2025 NBA Draft Discussion Part 5

[Clutch0z24]

Carter Bryant will go around 15-20 in this draft....You can move down to get him....At 7/8 i don't think we reach as i see Masai having players ahead of him on his draft board.....

Queen
CMB
Tre
Fears
Maluach
Kon
Prolly all ahead of Bryant on the big board.

Traore
Bryant
Flemming
Newell
Demin
Are the types in the 2nd tier

It would be bad asset management to pick a player 10 slots before they are slated to go.

[bballsparkin]

Around 75% free throw, but not yet a consistent 3 point shooter.
Maluach, Bryant and Essengue are the high risk high reward type. Maluach and Bryant might have a better floor, while Essengue would be Banton in his floor, I suppose. I would have Bryant a big higher due to him shown better shooting.

A Banton floor? Ouch. We better walk away from this draft with better than that!

[BoyzNTheHood]

I genuinely don't follow the line of questioning, am I supposed to imagine all the freshman of this class were still in highschool?!?

I'm not really sure how that changes things although it should be mentioned that coming into the college season there were scouts that had Bryant pegged to be a top 10 pick. But when he initially barely got to play and his role was limited his stock plummeted along with other after thoughts like Bethea etc lol. But as the season went on he won some time and showed some serious flashes that are enough to do a double take for me to the point that here I am in a stacked draft class saying I'd be willing to take a HUGE flyer on him by risking a top 10 on him if pushes comes to shove (ie/ the C prospects are gone).

Although I will say if that's their thought then they should try to negotiate with the Heat for them to trade up for Fears and we trade back for their picks and take CB at 11 & Fleming at 18 (which would be fantastic imo) but ofc there's a lot of risk in that as well as you'd almost have to just draft Fears with the idea that you may have to keep him IF Bryant didn't fall to 11. Because I'm not doing that trade unless he's 100% still there and like you said I can see him shooting up draft boards this year ala Bilal.

The wording was a bit confusing. Let me explain. Imagine Carter Bryant is a high school senior who is able to be drafted. We’re going to act as if this year at Arizona never happened. So all you have to go on are his high school tape/stats. Where are you taking him in this draft?

Looking at him bringing the ball up and running the offense, I would think he would be #3 behind Harper. I guess if Ace Bailey didn't play at Rutgers then he would be 3 and Carter Bryant #4 still ahead of Tre and VJ.

Depending on a bunch of factors, assuming mocks are placing Bryant accurately, I’d love to trade down with ATL or MIA to get a couple of picks to take Bryant and any one of Demin, or CMB.

[Dalek]

Jase Richardson doesn't make sense. He is nothing like JRich athletically but he looks like he has twice the b-ball IQ than his dad. There is no faster processor than Jase in this draft. Can decision-making be a lottery level skill?

68 assists to 30 TOs. Tons of poise in big moments. Just ice cold.

He hit from all three levels and does it well:
69% at rim
41% from three

Trusted by Izzo over four year guard Akins. Started on a top team and played in many big games. All as a Freshman for Michigan State it was surprising. I expected Coen Carr to be the breakout player. Izzo buries freshmen other than guys like JJJ and Miles Bridges who looked like lotto guys. Jase played a lot of minutes and had no waiver on his efficiency.

Jase is a 4 star recruit who will go one and done when his path was supposed to be coming out in 3 years.

He is the type of overlooked, hardworking player that we draft. It just fits Toronto so well. He has pedigree, work ethic and high level play and poise that fits Toronto. I just don't know how he fits in with Quick and Shead but maybe you just draft the BPA. Jase just looks like a pro.

[junot111]

Jase Richardson doesn't make sense. He is nothing like JRich athletically but he looks like he has twice the b-ball IQ than his dad. There is no faster processor than Jase in this draft. Can decision-making be a lottery level skill?

68 assists to 30 TOs. Tons of poise in big moments. Just ice cold.

