The NBA draft is a pivotal event that shapes the future of the league. The 2025 draft class, headlined by Cooper Flagg, promises to bring a new wave of talent to the forefront. Here’s a detailed look at the rookies who are poised to make a significant impact in their debut season and their potential fantasy basketball value.

Cooper Flagg, SF, Dallas Mavericks

Cooper Flagg, the first overall pick, joins the Dallas Mavericks with high expectations. Standing at 6-foot-9, Flagg has a versatile skill set and will have ample opportunity to shine, especially with Kyrie Irving sidelined due to injury. His ability to contribute across multiple categories makes him a top fantasy prospect.

Ace Bailey, SG/SF, Utah Jazz

Ace Bailey, a top-3 talent, was selected by the Utah Jazz. Despite his reluctance to work out for teams, Bailey’s undeniable talent and scoring ability make him a key player to watch. His size and athleticism could see him become an early impact player for the Jazz.

Tre Johnson, SG, Washington Wizards

Tre Johnson, known for his elite shooting, joins the Washington Wizards. With Jordan Poole traded away, Johnson has a clear path to significant playing time. His proficiency in catch-and-shoot situations and off-the-dribble shooting makes him a valuable fantasy asset.

Jeremiah Fears, PG, New Orleans Pelicans

Jeremiah Fears, a confident scoring point guard, is set to make waves with the New Orleans Pelicans. With Dejounte Murray recovering from injury, Fears has the opportunity to secure a starting role and contribute significantly.

Egor Demin, PG, Brooklyn Nets

Egor Demin, a 6-foot-8 guard, is noted for his exceptional passing skills. The Brooklyn Nets are in a full rebuild, and Demin’s ability to handle the ball and his pick-and-roll vision make him a promising fantasy option.

Dylan Harper, PG, San Antonio Spurs

Dylan Harper, the second overall pick, joins a Spurs team rich with young talent. Harper’s scoring ability and toughness make him a player to watch, even if his minutes are initially limited.

VJ Edgecombe, SG, Philadelphia 76ers

VJ Edgecombe, an athletic shooting guard, brings a unique skill set to the Philadelphia 76ers. His ability to play above the rim and knock down 3-pointers could see him earn significant minutes early in his career.

Kon Knueppel, SG/SF, Charlotte Hornets

Kon Knueppel, known for his exceptional 3-point shooting, joins the Charlotte Hornets. His ability to play off LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller could see him become a key contributor.

Collin Murray-Boyles, SF/PF, Toronto Raptors

Collin Murray-Boyles, a strong defensive prospect, joins the Toronto Raptors. While his fantasy value may be limited by the Raptors’ frontcourt depth, his defensive versatility is noteworthy.

Khaman Maluach, C, Phoenix Suns

Khaman Maluach, a raw but talented center, joins the Phoenix Suns. His shot-blocking and rebounding abilities make him a developmental player with potential.

Other Notable Rookies

• Derik Queen, C, New Orleans Pelicans: Known as "Baby Jokic," Queen’s ball-handling and passing skills make him a versatile big man.
• Walter Clayton Jr., PG/SG, Utah Jazz: Clayton’s clutch shooting in the NCAA tournament makes him a player to watch.
• Kasparas Jakucionis, PG/SG, Miami Heat: Jakucionis’ unexpected slide to the Heat makes him a potential late-round steal.

Rookie of the Year Race

• Leader: Cooper Flagg (-200)
• In the hunt: Ace Bailey (+650), Tre Johnson (+750), Dylan Harper (+1200)
• Long shots: VJ Edgecombe (+2500), Derik Queen (+3000), Kasparas Jakucionis (+6000), Walter Clayton Jr. (+10,000)

Flagg is the clear favorite, but Bailey, Johnson, and Harper are also strong contenders. Keep an eye on these rookies as they make their mark in the NBA and in fantasy basketball.