LitZone's 2025 NBA Mock Draft

The NBA draft is a very special night for NBA teams and young basketball players from college and abroad. It's an opportunity for NBA teams to find their next superstar and for players to find a new home. This year's draft is super talented and features a collection of players who are certain to make their name in the NBA. Lets' begin!

1. Dallas Mavericks – Cooper Flagg (SF/PF)

Cooper Flagg has emerged as a once-in-a-generation prospect and is heralded as the most electrifying player to exit college basketball since Zion Williamson. Standing at 6'9", he possesses the ability to impact the game in numerous ways. Flagg showcases elite athleticism, remarkable defensive versatility, efficient isolation scoring, and selfless play, which all contributed to a commendable 35-4 record during his recent season at Duke. The primary ambiguity lies in whether he will develop into a genuine franchise cornerstone and offensive centerpiece in the NBA or if he will embrace the role of an elite complementary star. Regardless, Dallas seems to have uncovered its pivotal player, rendering memories of the Luka Doncic trade increasingly distant.

2. San Antonio Spurs – Dylan Harper (PG)

Dylan Harper brings to the Spurs an offensive engine reminiscent of James Harden, combined with notable size at 6'6". His elite capability to penetrate defenses and finish around the basket yields percentages that challenge even the best 7-footers in this draft class. Although Stephon Castle and De’Aaron Fox have each secured prominent roles in San Antonio’s backcourt, the positional size of Harper and Castle suggests that they will effectively coexist. Harper embodies the dynamic on-ball presence that franchises often seek over many seasons. With Victor Wembanyama poised to be a serious contender for MVP next season, the Spurs are fortunate to possess an abundance of talent.

3. Philadelphia 76ers – Ace Bailey (SF)

Despite having declined to participate in workouts for the Sixers, the franchise decides to select the most outstanding player available at the third overall pick. Bailey stands as a genuine 6'9” wing with exceptional shooting abilities and remarkable footwork. While his midrange and three-point shooting are notably smooth, he encounters difficulties when attempting to drive to the basket and has yet to translate his fluid playing style into consistent efficiency. With the aging Paul George and the burgeoning talents of Tyrese Maxey and Jared McCain solidifying Philadelphia’s backcourt, Bailey addresses a significant need at the forward position while also holding promising potential for the future. The 76ers remain optimistic that, when the crucial moments arise, Bailey will consent to a lesser role on a playoff-bound team now and, perhaps, evolve into a franchise cornerstone as his career progresses.

4. Charlotte Hornets – Tre Johnson (SG)

The Hornets select Tre Johnson, one of the most captivating shooting prospects to emerge in recent years. At 6'6", Johnson possesses elite shooting versatility and the remarkable ability to create his own shot off the dribble, making him an excellent complement to LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller. Together, this trio could form a formidable perimeter alliance capable of raining three-pointers on opposing defenses. Johnson’s impeccable footwork, skill in navigating screens, and diverse array of offensive counters compel rival defenses to bend to his will. His inclusion substantially enhances Charlotte’s offensive capabilities and offers LaMelo Ball another valuable asset.

5. Utah Jazz – Jeremiah Fears (PG/SG)

Jeremiah Fears is an 18-year-old, 6'4" combo guard who exudes explosiveness whenever he has the ball in his hands. He possesses a remarkable ability to create separation, showcase pick-and-roll proficiency, and score downhill effectively. Despite shooting an impressive 85% from the free-throw line, his shooting efficiency from beyond the arc and at the rim still leaves considerable room for improvement. Fears represents a worthwhile project for a Utah team that has grappled with establishing its identity since the Donovan Mitchell trade nearly three years ago.

6. Washington Wizards – Derik Queen (PF/C)

Excluding Harper and Flagg, Derik Queen showcases one of the most polished and ready-to-contribute scoring packages in this draft class. At 6'10", his elite ball-handling skills and footwork allow him to score from various angles in the paint while facing up or backing down opponents. However, concerns arise regarding his undersized frame for a center, diminished athleticism, and untested shooting range, which may affect his role on both ends in the NBA. The Wizards, much like the Jazz, have struggled to identify a central offensive figure in recent drafts. With Bailey no longer available, Queen could potentially fill this gap with a playing style reminiscent of Pascal Siakam or Alperen Sengun. Combining Queen with Alex Sarr’s shot-blocking ability and shooting skill could mitigate his shortcomings and provide Washington with a complementary frontcourt dynamic.

