The 2025 NBA Draft began as anticipated with Cooper Flagg and Dylan Harper going first and second to the Dallas Mavericks and San Antonio Spurs, respectively. While the early selections followed predictions, the remainder of the first round provided twists, unexpected picks, and bold decisions from front offices across the league.
The Brooklyn Nets emerged as the most active franchise, making five first-round picks. They targeted a wide range of prospects, including Egor Demin, Nolan Traoré, Drake Powell, Ben Saraf, and Danny Wolf. Brooklyn appears to be banking on development, selecting multiple players whose offensive skills, particularly shooting, are still evolving. Demin, with his height and passing vision, stands out, but questions remain about his scoring and defense.
Atlanta made a strategic move by trading down to No. 23 and acquiring an unprotected 2026 first-round pick, then selecting Asa Newell. The Georgia product has energy and athleticism but needs to refine his game to find his role at the NBA level.
Several teams opted for players who may not be immediate contributors but have growth potential. The Bulls selected Noa Essengue at No. 12, betting on his upside and long-term fit. Similarly, the Timberwolves added Joan Beringer, a young center viewed as a project who could develop behind Rudy Gobert.
Charlotte had a productive night with Kon Knueppel and Liam McNeeley. Knueppel brings shooting and defensive capability, which complements LaMelo Ball’s playmaking. McNeeley, who was more of a scorer in high school than at UConn, could be a valuable addition if he regains his earlier form.
Dallas and San Antonio found their franchise centerpieces in Flagg and Harper. Flagg’s two-way versatility fits perfectly alongside Luka Dončić, while Harper gives the Spurs another backcourt playmaker to pair with Victor Wembanyama.
The New Orleans Pelicans made one of the night’s more debated moves, trading a future unprotected pick to grab Derik Queen after selecting Jeremiah Fears. Queen has offensive talent, but concerns about athleticism and fit alongside Zion Williamson and Yves Missi were raised. Fears, while dynamic, struggled with turnovers and shooting consistency in college.
Phoenix addressed its frontcourt by acquiring both Khaman Maluach and Mark Williams. Maluach brings length and defensive mobility, but offensive development will be key. The Miami Heat, meanwhile, may have added a strong floor general in Kasparas Jakucionis, a Lithuanian guard with creative instincts but limited range as a shooter.
Other solid selections included VJ Edgecombe to the 76ers, whose athleticism and transition scoring should mesh with Tyrese Maxey, and Jase Richardson to Orlando, who adds depth to a developing backcourt.
The Clippers closed the round with Yanic Konan Niederhauser, a towering rim protector from Penn State, adding size and potential to their bench.
While it’s too early to assess how these players will impact their franchises, Round 1 of the 2025 NBA Draft featured a mix of calculated gambles, future-focused plays, and talent acquisition based on development potential. The coming seasons will reveal which teams maximized their opportunities and which will be left rethinking their strategies.
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