Which NBA organizations hold significant power in the upcoming draft and over the next seven years?
For successful teams like the Oklahoma City Thunder and Houston Rockets, their impressive collections of draft picks can strengthen their already competitive rosters, either by providing added depth or serving as trade bait for a star player.
Teams at the lower end of the standings, such as the Utah Jazz, Washington Wizards, and Charlotte Hornets, are hoping for favorable lottery results and the opportunity to select players like the projected No. 1 pick, Cooper Flagg.
Conversely, teams like the Los Angeles Lakers, Milwaukee Bucks, and Denver Nuggets likely won`t significantly improve their rosters through the draft this offseason due to fewer available picks.
Let`s examine the future draft assets of all 30 teams and the potential strategies they might use during the 2025 draft, scheduled for June 25-26 in Brooklyn.
Jump to a team:
ATL | BOS | BKN | CHA | CHI | CLE
DAL | DEN | DET | GS | HOU | IND
LAC | LAL | MEM | MIA | MIL | MIN
NO | NY | OKC | ORL | PHI | PHX
POR | SAC | SA | TOR | UTAH | WAS
- 1. Oklahoma City Thunder
- 2. Brooklyn Nets
- 3. Utah Jazz
- 4. Houston Rockets
- 5. Charlotte Hornets
- 6. Washington Wizards
- 7. Detroit Pistons
- 8. Sacramento Kings
- 9. Orlando Magic
- 10. Toronto Raptors
- 11. Memphis Grizzlies
- 12. New Orleans Pelicans
- 13. San Antonio Spurs
- 14. Atlanta Hawks
- 15. Philadelphia 76ers
- 16. Portland Trail Blazers
- 17. Chicago Bulls
- 18. Indiana Pacers
- 19. Golden State Warriors
- 20. Dallas Mavericks
- 21. Boston Celtics
- 22. Miami Heat
- 23. LA Clippers
- 24. New York Knicks
- 25. Cleveland Cavaliers
- 26. Los Angeles Lakers
- 27. Phoenix Suns
- 28. Milwaukee Bucks
- 29. Denver Nuggets
- 30. Minnesota Timberwolves
1. Oklahoma City Thunder
2025 Draft Picks
- First Round: No. 15 (via Miami), No. 25 (via LA Clippers)
- Second Round: No. 44 (via Atlanta)
The Thunder hold two first-round picks and could potentially gain a third depending on lottery night outcomes. Philadelphia`s pick, protected for the top six and currently sitting fifth in lottery odds, will transfer to OKC if it falls outside that range. Regardless of that outcome, the Thunder face the challenge of consolidating their roster, as they have 15 players under contract entering the offseason and need space for incoming draft picks. Consequently, anticipate the Thunder being active around the draft as they navigate adding young talent alongside broader roster decisions. General Manager Sam Presti has exceptionally positioned the franchise, making these favorable challenges. — Woo
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 13
- All seven of their own
- Unprotected from LA Clippers (2026)
- Top-four protected from Houston (2026)
- Top-eight protected from Utah (2026)
- Top-four protected from Philadelphia (2026 and 2027)
- Top-five protected from Denver (2027, top-five protected in 2028)
- Top-five protected from Denver (2029, if first conveyed in 2027; top-five protected in 2030 if first is conveyed by 2028)
- Swap rights: LA Clippers (2027)
- Swap rights: Houston (2025, top-10 protected)
- Swap rights: Dallas (2028)
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 10
Future Second-Round Picks: 17
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks: None
Notes
- In 2026, Oklahoma City receives the two most favorable picks from their own, Houston (if 5-30), and LA Clippers. The least favorable of these three firsts will go to Philadelphia.
- In 2027, the Thunder have the right to swap the more favorable pick between their own and Denver (if 6-30) with the LA Clippers` pick.
