The 2025 NBA draft has concluded, and it's time to assess how each team fared. These grades focus on value and fit based on available information at the time of the draft, not on predicting future success, which is often influenced by factors beyond a team's control. These evaluations rely heavily on statistical projections and expert analysis. Let's delve into the team-by-team breakdown.
Round 1: Asa Newell (No. 23)
The Hawks' acquisition of an unprotected 2026 first-round pick from the Pelicans was a significant win. Selecting Asa Newell, ranked 13th in projections, further enhances this draft. Newell's potential complements newly acquired Kristaps Porzingis, making this a strong draft for Atlanta.
Round 1: Hugo Gonzalez (No. 28) Round 2: Amari Williams (No. 46), Max Shulga (No. 57)
The Celtics' decision to bring Hugo Gonzalez to the NBA immediately raises questions, given his shooting struggles. Amari Williams offers intriguing potential as a rebounder and rim protector. Max Shulga, with his 39% career 3-point shooting, was a solid late pick.
Round 1: Egor Demin (No. 8), Nolan Traore (No. 19), Drake Powell (No. 22), Ben Saraf (No. 26), Danny Wolf (No. 27)
The Nets' strategy of accumulating a high volume of first-round picks is noteworthy. However, developing so many teenagers with similar skill sets presents challenges. The high number of raw players drafted could position the Nets for another lottery appearance in 2026.
Round 1: Kon Knueppel (No. 4), Liam McNeeley (No. 29) Round 2: Sion James (No. 33), Ryan Kalkbrenner (No. 34)
Kon Knueppel's highlights reel.
Selecting Kon Knueppel at No. 4 addresses a need at shooting guard. Liam McNeeley was a solid value pick. Ryan Kalkbrenner could contribute immediately, given the trade of Mark Williams.
Round 1: Noa Essengue (No. 12) Round 2: Lachlan Olbrich (No. 55)
Noa Essengue's fit with Matas Buzelis is intriguing. The Bulls deserve credit for drafting young talent despite their reluctance to bottom out.
Round 2: Tyrese Proctor (No. 49), Saliou Niang (No. 58)
The Cavaliers landed an interesting prospect in Tyrese Proctor, who shows promise as an on-ball defender and improved his 3-point shooting.
Round 1: Cooper Flagg (No. 1)
A look at why Memphis picked Cedric Coward.
Cooper Flagg was the obvious pick for the Mavericks after winning the lottery. The team simply avoided making a mistake.
Round 2: Chaz Lanier (No. 37)
Chaz Lanier's late-blooming career and 3-point shooting ability make him a valuable addition to the Pistons.
Round 2: Alex Toohey (No. 52), Will Richard (No. 56)
Alex Toohey's defensive activity and Will Richard's high 2-point percentage make them intriguing prospects for the Warriors.
The Rockets used both of this year's picks to acquire Kevin Durant in a trade that can't be completed until July 6. As a result, consider them a winner despite their strong track record in the draft.
Round 2: Kam Jones (No. 38), Taelon Peter (No. 54)
The Pacers continue to find value in the second round. Kam Jones has the potential to contribute immediately. Taelon Peter is a fascinating swing with his shooting efficiency.
Round 1: Yanic Konan Niederhauser (No. 30) Round 2: Kobe Sanders (No. 50)
Taking Yanic Konan Niederhauser in the first round is questionable. Kobe Sanders' late-blooming profile raises concerns.
Round 2: Adou Thiero (No. 36)
The Lakers made a smart move to trade up for Adou Thiero, whose defensive potential is intriguing.
Round 1: Cedric Coward (No. 11) Round 2: Javon Small (No. 48), Jahmai Mashack (No. 59)
Family recounts Edgecombe's journey.
The Grizzlies' trade up for Cedric Coward is questionable in terms of value. Javon Small offers efficient scoring potential.
Round 1: Kasparas Jakucionis (No. 20)
The Heat capitalized on Kasparas Jakucionis's draft slide, making this one of the better value picks.
Round 2: Bogoljub Markovic (No. 47)
Bogoljub Markovic's efficient scoring in the Adriatic League raises defensive questions.
Round 1: Joan Beringer (No. 17) Round 2: Rocco Zikarsky (No. 45)
The Timberwolves are betting on Joan Beringer to potentially replace Rudy Gobert. Rocco Zikarsky offers a similar profile, creating an interesting development scenario.
Round 1: Jeremiah Fears (No. 7), Derik Queen (No. 13) Round 2: Micah Peavy (No. 40)
The Pelicans' trade to acquire Derik Queen is risky. Micah Peavy's breakout season at Georgetown gives him a shot at a 3-and-D role.
Round 2: Mohamed Diawara (No. 51)
Stashing Mohamed Diawara overseas might be the best option, given his limited development in France.
Round 1: Thomas Sorber (No. 15) Round 2: Brooks Barnhizer (No. 44)
Thomas Sorber's defensive numbers and passing ability are promising. Brooks Barnhizer will be on a two-way contract, per Givony.
Round 1: Jase Richardson (No. 25) Round 2: Noah Penda (No. 32)
Jase Richardson's value pick is a fun storyline. Noah Penda's shooting is a work in progress.
Round 1: VJ Edgecombe (No. 3) Round 2: Johni Broome (No. 35)
VJ Edgecombe's defensive base and athleticism make him a solid pick. Johni Broome could help the Sixers immediately.
Round 1: Khaman Maluach (No. 10) Round 2: Rasheer Fleming (No. 31), Koby Brea (No. 41)
Khaman Maluach was the top prospect on the board. Rasheer Fleming gives the Suns another quality shot blocker.
Round 1: Yang Hansen (No. 16)
The Blazers are betting on their ability to beat the market with Yang Hansen.
Round 1: Nique Clifford (No. 24) Round 2: Maxime Raynaud (No. 42)
The Kings limited the possible downside of the move by putting top-16 protection on the pick.
Round 1: Dylan Harper (No. 2), Carter Bryant (No. 14)
Dylan Harper was the consensus No. 2 pick. Carter Bryant's 3-and-D potential makes him an ideal fit.
Round 1: Collin Murray-Boyles (No. 9) Round 2: Alijah Martin (No. 39)
Collin Murray-Boyles needs shooting around him to succeed. Alijah Martin is undersized but productive.
Round 1: Ace Bailey (No. 5), Walter Clayton Jr. (No. 18) Round 2: John Tonje (No. 53)
Ace Bailey's development will be crucial for the Jazz. Walter Clayton Jr. could help that process with his shooting.
Round 1: Tre Johnson (No. 6), Will Riley (No. 21) Round 2: Jamir Watkins (No. 43)
The Wizards are leaning heavily into youth. Tre Johnson's potential as a shooter justifies the pick.
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