Illinois Fighting Illini guard Kasparas Jakučionis established himself among the best players in college basketball this year.
The freshman out of Vilnius, Lithuania, averaged 15 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 4.8 assists as the Illini clinched a No. 6 seed in the NCAA tournament and won their first-round game against No. 11 Xavier, 86-73, notching a double-double with 16 points and 10 assists.
Jakučionis is expected to be a lottery pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. Here are five potential landing spots for the Illinois guard.
Top Five NBA Draft Projections for Illinois Guard Kasparas Jakučionis
Miami Heat
While debate rages on about whether Jakučionis’ size, shotmaking, and passing IQ can offset his lack of explosiveness and quickness, there’s no doubt he has room to grow. In Miami, the 18-year-old would have space to develop, working under “Heat Culture” with Pat Riley and Erik Spoelstra.
Toronto Raptors
Jakučionis could head to the great white North in a “best player available” type of selection. While the Raptors are tied down to Immanuel Quickley as their top guard and Jamal Shead has penciled himself in as a solid backup, there is always room for more talent in the backcourt. Given his upside, Jakučionis can develop in Toronto without the pressure of a primary city market and make a name for himself.
Orlando Magic
The Magic should be gleeful if Jakučionis falls to them late in the lottery. With Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner at the forward positions, Orlando is set in the frontcourt and would love to pair one of the top guards in the draft with Jalen Suggs in the backcourt.
Brooklyn Nets
With a Nets roster devoid of a bonafide star, Kasparas would be given the time and minutes to develop in Brooklyn. Together with Cam Thomas, the Nets could have a young backcourt duo for years if Jakučionis worked out.
Philadelphia 76ers
If the 76ers see Jakučionis as more of a shooting guard type, they could take a flyer on him to pair with Tyrese Maxey in the backcourt.
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With Jared McCain slated to come back from injury next year and Quentin Grimes emerging as a solid guard, Philadelphia could see Jakučionis as the last piece in the frontcourt puzzle.
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