The deadline for players to withdraw from the draft and return to college has passed, impacting the pool of prospects available for the 2025 NBA Draft. Influenced by the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) initiatives, several notable players, including Tahaad Pettiford, Alex Condon, Karter Knox, and Yaxel Lendeborg, have chosen to return to their respective colleges. Meanwhile, the draft saw significant decisions from key players who opted to remain eligible, such as Jamir Watkins, Yanic Konan Niederhauser, and Adou Thiero. This development has officially set the framework for NCAA teams to strategize their selections, while international prospects still have until June 15 to withdraw their names from consideration.

Among the players making waves in the draft conversation is Cooper Flagg, standing at 6'8'' and weighing 221 pounds. Flagg's measurements and athletic testing at the recent combine met expectations, leaving little room for new questions about his game. The Dallas Mavericks are keenly interested in how they might integrate Flagg into their plans, particularly as they navigate potential trade talks with the Milwaukee Bucks regarding star player Giannis Antetokounmpo. Flagg is viewed as a prospect who can provide both immediate impact and long-term development, especially into a future where the Mavericks may need to adjust their roster around potential absences, such as from Kyrie Irving following his ACL recovery.

Another exciting prospect is Dylan Harper, measuring 6'4.5'' and weighing 213 pounds, who showcased impressive performance metrics during the combine. His positional size and skill set as a ball-handler able to change directions fluidly make him an enticing option for teams like the San Antonio Spurs, who select second overall. Harper’s off-ball play at Rutgers also highlights his efficiency, making 44.8% of his available shot attempts while demonstrating effective movements both on cuts and screens. This capability could intrigue the Spurs as they consider adding Harper to their emerging young core, which includes standout rookie Victor Wembanyama and established young player Stephon Castle. However, as the Spurs reflect on their roster configuration, they are also rumored to explore trade possibilities involving the No. 2 pick and Giannis Antetokounmpo, presenting a pivotal decision point for the franchise.