Does the 2025 NBA Draft really start with the third pick?
Defense-first Duke University power forward Cooper Flagg is seen as the can't-miss prospect all but certain to be taken with the No. 1 pick by the Dallas Mavericks, while standout Rutgers University combo guard Dylan Harper — son of five-time NBA champion guard Ron — is projected to be the clear No. 2 option.
The San Antonio Spurs have that pick, for now, but have been linked to several veteran stars in the burgeoning summer trade market, and could potentially look to deal it away for the right return. Harper, though, is considered the safe choice there, for whatever team winds up with the selection.
Philadelphia 76ers
Philadelphia 76ers resident of Basketball Operations Daryl Morey speaks with the media.
Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
Although Rutgers wing Ace Bailey has widely been considered the likely No. 3 selection this year, Jeff Fischer of The Stein Line (via Substack) has heard rumblings that Philadelphia 76ers general manager Daryl Morey is leaning in a different direction with the pick.
According to Fischer, the Sixers are considering using the third overall pick on All-Big 12 Baylor guard V.J. Edgecombe instead of Bailey or Texas guard Tre Johnson.
“Edgecombe is said to have impressed with his work ethic, personality and interviews. He went to dinner with Morey and other Sixers higher-ups," writes Fischer. "Even [Philadelphia point guard] Tyrese Maxey, sources say, flew in for the occasion. The Sixers are certainly intrigued by what type of defensive complement Edgecombe could provide their All-Star guard, sources say, in addition to his explosive upside on the offensive side of the ball.”
During a one-and-done 2024-25 NCAA season run for the Bears, the 6-foot-5 Edgecombe averaged 15.0 points on .436/.340/.782 shooting splits, 5.6 rebounds, 3.2 dimes, 2.1 swipes and 0.6 rejections a night.