Following the 2025 NBA Draft Lottery held on Monday, the Dallas Mavericks secured the top overall selection, an unexpected outcome given their low odds. The draft is scheduled for June 25-26 in Brooklyn.
In a significant surprise, Dallas won the lottery despite having just a 1.8% probability. This win positions them to potentially select Cooper Flagg of Duke, widely considered the leading prospect in the 2025 class. Other teams benefiting from favorable lottery results were the San Antonio Spurs, Philadelphia 76ers, and Charlotte Hornets, who landed the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th picks, respectively.
Adding to the lottery`s unpredictability, the Spurs moved up to second from eighth (6.3% chance), and the 76ers climbed to third from fifth (10.6% chance). The Hornets fell slightly from their projected third spot to fourth but still benefited as teams like Utah, Washington, and New Orleans dropped out of the top four.
Leading prospects like Flagg, Dylan Harper, Derik Queen, and Walter Clayton Jr. are participating in the NBA Draft Combine, G League Elite Camp, and agency pro days in Chicago this week. Draft experts will offer insights from Wintrust Arena as players undergo various evaluations, including physical measurements, athletic tests, medical checks, team interviews, and scrimmage games.
Drawing on evaluations of the 2025 class and information from scouts and team executives, this mock draft by Jonathan Givony and Jeremy Woo projects all 59 selections following the lottery. Note that the New York Knicks` second-round pick was forfeited due to an NBA investigation into a past free agency signing.
First Round
1. Dallas Mavericks
Cooper Flagg, SF/PF, Duke
Freshman | TS%: 60.0
Scouting report: Cooper Flagg solidified his position as the projected top pick after an outstanding freshman season at Duke, considered one of the most impressive single seasons by a college wing in recent memory. Statistically, he stacks up favorably against top college prospects from this era, showcasing consistent performance and leadership for a youthful Duke squad. While some NBA scouts view Flagg as a potential cornerstone player, others see him more as an elite complementary piece. This range of high-end projections reinforces his status as the class`s premier prospect. His notable improvement curve, comprehensive impact on both ends of the court, exceptional mental focus, and intense competitive drive at just 18 years old highlight his potential as a truly unique talent.
NBA intel and fit: Securing the No. 1 pick with a mere 1.8% chance represents a monumental stroke of luck for the Mavericks, making their draft selection straightforward with the availability of Flagg. Dallas has been focused on leveraging its current competitive window alongside star players like Kyrie Irving, and Flagg`s immediate readiness and adaptable skillset should significantly enhance the team`s roster. Flagg could potentially take on substantial ball-handling and shot-creation responsibilities early in his NBA career, providing a prime chance to develop his playmaking abilities and potentially evolve into a significant offensive threat. This lottery result drastically alters the Mavericks` future prospects, pulling them away from potential uncertainty after previous roster changes and potentially extending their opportunity to contend.
2. San Antonio Spurs
Dylan Harper, PG/SG, Rutgers
Freshman | TS%: 59.3
Scouting report: Harper`s proficiency, shot creation skills, and scoring capability helped keep the debate for the top pick engaging for parts of the season. He demonstrates the ability to reach his desired spots on the court and shows strong passing vision. The emphasis on physicality in the NBA playoffs highlights the value of a robust playmaker like Harper, whose capacity to finish through contact and draw fouls is a key asset, along with his comprehensive statistical impact reflecting an excellent basketball IQ.
NBA intel and fit: The Spurs were already in an advantageous position with two picks in the top 14 to enhance a roster featuring back-to-back Rookies of the Year, Victor Wembanyama and Stephon Castle. Jumping from eighth to second in the lottery is a significant stroke of good fortune. While Harper`s potential fit alongside De`Aaron Fox and Castle may not appear seamless, it would be surprising for San Antonio`s forward-thinking front office to bypass Harper, who is widely considered the second-best prospect after Flagg. This presents an opportunity for teams needing a primary shot creator to trade up, potentially sending much-needed shooting assets to the Spurs to complement Wembanyama.