He hit from all three levels and does it well:
69% at rim
41% from three

Trusted by Izzo over four year guard Akins. Started on a top team and played in many big games. All as a Freshman for Michigan State it was surprising. I expected Coen Carr to be the breakout player. Izzo buries freshmen other than guys like JJJ and Miles Bridges who looked like lotto guys. Jase played a lot of minutes and had no waiver on his efficiency.

Jase is a 4 star recruit who will go one and done when his path was supposed to be coming out in 3 years.

He is the type of overlooked, hardworking player that we draft. It just fits Toronto so well. He has pedigree, work ethic and high level play and poise that fits Toronto. I just don't know how he fits in with Quick and Shead but maybe you just draft the BPA. Jase just looks like a pro.

6'3 combo guard with limited athleticism... Screams low upside pick

[Los_29]

Carter Bryant will go around 15-20 in this draft....You can move down to get him....At 7/8 i don't think we reach as i see Masai having players ahead of him on his draft board.....

Queen
CMB
Tre
Fears
Maluach
Kon
Prolly all ahead of Bryant on the big board.

Traore
Bryant
Flemming
Newell
Demin
Are the types in the 2nd tier

It would be bad asset management to pick a player 10 slots before they are slated to go.

Online mocks look a lot different than the ones teams have.

There’s a reason you rarely see teams moving down for multiple picks. It’s because there is so much risk you miss out on your player.

If you like someone, draft them.

[Yallbecrazy]

Condon may have some physical gifts, but that dude is soft and not physical at all. For him to be successful, I think he needs to develop an above average three point shot and mainly play the 4, not the 5, because he is just too soft for the 5 against the actual big boys of the league. A physical dude like Clingan or Edey would destroy him.

Condon is one of the toughest guys in the draft, you might mean that he's not super strong, but he's the opposite of soft. (He's not thin either, just not bulky)

From what I saw of Condon, he plays astoninshly soft. I saw a lot of instances where he'd catch the ball in the paint and he'd refuse to go up strong or take advantage of a size advantage. He passed up a lot of dunks/easy looks to kick the ball out for worse looks.

He challenges every dunk attempt and is an excellent rebounder, he lost his confidence in his scoring in the tournament as he was hurt and not finishing well.

[Godaddycurse]

Carter Bryant will go around 15-20 in this draft....You can move down to get him....At 7/8 i don't think we reach as i see Masai having players ahead of him on his draft board.....

Queen
CMB
Tre
Fears
Maluach
Kon
Prolly all ahead of Bryant on the big board.

Traore
Bryant
Flemming
Newell
Demin
Are the types in the 2nd tier

It would be bad asset management to pick a player 10 slots before they are slated to go.

Online mocks look a lot different than the ones teams have.

There’s a reason you rarely see teams moving down for multiple picks. It’s because there is so much risk you miss out on your player.

If you like someone, draft them.

You also only have so many minutes and roster spots and in our case cap space available. We already have a young team fighting for minutes outside of backup 5

[OakleyDokely]

