ESPN’s latest post-combine mock draft has reshaped the 2025 NBA Draft landscape, fueling sharp discussion across the league. Following the NBA Draft Combine in Chicago, where prospects underwent measurements, testing, and scrimmages, ESPN analysts released a fresh mock grounded in new evaluations and insider input.
2025 NBA Draft Debate Heats Up After ESPN’s Post-Combine Update
ESPN’s latest post-combine mock draft has stirred significant conversation on Reddit after labeling the 2025 NBA Draft as “an eight player draft,” naming Cooper Flagg, D.J. Wagner (Ace), Matas Buzelis (VJ), Isaiah Collier (Fears), Alexandre Sarr (Kon), Khaman Maluach, and Tre Johnson as the clear-cut top-tier prospects.
The reaction was immediate. Reddit user challenged the notion of fixed tiers.
ESPN: NBA teams see this as an eight player draft (Flagg, Harper, Ace, VJ, Fears, Kon, Maluach, Tre)
byu/MetroidsSuffering inNBA_Draft
“Every year, people make a list like this, and every year, multiple players outside of the list stand out.”
“I think the year Blake Griffin went 1, it was thought to be a weak draft. But Steph, Harden, and probably DeRozan all will wind up being Hall of Famers,” another user pointed out.
Discussion around Kasparas Jakucionis revealed shifting perspectives.
“Kasparas, you used to be part of this crew. You were one of the best of em,” one user remarked.
In response, Jordanwolf98 explained, “His lack of athleticism became more apparent as the season went on.”
“I’m still higher on him than most, but the second half of his season definitely took some shine off the idea that he was a ready to contribute day-one combo guard,” another user added.
Kon Knueppel was another divisive figure.
“I just don’t get the love for Kon. I think he’ll be a good spot-up shooter in the NBA but not much else,” one user said, expressing doubt.
In contrast, another user highlighted his tournament performance.
KEEP READING: 2-Round 2025 NBA Mock Draft
“He was MVP of the ACC tournament when Flagg was out, averaging 21-6-5 with 6 total stocks and 8 turnovers over three games,” another user said.
Speculation surrounding team fits also drove conversation. One user analyzed Brooklyn’s options:
“Probably Maluach if he lasts to 8th overall… possibly Jaku or Demin, but 8 is probably too high.”
Their report highlights a growing consensus. Teams are expected to use upcoming individual workouts to fine-tune draft boards ahead of the June 25 event in Brooklyn, which tips off at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and ESPN. Debate continues over the class’s true depth and long-term upside.
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