7. New Orleans Pelicans – VJ Edgecombe (SG/SF)

VJ Edgecombe offers a combination of top-tier athleticism, defensive tenacity, and among the highest floors in this draft class outside of Cooper Flagg. Nevertheless, concerns about his ball-handling ability limit his overall offensive potential, making it challenging to picture him as either a primary or secondary scoring option at the professional level. Edgecombe excels when spotting up in half-court settings and transitioning quickly. The Pelicans present an ideal opportunity for him to operate off the ball early in his career and capitalize on turnovers created by defensive stalwarts like Herb Jones and, eventually, Dejounte Murray.

8. Brooklyn Nets – Kon Kneuppel (SG/SF)

Kon Kneuppel emerges as a quintessential elite shooter, having achieved over 90% accuracy from the free-throw line and more than 40% from three-point range. During his tenure at Duke, he demonstrated that he possesses much more than just shooting prowess. Kneuppel has proven his capabilities in orchestrating pick-and-roll plays, creating off the dribble, and throwing spectacular lobs to talented big men like Khaman Maluach. As a robust and scrappy player standing at 6'5", concerns about Kneuppel's defensive shortcomings have been somewhat exaggerated. He would serve as a versatile, high-character addition to a Brooklyn team still navigating its own identity.

9. Toronto Raptors – Khaman Maluach (C)

The Toronto Raptors opt for Khaman Maluach, an emerging 7'2" center who served as a cornerstone of Duke’s formidable defense alongside Cooper Flagg. His shooting mechanics and free-throw consistency suggest potential as a floor-spacer; however, as is often the case with centers, there exists a significant risk that his jump shot might never fully develop. Without a reliable jumper, he may find himself fitting into the mold of a traditional rim-running big man—although one whose block percentage falls noticeably short compared to peers such as Walker Kessler and Donovan Clingan. The Raptors are banking on his untapped potential and will provide him with the opportunity to grow behind Jakob Poeltl.

10. Phoenix Suns – Kasparas Jakucionis (PG/SG)

The Suns choose Kasparas Jakucionis, a 6'6" point guard who boasts a strong offensive game and the potential to transition into a primary ball-handler role. He excels in running effective pick-and-roll plays, knocking down contested step-back threes, and drawing contact near the basket. Despite facing challenges with turnovers and defensive liabilities, his size combined with the capacity to create for himself and others renders him an intriguing prospect for either guard position—especially for a Phoenix team needing to redefine its roster following the trade of Kevin Durant.

11. Portland Trail Blazers – Carter Bryant (SF)

This week, the Trail Blazers stunned the league by acquiring veteran star Jrue Holiday, showcasing their commitment to cultivating a defensive identity. Carter Bryant, a 6’7” 3-and-D wing possessing the requisite size, shooting ability, and defensive acumen to make an immediate impact, aligns perfectly with this vision. His strength, length, and quickness afford him the flexibility to switch defensively between guards and forwards, demonstrating remarkable shot-blocking ability for his position. Offensively, he serves primarily as an effective spot-up shooter and cutter. With Bryant, Holiday, Matisse Thybulle, Alen Smailagic, and Deni Avdija on the roster, the Trail Blazers have suddenly assembled one of the league's most formidable collections of perimeter defenders.

12. Chicago Bulls – Cedric Coward (SG/SF)

The Bulls select Cedric Coward, a 6'6" guard/forward with an impressive 7'2" wingspan who stands out as the most significant riser and enigma within this draft class. At just 21 years of age, he showcases an impressive repertoire for shot creation. His length allows him to shoot over defenders and finish at the rim, whether through post-ups or face-ups. Although his limited college sample size raises concerns, his athletic testing results rival those of the universally regarded super athlete, VJ Edgecombe. When combined with his defensive versatility and efficient shooting metrics, Coward could emerge as one of the draft’s hidden gems.

13. Atlanta Hawks – Collin Murray-Boyles (PF)

The Atlanta Hawks opt for Collin Murray-Boyles, a 6'7", 250-pound forward known for his exceptional defensive versatility and physicality. Renowned for his capacity to defend larger players in the post while seamlessly switching onto smaller players on the perimeter, Murray-Boyles disrupts passing lanes and injects intensity into both ends of the court. However, his struggles with shooting and the underwhelming performance of his South Carolina team this season raise questions about his offensive capabilities in the modern NBA. Nevertheless, comparisons drawn to Draymond Green underscore his potential to emerge as a defensive specialist and playmaker alongside Trae Young.