2. Brooklyn Nets
2025 Draft Picks
- First Round: No. 6, No. 19 (via Milwaukee), No. 26 (via New York), No. 27 (via Houston)
- Second Round: No. 36
Entering the pre-draft period, the rebuilding Nets hold a league-leading five selections within the top 40. They also possess the most salary cap flexibility, creating an opportunity to significantly reshape their roster. It`s improbable they`ll roster five rookies, and they could further increase cap space by combining some of their first-round picks. Roster-wise, Brooklyn needs help on the perimeter, but given the team`s fluid situation and lack of an obvious long-term cornerstone, they should prioritize adding talent regardless of specific need. Some lottery luck would be highly beneficial. — Woo
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 12
- All seven of their own
- Three unprotected from New York (2027, 2029 and 2031)
- Top-eight protected from Philadelphia (2027 or 2028)
- Least favorable of Dallas, Phoenix and Houston (2029)
- Swap rights: Phoenix or New York (2028)
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 9
Future Second-Round Picks: 15
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- Swap rights with Houston (2027)
3. Utah Jazz
2025 Draft Picks
- First Round: No. 1, No. 21 (via Minnesota)
- Second Round: No. 42/43 (via Dallas), No. 53 (via LA Clippers)
The Jazz are at the top of the lottery odds and eagerly await May 12, hoping to secure a star player to unite their roster. If Cooper Flagg or Dylan Harper is available, the decision is straightforward. Selecting lower would present a more complex choice. The Jazz have gathered promising young talent but still lack a premier prospect to lead their rebuilding efforts. Utah has shown great patience recently and might opt to participate in the lottery again, especially given the anticipated strength at the top of the 2026 draft. They have time to develop raw prospects like VJ Edgecombe or Ace Bailey, but falling outside the top four would be a significant setback. — Woo
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 10
- All seven of their own
- Two most favorable from their own, Cleveland, Minnesota (2027)
- Two most favorable from their own, Cleveland, Minnesota (if 6-30; 2029)
- Top-four protected from Los Angeles Lakers (2027)
- Unprotected first from Phoenix (2031)
- Swap rights: Minnesota or Cleveland (2026) and Cleveland (2028)
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 7
Future Second-Round Picks: 7
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- Top-eight protected to Oklahoma City (2026, or else a 2028 second-round pick)
4. Houston Rockets
2025 Draft Picks
- First Round: No. 9 (via Phoenix)
- Second Round: No. 59 (via Oklahoma City)
Phoenix`s difficulties in 2024-25 benefited Houston, allowing the Rockets to use their swap rights on the Suns` pick and secure a projected top-10 selection to complement their core after a 52-win season. Based on Reed Sheppard`s limited minutes this season, the Rockets` depth suggests that whoever they draft may not necessarily require consistent playing time under coach Ime Udoka. Although some roster consolidation will eventually be necessary, the Rockets are in a strong position, holding both future draft capital and emerging young talent. This flexibility indicates Houston can pursue any direction with this pick, whether that`s selecting the prospect with the highest potential (a common approach for the Rockets) or using it as a trade asset to move closer to championship contention. — Woo
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 9
- All seven of their own
- Unprotected first from Phoenix (2027)
- Two more favorable firsts from their own, Dallas and Phoenix (2029)
- First-round swap with Brooklyn (2027)
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 5
Future Second-Round Picks: 7
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- Top-four protected first to Oklahoma City (2026)
5. Charlotte Hornets
2025 Draft Picks
- First Round: No. 3
- Second Round: No. 33, No. 34 (via New Orleans)
Charlotte`s main priority is making a successful lottery selection, which is guaranteed to be no lower than seventh. The team, still some distance from consistent playoff contention, is focused on accumulating assets. Last year`s choice of Tidjane Salaun demonstrated the front office`s readiness to make developmental picks early in the draft. LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller remain key players for the future, but the Hornets should continue prioritizing the best long-term talent available rather than being overly concerned with immediate fit. The potential overlap a player like Dylan Harper or Ace Bailey might have with Ball or Miller could lead to interesting decisions depending on Charlotte`s lottery position. — Woo
