With the 2024-25 season winding down, teams around the NBA are hyper-focused on the upcoming draft class that features some potential franchise-changing prospects.

The NBA announced on Tuesday that 106 players filed as early entry candidates, down from 195 last year. The decline directly stems from the rise of name, image and likeness (NIL), as players were afforded more earning potential by staying at the collegiate level.

The predraft process tipped off last month with the top seniors in the country participating in the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament in Virginia. Elsewhere, prospects are busy in the gym ahead of the draft combine and G League Elite Camp later this month.

The draft board will become clearer in the coming days, with the lottery set to take place on May 12 in Chicago, Illinois. The Utah Jazz, Washington Wizards and Charlotte Hornets enter the festivities with the best odds of landing the No. 1 pick at 14%.

Rookie Wire looked at the upcoming draft class following the early entry deadline and where things stand before the lottery and combine. The rankings will undoubtedly change, but it can be a productive exercise to see where players are now ahead of the draft on June 25-26.

1. Utah Jazz: Cooper Flagg, Duke

Height: 6-9 Weight: 225  Year: Fr.  Position: F

After taking some time to decide, Flagg announced on April 21 that he was officially declaring for the draft following a tremendous freshman campaign with the Blue Devils. He was the Player of the Year and a consensus first-team All-American, averaging 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.4 steals and 1.4 blocks on 38.5% shooting from 3-point range.

Flagg entered the season with tremendous expectations as the consensus top recruit in the class of 2024. He was highly touted as the likely top pick in the draft and lived up to the hype after becoming the face of the sport this past season. He likely was set on entering the draft regardless of how the season went, despite some debate about possibly returning to the program next year.

The 18-year-old has drawn comparisons to former Duke legend and Hall of Famer Grant Hill because of his size, athleticism and ability to affect games in various ways. He is projected to be able to step in immediately and contribute at a high level in the NBA, making the draft lottery a must-watch for fans and teams with high odds.

Note: This pick is protected for selections 1-10

2. Washington Wizards: Dylan Harper, Rutgers

Height: 6-6 Weight: 220 Year: Fr. Position: G

Harper averaged 19.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, four assists and 1.4 steals on 33.3% shooting from 3-point range en route to a third-team All-American honorable mention by the AP. He registered 20 20-point games, setting the Rutgers single-season scoring record by a freshman (564 points). He ranked third among all freshmen in the country in scoring.

The 19-year-old is regarded as one of the top lead guards in the upcoming draft class. His size enables him to get to his spots and score from virtually all over the court and get to the free-throw line after averaging 5.8 attempts per game. He is viewed as the consensus No. 2 pick behind Flagg and projects to be a high-impact player at the next level.

Note: This pick is protected for selections 1-10

3. Charlotte Hornets: VJ Edgecombe, Baylor

Height: 6-5 Weight: 180 Year: Fr. Position: G

Edgecombe was the Big 12 Freshman of the Year, averaging 15 points, 5.6 rebounds, 3.2 assists and 2.1 steals on 34% shooting from 3-point range in 33 games. He is viewed as one of the most athletic players in the draft class this year and was a force on offense at times, with his ability to create for himself and space the floor from beyond the arc.

The 19-year-old dazzled last year with the Bahamas in the FIBA Olympic qualifying tournament as the group narrowly missed advancing to Paris. On a team featuring Deandre Ayton, Eric Gordon and Buddy Hield, Edgecombe finished third in scoring, averaging 16.5 points, 5.5 rebounds, 3.8 assists and two steals on 38.5% shooting from 3-point range. His range appears to be 3-5 at the moment.

Note: This pick is protected for selections 1-14

4. New Orleans Pelicans: Ace Bailey, Rutgers

Height: 6-10 Weight: 210 Year: Fr. Position: F

Bailey was a third-team All-Big Ten selection, averaging 17.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, 1.3 assists, 1.3 blocks and one steal on 34.6% shooting from 3-point range. He had the second-most points by a true freshman in program history (527) and was sixth among all freshmen in the country after registering three 30-point performances with the Scarlet Knights.

The 18-year-old is viewed as a top-five pick because of his size, scoring and instincts on both ends of the court. He can get his shot off in various ways in the paint and mid-range, and he proved to be a good cutter on offense. Bailey has an incredible feel for the game and can score from each level after emerging as a knockdown shooter off the catch or on the move.

