2025 NBA Draft Analysis: Team Notes, Revelations, and Surprises

The analysis of the 2025 NBA draft selections is already here, and at Alofoke Deportes we bring you the grades for each team. These evaluations are based solely on the information available at the time of the selections, considering the value and adaptation of each player to the team. It is important to remember that, although teams do their best to select players that fit their needs and strategies, the final results can be influenced by external factors, such as the health of the players. In this analysis, we focus on the quality of the selections at the time they were made. Here’s an analysis of each team’s ratings:

Atlanta Hawks: A

First round: Asa Newell (No. 23) The Hawks received an excellent grade thanks to acquiring an unprotected first-round pick for 2026 from the Pelicans. In addition, they selected Asa Newell, a prospect who was ranked 13th in the projections.

Boston Celtics: C+

First round: Hugo Gonzalez (No. 28)

Second round: Amari Williams (No. 46), Max Shulga (No. 57)

Gonzalez’s selection could have been more strategic as a long-term development choice. However, the Celtics plan to integrate him into the team next season. Williams, a player with good rebounding and rim protection skills, and Shulga, who stood out for his three-point shooting ability, complete Boston’s selections.

Brooklyn Nets: C+

Charlotte Hornets: B

First round: Kon Knueppel (No. 4), Liam McNeeley (No. 29)Second round: Sion James (No. 33), Ryan Kalkbrenner (No. 34) The Hornets selected Knueppel, who fits perfectly in the shooting guard position. McNeeley was also a good choice. However, the selection of James in the second round was less remarkable. Kalkbrenner could have an immediate impact.

Chicago Bulls: A-

First round: Noa Essengue (N.º 12)Second round: Lachlan Olbrich (No. 55) The Bulls selected Essengue, which could be a good combination with Matas Buzelis. The team continues to focus on the development of young players.

Cleveland Cavaliers: B

Second round: Tyrese Proctor (#49), Saliou Niang (#58) The Cavaliers acquired Proctor, a player with defensive potential and a good three-point shooting percentage. Niang is a long-term bet.

Dallas Mavericks: B

First round: Cooper Flagg (No. 1)

The choice of Flagg was predictable and correct, given his potential.

Denver Nuggets: Incomplete

The Nuggets didn’t have any draft picks, so their rating is incomplete.

Detroit Pistons: B

Second round: Chaz Lanier (No. 37) Lanier, a shooter with good size, offers a valuable option for the Pistons.

Golden State Warriors: B

Second round: Alex Toohey (No. 52), Will Richard (No. 56) Toohey stands out for his defensive activity. Richard, for his high percentage of two-point shots.

Houston Rockets: Incomplete

The Rockets used their picks to acquire Kevin Durant in a trade.

Indiana Pacers: A

Second round: Kam Jones (No. 38), Taelon Peter (No. 54) The Pacers have made good choices in the second round. Jones has potential to contribute immediately. Peter is an interesting player with a good shooting percentage.

LA Clippers: C-

First round: Yanic Konan Niederhauser (No. 30)Second round: Kobe Sanders (No. 50) Niederhauser’s selection in the first round is questionable. Sanders was a good choice in the second round.

Los Angeles Lakers: B+

Second round: Adou Thiero (No. 36) The Lakers made a good move by moving up in the draft and selecting Thiero, with defensive potential.

Memphis Grizzlies: C-

First round: Cedric Coward (No. 11)Second round: Javon Small (#48), Jahmai Mashack (#59) The Grizzlies traded to move up in the draft, which is questionable. Small was a good pick. Mashack fits the team’s style.

Miami Heat: A-

First round: Kasparas Jakucionis (No. 20) Jakucionis is a selection with good value.

Milwaukee Bucks: B

Second round: Bogoljub Markovic (No. 47) Markovic is a selection that could add to the team.

Minnesota Timberwolves: B-

First round: Joan Beringer (No. 17)

Second round: Rocco Zikarsky (No. 45) The Timberwolves selected Beringer, a player with defensive potential. Zikarsky complements Beringer.

New Orleans Pelicans: F

First round: Jeremiah Fears (No. 7), Derik Queen (No. 13)Second round: Micah Peavy (No. 40) The Pelicans made a risky trade to get Queen. Peavy could be valuable.

New York Knicks: C+

Second round: Mohamed Diawara (No. 51) Stashing Diawara overseas could be the best option.

Oklahoma City Thunder: B

First round: Thomas Sorber (No. 15)

Second round: Brooks Barnhizer (No. 44) Sorber is a center with good defensive skills. Barnhizer will be on a dual contract.

Orlando Magic: B+

First round: Jase Richardson (No. 25)Second round: Noah Penda (N.º 32)