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 10
- All seven of their own
- Least favorable of Phoenix, Washington (if 1-8), Orlando and Memphis (2026)
- Top-14 protected first from Miami (2027; unprotected in 2028)
- Top-two protected first from Dallas (2027)
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 7
Future Second-Round Picks: 11
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks: None
6. Washington Wizards
2025 Draft Picks
- First Round: No. 2, No. 18 (via Memphis)
- Second Round: No. 40 (via Phoenix)
The Wizards, under Michael Winger and Will Dawkins, continue to follow a strategy similar to the Thunder`s blueprint: taking chances on high-potential talent, providing ample playing time for rookies, and accumulating as many future assets as possible through trades. Washington saw positive progress from their 2024 draft class including Alex Sarr, Bub Carrington, and Kyshawn George, but they would significantly benefit from the star power of Cooper Flagg or Dylan Harper if they get fortunate in the lottery. If they pick later, the decision becomes more complex. Regardless, Washington appears committed to a long-term rebuild and is likely to have more opportunities near the top of the lottery in future seasons. However, a favorable outcome on May 12 would greatly enhance both their short- and long-term standing. — Woo
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 9
- All seven of their own
- Less favorable of Oklahoma City, Houston (if 5-30) and LA Clippers (2026)
- Swap with Milwaukee (2028)
- Second-most favorable of Portland, Boston, Milwaukee (2029)
- Top-20 protected first from Golden State (2030, or else a 2030 second)
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 6
Future Second-Round Picks: 14
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- Top-eight protected first to New York (2026, or else a 2026 and 2027 second)
7. Detroit Pistons
2025 Draft Picks
- First Round: None
- Second Round: No. 37 (via Toronto)
Following Detroit`s unexpected run to the playoffs, their protected first-round pick was conveyed to Minnesota. The Pistons hold only one pick in this draft, a second-rounder that could realistically be signed to a standard contract, making them a more appealing destination for pre-draft workout candidates. The Pistons have several recent lottery picks who need playing time and also possess cap flexibility to add veteran players to bolster their core, meaning whoever they select likely won`t need to contribute immediately. While it`s early in Trajan Langdon`s tenure as team president, the Pistons appear to be emphasizing toughness in their supporting cast as they build around All-Star Cade Cunningham. — Woo
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 7
- All seven of their own
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 4
Future Second-Round Picks: 13
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks: None
8. Sacramento Kings
2025 Draft Picks
- First Round: None
- Second Round: No. 42/43 (via Chicago)
The Kings` only hope of retaining their pick is if it moves into the top four from its current No. 13 position, which has only a 3.8% chance of occurring. Otherwise, they will have only a second-round pick in their first draft under new leadership with Scott Perry. The Kings control their future draft picks and have some flexibility regarding their roster direction. Their offseason will focus more on decisions concerning existing players like Zach LaVine and Domantas Sabonis, both offense-focused stars on maximum contracts. — Woo
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 9
- All seven of their own
- San Antonio unprotected first (2027)
- Minnesota unprotected first (2031)
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 6
Future Second-Round Picks: 3
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- Swap rights with San Antonio (2031)
9. Orlando Magic
2025 Draft Picks
- First Round: No. 16, No. 24 (via Denver)
- Second Round: No. 46, No. 57 (via Boston)
The Magic have several options with four selections, including two first-rounders, and have historically valued building their team through the draft. Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner are the primary forwards, and Orlando has sought to improve shooting and defense around them. Expect the Magic to continue evaluating perimeter players, with Jeff Weltman and his front office recently emphasizing positional size and basketball IQ. At some point, the Magic may need to consolidate players for a backcourt upgrade, although Jalen Suggs and Anthony Black are still developing. The organization has been patient in building this group into a playoff team, preferring to keep their own picks and maintain flexibility. If there`s a chance to target a desired player by trading up using picks No. 16 and No. 24, the Magic, being deep and young across positions, could explore that option. — Woo
