NBA Draft Combine 2025: Spurs Holding Firm on No. 2 Pick, 76ers Willing to Trade No. 3
ICARO Media Group
### NBA Draft Combine 2025: Spurs Lean Towards Holding No. 2 Pick, 76ers Open to Trading No. 3
The NBA Draft Combine in Chicago has officially kicked off the 2025 draft season, sparking a flurry of speculation, excitement, and strategic planning for teams across the league. Key decisions are being deliberated within front offices, particularly for those holding top picks.
#### Spurs Likely to Retain No. 2 Pick
When the San Antonio Spurs secured the No. 2 pick in the upcoming NBA Draft, it immediately raised the question of whether they would consider trading the pick for an established star like Giannis Antetokounmpo. This speculation has been fueled by the Spurs' existing backcourt strength with De'Aaron Fox and Stephon Castle, making projected No. 2 pick Dylan Harper less of a necessity. However, according to reports from Sam Vecenie of The Athletic, the Spurs are inclined to keep their pick.
Most league insiders suggest that the Spurs sticking with their No. 2 pick is the most probable outcome. If San Antonio holds on to the pick, drafting Harper, the highest-rated player available, is the recommended strategy. This approach ensures they maximize the talent on their roster, even if it leads to a surplus at one position.
#### 76ers Open to Trade Talks for the No. 3 Pick
Daryl Morey, known for his willingness to make trades, is reportedly open to dealing the Philadelphia 76ers' No. 3 pick. Vecenie indicates that Philadelphia will entertain offers for the pick, which could land them either V.J. Edgecombe or Ace Bailey. The 76ers, given their current roster and aspirations, might prefer a trade that brings immediate impact over developing another guard or a project player.
With the injury to Jayson Tatum, the 76ers are in a prime position to push aggressively for a title run next season. Thus, trading the No. 3 pick for a proven asset could align perfectly with their win-now mentality.
#### NBA Draft Combine Standouts
Several prospects have made significant impressions during the Combine:
- **V.J. Edgecombe, Baylor:** Already a top-four prospect, Edgecombe's athletic prowess and two-way potential cemented his status as a likely top-three pick, possibly overtaking Ace Bailey.
- **Tahaad Pettiford, Auburn:** Known for his 42-inch vertical leap and a strong performance in his first scrimmage, Pettiford grabbed attention, although an inconsistent follow-up slightly dampened the buzz around him.
- **Khaman Maluach, Duke:** The 7'1" center with a 7'7" wingspan impressed scouts with his measurements and on-court abilities, sparking rumors of a potential promise from the Toronto Raptors at No. 9.
- **Maxime Raynaud, Stanford:** Opting out of Day 2 after a stellar first scrimmage, Raynaud showcased his shooting and physicality, making a case for himself in the late-first to early-second round range.
- **Lachlan Olbrich, Illawarra Hawks:** Following a noteworthy stint in Australia's NBL and a solid performance at the G-League showcase, Olbrich demonstrated his rim protection and floor-stretching capabilities, positioning himself as a potential second-round pick or two-way contract candidate.
The NBA Draft Combine has set the stage for intriguing developments ahead of the draft on June 25-26 at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, as teams weigh their options and prepare to make pivotal decisions for their future.