The second round of the 2025 NBA draft commenced on Thursday. The day began with a notable trade, as the Minnesota Timberwolves sent the first pick of the round (No. 31) to the Phoenix Suns in exchange for the 36th pick and two future second-round selections.
Day 1 saw significant moments, including Duke standout Cooper Flagg being selected by the Dallas Mavericks as the top overall pick, the New Orleans Pelicans trading up to acquire Maryland center Derik Queen at No. 13, and various other interesting selections and trades throughout the initial round.
As Day 2 unfolds, several critical questions remain. Let`s explore the major themes and project picks 31 through 59 with an updated mock draft.
Who are the top remaining prospects? First-round-caliber players such as Rasheer Fleming, Maxime Raynaud, and Noah Penda could potentially be early selections on Thursday. Which team is strategically positioned for an impactful Round 2? And which less-talked-about prospects might turn out to be valuable steals?
Which is the most interesting team drafting on Thursday?
Givony: The Hornets, holding picks 33 and 34, are expected to be central to trade discussions throughout the day, especially after adding two first-round talents, Kon Knueppel and Liam McNeeley, to their roster. Given their already young squad, Charlotte`s eagerness to add one or two more rookies is uncertain. However, the team has a clear need for size in the paint after trading Mark Williams to the Suns. Potential targets include intriguing 7-footers like Maxime Raynaud and Ryan Kalkbrenner, as well as skilled forwards such as Rasheer Fleming and Adou Thiero.
Woo: The Timberwolves possess the first pick of Round 2 at No. 31, giving them both the opportunity to select their preferred player and the leverage to use the pick in a trade. I`m curious to see if they choose a prospect like Fleming or if they find greater value in trading the pick for other assets.
Who`s an under-the-radar prospect you really like who`s likely to be picked Thursday?
Givony: Noah Penda attracted attention from teams in the first round due to his defensive versatility, passing skills, and overall understanding of the game. However, concerns about his inconsistent shooting limited his traction during the predraft process.
Playoff teams selecting in the 30s, like Minnesota, Boston, or Philadelphia, might view him as an appealing target, possibly considering stashing him in Europe to maintain roster flexibility. Penda, however, would likely prefer to join a U.S.-based team immediately if given the opportunity.
Woo: Jamir Watkins, though older at 23, might be somewhat undervalued. He`s a superb perimeter defender who I believe will develop a reliable enough shot to earn a spot on an NBA bench. He would be a good fit for a team focused on competing next season, possibly selected in the 30s.
Looking at your Round 2 mock, what`s your favorite team and player fit you`ve projected?
Givony: Maxime Raynaud joining the Celtics at pick No. 32 appears to be a logical fit. As an older, 7-foot prospect capable of stretching the floor, he could potentially fill minutes, especially after the Celtics traded Kristaps Porzingis. With Luke Kornet`s free agency status and the team facing financial constraints, bringing in Raynaud on a smaller rookie salary could provide valuable financial flexibility for the offseason.
Woo: Rasheer Fleming heading to the Timberwolves at pick No. 31 would represent a solid value pick for Minnesota, a team in need of frontcourt depth. He might even be ready to contribute bench minutes right away. He possesses the build and shooting potential that could enhance the Wolves` depth, regardless of Naz Reid`s free agency decision. Although the first pick of the second round is particularly valuable for trade purposes in the current draft format, simply selecting the best available player might be the most sensible approach.
Round 2 Mock Draft
31. Phoenix Suns (from Minnesota via Utah)
Rasheer Fleming, F, Saint Joseph`s
Strengths: Fleming is a forward with valuable physical tools and a large 7-foot-5 wingspan, showing significant improvement over three years. He has become an efficient scorer both inside and out, complementing his potential on the defensive end.
Weaknesses: His understanding of the game is a notable concern; he doesn`t process actions quickly on offense or defense. He sometimes struggles with simple passes and is prone to defensive errors away from the ball.
The Verdict: Length, shooting, and potential defensive versatility are highly valued in the NBA. Fleming offers all three to a team willing to invest time in developing his defensive awareness and technique while his offensive processing ideally improves. Despite struggling late in the season, his youth and development curve suggest potential for future growth. — Givony
32. Orlando Magic (from Boston, Detroit and Brooklyn via Washington)
Maxime Raynaud, C, Stanford
Strengths: Raynaud started playing basketball full-time later than some peers but developed into a skilled 7-footer during his four seasons at Stanford. He can space the floor offensively and hold his own rebounding.
