This analysis examines which NBA franchises hold the most influence in the draft landscape, considering both the upcoming June draft and the next seven years. For established playoff teams like the Oklahoma City Thunder and Houston Rockets, their impressive reserves of draft selections offer opportunities to strengthen competitive rosters, either by adding valuable depth or acquiring a star player through trade.
Meanwhile, teams currently at the bottom of the standings, including the Utah Jazz, Washington Wizards, and Charlotte Hornets, are relying on favorable lottery outcomes with the hope of securing a top prospect like the projected No. 1 pick, Cooper Flagg. Conversely, teams such as the Los Angeles Lakers, Milwaukee Bucks, and Denver Nuggets are likely to find it challenging to significantly enhance their rosters through the draft this offseason due to limited assets.
Let`s break down the future assets and potential draft strategies for all 30 teams leading up to the 2025 draft on June 25-26 in Brooklyn.
1. Oklahoma City Thunder
2025 Draft Picks:
- First round: No. 15 (via Miami), No. 25 (via LA Clippers)
- Second round: No. 44 (via Atlanta)
The Thunder currently possess two first-round picks and could potentially gain a third depending on the lottery results, as Philadelphia`s pick is top-six protected and currently sits fifth in the odds. Regardless of whether that pick conveys, consolidation will be necessary, as the Thunder have 15 players under contract entering the offseason and must make space for any draft selections. Expect Oklahoma City to be active around the draft period, as is their custom, balancing the addition of young talent with broader roster management decisions. General Manager Sam Presti has positioned the franchise exceptionally well, and these are ultimately favorable challenges to navigate.
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 13
- All seven of their own
- Unprotected from LA Clippers (2026)
- Top-four protected from Houston (2026)
- Top-eight protected from Utah (2026)
- Top-four protected from Philadelphia (2026 and 2027)
- Top-five protected from Denver (2027, top-five protected in 2028)
- Top-five protected from Denver (2029, if first conveyed in 2027, top-five protected in 2030 if first is conveyed by 2028)
- Swap rights: LA Clippers (2027)
- Swap rights: Houston (2025, top-10 protected)
- Swap rights: Dallas (2028)
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 10
Future Second-Round Picks: 17
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- None
Notes:
- In 2026, Oklahoma City has two of the most favorable of its own, Houston (if 5-30) and LA Clippers. The least favorable of the three firsts will go to Philadelphia.
- In 2027, the Thunder can swap the more favorable of their own and Denver (if 6-30) with the LA Clippers.
2. Brooklyn Nets
2025 Draft Picks:
- First round: No. 6, No. 19 (via Milwaukee), No. 26 (via New York), No. 27 (via Houston)
- Second round: No. 36
The Brooklyn Nets, in a rebuilding phase, enter the pre-draft period holding a league-leading five selections within the top 40. They also possess the most salary cap flexibility, offering a significant opportunity to reshape their roster. It`s improbable they will roster five rookies, and they could also enhance cap space by combining some of their first-round picks. Roster-wise, Brooklyn could benefit from perimeter help, but given their fluid situation and lack of a clear long-term cornerstone, adding overall talent regardless of immediate fit seems prudent. Some lottery luck could greatly accelerate their progress.
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 12
- All seven of their own
- Three unprotected from New York (2027, 2029 and 2031)
- Top-eight protected from Philadelphia (2027 or 2028)
- Least favorable of Dallas, Phoenix and Houston (2029)
- Swap rights: Phoenix or New York (2028)
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 9
Future Second-Round Picks: 15
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- Swap rights with Houston (2027)
3. Utah Jazz
2025 Draft Picks:
- First round: No. 1, No. 21 (via Minnesota)
- Second round: No. 42/43 (via Dallas), No. 53 (via LA Clippers)
The Jazz hold the top position in the lottery odds and anxiously await May 12th hoping to secure a star player to unite their roster. Landing a prospect like Cooper Flagg or Dylan Harper would simplify their decision significantly compared to selecting later in the draft. While Utah has assembled some intriguing young talent, they still lack a foundational top-tier prospect for their rebuild. The Jazz have demonstrated considerable patience in recent seasons and might consider prioritizing another strong lottery opportunity, regardless of the potentially strong top of the 2026 draft class – they have time to develop raw prospects like VJ Edgecombe or Ace Bailey. However, falling outside the top four would represent a notable setback.
