Strategic Outlook for the 2025 NBA Draft: Washington Wizards’ Potential Picks and Prospects
The upcoming 2025 NBA Draft, set to commence with the first round on Wednesday, marks a critical juncture for the Washington Wizards. While the team boasts promising young talent, it still seeks a definitive star to anchor its future roster. With their draft position at No. 6-an outcome determined by May’s lottery-Washington’s opportunity to select a game-changing player remains within reach, albeit with some limitations.
Top-tier prospects are largely expected to be off the board early, with the Dallas Mavericks poised to select Cooper Flagg at No. 1 and the San Antonio Spurs likely to pick Dylan Harper at No. 2. Beyond these selections, the draft landscape becomes increasingly unpredictable, leaving teams like the Wizards to evaluate a range of talented but unproven players. If Washington maintains its current position or moves slightly, here are some of the most compelling candidates they might consider.
Potential Draft Targets for the Wizards
A Versatile Forward: Ace Bailey from Rutgers
During his freshman season at Rutgers, Bailey’s offensive approach centered around a consistent barrage of contested jump shots. He managed a respectable shooting percentage of 46% from the field and 34.6% from beyond the arc, though his shot selection, playmaking, and ball-handling skills left room for growth. Standing approximately 6-foot-7¼ inches without shoes and boasting a wingspan close to 7 feet, Bailey fits the prototypical physical profile the Wizards favor, especially on defense.
Despite his promising physical tools, Bailey’s offensive game remains raw. His ability to develop a more refined offensive mindset and improve his skill set could elevate him into a two-way contributor. His defensive potential, however, is already evident, and he could serve as a formidable presence alongside center Alex Sarr, forming a defensive duo that challenges opponents on both ends.
Current stats show Bailey averaging 2.3 combined steals and blocks per game, contributing to a team that finished 15-17 overall. The key question is whether his offensive limitations can be addressed through coaching and development, unlocking his full potential as a versatile forward.
Team Fit: Bailey’s unique combination of size, shooting, and defensive ability makes him an attractive option for Washington, which lacks a player with comparable offensive upside. His versatility allows him to slot into either forward position, providing the team with a flexible and impactful defender.
Defensive Playmaker: VJ Edgecombe from Baylor
Edgecombe’s defining trait is his explosive athleticism, which he leverages to excel as a defensive disruptor from the guard position. As a freshman, he averaged 2.1 steals per game, showcasing his tenacity and quick hands. Although he measures around 6-foot-4 without shoes-slightly undersized for an off-ball wing-his relentless energy and defensive instincts could make him a valuable asset early in his NBA career.
On offense, Edgecombe’s athleticism translates into highlight-reel dunks following turnovers, but his overall offensive game remains a work in progress. He shot 34% from three, demonstrating some comfort shooting off screens, yet he needs to improve his finishing ability around the rim.
Key questions revolve around his potential to evolve into a primary ballhandler and offensive initiator. His defensive prowess aligns well with the Wizards’ aspiration to emulate the disruptive, high-pressure defense of the Oklahoma City Thunder, under GM Will Dawkins’ influence.
Scoring Guard with Shooting Prowess: Tre Johnson from Texas
Johnson’s offensive game is built around his shooting ability, which propelled him to an average of nearly 20 points per game during his freshman season at Texas. Standing about 6-foot-4¾ inches without shoes, he possesses a high release point and demonstrates comfort shooting from various positions-whether off the dribble, standing still, or coming off screens.
Notably, Johnson often shot from well beyond the college three-point line, converting at a 39.7% clip, indicating his potential as a long-range threat at the NBA level. His height and wingspan (approximately 6-foot-10¼) also give him defensive versatility, allowing him to guard multiple positions effectively.
However, questions remain about his overall offensive game beyond shooting. He struggled to consistently attack the rim or create opportunities for teammates, which could limit his impact if he doesn’t diversify his offensive skills. If he can develop his finishing and playmaking, Johnson could become a primary offensive option; otherwise, he might serve as a streaky scorer off the bench.