Weaknesses: The main questions about his game are on the defensive side, where he sometimes lacks physicality and burst, although his effort seemed better at the NBA draft combine.
The Verdict: Having played alongside Victor Wembanyama in his youth in France, Raynaud has grown into a legitimate NBA prospect. He might be a late bloomer, but his size and shooting ability fit a sought-after profile, potentially offering a quicker path to an NBA role than some earlier picks. His defensive performance will be key to watch early in his career. — Givony
33. Charlotte Hornets
Ryan Kalkbrenner, C, Creighton
Strengths: Kalkbrenner is an experienced center known for his effectiveness in pick-and-roll situations, offensive execution, rim protection, and developing 3-point shot, making him a dependable backup option.
Weaknesses: While his 7-foot-6 wingspan is valuable, he isn`t exceptionally physical or explosive. His defensive rebounding numbers were also underwhelming for parts of his college career.
The Verdict: Kalkbrenner has been one of the most efficient and impactful players in college basketball recently, leading Division I in dunks. His growing ability to space the floor adds a significant dimension. Despite some limitations, his size, length, and consistency make him an attractive option for a team seeking affordable depth at the center position. — Givony
34. Charlotte Hornets (from San Antonio, Phoenix and Memphis via New Orleans)
Tyrese Proctor, G, Duke
Strengths: Proctor is a guard with a smooth shot who played various roles at Duke, demonstrating flexibility in playing both with and without the ball in his hands.
Weaknesses: His physical frame remained thin throughout college, and he possesses only average physical tools. He has consistently lacked a degree of aggressiveness and physicality on both ends, particularly in crucial game moments.
The Verdict: Proctor`s size for his position, his improvement as a spot-up shooter, and glimpses of his ability to create offense from pick-and-rolls over three college seasons are interesting. However, he didn`t fully develop into a primary point guard. To secure a meaningful role off the ball in the NBA, he will need to become tougher. — Givony
35. Philadelphia 76ers
Noah Penda, F, France
Strengths: Penda is a wing-forward with a strong build, an excellent basketball IQ, a 6-foot-11½ wingspan, and defensive versatility. He contributes across the stat sheet with rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks.
Weaknesses: He relies more on strength than vertical explosiveness and has inconsistent perimeter shooting with unconventional mechanics. He shot below 30% from 3-point range this season and throughout his career.
The Verdict: Penda had an impressive season for a French playoff team, transitioning smoothly from Pro B to Pro A. He made defensive plays and used his physique and intelligence to create plays off the dribble for himself and teammates. His shooting is a critical factor for his NBA potential, as he otherwise fulfills many requirements as a two-way player. — Givony
36. Minnesota Timberwolves (from Brooklyn)
Jamir Watkins, SG/SF, Florida State, senior
Strengths: Watkins is a sturdy defender with an excellent build and a 6-foot-11 wingspan. He demonstrated impressive all-around production at Florida State.
Weaknesses: Despite being effective as a secondary ball handler last season, the 23-year-old has struggled to find consistency with his outside shot, making only 32.5% of his career 3-pointers in college.
The Verdict: Watkins significantly boosted his draft stock at the NBA combine, showcasing physicality and high defensive intensity while contributing across the board. Turning 24 soon, his NBA-ready body and tools provide him with an immediate foundational skill. However, developing consistent scoring in the half court will be crucial for his long-term staying power. — Givony
37. Detroit Pistons (from Dallas and San Antonio via Toronto)
Chaz Lanier, SG, Tennessee, super senior
Strengths: Lanier is a dangerous shooter coming off screens with solid physical attributes. He proved himself as a prolific scorer in the SEC after transferring from North Florida.
Weaknesses: Concerns exist regarding his understanding of the game, passing ability, and defensive impact, as he struggled to contribute effectively when his outside shots weren`t falling.