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 10
- All seven of their own
- Two of the most favorable from their own, Cleveland, Minnesota (2027)
- Two of the most favorable from their own, Cleveland, Minnesota (if 6-30; 2029)
- Top-four protected from Los Angeles Lakers (2027)
- Unprotected first from Phoenix (2031)
- Swap rights: Minnesota or Cleveland (2026) and Cleveland (2028)
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 7
Future Second-Round Picks: 7
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- Top-eight protected to Oklahoma City (2026, or else a 2028 second-round pick)
4. Houston Rockets
2025 Draft Picks:
- First round: No. 9 (via Phoenix)
- Second round: No. 59 (via Oklahoma City)
Phoenix`s difficulties in 2024-25 benefited Houston significantly, as the Rockets held swap rights on the Suns` pick, securing a projected top-10 selection to complement their core following a 52-win season. Based on Reed Sheppard`s limited role this season, it`s clear that given the Rockets` depth and quality, any drafted player isn`t guaranteed significant minutes under coach Ime Udoka. While some roster consolidation will eventually be necessary, Houston is in an advantageous position, possessing both future draft capital and promising young talent. This suggests the Rockets have flexibility with this pick, whether opting for the prospect with the highest potential (as they often do) or using it as a trade asset to move closer to championship contention.
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 9
- All seven of their own
- Unprotected first from Phoenix (2027)
- Two of the more favorable first of own, Dallas and Phoenix (2029)
- First-round swap with Brooklyn (2027)
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 5
Future Second-Round Picks: 7
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- Top-four protected first to Oklahoma City (2026)
5. Charlotte Hornets
2025 Draft Picks:
- First round: No. 3
- Second round: No. 33, No. 34 (via New Orleans)
Charlotte`s primary focus will be making the most of their lottery selection, which is guaranteed to be no lower than seventh. The team is currently far from consistently competing for the postseason and is prioritizing asset accumulation. Last year`s choice of Tidjane Salaun demonstrated the front office`s inclination towards developmental prospects early in the draft. LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller remain key figures for the future, but the Hornets should still aim to add the most talented player available rather than overly concerning themselves with positional fit. The potential overlap with Ball or Miller if they select a player like Dylan Harper or Ace Bailey could lead to intriguing decisions depending on their final lottery position.
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 10
- All seven of their own
- Least favorable of Phoenix, Washington (if 1-8)
- Orlando and Memphis (2026)
- Top-14 protected first from Miami (2027; unprotected in 2028)
- Top-two protected first from Dallas (2027)
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 7
Future Second-Round Picks: 11
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- None
6. Washington Wizards
2025 Draft Picks:
- First round: No. 2, No. 18 (via Memphis)
- Second round: No. 40 (via Phoenix)
Under Michael Winger and Will Dawkins, the Wizards continue to follow a blueprint similar to the Thunder`s, emphasizing big swings on talent, providing extensive playing time to rookies, and accumulating future draft capital through trades. Washington saw promising signs from their 2024 draft class, including Alex Sarr, Bub Carrington, and Kyshawn George, but would significantly benefit from the potential star power of Cooper Flagg or Dylan Harper if they have luck in the lottery. Should they pick lower, the decision becomes more complex. Regardless, Washington appears committed to a long-term rebuild and is likely to have more opportunities at the top of future lotteries. However, a favorable outcome on May 12th would significantly strengthen their position both in the short and long term.
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 9
- All seven of their own
- Less favorable of Oklahoma City, Houston (if 5-30) and LA Clippers (2026)
- Swap with Milwaukee (2028)
- Second-most favorable of Portland, Boston, Milwaukee (2029)
- Top-20 protected first from Golden State (2030, or else a 2030 second)
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 6
Future Second-Round Picks: 14
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- Top-eight protected first to New York (2026, or else a 2026 and 2027 second)
7. Detroit Pistons
2025 Draft Picks:
- First round: None
- Second round: No. 37 (via Toronto)
Following Detroit`s unexpected push to the playoffs, their protected first-round pick was conveyed to Minnesota. The Pistons hold just one selection in this draft, a second-rounder, which could realistically be signed to a standard contract, making them a more appealing destination for pre-draft workout candidates. With several recent lottery picks needing playing time and salary cap flexibility to add veteran players, any player they draft likely won`t be required to contribute immediately. While it`s early in Trajan Langdon`s tenure as team president, the Pistons seem focused on adding toughness to their supporting cast as they build around All-Star Cade Cunningham.
