There is reportedly a belief within the NBA that Ace Bailey's agent, Omar Cooper, is trying to ensure he lands with an East-Coast team in the 2025 NBA draft.

New Orleans adds a potential stretch five to its ranks early in the second round after hitting on the Yves Missi pick in the first round last year. If the Pelicans do end up with Ace Bailey, would they have an easier time moving Trey Murphy III or Herb Jones for a reliable ball-handler?

Philadelphia can go Rutgers star Ace Bailey at No. 3 or it can select Baylor's VJ Edgecombe, or one of Duke's Kon Knueppel or Khaman Maluach. A mock draft performed by Sports Illustrated has the Sixers selected Baylor's Edgecombe: