future years. While a player like Essengue might not immediately fill a specific need for Oklahoma City, the team has few pressing needs that this draft can resolve.

Therefore, the Thunder will likely adopt a best-talent-available approach if they decide to use all their picks. Essengue`s potential upside makes him an intriguing prospect in this range.

Intel and Fit: After reaching the playoffs in consecutive seasons, the Magic`s front office appears focused on helping the team win its first playoff series since 2010, signaling a shift to a “win-now lens.” This might imply a willingness to trade one or both of their first-rounders (they also hold pick No. 25) for “proven offensive help,” a pursuit likely to continue throughout the offseason. Should the Magic keep this pick, drafting a player like Jase Richardson makes sense. He possesses an excellent feel for the game, strong defensive intensity, and shot 41% from three this season.

His ability to play effectively off the ball alongside primary shot-creators Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero would be a plus. Richardson demonstrated strong character and winning qualities during his time at Michigan State, showing a willingness to embrace his role.

Intel and Fit: The Timberwolves, currently in a contention window, received a fortunate surprise with a first-round pick in this valuable range, courtesy of the Detroit Pistons making the playoffs and conveying this lottery-protected selection (originally from New York in the Karl-Anthony Towns trade). This pick likely represents a “best available” situation for Minnesota, the team with the least future draft capital. Holding both the No. 17 and No. 31 picks provides a good opportunity to find value and add younger talent around Anthony Edwards.

Danny Wolf`s combination of perimeter skills, passing ability, and interior size (measuring nearly 7 feet in shoes with a 7-2¼ wingspan) makes him an intriguing prospect for creative front offices. With Julius Randle and Naz Reid holding player options for next season, adding a younger forward like Wolf could be a strategic consideration as the Timberwolves weigh their options.

Intel and Fit: Expect the Wizards to continue adding draft picks as they build around the league`s fifth-youngest roster. In this scenario, after potentially drafting Tre Johnson earlier, Washington could add a more versatile complementary wing in Liam McNeeley. His positional size and feel for the game align with the team`s preferences. McNeeley measured and tested slightly better than anticipated at the combine (6-8 in shoes, 215 pounds) and appears to be trending upward.

After an ankle injury impacted his freshman season at UConn, he will have opportunities to improve his stock during workout circuits, addressing questions about his athleticism and shooting and reminding teams why he was considered a lottery candidate entering the season.

Intel and Fit: With the second of their four first-round picks, the Nets have many options. They are likely to prioritize taking swings on talented players while also considering the increasing value of size in the league. Thomas Sorber is not expected to participate in on-court activities during the pre-draft process as he recovers from foot surgery in February. However, his strong feel for the game, defensive versatility, length, physicality, and skill as a pick-and-roll finisher are appealing qualities for a 19-year-old center and should generate significant interest in this part of the draft.

His measured 7-6 wingspan at Chicago allows him to play significantly larger than his standing height (6-10½ in shoes).

Intel and Fit: The Heat acquired this pick in the Jimmy Butler trade and have a history of success selecting in the middle of the first round, adding Jaime Jaquez Jr. and Kel`el Ware in recent drafts. While Tyler Herro has handled point guard duties frequently, adding a true point guard for the long term would benefit the Heat, especially with a significant shot-creation void remaining from Butler`s departure. Nolan Traore represents a potentially high-reward pick if he falls to this spot.

Some scouts view him as a lottery-level talent, but an inconsistent season in France has dampened his stock slightly. His size, speed, playmaking ability, and potential as a shooter offer clear upside if he can develop consistently. This far down in the draft, Traore is an attractive prospect for a team like the Heat, known for their player development capabilities.

Intel and Fit: The Jazz obtained this second first-round pick from Minnesota in the Rudy Gobert trade. After potentially selecting a point guard in the lottery with Fears, taking a high-upside young big man like Asa Newell makes sense. Teams needing frontcourt help earlier in the draft also reportedly have interest in him. Based on his combine measurements, Newell will likely play mostly power forward in the NBA.

Nevertheless, his mobility, aggressiveness, and intensity are significant assets that contributed to a highly productive and efficient freshman season. Newell made 26 three-pointers and shot 75% from the free-throw line, positive indicators that scouts believe suggest potential for him to become a more consistent outside shooter (despite a 29% 3P percentage this season).

Intel and Fit: As previously noted, it`s difficult to determine a clear direction for the Hawks until their front office leadership is finalized. However, after potentially adding big man Joan Beringer earlier, they can opt for a “best available” approach with Will Riley. He is another young player with substantial long-term upside as he physically matures and develops his skillset. Riley is in discussion for teams selecting higher than this pick due to his excellent size for a wing (measuring over 6-8 barefoot) and room to add strength.

His impressive offensive instincts and potential to become a high-level perimeter shooter check important boxes, assuming a team can afford him patience. This pick was acquired from the Los Angeles Lakers.

Intel and Fit: Amidst a competitive playoff run against the New York Knicks, the Pacers may not be focusing on the draft as heavily as teams already in the offseason. However, every team is actively seeking wing depth. Nique Clifford is drawing interest higher than this range due to his versatile, “Swiss Army knife” profile.

He combines an excellent feel for the game with strong defensive versatility and has converted 38% of his three-point attempts over the past two seasons. His ability to contribute effectively in multiple ways makes him a valuable plug-and-play prospect.

Intel and Fit: It remains challenging to envision Oklahoma City using all three of its picks within the top 44 selections given their current roster depth. However, the Thunder have several months to formulate a plan, and there will be no shortage of teams interested in trading for their draft capital. Maxime Raynaud was one of the significant winners at the combine, arguably the most impressive performer in the scrimmages after measuring over 7 feet barefoot with a large 9-2 standing reach.

Raynaud`s ability to space the floor as a center is highly valuable in today`s NBA. Equally important was how well he held his own defensively in Chicago, both hedging screens out to the three-point line and effectively altering shots at the rim. This pick was acquired from the LA Clippers.

Intel and Fit: This represents the Magic`s second first-round selection, obtained from Denver in the 2021 Aaron Gordon trade. As discussed with their earlier pick, it`s unclear whether the Magic will keep both first-rounders or attempt to consolidate them for proven talent. Should they use this pick, a high-upside international prospect like Hugo Gonzalez is a potential target.

Gonzalez possesses intriguing tools and potential as a wing player developing in a high-level European system. Teams looking for long-term developmental prospects in this range will consider his blend of size and skill.