NBA Draft 2025: Biggest Winners and Losers From a Wild Second Round

By Edcel Panganiban June 29, 2025 14:09

The 2025 NBA Draft’s second round proved to be a rollercoaster, filled with surprises, bold moves, and intriguing prospects who could reshape franchises in the coming years. After a first round marked by notable picks like Cooper Flagg to the Mavericks and Ace Bailey to the Jazz, the second day brought unexpected trades, steals, and some head-scratching selections. Here’s a breakdown of the biggest winners and losers from a wild second round.

Biggest Winners

Phoenix Suns: Smart Moves Bolster Frontcourt Depth

The Suns emerged as clear winners in the second round, executing savvy trades to acquire the 31st pick and select Rasheer Fleming from Saint Joseph’s. Fleming, a 6-foot-9 forward with a 7-foot-5 wingspan and a 39% three-point shooting clip last season, fits perfectly into Phoenix’s frontcourt rotation. CBS Sports analyst Kyle Boone graded this pick an “A,” noting Fleming’s potential as a versatile defender and floor spacer.

Phoenix also added Khaman Maluach in the first round, highlighting their commitment to blending youth and skill. With these additions, the Suns have addressed key roster needs without sacrificing future flexibility.

Charlotte Hornets: Drafting With a Clear Vision

Charlotte’s front office showed a strong directional approach by selecting Duke sharpshooter Sion James at 33, despite some analysts calling it a reach. James, rated in the 96th percentile for jump shots and catch-and-shoot opportunities last season, complements their earlier pick Kon Knueppel, one of the draft’s best shooters. This focus on elite shooting could pay dividends in a league increasingly reliant on spacing and perimeter scoring.

Boston Celtics: Adding International Talent

The Celtics grabbed French wing Noah Penda at 32, a player many expected to go in the first round. Penda’s physical tools and defensive upside make him a valuable asset in Boston’s system. This pick was graded a solid “B” by analysts, emphasizing Boston’s knack for finding international talent that fits their culture and style.

Biggest Losers

New Orleans Pelicans: Questionable Trade and Selection

The Pelicans made headlines by trading up to select Derik Queen at No. 13 in the first round, a move that raised eyebrows due to Queen’s limited upside compared to other prospects still available. While the second round didn’t offer many blockbuster moves for New Orleans, their aggressive first-round maneuvering has put pressure on them to justify the investment.

Brooklyn Nets: Missed Opportunities in the Second Round

Brooklyn’s second-round haul was underwhelming, with picks like Ben Saraf (Israel) and Danny Wolf (Michigan) seen as long-term projects rather than immediate contributors. Given the Nets’ current roster needs, especially on defense and shooting, this conservative approach may limit their ability to contend quickly.

Some Reaches and Overpays

Several teams took players significantly earlier than projected, risking wasted assets. For example, Charlotte’s selection of Sion James ten spots higher than expected was debated, and other picks like Philadelphia’s choice of Johni Broome and Florida’s Alijah Martin raised questions about fit and upside.

Notable Second-Round Steals

Beyond the headline picks, some second-rounders could emerge as hidden gems. Rasheer Fleming’s blend of shooting and defense makes him a prime candidate to outperform his draft slot. Similarly, international players like Noah Penda and Noa Essengue (France) offer intriguing upside for teams willing to develop their talents.

The 2025 NBA Draft’s second round was a microcosm of the modern NBA draft experience: a blend of strategic gambles, international scouting, and player development bets. Winners like the Suns and Hornets showcased clear visions and smart asset management, while teams like the Pelicans and Nets face questions about their draft strategy’s immediate impact.

As these rookies enter Summer League and training camps, their true value will begin to reveal itself. For now, the second round’s wild ride has set the stage for a fascinating rookie class that could surprise fans and analysts alike in the seasons to come.