Some guys projected outside the lottery with a good statistical profile

C Bryant (Fresh): 19.3 MIN, 6.5 PPG, 4.1 REB, 1.0 AST, 1.0 BLK, 0.9 STL, .460 FG, .371 3PT, .695 FT, .593 TS, 16.4 USG, 8.8 BPM
I Evans (Fresh): 13.8 MIN, 6.8 PPG, 1.1 REB, 0.5 AST, 0.1 BLK, 0.2 STL, .432 FG, .416 3PT, .812 FT, .621 TS, 22.4 USG, 7.2 BPM
A Thiero (Jun): 27.5 MIN, 15.1 PPG, 5.8 REB, 1.9 AST, 0.7 BLK, 1.6 STL, .545 FG, .256 3PT, .686 FT, .605 TS, 25.8 USG, 10.6 BPM
R Fleming (Jun): 31.3 MIN, 14.7 PPG, 8.5 REB, 1.3 AST, 1.5 BLK, 1.4 STL, .531 FG, .390 3PT, .743 FT, .638 TS, 21.2 USG, 7.7 BPM
Y Lendeborg (Sen): 33.6 MIN, 17.7 PPG, 11.4 REB, 4.2 AST, 1.8 BLK, 1.7 STL, .522 FG, .357 3PT, .757 FT, .592 TS, 23.9 USG, 11.2 BPM
N Clifford (Sen): 35.4 MIN, 18.9 PPG, 9.6 REB, 4.4 AST, 0.6 BLK, 1.2 STL, .496 FG, .377 3PT, .777 FT, .603 TS, 27.7 USG, 11.1 BPM
W Clayton (Sen): 32.6 MIN, 18.3 PPG, 3.7 REB, 4.2 AST, 0.5 BLK, 1.2 STL, .448 FG, .386 SPT, .875 FT, .602 TS, 25.6 USG, 11.2 BPM
R Kalkbrenner (Sen): 34.5 MIN, 19.2 PPG, 8.7 REB, 1.5 AST, 2.7 BLK, 0.5 STL, .653 FG, .344 3PT, .681 FT, .684 TS, 23.6 USG, 12.2 BPM

[WuTang_CMB]

https://bleacherreport.com/articles/25182876-2025-nba-mock-draft-predictions-pro-comps-after-regular-season

Toronto Raptors Record: 30-52

Previous Mock Position: No. 10

Size: 7'2", 250 lbs

Age: 18

Nationality: South Sudan

Pro Comparison: Mark Williams

WIthout room for any young wings to play and develop, the Toronto Raptors could be higher on Khaman Maluach than most.

He was having a strong NCAA tournament before running into Houston. In 21 minutes, he converted one basket, grabbed zero rebounds and picked up four fouls.

It wasn't the type of performance that's going to help convince NBA teams that he's going to be ready for regular minutes next season.

Rebuilding or patient teams won't likely be bothered. There is still plenty of optimism out there in the long-term potential tied to his 7'2" size and mobility for finishing, rim protection and shot-contesting.

And given the pre-Duke flashes of shooting range and this year's 76.6 percent mark from the free-throw line, Maluach may be able to strengthen his case further during workouts

[OakleyDokely]

I can see Carter Bryant having a Patrick Williams type rise after workouts. He looks the part. He has the ideal modern wing size / build and he put up solid numbers at both ends as a freshman. He still probably goes in the lower part of the lottery or just outside the lottery but all it takes is one team falling in love with the combination of size and potential.

[BoyzNTheHood]

A solid post on Egor Demin from Reddit. It transcribes an interview done with Egor’s father and the expectations they had this season.

If I’m not mistaken, Jerry Lucas lists Egor as potentially one of Masai’s guys.

https://www.reddit.com/r/NBA_Draft/s/nn3kFVW9R6

[niQ]

https://bleacherreport.com/articles/25182876-2025-nba-mock-draft-predictions-pro-comps-after-regular-season

Toronto Raptors Record: 30-52

Previous Mock Position: No. 10

Size: 7'2", 250 lbs

Age: 18

Nationality: South Sudan

Pro Comparison: Mark Williams

WIthout room for any young wings to play and develop, the Toronto Raptors could be higher on Khaman Maluach than most.

He was having a strong NCAA tournament before running into Houston. In 21 minutes, he converted one basket, grabbed zero rebounds and picked up four fouls.

It wasn't the type of performance that's going to help convince NBA teams that he's going to be ready for regular minutes next season.

Rebuilding or patient teams won't likely be bothered. There is still plenty of optimism out there in the long-term potential tied to his 7'2" size and mobility for finishing, rim protection and shot-contesting.

And given the pre-Duke flashes of shooting range and this year's 76.6 percent mark from the free-throw line, Maluach may be able to strengthen his case further during workouts

At this point, I'd be more surprised if we didn't draft Khaman Maluach.