The Verdict: A genuine late bloomer, Lanier averaged just 3.7 points over his first three college seasons before significantly improving his shooting as an upperclassman. This complements his good size, frame, and 6-foot-9 wingspan. He is not a primary ball handler and needs to better utilize his physical tools defensively, but his clear ability to space the floor and shoot off movement provides a valuable niche. — Givony
38. Indiana Pacers (from San Antonio)
Koby Brea, SG/SF, Kentucky, super senior
Strengths: Brea has been recognized as one of the top shooters in college basketball over the past two seasons, hitting 47% from deep, and possesses solid physical characteristics for his position.
Weaknesses: While highly effective as a floor spacer, his shorter wingspan, average defense, and limited explosiveness constrain his potential as a versatile role player.
The Verdict: After hitting 50% of his 3-pointers at Dayton, Brea confirmed his elite shooting with another strong season at Kentucky. He is a premier floor spacer and movement shooter, fitting a profile highly valued in the modern NBA. How much he can contribute beyond his shooting will determine how quickly he finds a consistent role at the next level. — Givony
39. Toronto Raptors (from Sacramento via Portland)
John Tonje, SF, Wisconsin, super senior
Strengths: Tonje is a well-built wing with good size, length, and an aggressive approach. He had a breakout season at Wisconsin, becoming one of the leading scorers in college basketball.
Weaknesses: He is not known for his passing and lacks high-level defensive tools. His style often involves using his strength, which might be less effective against NBA opponents compared to college players.
The Verdict: Tonje had an excellent season for the Badgers, frequently getting to the free-throw line and hitting 39% of his 3-pointers on good volume. His 41-point game against Arizona was a highlight. His experience could be beneficial in the right role, but he still needs to prove his game translates to the NBA, as older scorers in his mold have a mixed track record historically. — Givony
40. New Orleans Pelicans (via Washington)
Micah Peavy, SG/SF, Georgetown, senior
Strengths: Peavy is a versatile wing with solid size known for his intense defense. He showed significant improvement in his 3-point shooting as a fifth-year senior.
Weaknesses: His shooting form is unorthodox, resulting in career percentages of 32% from three and 61% from the free-throw line, coupled with inefficient scoring inside the arc. While his effort level translated well in college, his length is average for NBA standards, and he turns 24 in July.
The Verdict: In his third college program, Peavy occasionally carried Georgetown with his assertive scoring. He showed versatility in setting up teammates and hitting more perimeter shots than anticipated. However, his career free-throw struggles, occasional questionable decision-making, and age are concerns. Still, the demand for players with his defensive intensity gives him chances to demonstrate his game translates to higher levels. — Givony
41. Phoenix Suns (from Golden State, Brooklyn and Indiana via Miami)
Bogoljub Markovic, PF/C, Mega Superbet (Adriatic)
Strengths: Markovic is a skilled big man who scored efficiently from different spots on the floor in his first Adriatic League season, earning rookie of the year honors.
Weaknesses: With a 6-foot-11 wingspan and slender build, he struggles to consistently make a defensive or rebounding impact. He often appears slightly slow in terms of awareness on both ends of the court.
The Verdict: Markovic had a breakout year capped by a strong performance at the Nike Hoop Summit. At his best, his ability to space the floor, rebound defensively and push in transition, and finish skillfully around the basket is promising. However, he will need to improve his physicality, basketball IQ, and toughness to effectively use those tools at the NBA level. — Givony
42. Sacramento Kings (from San Antonio via Chicago)
Rocco Zikarsky, C, Brisbane (Australia)
Strengths: Zikarsky is young (18) with immense size, developing skills, and clear defensive potential, highlighted by his 9-foot-6½ standing reach.
Weaknesses: While his size is a major asset inside, he doesn`t move particularly well laterally in open space and doesn`t always provide the level of physicality expected. He can appear a step behind the action due to lapses in awareness.
The Verdict: Zikarsky`s second season in the NBL wasn`t as productive as anticipated by scouts. Although he was consistent on the offensive boards, he struggled with scoring efficiency, missing close shots and free throws, which tempered enthusiasm about his potential to stretch the floor. His ability to alter shots with exceptional length is appealing, but he is still developing as a rim protector when not positioned directly under the basket. Nevertheless, his size and youth make him an intriguing long-term project for a team confident in its player development program, aiming for the game to slow down for him as he matures physically. — Givony
43. Washington Wizards (from Utah via Dallas)
Sion James, SF, Duke, super senior
Strengths: James played a vital role for Duke, providing reliable ball handling, unselfishness, defensive versatility, and opportunistic scoring. His strong physique added valuable experience and toughness to the team.