3. Philadelphia 76ers
Airious `Ace` Bailey , SG/SF, Rutgers
Freshman | TS%: 54.0
Scouting report: Ace Bailey has drawn varied opinions from scouts compared to typical top-five prospects, showing flashes of offensive potential at Rutgers while still being in the early stages of developing in other key areas. Lottery teams are keen to evaluate him closely during the predraft process, including interviews, to understand his readiness for positive contributions in the NBA. Wings possessing Bailey`s combination of size, physical abilities, and shooting talent are uncommon. This sought-after profile has helped maintain his draft stock despite inconsistencies in his decision-making, ball-handling, and defensive effort. Some teams express concerns about the inherent risk in these areas, but his enticing scoring talent is very attractive to front offices seeking star power.
NBA intel and fit: The 76ers can breathe a sigh of relief and celebrate their pick climbing to third, avoiding the scenario where it would have fallen outside the top six and gone to Oklahoma City. A high-value draft pick provides the Sixers with a significant positive takeaway from a 24-58 season, as they strive to balance immediate competitiveness around Joel Embiid with long-term roster building. Bailey`s shooting proficiency and substantial scoring upside would offer Philadelphia another solid foundation piece for the future, complementing their developing backcourt tandem.
4. Charlotte Hornets
VJ Edgecombe, SG, Baylor
Freshman | TS%: 56.1
Scouting report: VJ Edgecombe, the Big 12 Freshman of the Year, had a largely successful season demonstrating his physicality, intensity, and quick progress as a ball handler, finisher, and perimeter shooter. Edgecombe stands out as the most explosive athlete in this draft class, possesses a solid understanding of the game, and has shown exceptional defensive moments, indicating significant potential for growth. NBA teams have some questions regarding his optimal position, the extent of his ability as a shot creator and overall scorer, and whether he sometimes played with restraint this season.
NBA intel and fit: While the Hornets aimed for the top spot in the draft, staying within the top four is still a favorable outcome, especially seeing teams like Utah and Washington drop. Charlotte is still in the early phases of its rebuilding process, with LaMelo Ball coming off a career-high scoring season (25.2 points per game) and Brandon Miller emerging as a key piece. However, the roster is still developing overall, following a season where both key players missed significant time due to injuries. Edgecombe`s defensive skills and athletic driving ability would fit well alongside them; he can complement Ball in the short term and potentially take on greater shot-creation responsibilities if the team decides to change course from Ball.
5. Utah Jazz
Jeremiah Fears, PG, Oklahoma
Freshman | TS%: 57.0
Scouting report: The 18-year-old Fears had a remarkable freshman year, leading Oklahoma to the NCAA tournament despite being one of the youngest players in college basketball. His blend of size, quickness, change of pace, shooting, and ability to create shots provides significant long-term upside. He can penetrate the defense to create opportunities for teammates, make passes while moving, finish skillfully near the basket, or get to the free-throw line. Fears` youth, slender build, and inconsistent finishing and decision-making will likely require patience from his drafting team, even with lingering questions about the significant star potential he holds, which could lead to him being picked much higher.
NBA intel and fit: Slipping out of the top four is certainly disappointing for the Jazz, who face a more complex evaluation process after falling to fifth. Under CEO Danny Ainge, the Jazz are committed to a lengthy internal rebuild but have yet to select a player with the kind of homegrown star power that could accelerate their return to contention. They will now look to find that player at No. 5, where Fears and his shot-creation abilities could be attractive, even with other young guards on the roster.
6. Washington Wizards
Tre Johnson, SG, Texas
Freshman | TS%: 56.1
Scouting report: Johnson is recognized as one of the top scorers in this draft, capable of hitting challenging shots from various spots on the floor with a clear focus on scoring first. He needs to improve several aspects of his game, including finishing close to the basket, playmaking for others, and defensive consistency. However, NBA teams are drawn to his shooting ability, length, and skill level. He possesses a solid fundamental skill set for a shooting guard, and if he can refine some tendencies over time, Johnson has the potential to be a valuable building block for the future.
NBA intel and fit: The Wizards, currently the NBA`s youngest team, have completely restructured their roster, front office, and coaching staff over the past two years. They still have substantial room for improvement despite having several promising young players. Falling four spots to the sixth pick is undoubtedly a major disappointment for their fan base, which endured an 18-64 season following the previous year`s league-worst record (15-67) that resulted in the second pick. The Wizards will likely need to gamble on the scoring talent of a player like Johnson here and then hope for better luck in next year`s potentially strong lottery class.
