The NBA Draft approaches with anticipation building around the league’s next wave of talent.
June 25 marks the first round selection night, where the Dallas Mavericks hold the No. 1 overall pick.
The San Antonio Spurs, Philadelphia 76ers, and Charlotte Hornets occupy the remaining top four spots.
One team generating considerable buzz sits further down the board.
The New Orleans Pelicans currently hold the seventh selection but appear determined to climb higher.
“League sources continue to cite the Pelicans as a team aggressively looking to move up in the draft, with most front-office executives believing (Ace) Bailey is the target of new general manager Joe Dumars,” NBA insider Kevin O’Connor stated, per NBA Central on X.
The Pelicans are reportedly aggressively trying to move up in the draft, and Ace Bailey is a potential target, per @KevinOConnorNBA
“League sources continue to cite the Pelicans as a team aggressively looking to move up in the draft, with most front-office executives believing… pic.twitter.com/kR8Xn5JeVG
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) June 12, 2025
Ace Bailey has emerged as the prize driving New Orleans’ draft maneuvering.
The eighteen-year-old forward showcased his abilities at Rutgers with the Scarlet Knights, catching attention from scouts across the league. Most projections place Bailey within the top five selections of this year’s draft.
Bailey brings an electric scoring presence to the court. His confident shot-making ability extends from anywhere on the floor, including contested jumpers that separate elite prospects from the rest.
The young forward carries himself with a swagger reminiscent of classic scoring legends.
Areas for development remain in his game. His shooting consistency needs refinement, while his skills as both a shot creator and defender require polish.
However, his ceiling remains undeniably high.
The Pelicans recognize Bailey’s potential impact on their roster construction. Whether they successfully trade up to secure his services depends on their willingness to part with assets.
The interest appears genuine as draft night approaches, with speculation intensifying around their pursuit of the talented forward.
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