With less than a week remaining until the 2025 NBA Draft, three lottery teams are actively pursuing a move up the board in hopes of selecting Rutgers forward Ace Bailey.
According to Keith Pompey of The Philadelphia Inquirer, the Washington Wizards, New Orleans Pelicans, and Brooklyn Nets have expressed interest in trading up to land the projected top-three pick. Those franchises currently hold picks No. 6, No. 7, and No. 8, respectively.
Bailey’s stock remains strong despite an unconventional pre-draft process that has raised eyebrows around the league.
The 6-foot-8 freshman has canceled all individual workouts, including a scheduled session and dinner with the Philadelphia 76ers, who own the No. 3 pick. The Sixers were widely projected to consider him.
Reportedely, that Bailey’s camp has not sought a guarantee from Philadelphia, but his decision to pass on a visit has intensified speculation about a possible draft-day arrangement elsewhere.
While the Mavericks are expected to take Cooper Flagg at No. 1 and the Spurs will pick second, the 76ers’ choice at No. 3 remains critical in determining how the lottery unfolds.
Bailey, ranked No. 3 on ESPN’s draft board, averaged 19.2 points and 7.5 rebounds as a freshman. He is regarded as one of the most explosive wings in the class, with notable shot-making ability and switchable defensive upside.
His representation includes agents Adie Von Gontard and Daniel Green, but league insiders say Omar Cooper—father of former Hawks guard Sharife Cooper—is managing the draft process. Cooper has not commented publicly on Bailey’s plans.
Philadelphia, coming off a 24–58 season, is looking to add young talent around Tyrese Maxey, Joel Embiid, and Paul George. The Sixers’ front office continues to evaluate multiple options ahead of the June 25 draft.
Meanwhile, the Wizards (18–64), Pelicans (21–61), and Nets (26–56) are seeking franchise cornerstones after disappointing campaigns. All three teams possess young rosters and flexibility to make a trade offer for a higher selection.
