NBA Draft Asset Rankings: Stacking All 30 Teams’ Pick Collections

Which NBA franchises are best positioned in the draft, both for the upcoming June event and over the next seven years? For successful teams like the Oklahoma City Thunder and Houston Rockets, their valuable collection of draft picks can be leveraged to strengthen already competitive rosters, either by adding depth or trading for a star. Meanwhile, teams at the bottom of the standings, including the Utah Jazz, Washington Wizards, and Charlotte Hornets, are hoping for lottery luck to secure a top prospect like projected No. 1 pick Cooper Flagg.

In contrast, teams such as the Los Angeles Lakers, Milwaukee Bucks, and Denver Nuggets are less likely to find significant roster improvements through the draft this offseason. Below, we examine the future draft assets of all 30 teams and discuss potential strategies they might employ during the 2025 NBA Draft, held 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)

Oklahoma City possesses two first-round selections for the 2025 draft and could potentially gain a third depending on the lottery outcome for Philadelphia`s pick (currently top-six protected, sitting fifth). Regardless of whether that third pick conveys, the Thunder face roster consolidation challenges, with 15 players already under contract. They`ll need to clear space for any new draftees. Consequently, anticipate GM Sam Presti being highly active around the draft period, balancing the addition of young talent with broader roster strategy. Presti has put the franchise in an exceptionally strong position, dealing with enviable `good problems`.

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 rebuilding Nets enter the pre-draft period holding a league-high five selections within the top 40. They also possess the most salary cap space, creating a significant opportunity to reshape their roster. It`s improbable they`ll roster five rookies, and they can potentially free up additional cap room by consolidating some of their first-round picks. Roster-wise, Brooklyn could use help on the perimeter, but given the roster`s fluidity and lack of a clear long-term centerpiece, they should prioritize adding talent regardless of positional need. Some luck in the lottery would be highly beneficial.

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 currently hold the best odds in the lottery and will anxiously await May 12th, hoping to secure a star player to anchor their roster. Landing Cooper Flagg or Dylan Harper would simplify their decision considerably compared to selecting later. While Utah has accumulated some intriguing young prospects, they still lack a top-tier talent to lead their rebuild. Having demonstrated patience in recent seasons, the Jazz might be willing to gamble in the lottery again, potentially targeting a raw prospect like VJ Edgecombe or Ace Bailey, especially with the 2026 draft projected to have a strong top tier. However, falling outside the top four would be a significant 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 struggles this past season turned into an advantage for Houston, as the Rockets held swap rights on the Suns` pick, securing a projected top-10 selection to complement their core after a 52-win season. Given the team`s depth and quality, demonstrated by Reed Sheppard`s limited minutes, it`s not guaranteed that their draft pick will need to contribute significantly immediately under coach Ime Udoka. While some roster consolidation is likely needed eventually, the Rockets are in a strong position with both future draft capital and developing young talent. This flexibility means Houston can pursue any direction with this pick – whether swinging for the highest upside prospect (a common Rockets approach) or using it as a trade asset to push the roster closer to 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 main priority will be capitalizing on their lottery selection, which is guaranteed to be no lower than seventh. The team is still some distance from consistently competing for the playoffs and is focused on accumulating assets. Last year`s selection of Tidjane Salaun indicated the front office`s willingness to make developmental choices early in the draft. LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller remain the team`s core moving forward, but the Hornets should still aim to add the best long-term talent available rather than being overly concerned with immediate fit. Potential overlap with Ball or Miller from players like Dylan Harper or Ace Bailey could lead to interesting decisions depending on where Charlotte lands in the lottery.

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)

The Wizards, under Michael Winger and Will Dawkins, appear to be following a similar rebuilding blueprint to the Thunder: swinging for high-upside talent, providing ample playing time to rookies, and accumulating future draft capital through trades. Washington saw promising signs from their 2024 draft class (Alex Sarr, Bub Carrington, Kyshawn George) but would greatly benefit from the star power of Cooper Flagg or Dylan Harper if they get fortunate in the lottery. Selecting lower would make the decision more complex. Regardless, Washington seems committed to a long-term rebuild and will likely have more opportunities near the top of the lottery in coming seasons. However, a favorable outcome on May 12th would significantly strengthen their short- and long-term prospects.

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 surprising playoff run, their protected first-round pick was conveyed to Minnesota. The Pistons hold just one selection in this draft, a second-rounder that could realistically be signed to a standard contract, making them an appealing destination for pre-draft workouts. Detroit has several recent lottery picks vying for minutes and also possesses cap flexibility to add veteran talent to bolster their core. Therefore, their draft pick won`t necessarily need to contribute immediately. Early in team president Trajan Langdon`s tenure, the Pistons seem focused on building a tough supporting cast 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 chance of retaining their pick is if it jumps into the top four from its current No. 13 position, an outcome with only a 3.8% probability. Otherwise, they will have only a second-rounder in their first draft under new head of basketball operations Scott Perry. The Kings control their future draft picks and maintain some roster flexibility. Their offseason focus likely centers on decisions regarding current players like Zach LaVine and Domantas Sabonis, both offense-first stars on max 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)