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 7
- All seven of their own
- More favorable swap of their own and less favorable of Phoenix or Washington (if 1-8) in 2026
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 4
Future Second-Round Picks: 11
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks: None
10. Toronto Raptors
2025 Draft Picks
- First Round: No. 7
- Second Round: No. 39/40 (via Portland)
The addition of Brandon Ingram at the trade deadline signaled Toronto`s intent to push closer to playoff contention, meaning this draft pick could be their most significant in some time. Whether they move up in the lottery or not, this provides a good opportunity for Toronto to take a high-upside swing on talent. They have accumulated numerous wings and forwards, many of whom prefer having the ball, a situation they`ll need to resolve before next season. Top guard prospects like Jeremiah Fears and Kasparas Jakucionis will likely be considered, and Toronto would also benefit from improved frontcourt depth, potentially putting players like Khaman Maluach and Derik Queen in contention. — Woo
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 7
- All seven of their own
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 4
Future Second-Round Picks: 6
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks: None
11. Memphis Grizzlies
2025 Draft Picks
- First Round: None
- Second Round: No. 56 (via Houston)
The Grizzlies traded their first-round pick to the Wizards at the deadline to move on from Marcus Smart and gain salary cap flexibility. Although Memphis faces uncertainty this offseason, the front office led by Zach Kleiman has a track record of finding value in different parts of the draft and may try to acquire picks to target specific players they like. The expected value at pick No. 56 is not particularly high, and Memphis has young players at every position, having largely built its roster through the draft. Their primary goal appears to be improving for next season, something they may not achieve through this draft without moving up. — Woo
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 7
- All seven of their own
- More favorable swap of their own and least favorable swap of Orlando and Phoenix (2026)
- The right to swap their own with the less favorable first of Phoenix and Washington (2030)
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 4
Future Second-Round Picks: 6
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks: None
12. New Orleans Pelicans
2025 Draft Picks
- First Round: No. 4
- Second Round: None
The Pelicans will hope for favorable lottery results as they transition under new leader Joe Dumars. New Orleans has long needed a true primary ball handler to build around, which makes Dylan Harper particularly appealing if they select at No. 2 or can trade for that pick. The Pelicans are closer to being competitive than their challenging 2024-25 season suggested, and succeeding with this lottery pick is crucial for their bounce-back prospects. Their lottery outcome will be a significant factor, as the best choice becomes less clear if Cooper Flagg and Harper are unavailable when they pick. — Woo
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 8
- All seven of their own
- Top-four first from Milwaukee (2027)
- Top-four protected first from Indiana (2026, top-4 protected in 2027)
- Swap rights with Milwaukee (2026)
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 5
Future Second-Round Picks: 4
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- More favorable of own (if 5-30) or Milwaukee (if 5-30) to Atlanta (2027)
13. San Antonio Spurs
2025 Draft Picks
- First Round: No. 8, No. 14 (via Atlanta)
- Second Round: No. 38
The Spurs will be hoping for continued lottery fortune as they build their team around the last two Rookies of the Year, Victor Wembanyama and Stephon Castle. San Antonio has moved closer to being competitive with the addition of De`Aaron Fox, but there`s room for the Spurs to strengthen their rotation, needing additional shooting and rebounding. With Fox and Wembanyama (assuming health) providing foundational pieces for the foreseeable future and Castle offering significant upside, San Antonio can be more focused in their draft approach, targeting players who complement their existing core. — Woo
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 8
- Six of their own seven
- Swap rights: Atlanta (2026)
- Unprotected from Atlanta (2027)
- Swap rights: Boston (2028, top-one protected)
- Swap rights: More favorable of Dallas and Minnesota (top-one protected; 2030)
- Swap rights: Sacramento (2031)
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 3