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 7
- All seven of their own
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 4
Future Second-Round Picks: 13
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- None
8. Sacramento Kings
2025 Draft Picks:
- First round: None
- Second round: No. 42/43 (via Chicago)
The Kings` only possibility of retaining their pick is if it jumps into the top four from its current spot at No. 13, an outcome with only a 3.8% chance. Otherwise, they will have just a second-round selection in their first draft under new leadership with Scott Perry. The Kings control their future draft picks and have some strategic flexibility with their roster. Their offseason will likely focus more on decisions regarding existing players like Zach LaVine and Domantas Sabonis, both offense-oriented stars on maximum contracts.
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 9
- All seven of their own
- San Antonio unprotected first (2027)
- Minnesota unprotected first (2031)
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 6
Future Second-Round Picks: 3
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- Swap rights with San Antonio (2031)
9. Orlando Magic
2025 Draft Picks:
- First round: No. 16, No. 24 (via Denver)
- Second round: No. 46, No. 57 (via Boston)
With four selections, including two first-rounders, the Magic have several options, having previously prioritized building this version of their team through the draft. Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner are the key forwards, and Orlando has been looking to enhance the shooting and defense surrounding them. Expect the Magic to continue evaluating perimeter talent, as Jeff Weltman and the front office have recently placed importance on positional size and basketball IQ. At some point, Orlando may need to consolidate players for a backcourt upgrade, though Jalen Suggs and Anthony Black are still developing. The organization has been patient in cultivating this group into a playoff team, preferring to retain their own picks and maintain flexibility. If an opportunity arises to target a desired player by combining picks 16 and 24 to move up, the Magic`s depth and youth across positions make this a viable option to explore.
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 7
- All seven of their own
- More favorable swap of own and less favorable Phoenix or Washington (if 1-8) in 2026
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 4
Future Second-Round Picks: 11
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- None
10. Toronto Raptors
2025 Draft Picks:
- First round: No. 7
- Second round: No. 39/40 (via Portland)
The acquisition of Brandon Ingram at the trade deadline signaled Toronto`s intent to push closer to playoff contention, suggesting this could be their most impactful draft pick for some time. Whether they improve their position in the lottery or not, this presents a strong opportunity for Toronto to target high-potential talent. They have assembled a number of wings and forwards, many of whom prefer having the ball in their hands, which is an issue they will need to address next season. Top guard prospects like Jeremiah Fears and Kasparas Jakucionis will likely be considered, and Toronto could also benefit from increased depth in the frontcourt, potentially bringing players such as Khaman Maluach and Derik Queen into consideration.
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 7
- All seven of their own
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 4
Future Second-Round Picks: 6
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- None
11. Memphis Grizzlies
2025 Draft Picks:
- First round: None
- Second round: No. 56 (via Houston)
The Grizzlies traded their first-round pick to the Wizards at the deadline, moving on from Marcus Smart and increasing their salary cap flexibility. Although Memphis faces a crossroads this offseason, the front office led by Zach Kleiman has a track record of finding value throughout the draft and could look to acquire players they favor. The expected return at No. 56 is not particularly high, and Memphis already has young players at every position, having largely built its roster through drafting. Their focus appears to be on improving for next season, which may be difficult to achieve solely through this draft without trading up.
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 7
- All seven of their own
- More favorable swap of their own and least favorable swap of Orlando and Phoenix (2026)
- The right to swap their own with the less favorable first of Phoenix and Washington (2030)
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 4
Future Second-Round Picks: 6
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- None
12. New Orleans Pelicans
2025 Draft Picks:
- First round: No. 4
- Second round: None
The Pelicans will be hoping for favorable lottery results as they navigate their transition under the leadership of newly appointed Joe Dumars. New Orleans has long needed a genuine primary ball-handler to build around, which makes a prospect like Dylan Harper particularly appealing should they secure the No. 2 pick or find an opportunity to trade for it. Despite a challenging 2024-25 season, the Pelicans are closer to being competitive than it might appear, and successfully utilizing this lottery pick is crucial for their potential rebound. Their lottery fate will significantly influence their options, with the optimal choice being much less clear if Cooper Flagg and Harper are already off the board when they select.
