2025 NBA Mock Draft: Team Needs vs. Player Value Debate

Givony`s pick that fills the biggest need:
Cooper Flagg, SF/PF, Duke, Freshman | TS%: 60.0

Given the Mavericks` core players are aging and have injury histories, adding an energetic 18-year-old like Flagg is a significant boost. Flagg is expected to be a consistently available player who brings high intensity to practices and games. He excels in transition and defense, and his developing ball-handling and shooting address the Mavs` current need for shot creation. Furthermore, Flagg`s arrival provides a fresh start after a theoretical trade of Luka Doncic (as framed in the original text`s hypothetical scenario), offering fans a young star with the desired defensive mindset and off-court habits the front office emphasized in that hypothetical context.

Woo`s pick that gets the best value: Flagg

Flagg is the widely accepted top prospect, and selecting at No. 1 is primarily about taking the best player available. Flagg stands out as a potential top pick in almost any draft class. His performance at Duke, supported by both statistics and observation, suggests he has the potential to become a franchise cornerstone for Dallas. His versatile contributions on both ends of the court, combined with strong character, make him the most secure high-upside choice in this draft.

Givony`s pick that fills the biggest need:
Kon Knueppel, SG/SF, Duke, Freshman | TS%: 64.8

A key objective for the Spurs` front office is to complement Victor Wembanyama, Stephon Castle, and De`Aaron Fox with intelligent, effective perimeter shooters. Kon Knueppel excels in this role; he is considered the top shooter in the draft, capable of hitting shots off screens. He is also a reliable defender and passer known for his unselfish and competitive style. Having played alongside a rising star (Flagg) previously, he`s an ideal partner for a future MVP candidate like Wembanyama.

Woo`s pick that gets the best value:
Dylan Harper, PG/SG, Rutgers, Freshman | TS%: 59.3

Dylan Harper solidified his position as a top prospect during the season, impressing with significant playmaking potential that ranks him high in the class. His promise as a large guard who can generate offense for himself and teammates makes him a compelling choice. Even though the Spurs already have guards, they would likely prioritize Harper`s potential skillset and address fit concerns later. While other prospects might better align with immediate roster needs, Harper represents a significant opportunity for long-term value.

Givony`s pick that fills the biggest need:
Airious `Ace` Bailey, SG/SF, Rutgers, Freshman | TS%: 54.0

Airious `Ace` Bailey appears to be an excellent fit for the 76ers` roster composition, capable of playing both shooting guard and power forward alongside players like Tyrese Maxey, Jared McCain, Quentin Grimes, Paul George, and Kelly Oubre Jr. Philadelphia needs a high-potential wing player who can eventually take over from a potentially aging Paul George and his contract. Bailey`s combination of physical tools, scoring ability, and competitive drive provides significant upside for an 18-year-old.

Woo`s pick that gets the best value:
VJ Edgecombe, SG, Baylor, Freshman | TS%: 56.1

VJ Edgecombe has presented a strong case as a top prospect in this draft class. Teams are highly impressed by his athleticism and ability to drive to the basket, recognizing significant potential as he develops his ball-handling skills. He offers arguably the best balance of high potential and a solid baseline among players at this pick. Many league insiders see star potential in him. While his immediate fit in Philadelphia`s backcourt might not be perfect, no player expected at No. 3 is likely to dramatically change the team`s outlook for the upcoming season. From a long-term perspective, Edgecombe is the most promising selection.

Givony`s pick that fills the biggest need: Harper

Harper slides to No. 4 in this scenario, as both the Spurs (with existing guards) and Sixers (with existing guards) might prioritize other positions if focusing solely on current needs. The Hornets would benefit from Harper`s driving ability, knack for drawing fouls, and strong finishes, adding him to a large backcourt alongside the capable facilitator LaMelo Ball.

Woo`s pick that gets the best value: Knueppel

Knueppel has a real chance of being a top-five pick, with teams considering his immediate on-court contribution and potential to develop his offensive game. His excellent perimeter shooting and composed playmaking style would be a valuable addition for the Hornets, likely easing pressure on LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller. While Bailey`s upside is appealing, Knueppel might have a better chance to thrive within the Hornets` structure and represents a strong value play if both are available. This situation highlights how team fit influences situational value.