5. Philadelphia 76ers: Derik Queen, Maryland

Height: 6-10 Weight: 246 Year: Fr. Position: C

Queen entered the season projected to be a late first-round pick, but after a historic freshman campaign, the Big Ten Freshman of the Year is now viewed as a high pick this year. He set the program scoring record by a freshman (594 points) after registering 12 20-point games and 15 double-doubles. He finished sixth in scoring average among Power Four freshmen.

The 20-year-old is highly touted for his versatility on offense and ability to score in various ways. He is a tremendous competitor and showed throughout the year his ability to affect games on the defensive end, with his activity, instincts and size. After helping the Terrapins to their first Sweet 16 appearance in nearly a decade, Queen is a hot name this draft cycle.

Note: This pick is protected for selections 1-6. It will be conveyed to the Thunder if it falls outside the top six.

For more coverage on the 76ers, visit Sixers Wire

Height: 6-6 Weight: 190 Year: Fr. Position: SG

Johnson was named the SEC Freshman of the Year after averaging 19.9 points, 3.1 rebounds and 2.7 assists in 33 games on 39.7% shooting from 3-point range. He scored in double figures in all but two games, becoming the sixth freshman in history to lead the SEC in scoring average.

The 19-year-old dazzled on offense by creating for himself and hitting difficult shots on the move or with his patented step-backs and side-steps. He also boasts a reported 6-foot, 10-inch wingspan that should intrigue teams with his potential on both ends of the court.

For more coverage on the Nets, visit Nets Wire

7. Toronto Raptors: Khaman Maluach, Duke

Height: 7-2 Weight: 250 Year: Fr. Position: C

Maluach, born in South Sudan, was named to the ACC All-Freshman Team after averaging 8.6 points, 6.6 rebounds and 1.3 blocks on 71.2% shooting from the field. He ranked sixth in the country in offensive rebound percentage (16.5) and 2-point percentage (75.4).

The 18-year-old started playing basketball roughly seven years ago in Uganda. He joined the NBA Africa Academy in Senegal and has made a rapid rise because of his size and versatility as a player who can shoot and defend, with his reported 7-foot, 4 1/2-inch wingspan.

8. San Antonio Spurs: Jeremiah Fears, Oklahoma

Height: 6-4 Weight: 182 Year: Fr. Position: PG

Fears put himself on the radar after an incredible start, becoming the first Sooners freshman since Trae Young to score in double figures in each of his first 15 games. He finished as one of three Power Four players to average at least 17 points, four rebounds, four assists and 1.5 steals.

The 18-year-old dazzled throughout the year by getting into the paint and finishing at the rim, using his speed and ability to create for himself. He is also a player who can get to the free-throw line after ranking 10th in the country in attempts. Fears should have several suitors in the lottery.

9. Houston Rockets (via Phoenix): Kasparas Jakučionis, Illinois

Height: 6-6 Weight: 205 Year: Fr. Position: PG

Jakučionis, born in Lithuania, led Illinois in scoring, tying the freshman record for total points in a season (494). He set the freshman program record with 10 20-point performances, including 24 points, six rebounds and five assists on Dec. 10 in a win over Wisconsin.

The 18-year-old is projected to be a lottery pick this year, with his ability to score at all three levels, playmaking, vision and passing. Given his vast high-level experience, after previously playing with Barcelona, Jakučionis should hear his name called in this range on June 25.

10. Portland Trail Blazers: Kon Knueppel, Duke

Height: 6-7 Weight: 217 Year: Fr. Position: F

Knueppel, 19, was a second-team All-ACC selection after averaging 14.4 points, four rebounds, 2.7 assists and one steal on 40.6% shooting from 3-point range. He ranked seventh in the country in free-throw percentage (91.4), eighth in offensive rating (133.7) and ninth in win shares (6.9).

The 6-foot-7 forward is projected to be a lottery pick, with his shooting and ability to facilitate offenses. He ascended draft boards as the season progressed and was the MVP of the ACC tournament, averaging 21 points, 5.7 rebounds, 4.7 assists and 1.7 steals.

Note: This pick is protected for selections 1-14

11. Dallas Mavericks: Liam McNeeley, UConn

Height: 6-7 Weight: 210 Year: Fr. Position: F

McNeeley, 19, had a sensational freshman campaign, registering five 20-point games, including a career-high 38 points and 10 rebounds on Feb. 11. He joined Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant as the only freshmen in modern history with 35 points, 10 rebounds and five 3s in a road game.