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 8
- All seven of their own
- Top-four first from Milwaukee (2027)
- Top-four protected first from Indiana (2026, top-4 protected in 2027)
- Swap rights with Milwaukee (2026)
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 5
Future Second-Round Picks: 4
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- More favorable of own (if 5-30) or Milwaukee (if 5-30) to Atlanta (2027)
13. San Antonio Spurs
2025 Draft Picks:
- First round: No. 8, No. 14 (via Atlanta)
- Second round: No. 38
The Spurs are optimistic about continuing their lottery fortune as they build around the last two Rookies of the Year, Victor Wembanyama and Stephon Castle. San Antonio has moved closer to competing with the addition of De`Aaron Fox, but there is still room to strengthen their rotation, particularly needing supplementary shooting and rebounding. With Fox and Wembanyama (assuming health) providing core pieces for the foreseeable future and Castle offering substantial upside, San Antonio can be more focused in their approach to this draft, targeting players who complement their existing roster.
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 8
- Six of their own seven
- Swap rights: Atlanta (2026)
- Unprotected from Atlanta (2027)
- Swap rights: Boston (2028, top-one protected)
- Swap rights: More favorable of Dallas and Minnesota (top-one protected; 2030)
- Swap rights: Sacramento (2031)
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 3
Future Second-Round Picks: 15
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- Own unprotected first to Sacramento (2027)
14. Atlanta Hawks
2025 Draft Picks:
- First round: No. 13 (via Sacramento), No. 22 (via L.A. Lakers)
- Second round: None
Atlanta does not hold its own first-round pick this year but recovered draft value via Sacramento, whose late-season performance resulted in the conveyance of the 13th pick (originally top-12 protected). The Hawks experienced some positive developments this season, with Dyson Daniels earning the NBA`s Most Improved Player award and 2024 No. 1 overall pick Zaccharie Risacher also validating the franchise`s confidence. Atlanta is thin in the frontcourt behind the often-injured Jalen Johnson and Onyeka Okongwu, and should strongly consider addressing frontcourt needs in the draft. However, the Hawks also possess enough young talent on the roster to justify selecting the best player available over specific positional needs. Their two first-round picks should allow them to bolster depth while also adding developmental upside to the roster.
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 7
- Own first in 2026, 2028, 2029, 2030, 2031, 2032
- Less favorable of Milwaukee and New Orleans (if both are 5-30; 2026)
- More favorable of less favorable of own and San Antonio, less favorable of Cleveland and more favorable of Utah (if 1-8) and Minnesota
- More favorable of own and less favorable of Cleveland and Utah then other to Cleveland (2028)
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 3
Future Second-Round Picks: 6
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- Swap rights with San Antonio (2026)
- Unprotected first to San Antonio (2027)
15. Philadelphia 76ers
2025 Draft Picks:
- First round: No. 5
- Second round: No. 35
The Sixers need their pick to remain within the top six; otherwise, it will be conveyed to the Thunder. Following a highly disappointing season, Philadelphia is at a crucial juncture, and this pick presents a significant and potentially unexpected chance to add a top prospect to their core. Finding a starting-caliber player who complements Tyrese Maxey and Jared McCain and can provide long-term stability would be a major success. Daryl Morey has historically been willing to take calculated risks on high-upside prospects. This pick offers the Sixers that opportunity, especially as the health and future trajectories of Joel Embiid and Paul George complicate their immediate path to contention.
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 8
- All seven of their own
- Unprotected first from LA Clippers (2028)
- Top-three protected swap rights with LA Clippers (2029)
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 3
Future Second-Round Picks: 7
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- Top-four protected first to Oklahoma City (2026, top-four protected in 2027)
- Top-eight protected first to Brooklyn (2028)
16. Portland Trail Blazers
2025 Draft Picks:
- First round: No. 10
- Second round: None
The Blazers witnessed positive progress from their young players this season and hold their own lottery pick to further augment that group, a period coinciding with GM Joe Cronin`s contract extension. They have solid coverage at center with Deandre Ayton and the developing Donovan Clingan and are waiting for Scoot Henderson to show further improvement. However, Portland should remain open to targeting upside wherever their pick lands in the lottery. Strengthening perimeter defense is a strong consideration, but the Blazers primarily need star potential if they can find it at pick No. 10. If their pick moves up, that task becomes considerably easier.
