2025 NBA Mock Draft 3.0: Spurs find two ideal role players; Hornets make bold move

The 2025 NBA Draft may still be more than three months away, but with both college basketball and the NBA inching closer toward the ends of their respective regular seasons, we're getting a bit more clarity on this year's draft class. In what has been touted as one of the deepest draft classes in recent history, there are plenty of big names that will carry the pre-draft process between now and June 25.

Specifically for a team like the San Antonio Spurs, who currently are projected to land two top 10 selections in this draft, there's a great opportunity on the horizon. After making the bold NBA Trade Deadline move for De'Aaron Fox, the Spurs will have two chances in the top 10 of a deep draft class to continue to build around both Fox and Victor Wembanyama moving forward.

As we dig into some of the latest rumblings from across the draft world, let's take a deep dive into what we can possibly expect from the Spurs - and the rest of the league - ahead of the 2025 NBA Draft.

1. Washington Wizards - Cooper Flagg, F, Duke

Entering this draft season, there were questions about whether Cooper Flagg would be able to successfully separate himself (from the rest of the pack) as the unanimous No. 1 selection in this strong draft class. Those questions or concerns have been answered at every turn by Flagg. While the 2025 draft class is certainly loaded with big names and plenty of talent, Flagg has emerged as the strongest prospect from the group.

As Flagg has etched himself in Duke lore during his freshman season, he's also pretty much locked himself into the No. 1 spot in the 2025 NBA Draft. The Washington Wizards, who will be looking for a new face of the franchise to build around, are in line to land one of the best and most complete draft prospects in recent history. Assuming the ping-pong balls bounce their way, the Wizards should have a bright future building around Flagg over the next decade.

2. Charlotte Hornets - Ace Bailey, F, Rutgers

If the struggling Charlotte Hornets are able to land the No. 2 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, they could very much find themselves in a pretty difficult position. In theory, you'd imagine that the Hornets would want to take the best player available. Of course, the problem with that is that at this point, I believe that may be a ball-dominant guard. With LaMelo Ball already on the roster and as a player they're clearly invested in, I'm not sure that's where the Hornets will go with his move.

Instead, I believe the Hornets are much more likely to look to add a player who fits with how they're building the roster. That's where a player like Ace Bailey could come into play for the Hornets. Bailey is a big wing at 6-foot-9 with the potential to translate as a special offensive player at the next level. Far from the finished prospect that Cooper Flagg may be, Bailey could be a worthy gamble for the Hornets to take at No. 2.

3. Utah Jazz - Dylan Harper, G, Rutgers

While the Utah Jazz could have some of the same concerns as the Charlotte Hornets have with this decision at No. 3, I don't believe the team is as invested in Keyonte George (compared to the Hornets with LaMelo Ball) as a future foundational piece. Dylan Harper would be the selection here for the Jazz. In hopes of finding a supporting star next to Lauri Markkanen, this could be considered a best-case scenario for Utah.

Harper has shown the potential to be a face of the franchise type of talent during his freshman season at Rutgers, averaging 19 points, five rebounds, and four assists per game on 49 percent shooting from the field. There are some concerns with his overall ability to be a lead playmaking guard at the next level, but he's shown just enough this season at Rutgers to quiet many of those question marks. Harper could be viewed as the answer the Jazz could be looking for in the backcourt opposite of George and Markkanen.

4. New Orleans Pelicans - VJ Edgecombe, G, Baylor

It's been a season to forget for the New Orleans Pelicans, but the No. 4 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft could be exactly what this team needs to help them sort their future out heading into the offseason. With the "big three" off the board at this point in the draft, VJ Edgecombe could be a pretty strong consolation prize for the Pelicans. The final verdict is still out for Edgecombe, but it'd be pretty shocking if he didn't end up being selected in the top 5 of this draft because of his offensive potential.

Averaging 15 points and five rebounds per game on 36 percent shooting from 3-point range, the hope is that Edgecombe could emerge as a dynamic two-way wing player down the line. Edgecombe has everything you want in the modern wing - he has shown the ability to defend, score, and play all over the floor during his freshman season at Baylor.

5. Toronto Raptors - Asa Newell, F, Georgia

Considering the Toronto Raptors made a bold play for Brandin Ingram at the NBA Trade Deadline, I'd say this is a team that is ready to make the shift toward a win-now club. Of course, that could be easier said than done. With the No. 5 pick, taking a player who fits their needs is one way to approach the 2025 NBA Draft. Asa Newell, who continues to rise up draft boards, is one prospect who could make sense for the team's direction.

