Choosing the top or bottom Cooper Flagg destinations in the 2025 NBA Draft Lottery really comes down to personal preference. The freshman standout from Duke can seamlessly take on key roles, whether with other stars or on teams that are still figuring things out.
I think the Washington Wizards represent a great destination for Flagg in the 2025 NBA Draft Lottery. In Washington, he could breathe new life into a team that has struggled in a major market while bringing the star quality the Eastern Conference needs, carving out a role for himself on young teams focused on rebuilding patiently.
However, not every team in the lottery is appealing for a player like him. The less desirable spots rely on how they can foster player development, their overall impact on the league’s health, along with some nostalgic biases.
5. Toronto Raptors
Lottery position: No. 7 | Chance for No. 1 pick: 7.5%
Flag would fit into the Raptors’ vision of constructing a team full of versatile 6’8 or 6’9 players. Toronto already has some solid young talent, but after acquiring Brandon Ingram at the deadline, they’ll need focus on making the playoffs next season. The concern is that the Raptors might be pushing their rebuild too soon without securing a true franchise player. While Flagg would change that dynamic, I’d prefer to see him on a team with fewer competing priorities. Although pairing him with Scottie Barnes might not be perfect, the duo’s defensive potential could be impressive. Team executive Masai Ujiri did a commendable job assembling the Raptors’ 2019 Championship team, but he’s made some missteps since then. Should luck not favor Toronto in the lottery, they might consider bringing in one of Flagg’s talented Duke teammates, like Kon Knueppel or Khaman Maluach.
4. Utah Jazz
Lottery position: No. 1 | Chance for No. 1 pick: 14%
While other rebuilding teams have sought competition, the Jazz have opted to take a step back. They’ve seen a decline from 37 wins to 31 this past season, especially after losing Donovan Mitchell and Rudy Gobert. Ainge’s strategy might be to team Flagg with one of the top prospects from the 2026 class. I actually see Utah as a reasonable place for him, given Ainge’s track record and a promising young head coach in Will Hardy. Still, jazz basketball this season has been tough to watch. If the Jazz secure the top pick, they could surround Flagg with talent. Although that sounds promising, I have some doubts regarding the existing young core’s ability to support him effectively. Ideally, Flagg’s future may lie in the Eastern Conference.
3. Philadelphia 76ers
Lottery position: No. 5 | Chance for No. 1 pick: 10.5%
The 76ers made pivotal moves in past drafts, like trading for Al Horford’s contract, which ultimately benefitted them temporarily. However, their long-term strategy has faltered, especially as they now watch Horford thrive in Boston, their rival. Unfortunately, the Sixers have a top-six protected pick, making it tough for them to keep it without other teams jumping ahead. It’s hard to believe this was supposed to be a championship year led by Joel Embiid and Paul George, but injury and disappointment turned that hope into a disaster. The franchise feels cursed right now, grappling with hefty contracts for players who haven’t delivered consistently. Landing in Philadelphia could stifle Flagg’s career—imagining him battling injuries there is troubling. With fans drawn to other teams, this doesn’t feel like an ideal fit for him.
2. New Orleans Pelicans
Lottery position: No. 4 | Chance for No. 1 pick: 12.5%
The Pelicans seem to carry the weight of misplaced expectations. Their 2019 lottery win for Zion Williamson set high hopes, but injuries have derailed a promising roster since. With Williamson being one of the league’s more unpredictable stars and GM David Griffin’s questionable trades, the team’s future feels tumultuous. With Joe Dumars now in charge, the team must decide to build around or move on from Williamson. New Orleans has already seen failed attempts with past number one picks, and bringing in Flagg only adds pressure. Still, seeing him alongside Herb Jones could be exciting, especially with a shooter like Trey Murphy III on the team to complement his style. Ideally, Flagg might shine brighter in the Eastern Conference.
1. San Antonio Spurs
Lottery position: No. 8 + No. 14 | Chance for No. 1 pick: 6% + 0.7%
The Spurs could be a remarkable match for Flagg; there’s no denying that. The pairing with Victor Wembanyama could lead to an impressive era for the franchise. Wemby stands out as the most promising player in the NBA, and Flagg has a strong argument for being the top prospect outside the league. If they also add De’Aaron Fox, Stephon Castle, and Devin Vassell, they could be set for a championship run. But why might it be the worst spot for Flagg? They could end up being too good. Instead of building chemistry, they’d be locked in competition, sharing the spotlight as two of the league’s brightest young talents. Winning the lottery only enhances the disparities between the West and the East, giving San Antonio a potentially overwhelming advantage. The Spurs already have enough resources to create a contender around Wembanyama. Merging Flagg into that scenario might complicate things significantly. A competitive rivalry between them on different teams could prove more entertaining for fans.
