NBA teams are built around First-Round NBA Draft superstars. Second-round picks are used to do just that. They are often undervalued, but they are the picks that win championships. The 2025 NBA Champions Oklahoma City Thunder are a perfect example.
The Thunder were built around former first-round NBA draft picks Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren. The rest of the rotation was mostly made up of players who were either selected in the second round or went completely undrafted.
Players like Isaiah Joe, Isaiah Hartenstein, and Aaron Wiggins all played pivotal roles in the Thunders championship run and were all picked in round two. Lu Dort and Alex Caruso may have been even more important to the Thunder, and they were both undrafted.
This article will look over some of the players that may be available in the second round of this year’s NBA Draft. These players could have the potential to be the next key pieces on a championship roster.
Lanier showcased great shooting and off-ball movement last season at Tennessee. At 6’4, Lanier has been labeled as a small guard. He also is a limited playmaker, which may draw teams away.
Lanier has the potential to be the best shooter in the NBA draft. His off-ball movement allows coaches to design plays specifically for him, a trait that few have in the second round.
NBA Ceiling Comp: JJ Redick
Kalkbrenner is a 7’1 center who showcased elite shot-blocking in his 5 years at Creighton. He appears to project as a traditional NBA Center where he dominates the paint defensively and handles his own on offense.
Kalkbrenner, although mainly an interior scorer, showcased shooting potential in the last two seasons. He shot 32% from three on 115 attempts throughout that time.
If Kalkbrenner can add a jump shot he could very well come away from the draft as the best value pick. His defense is amazing and his offensive game has shown great potential.
NBA Ceiling Comp: Brook Lopez
James is a very versatile defender who can guard anyone on the perimeter. At 6’5, he needs to have a consistent jumper to be valuable at this stage, and he appears to have developed one in the last two seasons.
James shot 49% last season at Duke, although that is not expected to continue. If James can shoot 37% from three or higher, his defense can carry the rest of his game.
NBA Ceiling Comp: Danny Green
Saraf is expected to be selected in the mid to late first round, although recent mock drafts have had him slipping into the second round. It would be unexpected to see him fall, but he is included here in the case he does.
Saraf is a sure-fire pick who has shown great playmaking ability at 6’6. He can be a great floor general with scoring upside on any roster.
Saraf’s jumper will continue to develop and his elite playmaking will career his offense. On top of his offensive skillset, he offers good defensive versatility. His height allows him to play and guard multiple positions.
Saraf does lack athleticism, limiting his ability to blow by defenders. This is one of the few cons in his game full of skill.
NBA Ceiling Comp: A lesser Manu Ginobili
The picks that build championship contenders come after pick 30 in the draft. It is rare to find superstars to carry a franchise to the playoffs in this round, but instead, some players will perfectly accommodate those superstars and get them across the finish line. These are the guys this season who can transform a roster from playoff team to championship contender.
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