The Magic possess several options with four selections, including two in the first round, reflecting their strategy of building this iteration of the team through the draft. Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner are established as their foundational forwards, and Orlando has sought to enhance the surrounding roster with improved shooting and defense. Expect the Magic to continue evaluating perimeter players closely, with President of Basketball Operations Jeff Weltman and his front office historically valuing positional size and feel. At some point, the Magic might need to consolidate players for an upgrade in the backcourt, although Jalen Suggs and Anthony Black are still developing. The organization has patiently nurtured this group into a playoff team, prioritizing retaining their own picks for flexibility. If an opportunity arises to target a specific player by combining picks No. 16 and 24 to move up, the Magic`s existing depth and youth across positions allow them to explore such a possibility.

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 indicated Toronto`s intention to move closer to playoff contention, suggesting this draft pick could be one of their most impactful for some time. Whether they improve their lottery position or not, this presents a good opportunity for Toronto to swing for upside talent. They currently have a surplus of wings and forwards, many of whom prefer having the ball in their hands, which is an issue they`ll need to address next season. Top guard prospects like Jeremiah Fears and Kasparas Jakucionis are likely candidates for consideration. Toronto would also benefit from increased depth in the frontcourt, potentially bringing players like Khaman Maluach and Derik Queen into play.

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 as part of the move to part ways with Marcus Smart and gain salary cap flexibility. Although Memphis faces some uncertainty this offseason, the front office under Zach Kleiman has a history of finding value in various parts of the draft and might seek to acquire picks or target players they like. The expected value at No. 56 isn`t particularly high, and Memphis has young players at every position, having largely built their roster through drafting. Their primary focus seems to be on improving for next season, which might be challenging to achieve significantly 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 luck as they transition under the leadership of newly appointed Joe Dumars. New Orleans has long needed a true lead ball handler to build around, making Dylan Harper a particularly appealing prospect if they select at No. 2 or can trade up for that pick. The Pelicans are closer to being competitive than their difficult 2024-25 season might suggest, and capitalizing on this lottery pick is crucial for their bounce-back prospects. Their fate in the lottery will be a major factor, as the optimal choice becomes much less clear if Cooper Flagg and Harper are already selected when they pick.

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 will hope for continued lottery success as they build around the last two Rookies of the Year, Victor Wembanyama and Stephon Castle. San Antonio has taken steps towards competitiveness with the acquisition of De`Aaron Fox but still has room to strengthen their rotation, needing supplemental shooting and rebounding. With Fox and Wembanyama (assuming health) providing cornerstones for the foreseeable future, and Castle offering significant upside, San Antonio can be more strategic in their draft approach, focusing on players who complement their existing core.

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 their own first-round pick this year but managed to recoup draft value via Sacramento, whose strong finish to the season resulted in the conveyance of the 13th pick (it was top-12 protected). The Hawks had some positive developments this season, with Dyson Daniels earning Most Improved Player honors and 2024 No. 1 overall pick Zaccharie Risacher justifying the franchise`s confidence. Atlanta is thin in the frontcourt behind the often-injured Jalen Johnson and Onyeka Okongwu and should be considering frontcourt help in the draft. However, the Hawks also have enough young talent that they can justify selecting the best player available regardless of specific needs. Their two first-round picks should allow them to both bolster their depth and add 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 critically need their pick to remain within the top six; otherwise, it will be conveyed to the Thunder. Following a significantly disappointing season, Philadelphia is at a pivotal juncture, and retaining this pick would represent a valuable, unexpected opportunity 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 significant achievement. Daryl Morey has a history of being willing to take big swings on upside, and this pick offers the Sixers that chance, especially as the health and career 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 saw encouraging progress from their young roster this season and possess their own lottery pick to add to that group, with GM Joe Cronin earning a contract extension. They have solid options at center with Deandre Ayton and the developing Donovan Clingan and are banking on further improvement from Scoot Henderson. However, Portland should approach the lottery with an open mind, targeting upside wherever they land at No. 10. Strengthening the perimeter defense is a significant consideration, but the Blazers need star power if they can find it. If their pick moves up in the lottery, that task becomes 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 formerly top-10 protected 2025 first-round pick sufficiently to reacquire the full rights to it from San Antonio as the primary compensation in the Zach LaVine trade. This decision proved significant, as Chicago finished the season better than expected, likely selecting 12th. The Bulls appear interested in competing but don`t possess extensive draft capital beyond their own picks, making it crucial to succeed with selections later in the lottery like this one. Matas Buzelis seems like a strong value pick, but frontcourt depth remains the most significant positional need, particularly with Nikola Vucevic entering the final year of his contract. The center position isn`t necessarily a strength in 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 prioritize building through the draft, and hitting on their selections becomes even more critical as their payroll approaches higher levels. Myles Turner`s impending free agency underscores the need for younger frontcourt support and interior defense, a role they addressed during the season by adding Thomas Bryant and could look to strengthen with the No. 23 pick. With recent draft picks Bennedict Mathurin, Jarace Walker, and Ben Sheppard growing into larger roles at other positions, and considering they might not have their first-round pick in 2026, there`s a compelling case for Indiana to target a big man if appealing 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 had recent success drafting late, finding contributors in Trayce Jackson-Davis and Quinten Post in consecutive drafts. The Warriors might choose to roster their pick if they like the available prospects, or they could save the roster spot for a veteran and use the pick on a two-way player who could potentially be converted later. Golden State has strongly emphasized basketball IQ and decision-making in recent draftees, seeking prospects who can contribute relatively 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`s single selection is highly significant as the Mavericks aim to build a contender following the transformative Luka Doncic trade. The relatively short window with the star pairing of Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis might suggest prioritizing veteran depth. While the top prospects in this draft tend to be younger, the Mavs found immediate value with their 2023 No. 12 pick, Dereck Lively II, and would presumably hope for similar quick impact from this draft. There could also be opportunities for Mavs GM Nico Harrison to leverage this pick in trades to improve the roster in other ways.