Newell is still a relatively raw prospect, and even though he has a high ceiling as he prepares to make the transition to the NBA, it will take time before he truly blossoms. The Raptors have both the patience and the developmental system where a prospect like Newell could blossom. If Newell can continue to make positive strides as an all-around offensive threat, he has the chance to be a star at the next level.

6. Philadelphia 76ers - Khaman Maluach, C, Duke

Even though I'm not completley sold on Khaman Maluach as a prospect who should be taken this high, the hype surrounding him heading into the thick of the college basketball season is certainly real. And generally speaking, especially when it comes to the NBA Draft, where there's smoke, there's a fire. Maluach has continued to rise up draft boards, and I do believe that No. 6 could be a natural spot for him - especially if the Sixers are able to keep this pick.

As the Sixers shift toward a more tanking mentality for the remainder of the season (after shutting down Joel Embiid), there's a real chance the Sixers will finish with a high draft pick. Would it be that outlandish to see the Sixers take a chance on some insurance behind Embiid with this selection? Maluach doesn't have the high-ceiling that Embiid had coming out of college, but he could help add some much-needed depth in the frontcourt for the team.

7. Brooklyn Nets - Tre Johnson, G, Texas

The Brooklyn Nets could have as many as four first-round draft picks in this year's NBA Draft. With a first selection in the top 10, I do believe this is a spot where this franchise needs to take a huge swing on potential. One prospect that could fit that line of thinking for the Nets is Texas guard/wing Tre Johnson. There may be natural questions about other areas of his game, but if there's one thing that Johnson can do, it's put the basketball in the hoop.

During his freshman season at Texas, Johnson is averaging 21 points, three rebounds, and three assists per game on 45 percent shooting from the field and 39 percent shooting from 3-point range. As the Nets look to jump-start their rebuild, Johnson could be the high-ceiling prospect they're looking for at No. 7.

8. Chicago Bulls - Ben Saraf, G, Israel

Now that the Chicago Bulls have moved on from Zach LaVine, this is a team that can comfortably begin the next build for the franchise. One prospect that could be in play for the Bulls late in the top 10 is Ben Saraf. Depending on what the future holds for Josh Giddey, this may not be the best fit for him. However, without much certainty on that front, I believe Saraf could still be a potential play for the team.

There are some natural offensive questions about Saraf as he prepares to make the transition to the NBA, including his inconsistent 3-point shot. However, his high IQ and playmaking ability will make him an appealing guard prospect after the run on some of the bigger names ends late in the top 10.

9. San Antonio Spurs - Kon Knueppel, F, Duke

With back-to-back picks in the top 10, it will be interesting to see how the San Antonio Spurs approach these two decisions. After making the move for De'Aaron Fox, I'd argue that the priority with these picks may have changed, even slightly. I believe the Spurs will want to find fits alongside Fox and Victor Wembanyama over taking a big swing on star potential. Ideally, there would be prospects that would fit both of those categories. However, that could be difficult to find late in the lottery.

Kon Knueppel could be one target for the Spurs with this No. 9 pick. Knueppel may not have a sexy resume like some of the other big-name prospects in this class, but he's just such a smart, winning player that every team would want on their roster. Knueppel is a good 3-point shooter and has a knack for finding the right spots against the defense. Playing next to Fox and Wemby, Knueppel is a player who could thrive in San Antonio.

10. San Antonio Spurs (via ATL) - Noa Essengue, F, France

With a second pick in the top 10, the San Antonio Spurs could flip their focus to the frontcourt. Even though he's not necessarily a prototypical frontcourt player, I believe Noa Essengue could be an intriguing option for the Spurs at this spot. There are some concerns about Essengue's high-end potential, but he may not need to develop into a star player next to this stacked young team.

Essengue has shown just enough to put himself in the lottery conversation. As a player who is perfectly fine playing off other star players, Essengue could develop into a very strong role player next to Victor Wembanyama in the frontcourt. With good size, length, and a natural skill set, Essengue could emerge as a versatile option for the Spurs when he truly develops.

