NBA Draft 2025 Recap: Team Grades and Key Takeaways

The 2025 NBA Draft was filled with surprises, strategic moves, and standout performances. Teams evaluated their selections with detailed grades, highlighting both successes and misses. The Dallas Mavericks stole the show by drafting Cooper Flagg with the No. 1 pick, earning an impressive A+ for their decision. Flagg is viewed as one of the best prospects in the last decade, and his immediate fit with Dallas’s roster promises an exciting future. San Antonio Spurs also made strong moves, selecting Dylan Harper and Carter Bryant, and earning an A+ grade. Their picks balance potential with positional needs, setting them up for long-term success. Charlotte Hornets traded assets to move into a prime draft position, acquiring Kon Knueppel and Liam McNeeley to build around a young, hardworking core. Their A grade reflects smart asset management and solid picks. The Oklahoma City Thunder continued their strategic approach, selecting Thomas Sorber and trading future picks to bolster their financial flexibility, earning a B+. Teams like the Wizards and Hawks managed to blend talent acquisition with strategic cap management, earning A grades for their draft nights. Conversely, some organizations such as the Pelicans and Nets faced criticism for questionable asset decisions and questionable fits, receiving F and C- grades respectively. Overall, this draft cycle showcased the NBA’s shifting priorities—balancing star potential, positional needs, and long-term asset management. For comprehensive insight into each team’s picks and grades, visit The Athletic's dedicated draft report.