Weaknesses: He has never been a high-volume scorer, lacking significant length and dynamic creation skills. Questions remain about his shooting consistency given his unrefined mechanics and hesitation to take many perimeter shots.
The Verdict: James performed a role for Duke similar to what he might do in the NBA: guarding multiple positions, staying active off-ball, and contributing in subtle ways. While not exceptionally long, his unique physical profile can be an asset for a team needing a versatile utility player, especially if his spot-up shooting continues to improve. — Givony
44. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Atlanta)
Javon Small, PG, West Virginia, senior
Strengths: Small is a resilient, balanced guard who demonstrated strong role-player qualities. He led an undermanned West Virginia team effectively with his defense and ability to create offense off the dribble.
Weaknesses: Although he maximizes his build, he lacks elite size, length, or bulk compared to NBA standards for guards.
The Verdict: Small had a strong season in the Big 12, showing he could score in bursts and facilitate for others on a team that relied heavily on him. Successfully managing this primary responsibility while still bringing defensive energy makes him appealing for teams needing guard depth. His ability to improve as a shooter, finisher, and decision-maker is key, as his size means he cannot rely solely on defense. — Givony
45. Minnesota Timberwolves (trade with Lakers from Chicago via Sacramento)
Eric Dixon, PF, Villanova, super senior
Strengths: Dixon is a power forward with a large build who had an extremely productive season, leading the nation in scoring as a sixth-year senior. He has made significant strides as a shooter.
Weaknesses: His 6-foot-11½ wingspan, average physical traits, and inconsistent defensive effectiveness are limitations to his game.
The Verdict: Scoring effectively from the perimeter at 259 pounds, Dixon transformed from a hesitant shooter into one of the most dynamic shooting big men in college basketball. To carve out an NBA role, it would be highly beneficial if he could regain some of the physicality and toughness he showed earlier in his career as a rebounder and defender, potentially in a more limited capacity. — Givony
46. Boston Celtics (via Orlando)
Kam Jones, PG/SG, Marquette, senior
Strengths: Jones had a productive and efficient season running Marquette`s offense, excelling in their five-out system. He hit important shots and scored prolifically, earning first-team All-Big East honors.
Weaknesses: He isn`t the most explosive guard and experienced a decline in his shooting percentage in an expanded role this past season. He faces questions about his defense and ability to efficiently create offense in a less central role.
The Verdict: Jones stepped up as a primary ball handler this season, ranking among the nation`s best pick-and-roll players after previously operating more off the ball. His decisive playmaking and scoring stood out. However, his inconsistent perimeter shooting and moderate defensive impact are areas for improvement as he aims to show his game translates to the higher competition level of the NBA. — Givony
47. Milwaukee Bucks (from Washington via Detroit)
Alex Toohey, SF/PF, Sydney (Australia)
Strengths: Toohey is an intelligent and adaptable forward whose composure impressed in the NBL and at the NBA combine.
Weaknesses: He is only an average athlete. While he has improved his shooting, he needs to become more consistent from beyond the arc to secure an NBA role.
The Verdict: Toohey checks boxes with his feel for the game, consistent effort, length, and defensive anticipation. He possesses sharp basketball instincts. However, to utilize these instincts effectively in an NBA role, he will need to become a more consistently assertive and impactful offensive threat – an area where he showed progress this past year. — Givony
48. Memphis Grizzlies (from Washington and Brooklyn via Golden State)
Amari Williams, C, Kentucky, senior
Strengths: Williams is a center with an intriguing mix of physical attributes (7-foot-6 wingspan), strong rebounding, shot-blocking ability, and good instincts as a passer.
Weaknesses: He is not a significant scorer outside of points earned from drawing fouls using his size. He lacks shooting range, never improved his free-throw percentage (career 63%), and doesn`t offer as much defensive versatility as desired. He struggled when forced to defend away from the basket and sometimes lacked consistent intensity or awareness.
