Vladislav Goldin, the towering former Michigan center, is starting to gain serious traction as a legitimate NBA prospect. Recently, ESPN’s NBA Draft analyst offered a detailed projection for Goldin’s future, highlighting his growing stock and potential role in the 2025 NBA Draft class. Once considered a raw but promising talent, Goldin has steadily developed into one of the more intriguing big men eligible for the upcoming draft.
Standing at 7-foot-1 with an imposing frame and solid mobility, Goldin turned heads during his final season at Michigan. His combination of size, interior scoring, and defensive instincts helped anchor Michigan’s frontcourt. Though his numbers weren’t gaudy—averaging around 11 points, 7 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game—his impact went far beyond the stat sheet. Scouts have praised his improved footwork, timing on shot contests, and his ability to run the floor effectively, making him a potential two-way contributor at the next level.
According to ESPN’s draft analyst, Goldin is projected to be a mid-to-late second-round pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, though that could change with a strong showing in pre-draft workouts or the NBA Combine. The analyst noted that while Goldin still needs to polish certain aspects of his offensive game—particularly his shooting range and passing out of the post—his defensive potential and physical tools make him a high-upside pick for teams in need of a rim protector or developmental center.
Goldin’s NBA fit is particularly compelling for teams that run a traditional pick-and-roll system or emphasize rim protection and rebounding. Teams like the Miami Heat, Portland Trail Blazers, or even the Dallas Mavericks could see him as a long-term backup center who can be molded into a key rotation piece. His work ethic and steady improvement over the past few seasons indicate that he’s a player who’s still trending upward.
Overall, while Goldin may not be a lottery pick, he represents the type of draft prospect that can surprise in the long term—especially in a league that still values size, defense, and interior toughness. With continued development and strong pre-draft performances, Goldin has a real shot at hearing his name called on draft night, and potentially carving out a niche in the NBA.