Givony`s pick that fills the biggest need: Edgecombe

With Collin Sexton and Jordan Clarkson potentially entering the final years of their contracts, the Jazz have a need at shooting guard and possibly point guard, depending on the long-term view of Keyonte George and Isaiah Collier. Edgecombe is the draft`s most explosive guard prospect with the type of star potential currently lacking in the Jazz backcourt. He showed flashes as a primary ball handler with the Bahamas national team and views the point guard position as his long-term role.

Woo`s pick that gets the best value: Bailey

Here`s where Bailey becomes a strong value pick: Utah could still secure a player with excellent upside even after their pick fell to No. 5. Bailey`s shotmaking ability is unique in this class, offering significant room to develop into a quality scorer. The downside is that he is raw in other areas and will require time to develop, which some teams may not have. However, the Jazz, despite perhaps growing impatient with tanking, still need to make a pick with long-term potential in mind. Bailey possesses the talent to change their trajectory if he reaches his potential – a worthy gamble at No. 5.

Givony`s pick that fills the biggest need:
Khaman Maluach, C, Duke, Freshman | TS%: 74.7

Alex Sarr reportedly sees himself more as a power forward, shooting frequently from three and posting modest defensive rebounding numbers. Khaman Maluach, a true 7-foot-2 center, projects as a defensive anchor in the paint. He would give the Wizards another tall big man to play behind or alongside Sarr in twin-tower lineups, a strategy becoming more common in the NBA, similar to the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Woo`s pick that gets the best value: Maluach

As the consensus top defensive big man in the class, Maluach would be a solid addition for most teams, though those with established young centers might look elsewhere. The Wizards, in a rebuilding phase with time on their side, could benefit from pairing Maluach`s anchoring presence with the more agile Sarr at the power forward position, creating a potentially dominant defensive front line.

Givony`s pick that fills the biggest need:
Tre Johnson, SG, Texas, Freshman | TS%: 56.1

With CJ McCollum potentially in the final year of his contract, finding his successor makes sense. The Pelicans struggled with shooting last season and traded Brandon Ingram, leaving a void on the wing and in shot creation. Tre Johnson, a former Longhorn, is an aggressive, dynamic scorer who constantly pressures defenses with his focus on scoring. His serious approach would fit the Pelicans roster well, and the team has enough lengthy defenders to cover some of his defensive weaknesses.

Woo`s pick that gets the best value:
Jeremiah Fears, PG, Oklahoma, Freshman | TS%: 57.0

When taking a swing for upside early in the draft, Fears is the type of talent that`s hard to pass up. His playmaking instincts and ability to drive to the basket can significantly challenge defenses. He is still early in his development, leaving room for his jump shot to improve. While Fears is unlikely to make an immediate impact in a winning context, his skillset is worth an early investment, particularly for a team like New Orleans that could use a long-term starting point guard.

Givony`s pick that fills the biggest need: Fears

The Nets lack a clear starting point guard, having cycled through multiple players last season. If Fears is available at No. 8, selecting him seems logical. He has one of the highest ceilings in the draft, showing significant star potential in his lone college season. Just beginning their rebuilding process, the Nets are likely eyeing the strong 2026 draft class, making the growing pains of an 18-year-old rookie point guard a potentially manageable step towards future talent acquisition.

Woo`s pick that gets the best value: Johnson

Johnson`s scoring ability makes him a worthwhile gamble in the top 10. While there are some questions about his playing style, if a team can integrate him effectively, his shooting could provide real benefits. The Nets have enough offensive opportunities available next season for this situation to make sense. This is where I would target Johnson, after other top-scoring wing prospects are off the board.

Givony`s pick that fills the biggest need:
Derik Queen, C, Maryland, Freshman | TS%: 60.0

It`s difficult to see where a rookie guard, wing, or forward would fit into the Raptors` crowded depth chart at those positions. The situation on the interior is less certain, with Jakob Poeltl nearing the end of his guaranteed contract. Derik Queen is the most skilled big man in the draft, capable of scoring facing up or with his back to the basket, and possesses impressive passing skills. His shooting needs improvement to effectively play alongside Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram, but he brings a unique offensive skillset the Raptors currently lack, with room for growth if his conditioning improves.

Woo`s pick that gets the best value: Queen

At pick No. 9, the value of prospects starts to become less distinct; the players in this range offer varying skill sets. For a team like the Raptors, where there isn`t a perfect fit readily available, this spot could be used to simply swing on raw talent. Queen is the most offensively gifted big man in the class. While he has areas to improve, particularly defensively, Toronto has the organizational capacity to develop frontcourt talent and could justify selecting him here.