The Verdict: Williams may not excel at quick defensive rotations or defending on the perimeter, but he has excellent physical tools and was among the nation`s top rebounders in his single season at Kentucky. Combined with his ability to facilitate handoffs and finish plays above the rim, he presents an interesting profile for certain teams seeking a situational big man. — Givony
49. Cleveland Cavaliers (via Milwaukee)
Johni Broome, C, Auburn, super senior
Strengths: Broome is a physical and highly effective scorer both inside and outside the paint with a strong basketball IQ. A finalist for the Wooden Award, he was one of college basketball`s best players for periods last season.
Weaknesses: Lacking elite length and explosiveness, Broome relied on timing and determination in college. His game might be more situational in the NBA, especially if his unconventional shooting motion and career 30% 3-point accuracy don`t translate effectively.
The Verdict: Broome was incredibly productive last season. While minor injuries affected him late, his scoring, passing, and rebounding instincts were consistently evident. His streaky shooting and defensive limitations somewhat complicate his NBA fit, but he is one of the most proven prospects available in this draft. — Givony
50. LA Clippers (from New York Knicks, from OKC and Boston via Memphis)
Alijah Martin, SG, Florida, senior
Strengths: Martin is a strong, athletic wing whose scoring and defensive versatility were key to Florida`s championship run.
Weaknesses: Despite a 6-foot-7½ wingspan, Martin isn`t a high-level ball handler or passer for his size. His perimeter shooting has also been inconsistent.
The Verdict: Bouncy, physical, and tough, Martin provided strong two-way play, particularly when his shots were falling consistently. He played bigger than his listed height defensively and made impressive plays in transition and open space. His physical tools were assets in college, but he will need to become a more reliable shooter or more effective playmaker to ease his transition to the NBA. — Givony
51. New York Knicks (from LA Clippers, Atlanta and Houston via Minnesota)
Adou Thiero, PF, Arkansas
Strengths: Thiero is arguably the most explosive player in this draft class. He is a defensive disruptor who poses a significant threat attacking straight-line and in the open court, drawing many fouls and finishing with highlight-reel plays.
Weaknesses: Somewhat caught between forward spots, Thiero is still developing his skills, basketball IQ, and defensive focus. He struggled with consistent shooting and missed most of the predraft process due to a persistent knee issue.
The Verdict: Thiero showed considerable improvement as a junior, but he needs to make strides in shooting and overall consistency to carve out an NBA role. His defensive potential is evident given his physical tools, and his progress over three college seasons makes him an intriguing long-term project. — Givony
52. Golden State Warriors (from Phoenix, Charlotte and Minnesota via Denver)
Vladislav Goldin, C, Michigan, super senior
Strengths: Goldin is a powerfully built center with excellent size and length. His consistent effort and productivity were crucial during multiple NCAA tournament runs.
Weaknesses: While he moves well and can finish above the rim when driving, he lacks quickness defending in space and pursuing rebounds. His limited perimeter skills (not a strong passer, little shooting range) restrict his versatility. At 24, he`s one of the older prospects.
The Verdict: Goldin was a force rolling to the basket and on the offensive glass. His intensity and size at the rim can be imposing, even if he isn`t the most fluid or coordinated athlete. Although he experimented with a jumper, the center with a 7-foot-5 wingspan fits a more traditional mold. His ability to consistently anchor a defense and rebound will be vital at the next level. — Givony
53. Utah Jazz (from Lakers via LA Clippers)
Lachlan Olbrich, PF/C, Illawarra
Strengths: Olbrich is a traditional big man with a strong motor and good feel for the game. His improvement this season was key to the Illawarra Hawks winning the NBL championship.
Weaknesses: He lacks the length typically required for an NBA center (6-foot-11 wingspan) and the floor-spacing ability needed for a power forward. This leaves him somewhat between positions on both ends. He also doesn`t possess elite explosiveness to compensate.
The Verdict: Olbrich returned to Australia after a solid freshman year. He has developed significantly since then, showing excellent passing, strong interior skills, and the effort needed on defense. For his NBA chances, figuring out how to keep defenders honest from the perimeter will likely be crucial, given his physical defensive limitations. — Givony
54. Indiana Pacers
Ryan Nembhard, PG, Gonzaga, senior
Strengths: Nembhard is an intelligent point guard who led Division I in assists. His playmaking vision was clearly displayed in G League Elite Camp and NBA combine scrimmages.
