In the weeks leading up to the 2025 NBA Draft, rumors have swirled that the Philadelphia 76ers wanted to trade down from the third overall pick for a spot a few spots down in the top 10. Just over a week out from draft night, a top suitor could be emerging.
According to Kevin O’Connor of Yahoo Sports, there’s significant buzz around the league about the New Orleans Pelicans‘ aggressive effort to move up into the top four. That’s because new general manager Joe Dumars is reportedly targeting wing Ace Bailey.
Related: Growing buzz about big Philadelphia 76ers move in NBA Draft
O’Connor’s 2025 NBA Draft mock has New Orleans trading the seventh overall pick, Herb Jones and a 2026 first-round pick (Indiana Pacers) to the 76ers for Kelly Oubre and the third overall pick. In the mock, Philadelphia then selects center Khaman Maluach as a long-term replacement for Joel Embiid.
Bailey did land a private predraft workout with the 76ers, coming after weeks of NBA rumors that the team was focused on other draft targets. It’s certainly possible that the team is using the workout to entice the Pelicans to move up, especially amid recent buzz that the 76ers might even attempt to swing a deal with the San Antonio Spurs for the second overall pick.
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The biggest question for Philadelphia might be whether or not moving all the way down to the seventh overall pick is worth it. If the team wants to land either wing VJ Edgecombe or guard Tre Johnson, top 2025 NBA Draft prospects they’ve been linked to, it’s highly unlikely either player is still on the board at No. 7 overall.
What’s clear is the 76ers are the biggest wild card heading into the NBA Draft. The Dallas Mavericks will take Cooper Flagg with the first overall pick and San Antonio is almost guaranteed to select guard Dylan Harper with the second pick. Philadelphia’s ultimate decision at No. 3 overall, whether it’s trading down or drafting its highest-rated prospect, is the biggest question as of now.
NFL, MLB & college football writer for Sportsnaut. Graduated from San Diego State University with BA in Journalism, 2019. ... More about Matt Johnson