Live from NYC: NBA Draft Buzz, Nets’ Draft Stockpile, Noa Essengue and the Thunder’s Lottery Plans

Broadcast live from the NBA Draft Hotel in New York City, this edition of the Locked On NBA Big Board Podcast features Rafael and James Barlowe breaking down the latest trade chatter and draft buzz ahead of the 2025 NBA Draft. They kick things off with the two headline-making deals of the day: the Brooklyn Nets securing their fifth first-round pick, and the Atlanta Hawks bolstering their frontcourt by acquiring Kristaps Porzingis. The Barlowe brothers then share their thoughts on Noa Essengue's controversial decision to attend the NBA Draft rather than suit up for Game 5 of the German league finals, weighing the long-term implications for his pro outlook and how scouts might perceive the move. From there, they dive into rumors swirling around the Oklahoma City Thunder—fresh off a championship run—who appear keen to pivot toward youth by packaging assets to re‑enter the lottery. Rafael and James highlight plausible target prospects in that mix. Attention then turns to Phoenix, who holds the 10th pick and is reportedly sizing up Derik Queen as a potential long‑term fit. They wrap with a detailed breakdown of the blockbuster that sent Jordan Poole to New Orleans in exchange for CJ McCollum, discussing how each player fits their new surroundings.

2:35 – Brooklyn Nets acquire their fifth first-round pick
4:03 – Atlanta Hawks: Exploring options at No. 13
5:20 – Reaction to Noa Essengue skipping Game 5 for NBA Draft
10:54 – Phoenix Suns' plans at No. 10
12:12 – Could Derik Queen be Phoenix’s pick?
16:14 – Update on Hansen Yang
17:17 – Oklahoma City Thunder trade rumors and lottery buzz
19:00 – Where does Khaman Maluach land?
19:30 – Is Derik Queen a fit in OKC?
21:00 – Jordan Poole traded to Pelicans for CJ McCollum
22:39 – Ace Bailey: Where does he end up?

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#NewOrleansPelicans
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