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 8
- All seven of their own
- Second most favorable of own, Boston and Milwaukee (2029)
- Swap rights with Milwaukee (2028 and 2030)
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 3
Future Second-Round Picks: 5
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- Top-14 protected first to Chicago (2026, top-14 protected in 2027, 2028)
- Second-most favorable first of own, Boston and Milwaukee to Washington (2029)
17. Chicago Bulls
2025 Draft Picks:
- First round: No. 12
- Second round: No. 42/43 (via Sacramento)
The Bulls valued their 2025 first-round pick (which was once top-10 protected) highly enough to reacquire full rights to it from San Antonio as the primary compensation for trading Zach LaVine at the deadline. That decision proved significant, as Chicago finished the season better than anticipated and will likely select 12th. The Bulls seem inclined towards competing but lack significant draft capital beyond their own picks, placing immense importance on making successful selections later in the lottery like this one. Matas Buzelis appears to be a promising value pick, but frontcourt depth remains the most pressing positional need, especially as Nikola Vucevic enters the final year of his contract. The center position is not considered a strength of this draft class, which might make prioritizing need less appealing for Chicago.
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 8
- All seven of their own
- Top-14 protected first from Portland (2026; top-14 protected through 2028)
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 5
Future Second-Round Picks: 5
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- None
18. Indiana Pacers
2025 Draft Picks:
- First round: No. 23
- Second round: No. 54
The Pacers value building through the draft, and hitting on their selections becomes even more critical as their payroll approaches higher levels. Myles Turner`s pending free agency adds to the need for younger frontcourt depth and interior defense, a role they partially addressed by adding Thomas Bryant during the season and one Indiana might look to fill with the No. 23 pick. With recent draftees Bennedict Mathurin, Jarace Walker, and Ben Sheppard taking on larger roles at other positions, and considering they might not possess their own first-round pick in 2026, there`s a compelling argument for Indiana to target a big man if favorable options are available in the 20s.
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 7
- All seven of their own
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 3
Future Second-Round Picks: 8
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- Top-four protected first to New Orleans (2026, top-four protected in 2027)
19. Golden State Warriors
2025 Draft Picks:
- First round: None
- Second round: No. 41 (via Miami)
The Warriors hold only the Heat`s second-round pick after trading for Jimmy Butler III. Golden State has recently found success drafting late, selecting Trayce Jackson-Davis and Quinten Post in consecutive drafts, both of whom have become contributors. The Warriors could choose to sign their pick to the roster if they find a suitable option or might opt to keep a roster spot open for a veteran player and use the pick on a two-way candidate who could potentially be converted later. Golden State has heavily emphasized basketball feel and decision-making in recent draftees, seeking prospects who can integrate quickly.
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 7
- All seven of their own
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 4
Future Second-Round Picks: 1
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- Top-20 protected first to Golden State (2030)
20. Dallas Mavericks
2025 Draft Picks:
- First round: No. 11
- Second round: None
Dallas` sole selection is critically important as the Mavericks work to build a contender following the major trade involving Luka Doncic. The relatively limited window with the Kyrie Irving-Anthony Davis star duo might favor reinforcing their depth with experienced veteran players, and the top prospects in this draft tend to be younger. Nevertheless, the Mavericks had success quickly integrating 2023 No. 12 pick Dereck Lively II and would presumably hope to derive some immediate value from this draft pick. There could also be opportunities for Mavs GM Nico Harrison to leverage this pick to create value in trades and improve the roster through other means.
