The NBA’s Most Promising New Talent in 2025

Every NBA season brings new players to the forefront, but the 2025 draft class may be one of the most exciting in recent memory. Fans and analysts are both excited about this new wave of talent because of the lottery surprises, franchise-changing prospects, and breakout performances at the Combine. 

This year's class is full of players with a lot of potential, whether you're a Celtics fan keeping an eye on future opponents or looking for young talent for fantasy or betting advice. And if you want to trust your gut, the top NBA betting sites have good odds on Rookie of the Year contests and other events.

Is Cooper Flagg a Key Player for the Franchise?

The Dallas Mavericks startled everyone by getting the No. 1 pick even though they only had a 1.8% chance. Their prize? Cooper Flagg from Duke is a talented, intense, two-way forward who shoots 60% from the field and has an all-business mindset. Flagg is widely seen as a core piece, capable of contributing immediately while growing into a potential All-NBA talent. 

At barely 18 years old, he has a high basketball IQ, is a great leader, and is very tough on defense. People have compared him to some of the best college wings from the one-and-done era. With Luka Doncic now gone and Kyrie Irving recuperating from injury, Dallas is prepared to establish a new core around Flagg’s outstanding two-way skill set. 

Dylan Harper and Airious Bailey: Big Guards, Bigger Upside

With the second pick, the San Antonio Spurs got Rutgers star Dylan Harper. They also had Victor Wembanyama and Stephon Castle. A combo guard with exceptional scoring touch and playmaking, Harper's strong build and ability to finish through contact make him NBA-ready. Even though there are fit issues with San Antonio's current guards, Harper's potential is too great to ignore. 

Next, Philadelphia passed on Airious "Ace" Bailey, who also went to Rutgers. Bailey who fell to Utah at #5 is inexperienced, but his scoring spurts and wing versatility provide the Jazz a high-upside asset.

Brooklyn Nets Look to Drake Powell for Depth and Defense

The Nets added some much-needed depth on the wing with pick #22 which they obtained in a three team trade with the Atlanta Hawks and Boston Celtics. In Boston's trade of Kristaps Porzingis, the Nets agreed to take on the contract of Terance Mann in order to receive this pick. Brooklyn picked Drake Powell from North Carolina with that 22nd selection. They were looking for long-term potential and a player who could play defense in different ways.

Powell is 6'5" tall and has a 7-foot wingspan. He has great physical attributes and a sophisticated way of thinking about defense. He is recognized for defending more than one position, crashing the boards, and closing out hard on the perimeter. Powell's offensive style is still a work in progress, especially when it comes to his shooting consistency and scoring aggressiveness. However, his strong drive and basketball IQ make him a viable rotational player.

Last Thoughts

The 2025 NBA Draft is shaping up to be a turning point for several organizations. Fans are in for a wild ride with lottery shocks, changing team needs, and a deep class of scorers, playmakers, and defenders. This rookie class is worth keeping an eye on, whether you're in the stands or looking at the odds on the best NBA betting sites.