The Big East Freshman of the Year is considered a potential lottery pick, given his size, feel and physical playing style. He was inconsistent from beyond the arc, shooting 31.7% on 5.4 attempts per game, but he checks many other boxes that should be intriguing to teams in this range.

12. Chicago Bulls: Jase Richardson, Michigan State

Height: 6-3 Weight: 185 Year: Fr. Position: G

Richardson, the son of former 14-year veteran Jason Richardson, began in the second unit before moving into the starting lineup in early February. He elevated his play after the switch, averaging 16.1 points and 4.6 rebounds on 42% shooting from beyond the arc over his last 15 games.

The 19-year-old proved to be a reliable guard who takes care of the ball, shoots well and can defend. He dazzled in the open court and has a great touch in the paint that enabled him to get to his floater or convert difficult finishes at the rim. His current range appears to be 8-16.

13. Atlanta Hawks (via Sacramento): Egor Demin, BYU

Height: 6-9 Weight: 190 Year: Fr. Position: G

Demin was named to the Big 12 All-Freshman Team after averaging 10.6 points, 5.5 assists, 3.9 rebounds and 1.2 steals. He ranked third in the conference in assists after setting the freshman program record (180) and is one of four BYU freshmen with multiple 10-assist games.

The Russian dazzled throughout the year with his ability as a playmaker and size at the point guard position. However, he shot just 27.3% from 3-point range on 4.3 attempts per game, and will need to show improvement in that area over the predraft process.

Note: This pick is protected for selections 1-12. It will be conveyed to the Hawks if it falls outside the top 12.

14. San Antonio Spurs (via Atlanta): Collin Murray-Boyles, South Carolina

Height: 6-8 Weight: 245 Year: So. Position: F

Murray-Boyles had a strong second year, finishing as the only player in a Power Four conference to average at least 16 points, eight rebounds, two assists, one steal and one block on 50% shooting from the field (58.6). He led the SEC in field-goal percentage, ranking 21st nationally.

The 19-year-old is projected to be a potential lottery pick, with his defensive intensity, post presence and ability to make plays for others. He also boasts a reported 7-foot, 2-inch wingspan that enables him to protect the rim and force turnovers, which should stand out to teams.

15. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Miami): Nique Clifford, Colorado State

Height: 6-6 Weight: 200 Year: Sr.+ Position: G

Clifford took advantage of a larger role with the Rams, averaging 18.9 points, 9.6 rebounds, 4.4 assists and 1.2 steals on 37.7% shooting from 3-point range. He registered 15 double-doubles, including a 31-point, 13-rebound performance on Nov. 8.

The 23-year-old established himself as a versatile player who can score, defend at a high level and playmake for others. Given his overall skill set and potential, he projects to be able to step in and impact games off the bench for a contender who can eventually develop into a starter.

For more coverage on the Thunder, visit Thunder Wire

16. Orlando Magic: Carter Bryant, Arizona

Height: 6-8 Weight: 225 Year: Fr. Position: G

Bryant came off the bench for most of the season, averaging 6.5 points, 4.1 rebounds and one assist on 37.1% shooting from 3-point range in 37 games. He is projected to be a mid-first-round pick, with his scoring potential, playmaking ability and defensive versatility. Bryant also proved to be a reliable floor spacer after connecting on at least two 3-pointers in 12 games. He is said to have declared for the draft while maintaining his college eligibility, so there is a chance he could return to Arizona, but if he has a strong showing in the predraft process, the 19-year-old could opt to turn pro.

17. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Detroit): Noa Essengue, ratiopharm Ulm (Germany)

Height: 6-8 Weight: 194 Year: N/A Position: F

Essengue is considered a potential lottery pick, with his size and defensive versatility. He has a good interior game and has dazzled in the open court in fastbreak situations after creating turnovers with his length and instincts. The Frenchman had arguably his best performance of the season in his most recent game on April 21, finishing with 22 points and six rebounds. With ratiopharm Ulm gearing up for the playoffs, Essengue looks to be peaking at the right time.

