NBA Draft Predictions: Anticipated Picks for the Second and Third Rounds in 2025

The 2025 NBA Draft is shaping up to be an exciting event, with several top prospects vying for coveted spots. One of the most anticipated picks is the first overall selection, which belongs to the Dallas Mavericks. According to reports, Cooper Flagg is the prospect they are likely to select.

Meanwhile, the San Antonio Spurs, holding the second overall pick, are expected to make a splash as well. The NBA betting odds heavily favor Dylan Harper being selected in this slot. Harper, who played his collegiate season at Rutgers, averaged an impressive 19.4 points per game, 4.6 rebounds per game, and 4 assists per game.

Interestingly, Harper's odds for the second overall pick are significantly different from those for the third overall pick. Dylan Harper has -2500 odds to be selected second overall, while Ace Bailey, another Rutgers alumnus, has -140 odds to be selected third overall. Bailey put up 17.6 points per game, 7.2 rebounds per game, and 1.3 assists per game in his lone season at Rutgers.

The third overall pick, held by the Philadelphia 76ers, offers more flexibility. While Tre Johnson has 450 odds to be picked here, there is a possibility of a trade, making the line more affordable. Other prospects favored for this spot include Khaman Maluach, Kon Knueppel, VJ Edgecombe, and Ace Bailey.

A notable theory suggests that Harper could be drafted by the Charlotte Hornets, with LaMelo Ball potentially being traded to the Los Angeles Clippers. However, these are just speculations at this point.

Mock draft outlets generally agree that Harper is the consensus second overall pick. But the race for the third spot is heating up, with several promising prospects vying for the position. As the draft approaches, the suspense is palpable, with fans eagerly awaiting to see who the teams will select and whether there will be any surprise trades.

NBA Draft Predictions: Anticipated Picks for the Second and Third Rounds in 2025