The 4 candidates to be chosen by the Utah Jazz in the NBA Draft 2025

The Utah Jazz have not started playing yet, but they are already doing their homework. In fact, since they have pushed themselves to the max to have the opportunity to secure the number 1 pick for the first time in franchise history, it is safe to assume that they have done all the research possible. With that in mind, in theory, there are always several prospects who could fit in a team. However, there are only a handful of them that the Jazz should target with the first pick of the 2025 NBA Draft.

1. Cooper Flagg, Duke

If the Jazz end up with the number 1 pick after the Draft lottery, expect them to take Duke freshman Cooper Flagg. Frankly, Flagg is a prospect that all 30 teams could take with the top pick due to his dynamic tools and high ceiling. There are some doubts about whether he is cut out to be a number 1 option in terms of scoring ability and mentality. However, in Utah, he won't have to worry about being the top dog. Most likely, Lauri Markkanen will remain the focal point of the Jazz's scoring attack, especially early in their partnership.

2. Dylan Harper, Rutgers

Rutgers freshman Dylan Harper has a decent chance to go to the Jazz if they don't secure the No. 1 pick. Right now, Utah already has an excess of guards for him to be a feasible option. Keyonte George and Isaiah Collier are recent draft picks they've invested in. Collin Sexton and Jordan Clarkson are veterans they've relied on. However, each of them has at least one glaring flaw. As the most well-rounded guard in his class, Harper presents an intriguing alternative whose selection would likely have a domino effect.

3. Ace Bailey, Rutgers

As long as they have a top-three pick, Rutgers freshman Ace Bailey is an accessible alternative to the current crop of Jazz forwards. Compared to Taylor Hendricks, who is recovering from a horrific leg injury, Bailey has a higher ceiling as a scorer. Compared to Cody Williams, whose rookie season was disappointing for countless reasons, he is a safer and more capable shooter. Although Johnny Juzang and Brice Sensabaugh played well in 2024-25, Bailey brings a stronger defensive presence. It's unclear what the primary positions of John Collins and Kyle Filipowski are with the Jazz, but Bailey is a more fluid and reliable perimeter defender.

4. Khaman Maluach, Duke

If the Jazz's pick falls outside of the top four, Duke freshman Khaman Maluach could become an increasingly attractive option. His season was overshadowed by the Maine incident, but he has been a fascinating draft prospect overall. The South Sudanese center, standing at 6'7" and weighing 250 pounds, is an elite shot-blocker and a threat in the pick and roll. However, he is also capable of defending in space and stepping out to the perimeter offensively. The Jazz have several valuable players who can play center, especially Walker Kessler. However, there are often rumors that the player is on the radar of the Jazz and could leave Salt Lake City.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Los 4 candidatos a ser elegidos por Utah Jazz en el NBA Draft 2025