The 2025 NBA Draft is fast approaching, with Duke's Cooper Flagg solidifying his status as the top pick, likely heading to the Dallas Mavericks. Meanwhile, Egor Demin from BYU is drawing attention as a potential lottery pick, with his height and passing skills being highlighted by coaches and scouts. Despite concerns about his physicality in the NBA, Demin's vision and maturity are viewed as strong assets. His projections vary, with potential picks ranging from No. 10 to No. 20.

The New Orleans Pelicans are actively scouting potential first-round draft picks, recently hosting workouts for Duke guard Kon Knueppel and Washington State forward Cedric Coward. Knueppel, a promising talent, averaged 14.4 points per game, showcasing remarkable shooting skills with a 40.6% three-point percentage. He was also noted for his impressive free-throw shooting, ranking seventh nationally. Coward, despite limited appearances due to injury, posted an impressive 17.7 points, 7 rebounds, and demonstrated athleticism with a significant wingspan and vertical leap.

With the Pelicans holding the seventh overall pick in the upcoming draft, both players are forecasted as lottery picks, potentially enhancing the team's rebuilding efforts following a challenging season. The Pelicans have also conducted workouts with other notable prospects. The two-night draft event is set for June 25 and 26 in Brooklyn.

In a blockbuster trade, the Memphis Grizzlies have shipped Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic in exchange for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony, and a treasure trove of four unprotected first-round picks. This deal signifies a pivotal moment for Memphis as it aims to recalibrate its roster around Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. without overextending financially. Bane's departure allows for the restructuring of salary commitments, particularly with Jackson's imminent renegotiation on the horizon.

The Grizzlies have effectively chosen to step back from a top-heavy core, fostering both financial flexibility and depth. Caldwell-Pope brings defensive prowess and shooting ability to a team already buzzing with talent, as Memphis pivots to a model that emphasizes a more well-rounded approach rather than a reliance on big-name stars.

For the Magic, acquiring Bane reflects a bold strategy to bolster their offensive capabilities amid an open Eastern Conference landscape. While this move might seem steep—given the picks involved—Bane's potential to elevate Orlando’s scoring output is irresistible. However, the absence of a primary creator on the roster raises questions about the long-term effectiveness of this acquisition. Aiming for a playoff-worthy squad, the Magic believe they are just a few steps away from contention.

The Brooklyn Nets landed the eighth overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, a result that didn’t meet their hopes for a higher selection. Despite this, the Nets now face an exciting opportunity to reshape their roster with impactful rookies. Key prospects include Jeremiah Fears, a potential combo guard from Oklahoma known for his scoring ability despite a subpar shooting percentage, and Kon Knueppel, a versatile forward from Duke with impressive shooting skills that could bolster Brooklyn's shooting depth.

Other intriguing options include Khaman Maluach, a towering center from Duke with significant shot-blocking abilities, and Derik Queen from Maryland, whose finesse and athleticism have sparked interest among scouts. Rounding out the notable choices is Carter Bryant from Arizona, a wing player with potential for growth. The Nets have multiple first-round selections, allowing them to strategically implement these talents into their ongoing rebuild.

The Oklahoma City Thunder responded emphatically in Game 2 of the NBA Finals, overcoming the Indiana Pacers with a 123-107 victory, tying the series at one game apiece. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the way with 34 points, marking his second consecutive stellar performance in the Finals, while Alex Caruso contributed 20 points off the bench. Jalen Williams, Aaron Wiggins, and Chet Holmgren added crucial points, showcasing the Thunder's depth.

Despite a promising start, the Pacers struggled to keep pace, with Tyrese Haliburton scoring 17 points but failing to find rhythm. Myles Turner and Pascal Siakam followed suit with 16 and 15 points, respectively. This win marked the Thunder’s first Finals victory since 2012, with Game 3 set for Indianapolis coming up. Oklahoma City's resilience shines as they have now won 18 of their last 20 games following a loss this season, demonstrating their ability to bounce back under pressure.