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 7
- Own first in 2026, 2028, 2030, 2031, 2032
- Unprotected from the Lakers (2029)
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 3
Future Second-Round Picks: 2
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- Top-two protected first to Charlotte (2027)
- Swap rights with Oklahoma City (2028)
- Unprotected first to Houston or Brooklyn (2029)
- Swap rights with San Antonio (2030)
21. Boston Celtics
2025 Draft Picks:
- First round: No. 28
- Second round: No. 32 (via Washington)
Finding value in players on cost-controlled contracts in the middle of the draft is highly significant for the Celtics, given the substantial nature of their payroll. They hold two such selections this year, offering a strong chance to add depth for both the present and future. Boston is renowned for having the most extensive pre-draft workout process in the league and can pursue whichever player they deem best; however, securing a player ready to contribute immediately off the bench would be a significant advantage. The Celtics selected wings in their last two drafts (Baylor Scheierman and Jordan Walsh), so depending on how the board falls, this could be a useful opportunity to add a big man instead.
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 6
- Own first in five out of the next seven years
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 1
Future Second-Round Picks: 5
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- Unprotected first to Portland or Washington (2029)
- Swap rights with San Antonio (2028; if 2-30)
Note:
- Boston`s first-round pick in 2032 is frozen and ineligible to be traded until the team gets under the second apron.
22. Miami Heat
2025 Draft Picks:
- First round: No. 20 (via Golden State)
- Second round: None
The Heat are currently in a phase of retooling and acquired a first-round pick from Golden State in the Butler trade, while their own protected first (No. 15) conveyed to Oklahoma City by making the playoffs. Miami has a history of effectively drafting and developing talent and demonstrated a willingness last year to take a swing on upside with the selection of center Kel`el Ware, who had a promising rookie season. The Heat require backcourt assistance, especially at point guard, but will likely prioritize long-term potential similar to the Ware selection. Any infusion of talent would be beneficial as the Heat determine their future direction. Miami controls its own pick next year and its lottery rights in 2027, providing some flexibility to plan for the long term as they develop their younger players.
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 6
- Six in the next seven years
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 2
Future Second-Round Picks: 1
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- Top-14 protected first to Charlotte (2027, unprotected in 2028)
23. LA Clippers
2025 Draft Picks:
- First round: No. 30 (via Oklahoma City)
- Second round: No. 51 (via Minnesota)
The Clippers are focused on immediate success for the foreseeable future and can utilize the draft to help build their bench depth. They selected Kobe Brown with the 30th pick last year, a choice intended for immediate contribution that didn`t yield significant results. Nonetheless, finding a player with a realistic chance of contributing in the short term should remain a priority for LA. They could benefit from increased depth across the roster, particularly given Kawhi Leonard`s injury history, which provides some flexibility to choose the best available player regardless of position. (Backup center has been a revolving position, notably.)
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 5
- Own first in five out of the next seven years
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 2
Future Second-Round Picks: 4
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- Unprotected first to Oklahoma City or Washington (2026)
- First-round swap with Oklahoma City or Denver (2027)
- Unprotected first to Philadelphia (2028)
- Top-three protected swap with Philadelphia (2029)
24. New York Knicks
2025 Draft Picks:
- First round: None
- Second round: No. 50 (via Memphis)
The Knicks are in a competitive mode and only hold the 50th pick in this draft. Their recent mid-to-late round draft selections have not yet consistently contributed, largely because coach Tom Thibodeau tends to heavily rely on his starters for minutes. While New York can consider prospects who require longer development timelines, much of their financial commitment is tied up in their core players. Successfully finding a player late in the draft with a chance to provide some bench value next season would be a positive outcome, especially a wing capable of making open shots and playing defense.
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 4
- 2026, 2028, 2030, 2032
- Top-eight protected first from Washington (2026)
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 1
Future Second-Round Picks: 7
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- Unprotected first to Brooklyn (2027, 2029, 2031)
- Swap rights with Brooklyn (2028)
25. Cleveland Cavaliers
2025 Draft Picks:
- First round: None
- Second round: No. 49 (via Milwaukee), No. 58
Without a first-round selection, this draft is not particularly high-stakes for the Cavaliers, who saw most things go favorably in the regular season and emerged as strong contenders. How they handle their two late second-round picks will depend on their roster strategy for the upcoming season. Given Cleveland`s significant payroll, it`s plausible the Cavs might want to roster one of their second-round picks, and the ability to offer a guaranteed contract instead of a two-way deal later in the draft could make them an attractive workout destination for prospects considered to be second-round caliber. The Cavaliers have prioritized players with good feel and experience in building their solid bench unit.