Future Second-Round Picks: 15
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- Own unprotected first to Sacramento (2027)
14. Atlanta Hawks
2025 Draft Picks
- First Round: No. 13 (via Sacramento), No. 22 (via L.A. Lakers)
- Second Round: None
Atlanta does not have its own first-round pick this year but gained draft value from Sacramento, whose strong finish allowed the 13th pick (previously top-12 protected) to transfer. The Hawks had positive developments this season, with Dyson Daniels earning Most Improved Player and 2024`s No. 1 pick Zaccharie Risacher justifying the franchise`s confidence. Atlanta lacks depth in the frontcourt behind the frequently injured Jalen Johnson and Onyeka Okongwu, and should consider frontcourt help in the draft. However, the Hawks also have enough young talent to justify selecting the best player available regardless of specific needs. Their two first-rounders should allow them to improve depth while also adding developmental potential to the roster. — Woo
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 7
- Own first in 2026, 2028, 2029, 2030, 2031, 2032
- Less favorable of Milwaukee and New Orleans (if both are 5-30; 2026)
- More favorable of less favorable of own and San Antonio, less favorable of Cleveland and more favorable of Utah (if 1-8) and Minnesota
- More favorable of own and less favorable of Cleveland and Utah, then other to Cleveland (2028)
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 3
Future Second-Round Picks: 6
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- Swap rights with San Antonio (2026)
- Unprotected first to San Antonio (2027)
15. Philadelphia 76ers
2025 Draft Picks
- First Round: No. 5
- Second Round: No. 35
The Sixers require their pick to stay within the top six; otherwise, it transfers to the Thunder. Following a significantly disappointing season, Philadelphia is at a critical juncture. This pick represents a crucial and unexpected chance to add a top prospect to their core. Finding a starting-caliber player who complements Tyrese Maxey and Jared McCain and can provide long-term stability would be a significant gain. Daryl Morey has a history of taking big swings on potential. This pick offers the Sixers that opportunity, especially as the health and future trajectories of Joel Embiid and Paul George complicate their short-term path to contention. — Woo
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 8
- All seven of their own
- Unprotected first from LA Clippers (2028)
- Top-three protected swap rights with LA Clippers (2029)
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 3
Future Second-Round Picks: 7
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- Top-four protected first to Oklahoma City (2026, top-four protected in 2027)
- Top-eight protected first to Brooklyn (2028)
16. Portland Trail Blazers
2025 Draft Picks
- First Round: No. 10
- Second Round: None
The Blazers observed positive development from their young players this season and hold their own lottery pick to add to that group, with GM Joe Cronin receiving a contract extension. They have depth at center with Deandre Ayton and the developing Donovan Clingan, and are patiently awaiting more improvement from Scoot Henderson. However, Portland should remain open to targeting high-upside talent regardless of where their pick lands in the lottery. Strengthening perimeter defense is a key consideration, but the Blazers need potential star power if they can find it at pick No. 10. If their pick moves up, that task becomes easier. — Woo
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 8
- All seven of their own
- Second most favorable of own, Boston and Milwaukee (2029)
- Swap rights with Milwaukee (2028 and 2030)
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 3
Future Second-Round Picks: 5
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- Top-14 protected first to Chicago (2026, top-14 protected in 2027, 2028)
- Second-most favorable first of own, Boston and Milwaukee to Washington (2029)
17. Chicago Bulls
2025 Draft Picks
- First Round: No. 12
- Second Round: No. 42/43 (via Sacramento)
The Bulls valued their 2025 first-round pick, which was once top-10 protected, enough to reacquire full rights to it from San Antonio as the primary compensation for trading Zach LaVine at the deadline. That decision proved significant, as Chicago ended the season better than expected and will likely pick 12th. The Bulls seem aiming to compete but don`t have extensive draft capital beyond their own picks, placing high importance on successful selections later in the lottery. Matas Buzelis appears to be a strong value pick, but frontcourt depth remains the biggest positional weakness as Nikola Vucevic enters the final year of his contract. The center position is not particularly strong in this draft class, which might make prioritizing need less appealing for Chicago. — Woo
