NBA Mock Draft 6.0: Rockets Rise Ranks, Raptors Retain Flagg
With the 2025 NBA Draft drawing closer, the landscape continues to shift as teams finalize scouting reports and weigh the potential of this year’s standout prospects. The latest NBA Mock Draft 6.0 brings a few surprises, headlined by the Houston Rockets climbing the draft board and the Toronto Raptors holding firm with Cooper Flagg, arguably the most exciting player in this year’s class.
Toronto Raptors: Cooper Flagg Era Incoming
The Raptors currently hold the No. 3 overall pick, and in this latest mock draft, they are projected to select Duke’s Cooper Flagg — a move that could redefine their franchise. Flagg, a 6’9″ forward, has dazzled scouts all season with his combination of athleticism, court vision, and defensive instincts. In his freshman year at Duke, Flagg averaged 20 points, nearly 7 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game while shooting over 43% from beyond the arc.
Flagg isn’t just a high-upside pick — he’s widely seen as the most NBA-ready player in the draft. His ability to play both ends of the floor, along with a motor that never quits, has drawn comparisons to NBA greats like Jayson Tatum and Scottie Pippen. For the Raptors, a team in transition following the departure of several key veterans, Flagg could become the centerpiece of a new era, joining Scottie Barnes and Gradey Dick in an emerging young core.
Houston Rockets: Building Depth and Versatility
Meanwhile, the Houston Rockets are making waves by rising in the ranks thanks to a combination of their own pick and Brooklyn’s. Projected to land two top-10 selections, Houston is expected to target Baylor guard Ja’Kobe Walter and Georgia forward Asa Newell.
With the Brooklyn pick at No. 8, the Rockets are eyeing Ja’Kobe Walter, a scoring guard who fits the modern NBA mold with his ability to shoot from deep and create off the dribble. Walter averaged 14 points per game and showcased solid perimeter defense — attributes that could complement Houston’s already loaded backcourt featuring Jalen Green and Fred VanVleet.
Their own pick, projected at No. 9, is slotted for Asa Newell. The 6’10” forward brings size, athleticism, and a polished interior game. He offers defensive versatility and strong finishing near the rim — traits that would pair nicely with Alperen Şengün and Jabari Smith Jr. in the Rockets’ frontcourt rotation. Newell’s upside as a two-way big makes him a high-ceiling addition for a team seeking long-term balance.
Final Thoughts
The latest mock draft underscores how pivotal this offseason could be for franchises like Toronto and Houston. The Raptors, by retaining Cooper Flagg, may have found the cornerstone they’ve been searching for. Meanwhile, the Rockets’ dual top-10 picks position them to add depth and versatility, bolstering a young roster already brimming with potential.
As the draft draws nearer, fans can expect more movement and surprises, but one thing is clear: the 2025 class is stacked, and teams are jockeying to secure their next franchise star.