Givony`s pick that fills the biggest need:
Kasparas Jakucionis, PG, Illinois, Freshman | TS%: 59.8

Coming off a strong season with a good record and possessing ample young talent, it`s challenging to identify specific needs for the Rockets, beyond potential considerations around Steven Adams` free agency or Fred VanVleet`s team option. Jakucionis has the size, build, and length to play any backcourt position alongside Reed Sheppard and Amen Thompson. He demonstrates scoring ability and a strong feel for the game, with significant upside at 19 years old.

Woo`s pick that gets the best value:
Collin Murray-Boyles, PF/C, South Carolina, Sophomore | TS%: 64.0

The Rockets are in a fortunate position with the Suns` pick at No. 10, boasting roster depth and lacking critical personnel gaps. Trading the pick for an upgrade elsewhere is a possibility. However, from a best-available perspective, Murray-Boyles is a strong candidate. He offers a versatile role-player skillset that represents valuable depth for Houston, an organization likely to appreciate his solid analytic profile.

Givony`s pick that fills the biggest need:
Egor Demin, PG/SG, BYU, Freshman | TS%: 51.3

The Trail Blazers don`t appear to have immediate needs that can easily be addressed by a player selected in this range. However, they might be interested in adding a large playmaking guard like Demin. He possesses the size and versatility to play both on and off the ball, can defend multiple positions, and could develop long-term alongside Portland`s young core.

Woo`s pick that gets the best value: Jakucionis

Jakucionis is one of the most creative playmakers in this draft. His court vision, ability to play both guard spots, and potential to improve as a shooter make him a solid bet to become a valuable professional guard. He is drawing interest higher than No. 11 as a result. His versatility and unselfishness make him a strong option in this part of the draft, and he would enhance the Blazers` guard rotation.

Givony`s pick that fills the biggest need: Murray-Boyles

The Bulls have limited long-term assets in their frontcourt, and Nikola Vucevic, at 35, is a potential trade candidate entering the final year of his contract. They clearly need to add defensive versatility in the frontcourt, which Murray-Boyles provides in abundance. His playmaking ability adds to his appeal, as does his toughness and unselfishness off the court.

Woo`s pick that gets the best value:
Noa Essengue, PF, Ratiopharm Ulm, Germany | TS%: 61.1

Essengue`s strong recent performances have helped solidify him as a lottery candidate. His size, mobility, and improving motor make him an intriguing prospect in this range. While there`s some developmental risk involved, his productivity this season has been a positive sign. Adding an 18-year-old with his physical tools and valuable skillset is a compelling proposition in the late lottery. For the Bulls, this represents a valid high-upside gamble, making sense as they try to break out of the middle tier of the Eastern Conference.

Givony`s pick that fills the biggest need:
Joan Beringer, C, Cedevita Olimpija, Adriatic | TS%: 61.5

With Clint Capela potentially entering free agency, the Hawks will likely need to add another big man to support Onyeka Okongwu, who played heavy minutes in their final game. Joan Beringer is a highly interesting long-term prospect with outstanding physical tools, defensive versatility, and shot-blocking ability. The 18-year-old needs time to build his frame and gain experience, but his length, mobility, and timing are difficult to find.

Woo`s pick that gets the best value: Demin

The possibility of adding an offensive talent like Demin this late in the draft should appeal to any team regardless of need. Ball handlers with his size and passing vision are rare, giving him a chance to be drafted higher. If Demin`s jump shot improves, it would open up a path for him to become a significant facilitating wing. The Hawks may not have an immediate need for a player in his mold, but his talent is certainly worth considering seriously.

Givony`s pick that fills the biggest need:
Carter Bryant, SF/PF, Arizona, Freshman | TS%: 59.9

After adding a wing shooter in Knueppel with their first pick, the Spurs might target a forward who also provides floor spacing with their second lottery pick in Bryant. His 7-foot wingspan, solid build, defensive versatility, perimeter shooting, and positive off-court attributes would complement the other young players the Spurs have assembled.

Woo`s pick that gets the best value: Bryant

Bryant`s draft stock has risen into this late-lottery range, with NBA teams optimistic about his potential to become a reliable 3-and-D wing. These types of players, especially if they can contribute on their rookie contracts, are valuable to any team in almost any situation – and there aren`t many of them in this draft class. Although Bryant requires development before becoming a high-impact player, he makes sense as a priority addition for playoff-aspiring teams like the Spurs.