[Jerry Lucas]

A solid post on Egor Demin from Reddit. It transcribes an interview done with Egor’s father and the expectations they had this season.

If I’m not mistaken, Jerry Lucas lists Egor as potentially one of Masai’s guys.

https://www.reddit.com/r/NBA_Draft/s/nn3kFVW9R6

Egor was only on version 1 which was very early in the college season, and he fell off quick after the first 5 games, once BYU started facing non-garbage teams. I don't even think he made it to version 2.

The latest (and possibly final) update I posted recently in a reply to PhilBlackson on the previous page.

[BoyzNTheHood]

A solid post on Egor Demin from Reddit. It transcribes an interview done with Egor’s father and the expectations they had this season.

If I’m not mistaken, Jerry Lucas lists Egor as potentially one of Masai’s guys.

https://www.reddit.com/r/NBA_Draft/s/nn3kFVW9R6

Egor was only on version 1 which was very early in the college season, and he fell off quick after the first 5 games, once BYU started facing non-garbage teams. I don't even think he made it to version 2.

The latest (and possibly final) update I posted recently in a reply to PhilBlackson.

Interesting. I wonder if he’s still on Masai’s actually list based on our history with big guards like Scottie and Giddey.

[WuTang_CMB]

https://www.nbadraft.net/2025-nba-draft-extended-mock-draft-4-0/

7. Toronto Raptors
Nolan Traore
6’4″ 185 | PG | Saint-Quentin (France) | 2006

Nolan Traoré is a long, crafty lead guard with intriguing long-term upside and mid-lottery potential in the 2025 NBA Draft. Hailing from Lyon, France, Traoré boasts excellent positional size at 6’5” with a 6’8” wingspan and an 8’6.25” standing reach—ideal measurables for an NBA point guard. Though still physically developing at just 185 pounds, added strength should elevate his game on both ends. Traoré averaged 11.2 PPG, 3.7 RPG, and 5.5 APG this season for Saint-Quentin in France’s top league, showing flashes of elite playmaking and court vision. A natural facilitator, he thrives in transition and pick-and-roll situations, consistently making high-level reads. However, his shooting efficiency remains a concern. He connected on just 27% from three and 68% from the free-throw line, limiting his scoring impact. After a breakout 18-point performance at the 2024 Nike Hoop Summit, expectations skyrocketed—but his inconsistency this season cooled some of that hype. Still, his feel for the game, length, and ability to create offense are enticing. If he can improve his jumper and add strength, Traoré has the tools to be a high-level NBA guard. He could become one of the draft’s bigger steals if he slips outside the lottery.

Why the Raptors Select Nolan Traoré:
With Toronto shifting into a longer-term rebuild centered around Scottie Barnes, the Raptors are prioritizing upside and versatility at every position. Traoré fits that vision perfectly. While still raw, his blend of size, vision, and natural point guard instincts gives Toronto a potential long-term lead ball handler to groom behind or alongside Immanuel Quickley. He brings a level of playmaking and transition flair that the current roster lacks, and the Raptors have a strong track record of international development. His lack of shooting may limit his short-term impact, but with time and physical growth, he could be a high-reward investment — especially for a team comfortable with long-term development arcs.

NBA Comparison: Tony Parker

[Dalek]

Jase Richardson doesn't make sense. He is nothing like JRich athletically but he looks like he has twice the b-ball IQ than his dad. There is no faster processor than Jase in this draft. Can decision-making be a lottery level skill?

68 assists to 30 TOs. Tons of poise in big moments. Just ice cold.

He hit from all three levels and does it well:
69% at rim
41% from three

Trusted by Izzo over four year guard Akins. Started on a top team and played in many big games. All as a Freshman for Michigan State it was surprising. I expected Coen Carr to be the breakout player. Izzo buries freshmen other than guys like JJJ and Miles Bridges who looked like lotto guys. Jase played a lot of minutes and had no waiver on his efficiency.