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 8
- All seven of their own
- Top-14 protected first from Portland (2026; top-14 protected through 2028)
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 5
Future Second-Round Picks: 5
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks: None
18. Indiana Pacers
2025 Draft Picks
- First Round: No. 23
- Second Round: No. 54
The Pacers value building through the draft, and hitting on their selections becomes even more crucial as their payroll approaches expensive levels. Myles Turner`s pending free agency increases the need for younger frontcourt support and interior defense, a role they addressed by adding Thomas Bryant during the season and one Indiana could target with the No. 23 pick. With recent draft picks like Bennedict Mathurin, Jarace Walker, and Ben Sheppard taking on larger roles at other positions, and considering they might not have their 2026 first-round pick, there`s a case for Indiana to target a big man if promising options are available in the 20s. — Woo
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 7
- All seven of their own
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 3
Future Second-Round Picks: 8
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- Top-four protected first to New Orleans (2026, top-four protected in 2027)
19. Golden State Warriors
2025 Draft Picks
- First Round: None
- Second Round: No. 41 (via Miami)
The Warriors hold only the Heat`s second-round pick after trading for Jimmy Butler III. Golden State has recently found success drafting late, selecting Trayce Jackson-Davis and Quinten Post in consecutive drafts, both of whom have become contributors. The Warriors might choose to sign their pick to the main roster if they like the available options, or they could keep a roster spot open for a veteran and use the pick on a two-way player who could potentially be converted later. Golden State has strongly prioritized basketball IQ and decision-making in recent draftees, seeking prospects who can contribute immediately. — Woo
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 7
- All seven of their own
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 4
Future Second-Round Picks: 1
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- Top-20 protected first to Golden State (2030)
20. Dallas Mavericks
2025 Draft Picks
- First Round: No. 11
- Second Round: None
Dallas`s single selection is incredibly important as the Mavericks aim to build a contender following the significant Luka Doncic trade. The relatively narrow window for the Kyrie Irving-Anthony Davis partnership might make it more desirable to bolster their depth with veteran players, and many of the top prospects in this draft are on the younger side. Nevertheless, the Mavericks had success immediately integrating 2023 No. 12 pick Dereck Lively II and would presumably hope for some immediate value from this draft. There could also be opportunities for Mavs GM Nico Harrison to use this pick to create value in trades and improve the roster in other ways. — Woo
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 7
- Own first in 2026, 2028, 2030, 2031, 2032
- Unprotected from the Lakers (2029)
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 3
Future Second-Round Picks: 2
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- Top-two protected first to Charlotte (2027)
- Swap rights with Oklahoma City (2028)
- Unprotected first to Houston or Brooklyn (2029)
- Swap rights with San Antonio (2030)
21. Boston Celtics
2025 Draft Picks
- First Round: No. 28
- Second Round: No. 32 (via Washington)
Finding value in players on team-friendly contracts through the middle of the draft is crucial for the Celtics due to their significant payroll. They have two such selections this year, offering a solid chance to add depth for both the present and future. Boston is known for extensively scouting and can go in any direction they deem appropriate, but finding a player ready to contribute off the bench immediately would be highly beneficial. The Celtics selected wings in their last two drafts (Baylor Scheierman and Jordan Walsh), so this draft could be a useful opportunity to add a big man instead, depending on how the board falls. — Woo
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 6
- Own first in five out of the next seven years
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 1
Future Second-Round Picks: 5
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- Unprotected first to Portland or Washington (2029)
- Swap rights with San Antonio (2028; if 2-30)
Note
- Boston`s first-round pick in 2032 is frozen and cannot be traded until the team is below the second salary apron.