Givony`s pick that fills the biggest need: Essengue

On a team with significant depth, not even accounting for a player who potentially redshirted due to injury, it will be challenging for any rookie to earn playing time next season. Essengue`s length, mobility, and defensive versatility across multiple positions could be an ideal match for the Thunder`s disruptive, turnover-generating style of play. Becoming a more consistent perimeter shooter will be crucial for him to get on the court early in his NBA career. However, Essengue has already shown ways to produce, playing at a high level for an 18-year-old and demonstrating significant long-term potential to develop.

Woo`s pick that gets the best value: Beringer

If there`s one team that can clearly prioritize value above all else, it`s the Thunder. They not only have the league`s deepest roster but also are loaded with future draft picks to continue adding talent. Beringer`s strong upside as a center who can run the floor and protect the rim has made him a target for teams in this range. His lack of experience is less concerning for a team like Oklahoma City that wouldn`t need him to contribute immediately.

Givony`s pick that fills the biggest need:
Jase Richardson, PG/SG, Michigan State, Freshman | TS%: 63.2

The Magic desperately need shooting and their lack of backcourt depth was evident when a veteran journeyman was forced into a starting role during the playoffs due to injury. Richardson is a strong 3-point shooter who brings excellent defensive intensity and has a solid understanding of his game. This makes him well-suited to play off the star power of franchise players Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero.

Woo`s pick that gets the best value:
Will Riley, SG/SF, Illinois, Freshman | TS%: 53.8

This spot at No. 16 is where the next tier of prospects arguably begins. I am personally optimistic about Riley`s long-term potential and would bet on him here. Wings with his combination of size, basketball feel, and shooting upside are not easily found outside the lottery. This would be a developmental pick for the Magic, and Orlando`s need for shooting enhances Riley`s case at this selection.

Givony`s pick that fills the biggest need:
Danny Wolf, PF, Michigan, Junior | TS%: 56.6

The Timberwolves face considerable uncertainty in their frontcourt this offseason, with key players having player options that could lead them to free agency. Given these situations might resolve after the draft, adding a big man with this pick makes sense as an insurance policy, as retaining both players could be costly. Wolf has the size and versatility to play either big-man position, as he did in college, and at 21, should be more prepared to contribute than most rookies.

Woo`s pick that gets the best value:
Asa Newell, PF/C, Georgia, Freshman | TS%: 62.0

Newell has elicited mixed opinions among teams, giving him a relatively wide draft range. However, his youth, productivity, and potential to develop into a useful stretch-four are significant strengths. Minnesota should aim to build roster depth here and potentially think long-term, given their limited future draft assets. Newell is an interesting investment who could eventually help address some of their frontcourt needs.

Givony`s pick that fills the biggest need:
Nolan Traore, PG, Saint-Quentin (France) | TS%: 51.0

The Wizards currently lack a guaranteed starting-caliber point guard and can afford to take a chance on the talent of Traore, who recently turned 19 and is arguably the best passer in this draft. After being projected as a top-10 pick, Traore`s stock dropped slightly due to inconsistent play. However, there is still much to like about his size, ball-handling, creative playmaking, and overall upside, making him a worthy gamble for a team in Washington`s situation at this point in the draft.

Woo`s pick that gets the best value:
Liam McNeeley, SG/SF, UConn, Freshman | TS%: 53.6

McNeeley started the season projected in the late lottery and continues to be considered in the top 20 thanks to his shooting potential, versatility on the perimeter, and strong reputation from before college. The scarcity of quality wings in the middle of the first round makes him a viable pick here for the Wizards, who are fully committed to a youth movement and value positional size and basketball intelligence.

Givony`s pick that fills the biggest need: McNeeley

The Nets` wing depth is not particularly strong, evident from the minutes given to certain players last season. They were one of the league`s worst shooting teams. A player like McNeeley – a consistent 3-point shooter with deep range who can shoot off screens, and who also brings toughness and intelligence – could be appealing at this stage. While McNeeley`s college season wasn`t as consistent as hoped, he has performed well in other settings and possesses the work ethic, competitiveness, and feel for the game needed to maximize his potential long term.