Jase is a 4 star recruit who will go one and done when his path was supposed to be coming out in 3 years.

He is the type of overlooked, hardworking player that we draft. It just fits Toronto so well. He has pedigree, work ethic and high level play and poise that fits Toronto. I just don't know how he fits in with Quick and Shead but maybe you just draft the BPA. Jase just looks like a pro.

6'3 combo guard with limited athleticism... Screams low upside pick

Yes, I can't disagree, but I am still impressed with his year. Reminds me a bit of Jared McCain from last year's draft. Really productive in college, good defense and efficient offense, who came across as a focused person who was just wired to succeed. He fit in well almost instantly and looked like the ROY early on. Jase was arguably better. Does it make him lotto? At 7 or 8 I would consider him for sure.

[Raptorfan2012]

https://www.nbadraft.net/2025-nba-draft-extended-mock-draft-4-0/

7. Toronto Raptors
Nolan Traore
6’4″ 185 | PG | Saint-Quentin (France) | 2006

Nolan Traoré is a long, crafty lead guard with intriguing long-term upside and mid-lottery potential in the 2025 NBA Draft. Hailing from Lyon, France, Traoré boasts excellent positional size at 6’5” with a 6’8” wingspan and an 8’6.25” standing reach—ideal measurables for an NBA point guard. Though still physically developing at just 185 pounds, added strength should elevate his game on both ends. Traoré averaged 11.2 PPG, 3.7 RPG, and 5.5 APG this season for Saint-Quentin in France’s top league, showing flashes of elite playmaking and court vision. A natural facilitator, he thrives in transition and pick-and-roll situations, consistently making high-level reads. However, his shooting efficiency remains a concern. He connected on just 27% from three and 68% from the free-throw line, limiting his scoring impact. After a breakout 18-point performance at the 2024 Nike Hoop Summit, expectations skyrocketed—but his inconsistency this season cooled some of that hype. Still, his feel for the game, length, and ability to create offense are enticing. If he can improve his jumper and add strength, Traoré has the tools to be a high-level NBA guard. He could become one of the draft’s bigger steals if he slips outside the lottery.

Why the Raptors Select Nolan Traoré:
With Toronto shifting into a longer-term rebuild centered around Scottie Barnes, the Raptors are prioritizing upside and versatility at every position. Traoré fits that vision perfectly. While still raw, his blend of size, vision, and natural point guard instincts gives Toronto a potential long-term lead ball handler to groom behind or alongside Immanuel Quickley. He brings a level of playmaking and transition flair that the current roster lacks, and the Raptors have a strong track record of international development. His lack of shooting may limit his short-term impact, but with time and physical growth, he could be a high-reward investment — especially for a team comfortable with long-term development arcs.

NBA Comparison: Tony Parker

This mock draft is wild, but if we are going to draft someone currently projected to be in the teens/20s, then I rather draft Sorber than Traore.

[Clutch0z24]

Carter Bryant will go around 15-20 in this draft....You can move down to get him....At 7/8 i don't think we reach as i see Masai having players ahead of him on his draft board.....

Queen
CMB
Tre
Fears
Maluach
Kon
Prolly all ahead of Bryant on the big board.

Traore
Bryant
Flemming
Newell
Demin
Are the types in the 2nd tier

It would be bad asset management to pick a player 10 slots before they are slated to go.

Online mocks look a lot different than the ones teams have.

There’s a reason you rarely see teams moving down for multiple picks. It’s because there is so much risk you miss out on your player.

If you like someone, draft them.

Just don't see Masai Drafting Bryant 7/8th i think he himself also has players ranked ahead of him is what im trying to say.

[mademan]

I can see the rationale for Carter Bryant. Real big wing size, borderline elite athleticism and a shot that looks pretty. If he hits it well in the pre draft shooting comps, i can see him rising to the point that the Raps consider him. I dont see much difference in quality of players 3 to 20 in this draft. I have CMB third and he might fall out of the lottery