18. Washington Wizards (via Memphis): Asa Newell, Georgia

Height: 6-11 Weight: 220 Year: Fr. Position: F

Newell became the first freshman to lead the Bulldogs in scoring (15.4 points) and rebounding (6.9) since Jumaine Jones in the 1997-98 season. He made a name for himself on the offensive glass throughout the season, ranking 20th in the country (110), with his mobility and relentless pursuit down low. He also proved to be a reliable scorer and can provide frontcourt size for teams drafting in this range.

19. Brooklyn Nets (via Milwaukee): Nolan Traoré, Saint-Quentin (France)

Height: 6-4 Weight: 175 Year: N/A Position: PG

Traoré, the younger brother of Lakers forward Armel Traoré, is projected to be a first-round pick, given his ability in transition to setting the table on offense in the half-court. He has had some inconsistent showings in the competitive French League, but he has the potential to be an elite playmaker at the next level, with his feel, instincts and passing.

20. Miami Heat (via Golden State): Will Riley, Illinois

Height: 6-8 Weight: 195 Year: Fr. Position: G

Riley was the Big Ten Sixth Man of the Year after averaging 12.6 points, 4.1 rebounds and 2.2 assists on 43.2% shooting from the field in 35 appearances. He flourished by providing a scoring punch off the bench and proved he can score in various ways, with his array of dribble moves, jab steps and step-backs on the perimeter. Teams will want to see him improve as a shooter, after converting 32.6% on 4.1 attempts per game, but the Canadian should draw looks in this range based on his scoring potential.

First Round: Nos. 21-25

21. Utah (via Minnesota): Danny Wolf, Michigan

22. Atlanta (via Lakers): Ben Saraf, Ratiopharm Ulm (Germany)

23. Indiana: Thomas Sorber, Georgetown

24. Oklahoma City (via Clippers): Yaxel Lendeborg, UAB

25. Orlando (via Denver): Walter Clayton Jr., Florida

First Round: Nos. 26-30

26. Brooklyn (via New York): Rasheer Fleming, Saint Joseph’s

27. Brooklyn (via Houston): Hugo González, Real Madrid (Spain)

28. Boston: Noah Penda, Le Mans (France)

29. Phoenix (via Cleveland): Johni Broome, Auburn

30: LA Clippers (via Oklahoma City): Kam Jones, Marquette

Second Round: Nos. 31-40

31. Minnesota (via Utah): Joan Beringer, Cedevita Olimpija (Slovenia)

32. Boston (via Washington): Maxime Raynaud, Stanford

33. Charlotte: Alex Toohey, Sydney Kings (NBL)

34. Charlotte (via New Orleans): Ryan Kalkbrenner, Creighton

35. Philadelphia: Adou Thiero, Arkansas

36. Brooklyn: Boogie Fland, Arkansas

37. Detroit (via Toronto): Alex Condon, Florida

38. San Antonio: Bogoljub Marković, Tennessee

39: Toronto (via Portland): Isaiah Evans, Duke

40. Washington (via Phoenix): Tyrese Proctor, Duke

Second Round: Nos. 41-50

41. Golden State (via Miami): Milos Uzan, Houston

42. Sacramento (via Chicago): Chaz Lanier, Tennessee

43. Utah (via Dallas): Drake Powell, North Carolina

44. Oklahoma City (via Atlanta): Tahaad Pettiford, Auburn

45. Chicago (via Sacramento): Labaron Philon, Alabama

46. Orlando: Darrion Williams, Texas Tech

47. Milwaukee (via Detroit): Izan Almansa, Perth Wildcats (NBL)

48. Memphis (via Golden State): Michael Ruzic, Joventut (Spain)

49. Cleveland (via Milwaukee): John Tonje, Wisconsin

50. New York (via Memphis): Eric Dixon, Villanova

Second Round: Nos. 51-59

51. LA Clippers (Minnesota): Miles Byrd, San Diego State

52. Phoenix (via Denver): Sion James, Duke

53. Utah (via Clippers): Koby Brea, Kentucky

54. Indiana: Dink Pate, Mexico City Capitanes (G League)

55. Los Angeles Lakers: Rocco Zikarsky, Brisbane Bullets (NBL)

New York: Forfeited

56. Memphis (via Houston): Mouhamed Faye, Reggio Emilia (Italy)

57. Orlando (via Boston): Cedric Coward, Washington State

58. Cleveland: Jamir Watkins, Florida State

59. Houston (via Oklahoma City): Vladislav Goldin, Michigan