Woo`s pick that gets the best value:
Thomas Sorber, C, Georgetown, Freshman | TS%: 58.7

Sorber, known for his strong defensive abilities, presents an interesting value proposition partly due to the foot injury that ended his season. Had he remained healthy and participated more in the pre-draft process, it`s possible he could have warranted a higher selection than No. 19. The Nets have playing time available for rookies next season and are well-positioned to develop a younger prospect like Sorber at this pick.

Givony`s pick that fills the biggest need:
Ben Saraf, PG/SG, Ratiopharm Ulm (Germany) | TS%: 53.9

The Heat currently lack significant shot creation or playmaking on their roster, making the point guard position a clear priority this offseason. Saraf has excellent size, composure, and creativity for a guard. He played a significant role for his German team, with a particularly impressive playoff performance. His strong instincts on both ends of the floor, combined with his youth, give him intriguing long-term potential to develop.

Woo`s pick that gets the best value: Richardson

Richardson`s strong analytical profile combined with his somewhat average positional size has led to differing opinions among NBA front offices. However, at this point in the draft, he becomes an interesting value bet. He possesses solid role player qualities as a good shooter, decision-maker, and willing defender who can bolster almost any backcourt. The Heat need assistance in that area as they continue transitioning to a younger roster.

Givony`s pick that fills the biggest need:
Nique Clifford, SG, Colorado State, Super Senior | TS%: 60.9

It appears the Jazz are shifting their strategy after finishing with the league`s worst record and only securing the No. 5 pick. Owner Ryan Smith stated, “It`s go time for us,” after hiring a new president. Adding more teenagers might not align with this approach, especially with the Jazz already having one of the league`s youngest rosters. A 23-year-old like Clifford could be a sensible pick as a ready-to-play wing. He has an excellent feel for the game, strong defensive versatility, and converted a good percentage of his 3-pointers last season.

Woo`s pick that gets the best value: Wolf

The Jazz may not be strongly tied to any specific player currently on their roster, particularly with the stated plan to compete next season. This makes Wolf a rather interesting selection here. As a player who could potentially step in as a rookie, he offers intriguing mismatch and lineup possibilities. Landing him outside the top 20 would be a worthwhile investment in this situation.

Givony`s pick that fills the biggest need:
Cedric Coward, SF, Washington State/Duke, Junior | TS%: 71.0

The Hawks hiring veteran front office personnel provides some direction, freeing them to decide on Trae Young`s future. Assuming they continue with the current roster framework, adding an older wing prospect like Coward with strong perimeter shooting prowess could make sense. His length should allow him to play multiple positions alongside players like Jalen Johnson and Zaccharie Risacher. The limited game sample due to his abbreviated season makes evaluating him challenging with a wide potential draft range, but his length and shooting provide a solid foundation as his feel, defense, and toughness develop.

Woo`s pick that gets the best value:
Maxime Raynaud, PF/C, Stanford, Senior | TS%: 56.1

After selecting a guard earlier, I project the Hawks taking a frontcourt player with their second pick. Raynaud`s stock is rising after a strong combine performance as a stretch-five with room to grow. Atlanta`s situation illustrates how value and fit can intersect – while quality perimeter players may remain available with potentially higher upside, there are often diminishing returns in doubling up on similar skill sets and limiting opportunities for rookies. Raynaud would fit nicely as developmental frontcourt depth.

Givony`s pick that fills the biggest need: Sorber

Injuries impacted the Pacers` frontcourt depth, requiring them to seek help via trades and free agency. Myles Turner is a free agent but proved essential during their NBA Finals run. Drafting a young center like Sorber to mentor and develop long-term alongside their young core makes sense, allowing them to allocate resources to other positions while their championship window is open. Sorber`s length, feel for the game, and developing skills give him a chance to become a contributor in the coming years, even if it takes time.

Woo`s pick that gets the best value: Clifford

The lack of immediately ready-to-play wings in this class makes Clifford a solid addition for most teams in this range. You can never have too many large, versatile perimeter players. With the Pacers in the midst of a competitive phase, adding Clifford here, who is older and potentially more ready, could provide quicker dividends than drafting a younger prospect.

Givony`s pick that fills the biggest need:
Hugo Gonzalez, SG/SF, Real Madrid, EuroLeague | TS%: 50.9

The Thunder might not even have available roster spots for both of their first-round picks, making their draft night direction uncertain. Gonzalez could fit Oklahoma City`s style of play with his impressive physical tools and high-energy defense, which have allowed him to earn a role for Real Madrid in the ACB league.