22. Miami Heat
2025 Draft Picks
- First Round: No. 20 (via Golden State)
- Second Round: None
The Heat are in a retooling phase. They acquired a first-round pick from Golden State in the Butler trade but conveyed their own protected first (No. 15) to Oklahoma City by reaching the playoffs. Miami has a strong history of drafting and developing players effectively, and showed willingness to take a high-upside swing last year by selecting center Kel`el Ware, who had a promising rookie season. The Heat need help in the backcourt, particularly at point guard, but will likely prioritize long-term potential, similar to the Ware pick. Any influx of talent would be helpful as the Heat determine their future direction. Miami controls its own pick next year and its lottery rights in 2027, providing some flexibility for long-term planning as they develop younger players. — Woo
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 6
- Six in the next seven years
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 2
Future Second-Round Picks: 1
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- Top-14 protected first to Charlotte (2027, unprotected in 2028)
23. LA Clippers
2025 Draft Picks
- First Round: No. 30 (via Oklahoma City)
- Second Round: No. 51 (via Minnesota)
The Clippers remain focused on contending in the near future and can use the draft to bolster their bench. They selected Kobe Brown with the 30th pick last year, seemingly a pick intended for immediate contribution, but it didn`t yield significant dividends. Finding a player with a realistic chance to contribute in the short term should be a priority for LA. They need depth throughout the roster, especially considering Kawhi Leonard`s history of missed games, offering flexibility to select the player they like best regardless of position. (Backup center, in particular, has been a revolving door.) — Woo
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 5
- Own first in five out of the next seven years
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 2
Future Second-Round Picks: 4
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- Unprotected first to Oklahoma City or Washington (2026)
- First-round swap with Oklahoma City or Denver (2027)
- Unprotected first to Philadelphia (2028)
- Top-three protected swap with Philadelphia (2029)
24. New York Knicks
2025 Draft Picks
- First Round: None
- Second Round: No. 50 (via Memphis)
The Knicks are in contention mode and hold only the 50th pick. Their recent mid-to-late draft selections haven`t significantly panned out, partly because coach Tom Thibodeau tends to heavily rely on his starters for playing time. While New York can consider prospects who need longer development, much of their financial resources are tied up in their key players. Successfully finding a player late in the draft who can offer some value off the bench next season, particularly a wing capable of hitting open shots and defending, would be a positive outcome. — Woo
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 4
- 2026, 2028, 2030, 2032
- Top-eight protected first from Washington (2026)
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 1
Future Second-Round Picks: 7
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- Unprotected first to Brooklyn (2027, 2029, 2031)
- Swap rights with Brooklyn (2028)
25. Cleveland Cavaliers
2025 Draft Picks
- First Round: None
- Second Round: No. 49 (via Milwaukee), No. 58
Without a first-round selection, this draft isn`t high-stakes for the Cavaliers, who had a very favorable regular season and emerged as strong contenders. How they handle their two late second-round picks will depend on their roster strategy for next season. Given Cleveland`s substantial payroll, it`s possible the Cavs might want to sign one of their second-rounders to the main roster. The ability to offer a guaranteed contract rather than a two-way deal could make them an appealing workout destination for prospects likely to be selected in the second round. The Cavs have prioritized experience and feel for the game in building what has become a solid bench unit. — Woo
Incoming First Round Picks: 5
- Own first in 2026, 2028, 2030, 2031, 2032
Maximum Tradeable First-Round Picks: 1
Future Second-Round Picks: 4
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- Unprotected first to Utah (2027, 2029)
- Swap rights with Utah or Atlanta (2026 and 2028)
26. Los Angeles Lakers
2025 Draft Picks
- First Round: None
- Second Round: No. 55