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 paramount for the Celtics due to their significant payroll. They possess two such selections this year, presenting a solid opportunity to add depth for both the present and future. Boston is known for extensively scouting prospects and can pursue any direction they deem fit, but finding a player ready to contribute off the bench would be a notable success. The Celtics drafted wings in the past two years (Baylor Scheierman and Jordan Walsh), so this draft could be an opportune time to add a big man instead, depending on how the draft board unfolds.

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 in a retooling phase and acquired a first-round pick from Golden State in the Butler trade. However, by making the playoffs, they also conveyed their own protected first-round pick (No. 15) to Oklahoma City. Miami has a proven track record of effectively drafting and developing talent and showed a willingness to swing for upside last year with the selection of center Kel`el Ware, who had a promising rookie season. The Heat need backcourt assistance, particularly at point guard, but will likely continue thinking long-term, similar to the Ware pick. Any infusion of talent would be beneficial as the Heat determine their future direction. Miami controls its own pick next year and lottery rights in 2027, providing some flexibility to prioritize long-term development for 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 remain focused on winning now for the foreseeable future and can utilize the draft to bolster their bench depth. They selected Kobe Brown with the 30th pick last year, a pick seemingly aimed at immediate contribution that didn`t pay significant dividends. Nevertheless, finding a player with a realistic chance to contribute in the short term should be a priority for LA. They could use depth throughout the roster, especially considering Kawhi Leonard`s injury history, offering flexibility to select the best available player regardless of position. Backup center, in particular, has been a revolving door.

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 contention mode and hold only the 50th pick in this draft. Their recent mid-to-late draft selections have yet to consistently pan out, partly due to coach Tom Thibodeau famously concentrating playing time among his starters. While New York can consider prospects with longer development timelines, a significant portion of their salary cap is tied up in their top players. Finding a player late in the draft who has a chance to provide value off the bench next season would be a success, particularly a wing capable of hitting open shots and defending.

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 isn`t a high-stakes event for the Cavaliers, who experienced a highly successful regular season and emerged as top contenders. How they approach their two late second-round selections will depend on their roster strategy for next season. With Cleveland managing a substantial payroll, it`s plausible they might want to roster one of their second-rounders. Offering a guaranteed deal, unlike many later picks, could make them an attractive workout destination for prospects valued around the second round. The Cavs have prioritized experience and basketball feel 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 level of depth they can cultivate with that pick would help bolster a bench that has sometimes been thin. The more critical focus for the offseason will be improving the roster with veteran talent as they aim to maximize their contention window with the pairing of LeBron James and 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 critical for the Suns, with larger issues at play than draft selections. The possibility of a Kevin Durant trade, another head coaching change, and various missteps during Mat Ishbia`s ownership have put Phoenix in a precarious position, particularly regarding salary cap troubles. Finding contributors with these picks remains important, as the Suns might need their draft selections to play minutes depending on potential roster shakeups in the coming months. Point guard and center have been areas of need, and any stability provided by a rookie contributor would be greatly beneficial, especially given the transaction limitations imposed by being a second-apron team.

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 entering free agency, Damian Lillard facing extended time off after tearing his Achilles, and the possibility of trading Giannis Antetokounmpo seemingly more plausible than ever. However, Milwaukee is heavily committed to building around their two-time MVP and does not control their own draft picks until 2031, making a straightforward rebuild path unavailable. The Bucks hold only the 47th pick in this draft. Given the need for playable depth regardless of the roster`s direction, the focus should be on identifying an undervalued prospect who could potentially contribute 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 hold no selections in this draft and lack significant assets to acquire one, making this a low-stakes period, especially following ownership changes regarding GM Calvin Booth and head coach Michael Malone. Under Booth, the Nuggets placed a high value on adding cost-controlled talent through the draft. How Denver plans to upgrade their roster around Nikola Jokic remains uncertain as decisions regarding the front office and coaching leadership 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

Minnesota`s draft situation will be detailed here…