Interview Only: NBA insider Brian Windhorst, focused on the 2025 NBA Draft and its implications for various teams.

Stephen A. Smith is a New York Times Bestselling Author, Executive Producer, host of ESPN's First Take, and co-host of NBA Countdown. A detailed and energetic conversation between Stephen A. Smith and NBA insider Brian Windhorst, focused on the 2025 NBA Draft and its implications for various teams. Here's a breakdown of the key highlights and insights: 🏀 Top Draft Picks & Analysis 1. Cooper Flagg (No. 1 to Dallas Mavericks) • Compared to Tim Duncan in terms of impact potential. • Described as a “perfect modern player” — versatile, defensive-minded, and capable of initiating offense. • May not be a high-volume scorer or Rookie of the Year due to team context (Kyrie Irving, Klay Thompson). • Could drive winning early, which is rare for rookies. 2. Dylan Harper (No. 2 to San Antonio Spurs) • Talented and versatile guard. • Spurs are building a positionless, modern roster similar to the Oklahoma City Thunder. • Concerns about a crowded backcourt (De’Aaron Fox, Stefon Cassell, Devin Vassell). • Spurs took the best available talent, not drafting for fit. 🔥 Other Draft Highlights 🟢 Philadelphia 76ers • Drafted Edgecombe instead of Ace Bailey due to Bailey’s refusal to work out for teams. • Edgecombe impressed playing for the Bahamian national team. • Daryl Morey emphasized depth in the backcourt and Joel Embiid’s expected return. 🟣 Utah Jazz • Took a risk on Ace Bailey and Walter Clayton Jr. • Bailey is high-risk, high-reward; Clayton impressed in the NCAA tournament. • Utah is talent-starved and needs to take big swings. 🟡 New Orleans Pelicans • Traded up to draft Derrick Queen, giving up a valuable 2026 unprotected pick swap. • Criticized by Bill Simmons as one of the “dumbest trades of the decade.” • Windhorst notes the influence of Troy Weaver in the decision. • High upside with Queen and Jeremiah Fears, but risky if Zion gets injured again. 🏆 Winners of the Draft San Antonio Spurs • : Dylan Harper + Carter Bryant (compared to OG Anunoby). Atlanta Hawks • : Got a top-20 talent (Arsenal) at 23 and a valuable future pick. Utah Jazz • : Took bold swings on Bailey and Clayton Jr. ❌ Losers / Question Marks Phoenix Suns • : Traded two first-round picks for Mark Williams, who failed a physical with the Lakers. • Drafted Malik from Duke (a solid pick). • Strategy questioned due to asset depletion and win-now pressure. • 🧠 Final Thoughts • Windhorst emphasizes that while some trades seem questionable now, player development and team context will ultimately determine success. • The NBA offseason remains unpredictable, and more moves are expected.

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