CHICAGO \u2014 With the **draft order** now established for the top 14 picks, the NBA shifted its focus to the basketball court at **Wintrust Arena** on Tuesday. This marked the beginning of the **2025 NBA Draft Combine**, where teams analyzed the measurements and skill sets of potential prospects. The first day of the combine was dominated by **Cooper Flagg**, but it also provided a platform for non-lottery and second-round hopefuls to demonstrate **physical attributes** that might influence their draft positions.<\/p>\n
The day’s activities included **physical measurements**, athletic tests such as the **vertical jump**, agility drills, sprints, and shooting demonstrations, offering a comprehensive evaluation of the players’ capabilities. Here\u2019s a detailed overview of the key takeaways from Day 1 of the combine.<\/p>\n
Amid the buzz surrounding the **Dallas Mavericks**, who defied 1.8% odds to win the lottery, speculation arose about whether general manager **Nico Harrison** would explore trading the No. 1 pick. However, an **ESPN report** confirmed Tuesday that the Mavericks plan to retain the top pick to select **Duke’s Cooper Flagg**.<\/p>\n
Flagg was a standout presence on the first day, fully participating in the combine thanks to a new stipulation in the collective bargaining agreement. This requires all domestic players to attend the event and engage throughout the week. He showcased impressive physical skills, including a **29-foot standing vertical leap** and a **35.5-foot maximum vertical jump**. While he did not lead in every category, Flagg’s shooting proficiency and athletic versatility solidified his position as the projected first pick in the upcoming draft.<\/p>\n
A particular point of interest was **Ace Bailey**, a wing from Rutgers long considered a candidate for a top-four draft pick. The most crucial moment for Bailey during the combine arrived on Tuesday when he was officially measured. Bailey, who was listed as 6-foot-10 last season, measured significantly shorter at 6-foot-7.5 without shoes. Although he recorded an impressive **7-foot-0.5 wingspan** and an **8-foot-11 standing reach**, being over two inches shorter than his listed height raises concerns among scouts.<\/p>\n
This height discrepancy could potentially impact Bailey’s draft stock, especially considering his unpredictable gameplay. As a player possessing undeniable talent but marked by inconsistency, losing a perceived height advantage may not help his case as he continues through the draft evaluation process.<\/p>\n
Another name to watch is **Cedric Coward**, a senior from Washington State who has quickly gained attention. Initially projected as a mid-second-round selection, Coward is now on the verge of becoming a first-round talent. Standing at **6-foot-6** with a **7-foot-1 wingspan**, he exhibits promising length for a guard, alongside significant defensive potential that could transform him into a versatile two-way player.<\/p>\n
Coward demonstrated a solid shooting form during the workouts, successfully making corner three-point shots. At 21 years old, he remains undecided about staying in the draft or returning to college, having previously committed to **Duke**. However, as interest from **front offices** continues to rise, it is becoming increasingly difficult to envision a scenario where Coward isn’t a major player in this year’s draft.<\/p>\n
This season, the Chicago Bulls need to concentrate on strengthening their frontcourt. Their current young core comprises primarily guards and wings, including talents such as **Coby White**, **Josh Giddey**, and **Matas Buzelis**. However, securing a dominant big man has not been a focus for the Bulls in recent years, relying heavily on veteran center **Nikola Vu\u010devi\u0107**.<\/p>\n
Yet, Vu\u010devi\u0107’s time in Chicago is likely winding down. Despite having remaining contract years, he has expressed a desire to pursue **win-now** situations rather than remain on a rebuilding roster. This summer, the Bulls aim to offload Vu\u010devi\u0107, having passed up earlier trade opportunities.<\/p>\n
Currently, the Bulls have younger options in **Zach Collins** (27) and **Jalen Smith** (25). Collins was acquired mid-season but overshadowed Smith’s role as a backup, complicating the team’s dynamics as they explore trade possibilities. However, neither player presents long-term starting potential.<\/p>\n
Consequently, the Bulls should prioritize scouting for esteemed big men during the combine. **Khaman Maluach** from Duke and **Derik Queen** from Maryland are top candidates. Maluach stands at an imposing **7-foot-1**, showcasing a raw but intriguing profile with significant mobility in both offensive and defensive situations. Meanwhile, Queen measures **6-foot-9** and possesses an adaptable playing style along with a strong finish, making him an ideal complement to Buzelis and the Bulls’ guards.<\/p>\n
However, given that the Bulls pick at **No. 12**, they may find themselves too far down the order to secure either Maluach or Queen, both projected to fall within the top ten. Other potential options on the table include **Asa Newell** from Georgia, **Collin Murray-Boyles** from South Carolina, **Danny Wolf** from Michigan, and **Thomas Sorber** from Georgetown.<\/p>\n
Lastly, players outside the frontcourt mix who could also pique the Bulls’ interest include **Jase Richardson** from Michigan State, **Noa Essengue** from France, and **Kasparas Jaku\u010dionis** from Illinois.<\/p>\n