11. Portland Trail Blazers - Kasparas Jakucionis, G, Illinois

Even though the Portland Trail Blazers have looked so much more promising as a team over the last six weeks of the season, there's no question they're going to greatly benefit from having a lottery pick in what is being touted as one of the deepest drafts in recent memory. The Blazers may still have hope that Scoot Henderson can become the player they believed he could be, but adding a prospect with playmaking ability could be the play for Portland here at No. 11.

If Kasparas Jakucionis is still on the board at this point in the lottery, the Blazers should run to turn in their draft card. The 6-foot-6 guard has shown the ability and skill set to be a promising lead guard at the next level. He could be a natural fit in the backcourt next to Scoot.

12. Houston Rockets (via PHX) - Liam McNeely, F, UCONN

With the way things are currently trending, there's a good chance that the Houston Rockets are going to be gifted with a lottery pick via the Phoenix Suns. At this point, most of the big-name prospects are off the board, but there is one sharpshooting wing who could make sense for the emerging Rockets. That's Liam McNeely, who has had a pretty productive freshman season for UCONN.

McNeely is averaging 15 points, seven rebounds, and three assists per game on 35 percent shooting from 3-point range for the Huskies. Taking on a complementary role next to this already talented young core, there's reason to believe that McNeely could be a sensible fit for Houston at No. 12.

13. Atlanta Hawks (via SAC) - Collin Murray-Boyles, F, South Carolina

The Atlanta Hawks could be one of the most difficult teams to predict heading into the offseason. After trading two key contributors of a previous build, it does appear as if this team is embracing a young movement at the moment. How that will impact their decision with the No. 13 pick remains to be seen. However, this is around where Collin Murray-Boyles could fall off the board.

A versatile forward, Murray Boyles could emerge as an intriguing option for any team looking for some added depth in the frontcourt. With the uncertainty revolving around Clint Capela and Larry Nance Jr., who are both expiring contracts after this season, taking a flier on an experienced player like Murray-Boyles could be worth the risk for the Hawks.

14. Utah Jazz (via MINN) - Derik Queen, C, Maryland

After landing a theoretical difference-maker in the backcourt with their projected No. 3 pick earlier in the first round, I wouldn't be surprised to see the Utah Jazz look to add to their frontcourt with this final selection in the lottery. As a player who has had his ups and downs during his freshman season at Maryland, Queen has shown enough flashes of briliance on the offensive end of the floor where he's going to get some lottery consideration.

The Jazz could be a nice landing spot for Queen. Averaging 16 points and nine rebounds per game on 54 percent shooting from the field, there's hope that Queen could emerge as an offensive-minded big man with a unique skill set. The big question for Queen is whether he has enough defensive capabilities to be a consistent starter at the next level.

15. Orlando Magic - Jeremiah Fears, G, Oklahoma

Taking a bit of a step back this season, the Orlando Magic have to have one clear goal with the No. 15 overall projected pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. That's to solidify their backcourt, specifically the point guard position. While Jalen Suggs has been pretty strong over the last two seasons, I can't help but feel as if there could be more the team could be getting from the position. Jeremiah Fears could be waiting for the Magic at No. 15.

If there are any concerns for Fears, they certainly revolve around his overall offensive efficiency. However, from a star impact standpoint, there is a lot to like for Fears. Watching him play during his freshman season, there is some of that "it" factor that you see in Fears that can't be measured by the stat sheet.

16. Oklahoma City Thunder (via MIA) - Jase Richardson, G, Michigan State

As if the Oklahoma City Thunder need any more help, there's a chance they could end up with multiple first-round picks again this year. With this No. 16 pick (via Miami), I believe the Thunder could take a flier on a player like Jase Richardson. At least for now, his draft stock has been all over the place. Richardson is a player who could end up being selected in the lottery if he finishes this season strongly. He could also end up being a late first-round pick.

With a natural scoring ability, Richardson could translate as a strong offensive-minded guard off the bench at the next level. It's hard to predict what his ceiling can be in the NBA, but Richardson does have some strong tools that any team will want to get in their developmental system.

17. Dallas Mavericks - Egor Demin, F, BYU

The Dallas Mavericks have made the headlines this season for all the wrong reasons. However, the hope is that by the time the 2025 NBA Draft rolls around, this is a team that will be able to focus on continuing to build around Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis. One way they could accomplish that is by drafting a playmaking forward like Egor Demin. A player with an intriguing skill set for his size, Demin may be one of the best-kept secrets in this class.

