Everything You Need to Know About the 2025 NBA Draft Lottery
The 2025 NBA draft lottery is set to bring its annual wave of excitement and speculation this Monday at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN. As the entire league converges on Chicago, the offseason is officially underway for most franchises. This year’s lottery is particularly intriguing, with the fates of at least 13 NBA teams hanging in the balance as they await the results of the draw.
Leading the pack of prospects is Cooper Flagg, the consensus projected No. 1 pick, who has captured the attention of scouts and analysts alike. Right behind him is Dylan Harper, a strong contender for the No. 2 spot. The draft class is filled with promising young talent, many of whom are freshmen, making this lottery night one to watch closely.
ESPN’s NBA draft analysts Jonathan Givony and Jeremy Woo have provided an in-depth breakdown of the outlook for each team in the lottery. They offer insights into the offseason plans for these teams and predict the best prospect fit for each, assuming the order remains unchanged. However, history suggests surprises are likely, adding an extra layer of anticipation to the event.
Here’s a closer look at what to expect from Monday’s draft lottery:
- Utah Jazz: With a 14% chance of securing the No. 1 pick and a 52.1% chance of landing in the top four, the Jazz are eyeing Cooper Flagg as their top choice. Utah’s recent struggles, including a league-worst 17-65 record, make Flagg a highly desirable addition to their roster. The Jazz have a pair of first-round picks and several future picks, positioning them well for future success.
- Washington Wizards: Also holding a 14% chance for the top pick, the Wizards are likely to select Dylan Harper if they remain at No. 2. Harper’s playmaking abilities and size make him an attractive option for a team still in the rebuilding phase. The Wizards are committed to their long-term process and are expected to continue taking big swings in the draft.
- Charlotte Hornets: With a 14% chance at the No. 1 pick, the Hornets are considering Ace Bailey if they stay at No. 3. Bailey’s potential as a dynamic perimeter shooter and scorer makes him a strong fit alongside LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller. The Hornets are in talent acquisition mode, hoping for a lottery result that propels them forward.
- New Orleans Pelicans: Holding a 12.5% chance for the top pick, the Pelicans are eyeing VJ Edgecombe if they remain at No. 4. Edgecombe’s physicality and potential as a ballhandler make him an appealing choice for a team seeking young star power in the backcourt.
- Philadelphia 76ers: With a 10.5% chance at the No. 1 pick, the 76ers are considering Jeremiah Fears if they stay at No. 5. Fears’ star power and potential as a primary shot creator make him a strong candidate for a team looking to rebound from a disappointing season.
As the lottery approaches, each team’s strategy and potential picks are under the microscope. The Jazz, Wizards, Hornets, Pelicans, and 76ers are all hoping for a favorable outcome that could reshape their futures. With so much at stake, Monday’s event promises to be a pivotal moment in the NBA offseason.
For more detailed insights and analysis, be sure to tune in to ESPN’s coverage of the 2025 NBA draft lottery.
Originally Written by: Jonathan Givony,Jeremy Woo
