A notable NBA insider has named an unexpected team as the ideal destination for the draft’s top prospect.
There’s little doubt that Duke freshman phenom Cooper Flagg will be the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. The only question is which team will win the lottery and get the chance to draft him.
Currently, the Washington Wizards, Charlotte Hornets, and Utah Jazz each hold a 14% chance at the top pick. However, several other teams could jump up and claim the No. 1 spot thanks to the unpredictable nature of the lottery.
One analyst, however, made an interesting case for a different team. On CBS Sports’ “HQ Spotlight,” insider Kyle Boone named the Philadelphia 76ers as his top choice for Flagg’s future team.
“I’d go with the 76ers—and for a few key reasons,” Boone said. “They have one of the more exciting young rosters in the league. Jared McCain was playing at a high level before his injury. Tyrese Maxey continues to shine. Quentin Grimes, who they acquired midseason, has looked great. It would be a refreshing chapter in ‘The Process.’ Joel Embiid’s health is uncertain going forward, but this young group in Philly would greatly benefit from adding someone like Flagg.”
The 76ers were among the NBA’s biggest letdowns last season. After signing Paul George to a max deal, they were expected to be title contenders, but injuries to both George and Embiid led to a dismal 24-58 finish—fifth-worst in the league.
Adding Flagg to this roster would create a fascinating situation. While not in a full rebuild, the Sixers could be poised for a quick turnaround. Even though George and Embiid are aging and have dealt with injuries, a bounce-back season is still possible.
Moreover, Philadelphia has promising young talent. McCain, another Duke product, looked like the league’s top rookie before a meniscus injury cut his season short. Maxey has emerged as one of the league’s top young guards, while players like Grimes and Adem Bona have flashed potential as future contributors.
With a 10.5% chance at landing the top pick, the Sixers have an outside shot. If they do snag Flagg, their playoff hopes could surge dramatically.