7. New Orleans Pelicans
Khaman Maluach, C, Duke
Freshman | TS%: 74.7
Scouting report: Khaman Maluach is the premier defensive center prospect in this draft, offering an appealing combination of length, mobility, finishing ability around the basket, and rim protection skills at a young age. This year`s playoffs have underscored for some teams the continued value of having size on the floor, with traditional centers demonstrating significant impact. Maluach`s capability to deter shots near the rim and his strong intangible qualities should provide immediate rotation value, with ample potential for further development.
NBA intel and fit: Coming off a challenging season marked by injuries that led to major front office changes, the Pelicans are in need of a star player to complement Zion Williamson, who has played in only 130 games over the past four seasons due to injuries. Unfortunately, this task became significantly more difficult when the Pelicans unexpectedly dropped four spots to the seventh pick, complicating their strategy for this draft. It will be intriguing to see if the shift to a new front office leadership results in a mandate from ownership to initiate a full rebuild, possibly targeting the talented 2026 draft class.
8. Brooklyn Nets
Kon Knueppel, SG/SF, Duke
Freshman | TS%: 64.8
Scouting report: Despite a modest athletic profile, Knueppel gained favor with NBA teams throughout the season due to his consistent production and impressive performances in the NCAA tournament. These outings highlighted his value as a skilled, adaptable wing player capable of contributing effectively on both ends of the court. He made 41% of his three-pointers from various situations and also demonstrated his ability to handle the ball and pass out of pick-and-roll actions, while also holding his own defensively. NBA teams are eager to assess his physical measurements and better understand how his lack of explosiveness and quickness might limit his potential ceiling, although his exceptional basketball IQ should help him succeed significantly.
NBA intel and fit: The Nets changed direction at last year`s draft following a trade, and they now possess four first-round picks and significant salary cap space, positioning them to seriously commence their rebuilding efforts. It will be interesting to observe their strategy this offseason; they have the flexibility to aim for quick improvement but could also opt for a more gradual rebuild, potentially targeting the talent-rich draft class of 2026. While they might be disappointed to drop a couple of spots from sixth to eighth, they remain in a range where legitimate talent is available and possess the assets to potentially move back up in the draft if they choose to be aggressive.
9. Toronto Raptors
Collin Murray-Boyles, PF/C, South Carolina
Sophomore | TS%: 64.0
Scouting report: Collin Murray-Boyles has been on NBA teams` radar for the past couple of seasons, with his statistical profile aligning well with analytics models and the eye test confirming his performance. Despite being somewhat undersized for his position, his resilience, finishing ability, passing skills, and defensive capability are appealing attributes. Teams are especially interested in evaluating Murray-Boyles` shooting mechanics in workout settings, as the three-point shot is not yet a consistent part of his game but represents a crucial area for his development. His existing strengths offer immediate plug-and-play value.
NBA intel and fit: Toronto has begun to transition away from its multiyear rebuild, a shift signaled by the acquisition of Brandon Ingram at the February trade deadline. Scottie Barnes remains the primary cornerstone for the team, and this pick offers the Raptors one more opportunity to select a potential top-10 talent before possibly intensifying their efforts to compete for a playoff spot going forward. Murray-Boyles would provide them with a genuine power forward who could defensively improve lineups on a roster that otherwise has many scorers.
10. Houston Rockets (via Phoenix)
Kasparas Jakucionis, PG, Illinois
Freshman | TS%: 59.8
Scouting report: Jakucionis significantly boosted his standing at Illinois, taking on a major role as an 18-year-old newcomer to Division I basketball and having a strong season. Despite expected adjustments and inconsistencies, NBA teams remain largely optimistic about his toughness, playmaking instincts, size, and versatility at either guard position, believing they will lead to a promising professional career. Concerns have been raised about his ability to create separation off the dribble, but Jakucionis` proficiency in pick-and-roll situations and potential growth as a shooter should allow him to contribute effectively as part of a team`s rotation, at a minimum.
NBA intel and fit: The Rockets acquired the right to swap picks with Phoenix in a trade last summer, and the Suns` underwhelming performance made this pick a valuable asset. Following a solid regular season that ended in a first-round playoff exit, this pick offers Houston an opportunity to strengthen its already deep roster, either by drafting a prospect or using the selection as a trade asset. Jakucionis might not address an immediate need, but he would add significant depth to the backcourt for future planning, particularly if the team considers changes involving current guards and transitions toward building with younger players.
