Ace Bailey, once a projected top-five pick in the upcoming 2025 NBA Draft, is experiencing a slide in mock drafts just a week before the big day. The former Rutgers standout’s ‘perplexing’ pre-draft strategy is raising eyebrows among NBA executives, impacting his potential landing spot. This article delves into the reasons behind Bailey’s declining stock, examining the concerns surrounding his preparation, focus, and overall approach to the draft process. We’ll also explore the contrasting trajectory of his college teammate, Dylan Harper, and what this means for the future of both players.
Ace Bailey’s Draft Stock Decline
According to Jonathan Givony’s latest mock draft on ESPN, Ace Bailey is now projected to be selected sixth overall by the Washington Wizards. This marks a significant drop from Givony’s previous mock, where Bailey was slated to go third to the Philadelphia 76ers. This decline can be attributed to several factors, primarily stemming from Bailey’s unconventional pre-draft workout strategy.
The feedback from his interviews at the draft combine in Chicago was not all that positive, with some teams expressing concern about his lack of preparation and focus. NBA executives say Bailey has been polarizing in internal front-office conversations because of questions about his feel for the game and lack of polish, creating a wider draft range than initially anticipated.
The ‘Perplexing’ Pre-Draft Strategy
Bailey’s approach to the pre-draft process has been described as ‘perplexing’ by many observers. He initially declined invitations to work out with several teams within his projected draft range, including the Philadelphia 76ers. This decision reportedly stemmed from Bailey’s camp being ‘initially unsatisfied with his search for a proven pathway to development.’ He is now scheduled to work out with the Sixers, but the initial reluctance has already created a perception that he needs to overcome.
Bailey’s predraft workout strategy has perplexed some observers, as he has yet to conduct a single known workout to date, having declined invitations from several teams within his draft range. Sources say Bailey’s camp has informed interested teams that they believe he is a top-3 player in the draft, but also seeks a clear pathway to stardom, perhaps feeling comfortable that a team will trade up to get him at Nos. 3 or 4, should he drop.
Concerns About Preparation and Focus
Beyond the workout strategy, concerns have emerged regarding Bailey’s preparation and focus. Reports from the NBA Draft Combine in Chicago suggest that some teams were not entirely impressed with Bailey’s interviews. The lack of a clear workout schedule and the feedback from the combine have contributed to a wider range of opinions among NBA front offices. This uncertainty has undoubtedly impacted his draft stock.
Speculation of Assurances
The unique approach has led to speculation that Bailey’s camp may have received assurances from a team outside the top 5, promising a situation deemed more advantageous in terms of geography and playing time. This remains speculation, but the unconventional strategy fuels such theories.
Some teams question whether Bailey has received assurances of being selected by a team currently outside the top 5, to a situation deemed more advantageous from a geographic and playing time perspective.
Dylan Harper’s Contrasting Trajectory
In contrast to Bailey’s situation, his Rutgers teammate, Dylan Harper, is widely projected to be selected second overall by the San Antonio Spurs. Givony notes that Harper is considered to be in a tier of his own as the draft’s clear-cut second-best prospect.
Most talent evaluators consider Harper to be in a tier of his own as the draft’s clear-cut second-best prospect, overriding potential concerns the Spurs might have about his imperfect backcourt fit with and , due to a distinct lack of perimeter shooting.
Spurs Unlikely to Trade
Despite potential fit concerns, the San Antonio Spurs appear unlikely to trade down from the second pick. Rival teams engaging in trade talks have reportedly come away with the impression that the Spurs are excited about adding a talent like Harper and are willing to be patient in figuring out roster construction.
The NBA Draft: June 25
The 2025 NBA Draft is scheduled for Wednesday, June 25, at Barclays Center in Brooklyn. With just a week remaining, teams will be making final evaluations and decisions, and the fate of players like Ace Bailey and Dylan Harper will be determined.
Key Takeaways and Final Thoughts
Ace Bailey’s slide in mock drafts highlights the importance of the pre-draft process and the perceptions it creates. While his talent remains undeniable, concerns about his preparation and strategy have raised questions among NBA teams. Dylan Harper, on the other hand, appears to be a lock for the second overall pick, showcasing the contrasting paths two college teammates can take. As the NBA Draft approaches, the decisions made by teams in the top 10 will have significant implications for the future of these young players and the landscape of the league.
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