Winners of Round 1

Phoenix Suns

Pick: Khaman Maluach (No. 10) The Suns made a strategic move by selecting Khaman Maluach, who unexpectedly fell to the 10th pick. Maluach brings high-level intensity, rim-protection timing, and switchable defense, addressing the Suns' need for a strong center. His youth and energy will inject new life into the team, and his potential for growth makes him a valuable long-term asset.

Miami Heat

Pick: Kasparas Jakucionis (No. 20) Jakucionis, who was ranked 11th on the big board, fell to the Heat at No. 20. His ability to play multiple backcourt positions and his playmaking skills make him a perfect fit for Miami. With his high basketball IQ and toughness, Jakucionis could emerge as the Heat's future point guard.

Surprises of Round 1

Portland Trail Blazers

Pick: Yang Hansen (No. 16) Hansen, ranked 35th, was a surprising pick by the Trail Blazers at No. 16. The team has been following his progress since his U19 World Cup appearance and believes in his potential. Despite already having a 7-footer in Donovan Clingan, the Blazers see Hansen as a best-player-available choice.

Utah Jazz

Pick: Ace Bailey (No. 5) Bailey was visibly surprised when the Jazz selected him at No. 5. Despite not working out with Utah, the Jazz were confident in his abilities and fit within their program. Bailey's selection adds a dynamic guard to the Jazz's roster.

Key Questions

Best Pick of the Night

Carter Bryant to the Spurs at No. 14 Bryant's 3-and-D skill set makes him an ideal fit alongside San Antonio's young core, including Victor Wembanyama and De'Aaron Fox.

Favorite Trade of Round 1

Atlanta Hawks' Move The Hawks traded back from No. 13 to No. 23, acquiring future picks that could be valuable in the next draft.

Title Contender Impact

Oklahoma City Thunder The Thunder's selection of Thomas Sorber at No. 15 addresses a long-term need, providing a skilled center who can develop behind Isaiah Hartenstein.

Prospect-Team Fit

Kasparas Jakucionis to the Heat at No. 20 Jakucionis' versatility and playmaking make him a perfect fit for Miami's backcourt.

Future Outlook

Cooper Flagg's Rookie Season While Flagg may not average 20 points per game as a rookie, his well-rounded game positions him as a strong Rookie of the Year candidate.

Pelicans' Gamble

New Orleans' Trade The Pelicans' decision to trade their 2026 unprotected first-round pick for Derik Queen is a high-risk move that could backfire if the team struggles.

Nets' Draft Strategy

Brooklyn's Five Picks The Nets focused on young, project players, earning a B grade for their draft strategy. Their selections align with coach Jordi Fernandez's vision for the team.

Players to Watch in Round 2

Rasheer Fleming and Maxime Raynaud Fleming and Raynaud are top prospects who surprisingly slipped out of the first round and will be highly sought after in Round 2.