14. San Antonio Spurs – Noa Essengue (PF)

The Spurs take a chance on Noa Essengue, a 6'10" forward endowed with star-caliber physical attributes and glimpses of elite rim-scoring ability. He has demonstrated the potential to handle the ball with finesse, excel in transition, and defend multiple positions. Should everything come together effectively, Essengue could evolve into a player reminiscent of Pascal Siakam or a less prominent version of Giannis Antetokounmpo. After clinching the second position in the lottery and selecting Dylan Harper, the Spurs can afford to take this calculated risk on Essengue.

15. Oklahoma City Thunder – Thomas Sorber (C)

Coming off an NBA championship, the Thunder add the robust 6'10" center Thomas Sorber. Equipped with an impressive 7'6" wingspan, Sorber was one of the standout performers at the draft combine. Throughout the season with Georgetown, he displayed remarkable shot-blocking skills, rebounding capabilities, and flashes of offensive promise near the basket. While his shooting ability is still a work in progress, the upside he presents as a rim protector and physical force within the paint is undeniable. He represents the ideal choice to ultimately succeed Isaiah Hartenstein once OKC’s roster becomes increasingly costly to maintain.

16. Memphis Grizzlies – Egor Demin (PG/SF)

Egor Demin, a 6'9” point forward hailing from BYU, brings elite passing and court vision; however, he grapples with creating separation and excelling defensively at a high level. Despite having solid shooting mechanics, his 27% effectiveness from beyond the arc does not reflect that ability. With Desmond Bane now in Orlando, Memphis is keen on finding a secondary ball handler and decision-maker. Demin fits this need as a backup or on the wing alongside Ja Morant if his shooting continues to develop.

17. Minnesota Timberwolves – Asa Newell (PF/C)

Asa Newell, measuring 6'11", affords Minnesota an option in the frontcourt characterized by mobility, shot-blocking prowess, and an evolving perimeter shooting skill set. With Julius Randle and Nas Reid facing impending free agency, alongside the considerations of Rudy Gobert’s age, the Timberwolves must pursue youthful big men capable of stretching the floor and defending across multiple positions. Newell’s capacity to finish effectively near the rim while guarding wings, compounded with his flashes of shooting range, presents Minnesota with the potential for a versatile two-way big man who could seamlessly integrate into their developing frontcourt dynamics.

18. Washington Wizards – Jase Richardson (SG/PG)

Jase Richardson, the son of NBA luminary Jason Richardson, enters Washington's guard rotation equipped with a polished offensive game and an astute basketball IQ. Standing at six feet tall, he makes up for his absence of elite athleticism with strong shot-creation skills, a capacity for three-level scoring, and the ability to drive to the basket while generating his own shot. Though his size and defensive limitations may impact his effectiveness in the playoffs, the Wizards remain distant enough from playoff contention to view this aspect as a manageable risk.

19. Brooklyn Nets – Rasheer Fleming (PF/C)

The Nets acquire Rasheer Fleming, a 6'9", 240-pound forward who brings defensive versatility, rebounding intensity, and a rapidly improving three-point shooting ability from St. Joseph’s. Fleming’s shot-blocking capabilities and defensive presence have flourished during the season, and whilst his offensive refinement is still underway, his size and marked improvement this year indicate that he can provide valuable minutes as a role player and potentially evolve into a starting-caliber forward for a Brooklyn franchise striving to establish its identity.

20. Miami Heat – Walter Clayton Jr. (SG/PG)

Walter Clayton Jr., having just experienced an exhilarating NCAA championship run, steps into Miami as a proficient shooter carrying considerable upside akin to Jalen Brunson. His proficiency in pull-up shooting and adeptness in executing plays off screens render him an immediate offensive threat. Although he stands slightly shorter than ideal for a shooting guard at 6’4”, his proven winning pedigree, grit, and exceptional shooting skills align seamlessly with the Heat’s organizational culture. Clayton’s potential to develop into a dynamic scorer and floor-spacer could create an opportunity for him to be a steal within this draft context.

21. Utah Jazz – Danny Wolf (PF/C)

Danny Wolf, a versatile seven-footer with a blend of ball-handling and shooting abilities, has the potential to redefine Utah’s frontcourt dynamic. His perimeter skills and passing vision hint at point-forward capabilities, while his impressive agility allows him to defend against multiple positions effectively. Given the uncertainty regarding Lauri Markkanen’s future amidst trade speculation, Wolf could be poised to assume a starting role or support Markkanen as a stretch big. Should he successfully develop his shooting and adjust to the physical demands of the NBA, he has the potential to become one of the most distinct and impactful bigs to emerge from this draft class.