Weaknesses: Listed at 6-foot in shoes, he lacks ideal size, strength, length, and explosiveness. This limits his effectiveness finishing around the basket and defensively.
The Verdict: Nembhard may be physically behind, but he`s likely the most polished traditional point guard in this draft. His impressive 3.9 assist-to-turnover ratio and ability to pass teammates open were consistent highlights last season. His proficiency as a distributor alone should provide a niche in the NBA, but improving his scoring beyond opportunistic shots could solidify his standing. — Givony
55. Chicago Bulls (via Lakers)
Dink Pate, SG/SF, Mexico City (G League)
Strengths: Pate, at 19, is a swingman with intriguing physical tools and a strong high school background, offering potential for long-term development.
Weaknesses: Pate is in the early stages of developing his shooting, defense, decision-making, and overall consistency. He was miscast as a point guard earlier and faced a difficult situation as the youngest player in the G League for two consecutive years.
The Verdict: Pate showed flashes of productivity for the Mexico City Capitanes after a challenging time with the G League Ignite. He demonstrated the ability to drive to the rim in transition, made simple plays off the dribble, and occasionally shot well from the perimeter. However, he has many areas to refine as he remains raw. Despite this, his youth and potential make him an intriguing prospect for teams that believe in their player development infrastructure. — Givony
56. Golden State Warriors (from Memphis via Houston)
Kobe Sanders, SG/SF, Nevada, senior
Strengths: Sanders has excellent size for a guard, especially considering how much he handled the ball in his single season at Nevada.
Weaknesses: He has a shorter wingspan than his height and possesses only average overall skills. This was evident mainly on defense and sometimes in his shot selection.
The Verdict: Sanders had a strong season as a graduate transfer, using his size and ability to play with pace to create offense off the dribble. He was a top midrange scorer but needs to improve his decision-making and spot-up shooting for a smoother transition to the NBA. He will also face a defensive learning curve if he doesn`t add more toughness and physicality to his game. — Givony
57. Boston Celtics (via Orlando via Boston)
Izan Almansa, PF/C, Perth (Australia)
Strengths: The Spanish big man is effective at finishing and offensive rebounding. He shows solid instincts on both ends and recently turned 20, allowing time for significant growth. His potential skill level and size have always drawn interest from NBA teams.
Weaknesses: Almansa struggles to score outside the paint and stretch the defense. He also isn`t physically imposing for an NBA center and is not primarily a rim protector.
The Verdict: The last few years have been transitional for Almansa, including stints in the G League Ignite and Overtime Elite before playing for Perth in the NBL. Once seen as a potential first-round prospect, he played an inconsistent role in Australia and is now viewed as a second-round international stash option. His game requires significant refinement before he can challenge for an NBA roster spot. — Jeremy Woo
58. Cleveland Cavaliers
Saliou Niang, SG/SF, Trento (Italy)
Strengths: Niang is a physically gifted wing who has shown remarkable progress, emerging from relative obscurity to become an impactful player in the Italian League and EuroCup for Trento.
Weaknesses: His offensive profile is questionable, as he has very limited shooting range (only 11 made 3-pointers in 45 games) and recorded more turnovers than assists.
The Verdict: Niang`s defensive adaptability, rebounding, and intensity allowed him to contribute against high-level competition, finding ways to impact both ends despite lacking significant offensive polish. To have any chance of playing in the NBA, he will likely need to develop some level of shooting range. However, based on his improvement over the past two years, he possesses potential worth developing. — Givony
59. Memphis Grizzlies (from Phoenix, Houston, via OKC)
Viktor Lakhin, C, Clemson, super senior
Strengths: Lakhin is a versatile big man and fifth-year senior who made significant strides as a shooter. This adds to his existing interior skills, passing ability, and defensive timing.
Weaknesses: He isn`t particularly quick or explosive, positioning him somewhat between roles. He relied on timing and craft in college, which might not translate as smoothly against better athletes. He has also dealt with several injuries recently, missing most of the predraft process.
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