11. Portland Trail Blazers
Derik Queen, C, Maryland
Freshman | TS%: 60.0
Scouting report: Derik Queen is perhaps the most skilled big man in this draft class. He is an excellent target in pick-and-roll situations, possesses the ability to create his own shot when facing the basket using a diverse set of moves, and displays intriguing passing talent. Queen`s conditioning, occasional defensive lapses, and limited shooting range are areas NBA teams picking in this range (or higher) will want to thoroughly assess during the predraft process. Interviews, workouts, and further research will be critical in determining whether he is selected earlier or later, as there is currently no strong consensus among scouts regarding his unique profile and long-term potential.
NBA intel and fit: Portland`s rebuilding process is ahead of schedule, with the Blazers finishing the final 41 games with a 23-18 record as young players showed significant promise, providing a solid foundation to build around. This unexpected success reduced the Blazers` lottery odds, leaving them with a pick in a tier of prospects that offer talent but also have apparent weaknesses. Queen`s lack of shooting might not seem like an ideal fit for a Portland team that struggled from the perimeter, but his overall talent might be too significant to pass on, especially if other players on the roster can improve their shooting.
12. Chicago Bulls
Egor Demin, PG/SG, BYU
Freshman | TS%: 51.3
Scouting report: Egor Demin is a polarizing prospect; his potential is seen as more theoretical than demonstrably consistent in terms of immediate productivity and reliable skills for his early NBA career. However, he is also exceptionally talented, standing at 6-foot-9 as a point guard capable of executing all pick-and-roll reads and making impressive passes, often resulting in highlights. The development of his shooting will be a crucial factor for his progress, but he showed encouraging improvements in several areas as the season progressed and clearly possesses significant potential to grow into at 19 years old.
NBA intel and fit: The Bulls continued a pattern of middling performance this season, exiting in the first round of the play-in tournament after a 39-43 campaign, a decade since their last playoff series victory. Chicago will likely need to make more substantial roster changes to realistically contend for avoiding the play-in in the near future, but the team has limited options for internal improvement, making this draft pick an important asset for the front office. They remain in the back end of a range where clear talent still exists, and they have the pieces to potentially move back up the board if they decide to get aggressive.
13. Atlanta Hawks (via Sacramento)
Jase Richardson, PG/SG, Michigan State
Freshman | TS%: 63.2
Scouting report: Jase Richardson emerged as a surprising one-and-done prospect at Michigan State, earning a substantial role and impressing with his composure and adaptability in the backcourt. Evaluators have noted some discrepancy between his strong analytical profile and the eye test; he shows excellent all-around productivity but has average physical tools and raises some questions about his long-term suitability for full-time point guard duties. Richardson has numerous admirers among league executives, but his draft range might be wider than some other players projected in this section of the draft.
NBA intel and fit: The Hawks showed positive signs of progress this season, with the integration of young players adding depth to their roster. Atlanta underwent a leadership change in the offseason and is still seeking a president of basketball operations, but the team should aim to continue building depth through the draft. Richardson`s basketball IQ and versatility at either guard spot would provide the Hawks with a valuable connective player to complement their youthful roster.
14. San Antonio Spurs (via Atlanta)
Carter Bryant, SF/PF, Arizona
Freshman | TS%: 59.9
Scouting report: Carter Bryant is the kind of player who could significantly enhance his draft position during the predraft process as teams get a closer look at him in workout environments. He possesses several qualities highly valued by NBA teams at his position. His desirable combination of size, length, perimeter shooting ability, passing, and defensive adaptability makes him an easy fit, as he played multiple positions for the Wildcats this season. Bryant wasn`t consistently productive coming off the bench for Arizona, averaging only 6.5 points per game; he isn`t a strong shot creator and needs development on both ends of the floor. However, he has considerable potential for long-term growth.
NBA intel and fit: With their second lottery pick in this draft, it will be intriguing to see the Spurs` willingness to add another rookie to an already young roster, especially as the team likely aims to push for a postseason appearance. The direction San Antonio takes with their initial lottery pick will likely influence their decision here, but the possibility of trading one of these picks for more immediate help might be appealing to the front office, depending on how the draft unfolds. If the Spurs keep the pick, a young combo forward like Bryant, capable of spacing the floor and guarding multiple positions, makes a lot of sense.
15. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Miami)
Nolan Traore, PG, Saint-Quentin
France | TS%: 51.0
Scouting report: Nolan Traore was initially projected firmly in the top 10 at the start of the year but saw his stock fall somewhat amid an inconsistent season marked by turnovers, uneven defense, and streaky shooting and finishing. However, he has been on a significant upward trend lately, delivering some of his best performances as the season concludes, reminding teams of his talent by effectively getting to his spots on the floor to create shots in volume for himself and his teammates. The 18-year-old possesses considerable talent, showing glimpses of brilliance with his ball-handling, passing, and overall creative abilities. His scoring prowess and shot-making have been more apparent recently, observed by many NBA teams in attendance.
NBA intel and fit: With three first-round picks but already having 14 players expected to be under contract next season, it`s unclear how much space there is on the Oklahoma City roster for additional rookies. The front office might consider options like packaging picks to move up in the draft, trading non-rotation players to other teams, or deferring draft assets by swapping this year`s picks for future first-rounders. The Thunder may have limited immediate use for a player like Traore, but they have very few specific needs that this draft class is likely to directly address anyway. The team will probably adopt a best-talent-available approach if they decide to use all their picks.
16. Orlando Magic
Will Riley, SG/SF, Illinois
Freshman | TS%: 53.8
Scouting report: While not yet a finished product, Will Riley is regarded by NBA teams as a prospect with significant long-term potential. He is a versatile scorer possessing excellent shot-making skills from anywhere on the court and shows impressive flashes of creating shots for himself and others. He also demonstrates refined creativity as a passer, which is particularly intriguing for a 19-year-old. Developing greater strength and becoming a more consistent shooter and defender will be crucial steps in his development, but he showed encouraging progress at Illinois as the season advanced.
NBA intel and fit: Following back-to-back playoff appearances, Orlando`s front office appears committed to helping the team secure its first playoff series victory since 2010, stating plans to adopt a `more win-now lens.` This could signal a willingness to trade one or both of the team`s first-round picks (the Magic also hold the No. 25 selection) if `proven offensive help` becomes available, a search likely to continue throughout the offseason.
17. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Detroit)
Danny Wolf, PF, Michigan
Junior | TS%: 56.6
Scouting report: Embracing the versatility of an unconventional prospect like Danny Wolf, who took on significant playmaking duties for Michigan as a 7-footer, could be a compelling strategy. Wolf`s skill level, creativity, and overall instincts on both ends of the floor suggest a higher potential ceiling than typically seen in a 21-year-old prospect, especially given his development trajectory over the past three years.
NBA intel and fit: Detroit`s advancement to the playoffs resulted in this pick conveying to the Timberwolves, presenting a valuable opportunity to add talent after having traded away much of their draft capital since the current president took over. Wolf would provide them with a versatile frontcourt player capable of contributing relatively soon. Minnesota will also weigh using this pick to upgrade its roster as it aims to contend around its ascending star player.
18. Washington Wizards (via Memphis)
Noa Essengue, PF, Ratiopharm Ulm
Germany | TS%: 61.1
Scouting report: As one of the youngest prospects in this class at 18, Noa Essengue has had an impressive season in Germany, positioning himself to potentially be the first international player selected. His size and flexibility as a forward align well with the current direction of the NBA. He demonstrates a strong feel for contributing off the ball but also shows capability to make plays when needed. He needs to gain considerable physical strength, but Essengue possesses the potential for impact on both ends of the court that teams are often keen to develop. Performing well in workouts could potentially elevate him into the lottery, depending on how the draft board unfolds.
NBA intel and fit: With four picks among the top 40 selections and no immediate pressure to win just two years into a comprehensive roster overhaul, the Wizards have flexibility in their draft strategy in this part of the draft, with initial focus on their pick at No. 18.