22. Brooklyn Nets– Noah Penda (SF/PF)

The Nets select Noah Penda, a 20-year-old 6'8" forward recognized for his tough, switchable defense. Weighing in at over 240 pounds, he possesses the potential to guard both wings and power forwards effectively. Though he may not be wired to create his own shot, he shows promise as a spot-up three-point shooter and is capable of facilitating plays. His relentless defensive effort and physical attributes could allow him to contribute immediately in Brooklyn while forming a dynamic forward rotation alongside Rasheer Fleming.

23. New Orleans Pelicans – Ben Saraf (PG/SG)

Ben Saraf, a natural point guard from Israel, brings a wealth of strong passing instincts, the ability to pressure defenses near the rim, and an effective scoring touch. Standing at 6’7” according to the NBA Draft combine measurements, Saraf is a formidable presence for a player primarily comfortable at the point guard position. With Dejounte Murray sidelined for a significant portion of the upcoming season, Saraf serves as a valuable interim solution who can ease into a backup role once Murray returns to full strength.

24. Oklahoma City Thunder – Nique Clifford (SG/SF)

Oklahoma City chooses Nique Clifford, a versatile 6'6" forward from Colorado who brings scoring versatility across all levels, solid defensive capability, and effective ball-handling and passing skills. Despite being one of the more experienced players in the draft pool, his comprehensive skill set and background make him a reliable and beneficial selection for the Thunder as they pursue back-to-back titles. Clifford’s maturity, combined with his well-rounded abilities, positions him for immediate playing time, contributing both offensively and defensively as their roster begins to take on greater financial constraints.

25. Orlando Magic – Nolan Traore (PG)

Nolan Traore, a 6'4" guard from France, represents a high-risk, high-reward choice for an Orlando team that still seeks a dependable floor general. Despite facing challenges related to efficiency and production during his overseas play this past year, his raw physical attributes and sporadic flashes of progress make him a candidate worth considering. Should Traore enhance his shooting and decision-making abilities, he could develop into an energetic pass-first guard who seamlessly fits within Orlando’s evolving backcourt structure.

26. Brooklyn Nets – Maxime Raynaud (PF/C)

Maxime Raynaud, standing at 7'0", is a stretch big hailing from Stanford who provides offensive versatility through his shooting touch and the capacity to develop into a modern NBA big man. His ability to stretch the floor renders him a valuable asset for Brooklyn, a franchise currently focused on rebuilding with an emphasis on shooting and spacing. Although his rebounding and shot-blocking capabilities still require refinement, Raynaud's potential on the offensive end is genuinely intriguing.

27. Brooklyn Nets – Will Riley (SG/SF)

The Nets choose Will Riley, a 6'8" forward from Illinois, who showcases promising shooting abilities and defensive skills, along with the mobility necessary to guard multiple positions. While he may need to add weight, Riley’s offensive capabilities and defensive flexibility render him an appealing prospect for development. With five selections in this year’s draft class, Brooklyn will likely invest in Riley's growth as he works toward increasing his strength and fine-tuning his shooting mechanics.

28. Boston Celtics – Joan Beringer (C)

Joan Beringer, a versatile, agile, and slender center, addresses a significant need for Boston, particularly with Kristaps Porzingis nearing departure and Al Horford’s retirement looming on the horizon. At 6’11”, Beringer’s defensive agility and prospects for physical development position him as an ideal developmental prospect capable of evolving into Boston’s long-term interior presence while Jayson Tatum recuperates from injury. There is a legitimate possibility that he may be drafted much earlier than this.

29. Phoenix Suns – Ryan Kalkbrenner (C)

Ryan Kalkbrenner, a 7’1” four-time Defensive Player of the Year from Creighton, represents the potential for a starting-caliber center that Phoenix desperately requires. He excels at paint protection and rebounding effectively, complemented by his emerging ability to shoot from three-point range, marking him as a valuable rotational player. Kalkbrenner’s length and defensive prowess should enable him to make an immediate impact in Phoenix's currently underperforming frontcourt.

30. Los Angeles Clippers – Liam McNeeley (SG/SF)

Liam McNeeley, a 6'7" wing from UConn, faced difficulties shooting effectively this season; however, his shooting mechanics indicate that this slump may have stemmed from an overly ambitious offensive role. The Clippers are optimistic that repositioning him into an off-ball role alongside stars such as James Harden and Kawhi Leonard will unleash his potential as a shooter and transform him into a valuable floor-spacer, akin to Corey Kispert, even though his defensive skills may fall short of elite standards.