5. Utah Jazz: Ace Bailey
Latif Love: C+
Ace Bailey is the most polarising player in this class. He’s been compared to the likes of Kevin Durant, but could not live up to the billing in his lone year at Rutgers.
Bailey struggles to create separation with his handle, so he settles for tough jumpers. He takes a lot of foul shots, and they don't go in enough to justify his shot profile. Ace is not a good enough advantage creator or passer to be confident in a star outcome.
This pick depends on what they are drafting Ace to be. He has the tools to be an astounding off-ball shooter and secondary rim protector if he buys in.
Joey LeMaster: B+
Ace Bailey was the most prolific talent during the 2025 NBA Draft process. He now ends up in the least prolific city in the league, which is probably good for him.
There is so much to love about a talent like Ace Bailey. He is a tall player who can make circus-level shots. Simply put, he is the definition of talent. It is now up to him and the Utah Jazz if they can make the most out of it.
He has the IQ of Patrick Star. His shot selection is not good, nor is his playmaking or help defense. If he does not put it together, he will disappoint.