Incoming First Round Picks: 5
- Own first in 2026, 2028, 2030, 2031, 2032
Maximum Tradeable First-Round Picks: 1
Future Second-Round Picks: 4
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- Unprotected first to Utah (2027, 2029)
- Swap rights with Utah or Atlanta (2026 and 2028)
26. Los Angeles Lakers
2025 Draft Picks:
- First round: None
- Second round: No. 55
The Lakers do not possess a first-round pick in this draft and are unlikely to find an immediate contributor at No. 55. However, any depth they can cultivate with that pick would help strengthen their bench, which has at times been thin. The more crucial offseason focus will be on improving the roster with veteran talent to maximize their competitive window now that LeBron James is paired with Luka Doncic.
Incoming First Round Picks: 6
- Six in the next seven years
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 1
Future Second-Round Picks: 1
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- Top-four protected first to Utah (2027)
- Unprotected first to Dallas (2029)
27. Phoenix Suns
2025 Draft Picks:
- First round: No. 29 (via Cleveland)
- Second round: No. 52 (via Denver)
This offseason is crucial for the Suns, with more significant issues at hand than draft selections. The potential of a Kevin Durant trade, the need for another head coaching hire, and various missteps during Mat Ishbia`s brief ownership have put Phoenix in a precarious position and significant salary cap trouble. Finding players who can contribute with these picks remains important, as the Suns may need their draftees to play minutes depending on the extent of roster changes in the coming months. Point guard and center have been areas of need, and any level of stability they can gain from a rookie contributor would be very beneficial, especially given the limitations Phoenix faces as a second-apron team regarding transactions.
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 4
- Own in 2028, 2030
- Least favorable of Cleveland, Minnesota, Utah (2027)
- Least favorable of Cleveland, Minnesota (if 6-30), Utah (2029)
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 1
Future Second-Round Picks: 2
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- Least favorable of Phoenix, Orlando, Washington (if 1-8) and Memphis to Charlotte (2026)
- Unprotected first to Houston (2027)
- Unprotected first to Houston or Brooklyn (2029)
- Unprotected first to Utah (2031)
- Swap rights with Orlando, Washington (if 1-8) and Memphis (2026)
- Swap rights with Washington, Brooklyn, New York (2028)
- Swap rights with Washington and Memphis (2030)
Note:
- Phoenix`s first-round pick in 2032 is frozen and ineligible to be traded until the team gets under the second apron.
28. Milwaukee Bucks
2025 Draft Picks:
- First round: None
- Second round: No. 47 (via Detroit)
The Bucks are at an organizational crossroads, with many supporting players becoming free agents, Damian Lillard expected to miss significant time after tearing his Achilles, and the possibility of trading Giannis Antetokounmpo seeming more plausible than ever. However, Milwaukee has heavily committed to building around its two-time MVP and does not control its own draft picks until 2031, meaning there is no easy path to a conventional rebuild. The Bucks hold only the 47th pick in this draft. Considering the need for playable depth regardless of the roster`s direction, the focus should be on identifying an undervalued prospect who might be able to provide immediate relief off the bench.
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 4
- Own first in five of the next seven years
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 1
Future Second-Round Picks: 2
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- Swap with New Orleans (2026)
- Unprotected first to New Orleans or Atlanta (2027, if 5-30)
- Swap with Portland or Washington (2028)
- Unprotected first to Portland or Washington (2029)
- Swap with Portland (2030)
29. Denver Nuggets
2025 Draft Picks:
- First round: None
- Second round: None
The Nuggets possess no selections in this draft and lack significant assets to acquire one, making this a low-stakes period following the ownership transition from GM Calvin Booth and head coach Michael Malone. Under Booth, the Nuggets strongly valued adding cost-controlled talent through the draft. How Denver will improve its roster around Nikola Jokic remains uncertain as the front office and coaching leadership situations unfold this offseason.
Incoming Future First Round Picks: 5
- Own first in five of the next seven years
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 1
Future Second-Round Picks: 1
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- Top-five protected first to Oklahoma City (2027, top-five protected in 2028, 2029)
- Top-five protected first to Oklahoma City (2029, top-five protected in 2030)
30. Minnesota Timberwolves