Team Fit: Despite a crowded backcourt with players like Jordan Poole, Marcus Smart, Bub Carrington, and AJ Johnson, Tre Johnson’s scoring upside and shooting ability could distinguish him and fill a much-needed offensive role for Washington.
Emerging Playmaker: Jeremiah Fears from Oklahoma
Fears made a notable impact as a freshman, averaging 17.1 points per game for the Sooners. His speed and ball-handling skills allow him to penetrate defenses at will, but finishing around the rim and his passing ability are areas for improvement. The 18-year-old’s shooting efficiency from three-point range was modest at 28.4%, though his free throw percentage of 85.1% suggests potential for growth in his shooting stroke.
His high free throw percentage indicates a promising shooting form, and his ability to draw fouls could be an asset if his shooting improves. However, his relatively small stature-around 6-foot-2½ inches without shoes-raises concerns about his defensive matchups and overall role at the NBA level.
Key considerations include whether Fears can overcome his size limitations through craftiness and toughness, and whether his offensive development can elevate his overall contribution. His potential to improve the team’s free throw rate and offensive efficiency makes him an intriguing prospect.
Team Fit: Given Washington’s struggles with free throw shooting last season, Fears could help address that weakness. Nonetheless, his size might limit his defensive responsibilities, and his role would likely depend on continued offensive development.
Sharpshooter and Playmaker: Kon Knueppel from Duke
Knueppel’s reputation as a sharpshooter is well-earned, with a three-point shooting percentage of 40.6%. Beyond his perimeter shooting, he displays comfort handling the ball, attacking closeouts, and executing pick-and-roll plays, showcasing a well-rounded offensive skill set as a freshman.
Defensively, however, he faces challenges. His perimeter defense can be inconsistent, and he sometimes struggles to stay in front of quicker opponents. Standing approximately 6-foot-5 without shoes, he has the size to be a serviceable defender with effort and coaching.
Key questions involve whether his defense can improve enough to stay on the floor during critical moments and how much offensive growth he can achieve. His shooting ability makes him a valuable asset, especially if the Wizards seek to bolster their perimeter shooting, particularly if they trade away wing Corey Kispert in the future.
Elite Rim Protector: Khaman Maluach from Duke
Maluach’s game centers on vertical spacing and rim protection. Standing nearly 7 feet ¾ inch tall with a wingspan of 7-6¾ inches-the best at the combine-he is a formidable presence both offensively and defensively. His primary offensive contributions involve rim-running, screening, and occasional dribble handoffs, aligning with Washington’s offensive style.
Defensively, Maluach’s athletic tools suggest he could develop into an elite rim protector and defensive anchor. His offensive game, however, remains underdeveloped, and further offensive polish would significantly enhance his value.
Key questions include whether he can develop a more consistent offensive skill set and how impactful he can become defensively. His pairing with center Alex Sarr could be particularly promising if either develops a reliable three-point shot, enabling more versatile lineups.
Fit: Maluach’s potential hinges on his defensive impact and offensive development. If he can evolve into a two-way threat, he could become a cornerstone for Washington’s frontcourt.
Additional Options for the Wizards
Beyond the primary targets, several other prospects could be on Washington’s radar at No. 6 or their second first-round pick at No. 18:
- Derik Queen (Maryland): A local talent with a unique offensive skill set and touch, but questions about his motor and athleticism persist.
- Egor Demin (BYU): A tall, skilled forward with impressive passing for his size (6-foot-8¼), yet lacking in shooting consistency and athletic explosiveness.
- Carter Bryant (Arizona): A reliable three-and-D wing, though his playmaking ability appears limited, potentially capping his upside.
- Kasparas Jakucionis (Illinois): A strong shooter and playmaker, but not an elite athlete, which could influence his long-term ceiling.
As the draft approaches, the Wizards’ strategic choices will be pivotal in shaping their future. Whether they opt for high-upside developmental players or more immediate contributors, the 2025 draft promises to be a defining moment for Washington’s rebuilding efforts.