19. Brooklyn Nets (via Milwaukee)
Joan Beringer, C, Cedevita Olimpija
Adriatic | TS%: 61.5
Scouting report: At just under 19 years old, Beringer showed significant improvement this season. His draft stock is bolstered by a late-blooming trajectory, excellent physical attributes, and intriguing long-term potential. While likely far from being a significant contributor in the NBA immediately, Beringer offers considerable developmental appeal as a defensively-minded center with smooth mobility. Offensively, he is quite raw and would benefit greatly from joining a team capable of providing him with patience and dedicated developmental minutes.
NBA intel and fit: This pick represents the second of Brooklyn`s four first-round selections. The team is expected to be very active in trade discussions, aiming to maximize value from their strong position in this draft. However, Beringer`s long-term potential as a mobile rim protector would make him a good fit for the Nets, who can afford to dedicate the time and attention needed for his improvement.
20. Miami Heat (via Golden State)
Liam McNeeley, SG/SF, UConn
Freshman | TS%: 53.6
Scouting report: Liam McNeeley`s size, shot-making capability, feel for the game, and toughness are valuable attributes highly regarded by NBA teams for the wing position. However, he will need to re-emphasize his winning qualities throughout the predraft process. While he had some notable moments as a freshman at UConn, he struggled with scoring efficiency, making 44% of his two-point attempts and 32% of his three-point attempts, and occasionally appeared out of position defensively. He is likely to play a different role in the NBA, focusing more heavily on his strength as a dynamic perimeter shooter, a skill that was more evident in settings prior to college. Strong workout performances will be essential for McNeeley to remind teams why he was so highly rated entering the season, particularly concerning his shooting, which forms the core of his NBA appeal.
NBA intel and fit: Advancing out of the play-in tournament meant Miami lost their lottery-protected first-round pick (No. 15) to Oklahoma City – a consequence of the 2019 trade for Jimmy Butler III. Trading Butler six years later secured this pick, offering the front office another chance to demonstrate its talent evaluation skills, having found significant success in the draft over the years. The Heat conveying their 2025 first-rounder frees them from future draft obligations to Oklahoma City, allowing them full flexibility this offseason, potentially with an eye towards the deep talent pool at the top of next year`s draft.
21. Utah Jazz (via Minnesota)
Asa Newell, PF/C, Georgia
Freshman | TS%: 62.0
Scouting report: Asa Newell`s productivity and his strong high school reputation make him an interesting prospect for developmental investment. He possesses size, motor, and mobility but needs to refine his offensive skills and overall court awareness to become a significant contributor in the NBA. Teams will be interested to see how his perimeter skills stack up in workout settings, as he likely projects best as a power forward long-term and will need to be able to consistently make shots and handle the ball confidently to succeed in that transition. He was highly regarded coming out of high school and had a solid season at Georgia, profiling as a developmental pick for an NBA team that doesn`t require him to play substantial minutes immediately.
NBA intel and fit: The Jazz acquired this second first-round pick from Minnesota as part of a trade. While Utah`s lottery pick will be the most significant decision, the team found value with later selections in the previous draft and could do so again here.
22. Atlanta Hawks (via Los Angeles Lakers)
Thomas Sorber, C, Georgetown
Freshman | TS%: 58.7
Scouting report: Thomas Sorber is not expected to participate extensively in on-court activities during the predraft process as he recovers from foot surgery in February. Nevertheless, his strong basketball IQ, defensive versatility, length, physicality, and skill level as a pick-and-roll finisher are attractive qualities for a 19-year-old that should draw considerable attention in this part of the draft.
NBA intel and fit: The Hawks obtained the Lakers` pick as part of a trade, giving them their second selection in the first round. With their current center potentially becoming a free agent, it makes sense for the Hawks to consider drafting a successor to back up their young center.
23. Indiana Pacers
Nique Clifford, SG, Colorado State
Super Senior | TS%: 60.9
Scouting report: Nique Clifford has generated positive buzz this spring, earning consideration from teams within the top 20 and having the potential to rise further in the coming weeks. The limited availability of experienced, dependable older college wings will help Clifford`s draft stock, especially after a season at Colorado State where he contributed in multiple ways. As an above-average athlete capable of playing various roles, he is tracking as a player who can immediately fit into a team`s system and address a specific need with their selection.
NBA intel and fit: Indiana has utilized the draft effectively in recent years to build depth and is now entering a period focused on winning, with their star player elevating the franchise. Clifford`s readiness to contribute
