The Dallas Mavericks are in position to land Cooper Flagg with the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA draft, while Dylan Harper looks headed to the San Antonio Spurs at No. 2.
But things get interesting after that.
The 76ers and Hornets, currently holding the fourth and fifth picks, are actively shopping their selections according to league sources.
“The Sixers and Hornets have signaled to rival teams that they will listen to trade offers until they’re on the clock,” reported Jake Fischer of The Stein Line.
Philadelphia is even trying to move up to San Antonio’s spot at No. 2, presumably to grab Harper for themselves.
Why the eagerness to deal? It’s all about team building strategy.
With no shot at the draft’s top two prospects, the Sixers would need to choose from the next tier of talent – Ace Bailey, VJ Edgecombe, Tre Johnson, or Kon Knueppel.
But Philly’s bigger challenge is their salary cap situation. A whopping 77% of their payroll is already committed to just three players: Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and Paul George.
Trading down could give them more financial flexibility while still adding young talent.
The Sixers also want to bring back free agents Guerschon Yabusele and Quentin Grimes, further complicating their cap situation.
Player options for Andre Drummond, Kelly Oubre Jr., and Eric Gordon will significantly impact what moves the team can make. If all three opt in before June 29, the 76ers will be right at the luxury tax threshold and $7.5 million below the first apron.
The Hornets are in a different position.
Charlotte is looking to add more talent any way they can, and trading back could help them acquire additional draft picks. The team has all their first-round picks through 2031, plus three extra first-rounders from Miami, Phoenix, and Dallas.
They’ll have the $14.1 million non-tax midlevel exception, $5.1 million biannual exception, and veteran minimum exceptions available to use in free agency.
One decision looming for the Hornets: Josh Okogie’s $7.7 million salary becomes guaranteed if he remains on the roster past June 30. Even if they waive him, though, the team will still be over the salary cap.
With both teams actively exploring their options, the 2025 draft could see some major shakeups before the first name is even called.