With his size and playmaking ability, I'm not sure what position NBA teams will view him in heading into the pre-draft process. But those concerns aside, there is much to like about Demin. He may have cooled off after his hot start to the season, but he's still a worthy first-round pick.

18. Oklahoma City Thunder (via LAC) - Will Riley, F, Illinois

Looking to find even more depth on the wing, I would look for the Oklahoma City Thunder, with this second first-round pick, to take a strong look at a player like Will Riley. At 6-foot-8, Riley has great size for a wing with two-way potential. He'll still have to prove himself on the defensive end of the floor, but he's shown enough promise on offense to warrant a selection in the top 20.

Leading up to his pre-draft process, there's reason to believe that he can continue to work to improve his draft stock. Averaging 12 points and four rebounds per game on 41 percent shooting from the field, Riley could just be scratching the surface of the player he can be.

19. Miami Heat (via GS) - Nolan Traore, G, France

As the Miami Heat begin their post-Jimmy Butler build, it will be important for this team to make the most out of this projected late first-round pick from the Golden State Warriors. The good news is that the Heat have been pretty good in terms of talent identification and development in recent years. Could a prospect like Nolan Traore be the next find for the Heat?

He could be an intriguing option for the Heat at No. 19. Even though Davion Mitchell has looked promising for the Heat in the limited time he's been available, I still believe the Heat will be looking at the long-term answer at the point guard position. Traore does have some promise to develop into that player for Miami in the future.

20. Minnesota Timberwolves (via DET) - Carter Bryant, F, Arizona

Heading into the offseason, I'd say that the Minnesota Timberwolves are going to be quite aggressive in upgrading their roster. Most of that aggressiveness will likely come via trade. One area they could look to address at the NBA Draft is the frontcourt, especially after losing Karl-Anthony Towns. Cater Bryant could be an intriguing option for the Wolves late in the first round.

He hasn't played a big role for Arizona this season and is viewed as an extremely raw prospect, but there could be some real upside for any team looking to take a big swing late in the first round. For the Wolves, taking a flier on Bryant could end up paying off in a big way 2-3 years down the line.

21. Indiana Pacers - Donnie Freeman, F, Syracuse

As the Indiana Pacers look to close out the season strong, there remains one potential dark cloud that may be hovering over the franchise heading into the offseason - it revolves around the uncertainty of Myles Turner and his impending free agency. If there's any shot he leaves, the Pacers should probably use this late first-round pick in trying to find some added depth to the frontcourt.

One prospect that could be in play at No. 21 for the Pacers is Donnie Freeman. The 6-foot-9 freshman forward is averaging 13 points and eight rebounds on 50 percent shooting from the field for the Orange. In the right system and role, there's reason to believe that Feeman could be a contributor to a team as soon as next season.

22. Brooklyn Nets (via MIL) - Boogie Fland, G, Arkansas

There's a good chance that one-fourth of the Brooklyn Nets' roster next season is going to be full of first-rounders from this year's draft class. One other intriguing prospect the team could take a flier on late in the first round is Boogie Fland. Making the decision to play for John Calipari in Arkansas has paid off for the young guard as he's currently projected as a late first-round pick.

What is working against Fland? Well, for one, he's considered somewhat of a smaller guard at 6-foot-2. Secondly, even though he's considered a talented offensive player, he does leave much to be desired in terms of overall offensive efficiency. Shooting just 39 percent from the field on the season, that's fair cause for concern.

23. Brooklyn Nets (via HOU) - Ian Jackson, G, North Carolina

With back-to-back picks late in the first round, look for the Brooklyn Nets to take a chance on another player who certainly has some concerns about his impending move to the NBA. While Jackson has shown promising signs as a scorer during his freshman season at North Carolina, he has left much to be desired as a playmaker and defensive stopper.

Those are two very big question marks that are likely going to keep Jackson from being selected higher in this year's draft. If the Nets believe in their developmental system, there's reason to believe they should take a flier on the 6-foot-4 guard.

24. Atlanta Hawks (via LAL) - Labaron Philon, G, Alabama

As the Atlanta Hawks continue to look to build out a young core, there's reason to believe that they could find a potential diamond in the rough at this point in the first round. One potentially underrated prospect they could target at No. 24 is Labaron Philon. He won't get much praise for being Alabama's best player because he probably isn't. I can't help but wonder if he might be the team's best pro.

Philon has been a strong lead guard for the team during his freshman season while averaging 10 points, four assists, and three rebounds per game on 46 percent shooting from the field. If he can sell teams with a consistent 3-point shot, he may have some room to make a move up draft boards.

25. Washington Wizards (via MEM) - Rasheer Fleming, F, Saint Joseph's

In a draft class that is dominated by freshmen, there's a chance that Rasheer Fleming could emerge as one of the best upperclassmen. At this point, he also will have a decent shot to be selected in the first round. A player who has improved in each of his last three seasons, Fleming is having the best season of his college career thus far while averaging 15 points and nine rebounds on 57 percent shooting from the field and 43 percent shooting from 3-point range for Saint Joseph's.

As the Washington Wizards look to continue to build out a foundation for the future, taking a shot on Fleming could be an interesting next move after landing Cooper Flagg with the No. 1 overall pick earlier in this draft.

26. Orlando Magic (via DEN) - Kam Jones, G, Marquette

With a second first-round pick, I would expect the Orlando Magic to take a shot on a player who has the experience to potentially contribute to the team sooner than expected. One prospect that could easily check all of those boxes is Kam Jones. The senior guard is one of the most productive players in the country and has plenty of experience that could pique the interest of a team like Orlando.

Averaging 19 points, six assists, and four rebounds per game on 49 percent shooting from the field, it will be interesting to see what Jones' interest looks like heading into the NBA Draft. He may already be 23 years old, but he is further along than most other prospects being taken at this point in the first round. That has to count for something, right? You'd think.

27. Brooklyn Nets (via NY) - Hugo Gonzalez, F, Spain

I'm not sure if any team would ever need a fourth first-round pick, but I suppose if there was any situation that warranted one, it's probably the rebuilding Brooklyn Nets. With this fourth pick, I could see the Nets taking a big gamble on one of the most unproven players in this year's draft class. At this point, that's probably Hugo Gonzalez. A player who does have some strong supporters, it will be interesting to see where Gonzalez's draft stock settles.

Over the last few months, his stock has been all over the place - from inside the lottery to outside of the first round. Most of where he lands will depend on his pre-draft workouts, but the pure talent and potential are there for Gonzalez. Maybe the Nets could be a nice, soft landing spot for a player that will need a few years to develop.

28. Boston Celtics - Nique Clifford, F, Colorado State

With one of the most complete rosters in the league, I can't imagine the Boston Celtics will be heading into the 2025 NBA Draft with any big needs. However, they could go a long way in finding some added depth heading into next season with this pick late in the first round. One prospect who could provide some depth on the wing and perhaps even in the frontcourt for the Celtics is Nique Clifford.

A player who has five years of experience playing collegiate basketball, Clifford could be exactly what the Celtics may be looking for at this point in the draft. In his final season with the Rams, Clifford is averaging 18 points, 10 rebounds, and four assists per game on 49 percent shooting from the field and 37 percent shooting from 3-point range.

29. LA Clippers (via OKC) - JT Toppin, F, Texas Tech

Finding a hidden gem is going to be more and more difficult at this point in the NBA Draft. But at No. 29, the LA Clippers will be up for the task as they look for more pieces to surround Kawhi Leonard and James Harden. Assuming that a rebuild isn't on the horizon, the Clippers will be looking for players who could contribute right away. One potential prospect that could make sense for LA at this point in the first round is JT Toppin.

After transferring from New Mexico to Texas Tech, Toppin has continued to improve as a player. This season, Toppin is averaging 17 points and nine rebounds per game for the. Red Raiders. If he can finish this season off strong and leave a lasting impression in his pre-draft workouts, he could make a ton of sense as a selection late in the first round.

30. Phoenix Suns (via CLE) - Thomas Sorber, C, Georgetown

In an ideal world, the Phoenix Suns would be able to move this pick as part of a larger deal to retool the roster around Devin Booker this offseason. However, I'm not sure how likely that is going to be with the many other issues the team has on their plate. At this point, it would be best for the Suns to attempt to make lemonade out of lemons with this selection. Taking Thomas Sorber could qualify as doing just that.

Sober was recently declared out for the remainder of the season due to a foot injury, but there's a chance that may not greatly impact his draft stock. If he does enter the NBA Draft, he could still very much be considered a first-round selection. With this injury, though, I do believe there's a slightly better chance he returns to school for a sophomore season now. If not, he could be worth the gamble for the Suns.