The 2025 NBA Draft lottery has set the Dallas Mavericks at the forefront, earning the first pick despite slim odds of just 1.8%. With the top selection, they are projected to select Cooper Flagg, a standout from Duke, who is expected to thrive in their lineup alongside stars like Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. His two-way skill set could fill the void left by Irving's injury, enhancing the Mavericks' playmaking capabilities.

The San Antonio Spurs are next, taking Dylan Harper from Rutgers. With their recent success in acquiring top rookie talent like Victor Wembanyama, the Spurs might consider trading this pick to pair Harper with De'Aaron Fox and Giannis Antetokounmpo in a blockbuster move. If they hold onto the pick, Harper offers high floor potential that could complement their talented roster.

Philadelphia faces a crucial decision with their third pick—whether to draft Ace Bailey or trade him for immediate help alongside Joel Embiid. Bailey's athleticism and scoring ability would be valuable, particularly if the Sixers prioritize a win-now strategy. The Charlotte Hornets may opt for VJ Edgecombe to bolster their wing position, while the Utah Jazz look to Kon Knueppel to add depth and shooting prowess.

The Brooklyn Nets are poised to make a significant impact in the 2025 NBA Draft, armed with four first-round picks, including the eighth overall selection. While the hope of landing Duke forward Cooper Flagg has faded, the focus now shifts to potential picks that could help shape the future of the franchise. In a recent mock draft by Jonathan Wasserman, the Nets are projected to select Duke's Kon Knueppel, a player noted for his impressive shooting ability and versatility.

Despite an ankle injury that kept Knueppel from participating in the NBA Draft Combine's athletic tests, his strong performances at Duke, where he averaged 14.4 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game, have caught the Nets' attention. Wasserman emphasizes that Knueppel's abilities extend beyond just shooting, showcasing his IQ and passing skills that could add a dynamic edge to the Nets' offense. With endorsements from notable players like Flagg, who views Knueppel as a 'safe pick', Brooklyn appears to be doing its due diligence in evaluating one of the promising talents expected to be available when they pick.

Cooper Flagg is the standout name from the Duke Blue Devils expected to enter the 2025 NBA draft, but Kon Knueppel is also making waves as a potential top-five pick. Both freshmen shone during their inaugural season, propelling Duke to the Final Four. Knueppel's shooting prowess was particularly impressive, with averages of 14.4 points and a 40.6% mark from beyond the arc. As the draft approaches, analysts speculate that the Utah Jazz, who struggled last season, might select Knueppel to bolster their lineup, particularly after missing out on Flagg.

The Jazz finished the 2024-25 campaign with a disappointing 17-65 record and are looking to improve their three-point shooting, which was only 35% last season. Knueppel's sharpshooting could be the solution they need, providing immediate impact and better floor spacing alongside Lauri Markkanen. The NBA draft set for June 25 will clarify Knueppel's future, and fans are eagerly anticipating the outcome.

Jon Scheyer and the Duke Blue Devils face significant roster changes after their Final Four exit to the Houston Cougars. All-American Cooper Flagg is projected to be the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, with the Dallas Mavericks likely selecting him. Freshmen Khaman Maluach and Tyrese Proctor are also heading to the pros, while freshman guard Kon Knueppel, who shined at the ACC Tournament, joins them. He averaged 21.0 points per game in that tournament, earning the Most Outstanding Player award.

Knueppel’s stats in his lone season included 14.4 points and a solid 40.6% shooting from beyond the arc. He’s currently at the Chicago combine, aiming to further his draft stock ahead of the June 25 NBA Draft. During interviews, he discussed studying players like Klay Thompson and Jimmy Butler, emphasizing his competitive nature and desire to win, making him a valuable prospect for any NBA team.

The NBA Draft is heating up with Cooper Flagg anticipated to be the No. 1 pick, but his Duke teammate, Kon Knueppel, is making waves of his own. After an impressive ACC Tournament performance, Knueppel has emerged as a potential lottery pick, with some experts even suggesting he could go in the top five. However, concerns arise regarding his below-average wingspan and standing reach measurements, which could give teams pause, especially as he missed shooting drills due to an ankle injury.

Despite these physical setbacks, Knueppel's stats during the season—averaging 14.4 points, 4 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and a steal per game—highlight his offensive versatility. Comparisons to Memphis Grizzlies' Desmond Bane showcase his potential, but the question remains: can he adapt to the NBA's defensive challenges with his limited size?