The Lakers do not have a first-round pick in this draft and are unlikely to find an immediate contributor at pick No. 55. However, any depth they can gain with that selection would strengthen their bench, which has occasionally been thin. The more important focus for the offseason will be upgrading the roster with veteran talent to maximize their championship window after pairing LeBron James with Luka Doncic. — Woo
Incoming First Round Picks: 6
- Six in the next seven years
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 1
Future Second-Round Picks: 1
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks
- Top-four protected first to Utah (2027)
- Unprotected first to Dallas (2029)
27. Phoenix Suns
2025 Draft Picks
- First Round: No. 29 (via Cleveland)
- Second Round: No. 52 (via Denver)
This offseason is critical for the Suns, with issues beyond just draft selections. The possibility of a Kevin Durant trade, another head coaching change, and various missteps during Mat Ishbia`s brief ownership have put Phoenix in a difficult position and deep into salary cap troubles. Finding contributors with these picks remains important, as the Suns may need their drafted players to get minutes depending on potential roster changes in the coming months. Point guard and center have been areas needing improvement, and any stability provided by a rookie contributor would be valuable, especially given the transactional limitations the Suns face as a team exceeding the second luxury tax apron. — Woo
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 4
- Own in 2028, 2030
- Least favorable of Cleveland, Minnesota, Utah (2027)
- Least favorable of Cleveland, Minnesota (if 6-30), Utah (2029)
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 1
Future Second-Round Picks: 2
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- Least favorable of Phoenix, Orlando, Washington (if 1-8) and Memphis to Charlotte (2026)
- Unprotected first to Houston (2027)
- Unprotected first to Houston or Brooklyn (2029)
- Unprotected first to Utah (2031)
- Swap rights with Orlando, Washington (if 1-8) and Memphis (2026)
- Swap rights with Washington, Brooklyn, New York (2028)
- Swap rights with Washington and Memphis (2030)
Note
- Phoenix`s first-round pick in 2032 is frozen and cannot be traded until the team is below the second salary apron.
28. Milwaukee Bucks
2025 Draft Picks
- First Round: None
- Second Round: No. 47 (via Detroit)
The Bucks are at an organizational crossroads, with many supporting players facing free agency, Damian Lillard expected to miss significant time with a torn Achilles, and the possibility of trading Giannis Antetokounmpo seeming more real than ever. However, Milwaukee is heavily invested in building around their two-time MVP and does not control their own draft picks until 2031, making a straightforward rebuild challenging. The Bucks hold only the 47th pick in this draft. Considering the need for playable depth regardless of their roster direction, the focus should be on finding an undervalued prospect who could potentially contribute off the bench. — Woo
Incoming Future First-Round Picks: 4
- Own first in five of the next seven years
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 1
Future Second-Round Picks: 2
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- Swap with New Orleans (2026)
- Unprotected first to New Orleans or Atlanta (2027, if 5-30)
- Swap with Portland or Washington (2028)
- Unprotected first to Portland or Washington (2029)
- Swap with Portland (2030)
29. Denver Nuggets
2025 Draft Picks
- First Round: None
- Second Round: None
The Nuggets have no selections in this draft and limited assets to acquire one, making this a lower-stakes situation, especially after ownership`s decision regarding GM Calvin Booth and head coach Michael Malone. Under Booth, the Nuggets significantly valued adding talent on cost-controlled contracts through the draft. How Denver will enhance its roster around Nikola Jokic remains to be seen as the situations with the front office and coaching leadership unfold this offseason. — Woo
Incoming Future First Round Picks: 5
- Own first in five of the next seven years
Maximum Tradeable Future First-Round Picks: 1
Future Second-Round Picks: 1
Future Outgoing First-Round Picks:
- Top-five protected first to Oklahoma City (2027, top-five protected in 2028, 2029)
- Top-five protected first to Oklahoma City (2029, top-five protected in 2030)
30. Minnesota Timberwolves
2025 Draft Picks
Information for the Minnesota Timberwolves` 2025 draft picks and future assets was incomplete in the provided text.
