The 2025 NBA Draft has wrapped up its first round, and like every draft, it came with its mix of surprises and expectations fulfilled. While some picks left fans scratching their heads—like Ace Bailey heading to the Utah Jazz—others fell neatly into place, such as Cooper Flagg landing with the Dallas Mavericks. Now that the dust has settled, let’s dive into the best selections of the night and what they might mean for the future of these franchises.
Best Picks From Round One Of The NBA Draft
Every team hopes to snag the cream of the crop during the draft, but the reality is that it’s a complex process, and not every player will be a star. Just because your team didn’t land a player like Cooper Flagg doesn’t mean they’re destined for failure. There are several diamonds waiting to be unearthed across the draft board. Here’s a look at some of the standouts from the first round that have the potential to make an immediate impact.
Utah Jazz, Pick 5 – Ace Bailey
The Jazz made headlines when they pulled off the first surprise of the night by selecting Ace Bailey. While he may have had a few bumps during the pre-draft circuit, his raw talent is impossible to ignore. In terms of upside, Bailey stands toe-to-toe with any prospect in this class, save for Flagg. The Jazz have been building a strong foundation, and Bailey essentially adds the most talented piece to their puzzle. He could step in and lead the team in scoring right from the start, making him a player to watch in Utah.
Washington Wizards, Pick 6 – Tre Johnson
The Wizards have been on a roll since last year, adding promising talents like Alex Sarr and Bub Carrington. With Tre Johnson, they double down on their strategy by bringing in a much-needed scoring punch. Johnson is exactly what the team was missing after Jordan Poole’s departure to New Orleans: a player who can not only score but can also create shots in tough situations. He complements Sarr’s elite defense and Carrington’s crafty all-around game, setting the Wizards up for an exciting season ahead.
Phoenix Suns, Pick 10 – Khaman Maluach
For the Suns, the selection of Khaman Maluach addresses an urgent need for strong center play. Maluach fits the bill as an old-school center who thrives as a lob threat and brings a defensive mindset to the court. His addition gives Phoenix the perfect complement to their talented duo of Devin Booker and Jalen Green, enhancing their depth and versatility on offense.
Oklahoma City Thunder, Pick 15 – Thomas Sorber
The Thunder continue to bolster their impressive roster, and the addition of Thomas Sorber is a testament to their commitment to defense. Known for his defensive prowess, Sorber can elevate an already strong unit that saw success thanks in part to its remarkable defensive strategies. On top of that, his flashes of scoring and playmaking make him an intriguing addition. This pick underscores Oklahoma City’s focus on athleticism and the ability to guard multiple positions, ensuring they remain a significant force in the league.
Miami Heat, Pick 20 – Kasparas Jakucionis
While many didn’t expect Kasparas Jakucionis to still be on the board at this point, Miami seized the opportunity. A talented passer with a great understanding of the game, Jakucionis has the potential to be an immediate contributor. If he can refine his offensive game, this selection could pay significant dividends in the long run, making it a smart blend of fit and upside for the Heat.
Orlando Magic, Pick 25 – Jase Richardson
The Magic needed playmakers in their backcourt, and Jase Richardson provides just that. Despite concerns about his height, he’s a guard who’s poised to make an impact right away by facilitating the offense while still being capable of scoring. If he weren’t facing those height concerns, Richardson would have likely been a lottery pick. Scoring him at 25 could end up being a major win for the Magic.
Brooklyn Nets, Pick 26 – Danny Wolf
The Nets’ selection of Danny Wolf adds a unique skill set to their roster. Standing at 6’11”, he brings a blend of floor-spacing ability and the knack for creating plays for others—traits that are gold in today’s NBA. This pick not only gives the Nets immediate lineup flexibility but also sets them up nicely for future maneuvering as their rebuilding phase progresses. With his skills, Wolf could be a significant asset for Brooklyn moving forward.
As the off-season unfolds, these picks could reshape the identities of their respective teams. With a fresh class of talent now in place, it’s exciting to think about how these young prospects will influence the game in the years to come.
