Ace Bailey is all set to be a top-five pick at the 2025 NBA Draft after flashing elite shot-making potential during his freshman season at Rutgers.
The 6’7” forward has been lauded for his willingness to take and make difficult shots, and while many think it illustrated Bailey’s upside if things come together, one scout argues it could be a red flag.
NBA Scout Not Confident About Ace Bailey’s Playmaking
Bailey lived up to the hype at Rutgers, averaging 17.6 points and 7.2 rebounds per game while shooting 46 percent from the field, including 34.6 percent from 3-point range. His ability to hit mid-range jumpers, especially off the dribble, has NBA scouts excited about his upside.
However, his playmaking has left much to be desired, with the 18-year-old averaging just 1.3 assists per game last season. To further jeopardize his draft stock, many are raising concerns about Bailey’s shot selection as well.
One NBA Scout revealed to HoopsHype that when Bailey was asked about his shot selection during the pre-draft interviews, he defended them as good shots.
“The shot selection at Rutgers last year left a lot to be desired,” the scout said. “Part of that is because he played on a bad team and had to take a lot of tough shots. But when they asked him about shot selection during the pre-draft interviews, he said, ‘Well, I work on those shots, so they’re not really bad shots to me.’ I don’t know if that’s true. Especially since he’s six-seven and not six-ten anymore, he’s really going to have to show that he’s made strides as a playmaker.
“One assist per game isn’t going to cut it. I know he was on a bad team, but that’s just not going to cut it.”
While Bailey’s defense of his bad shots could be a concern, his defensive upside is enough to keep him inside the top five or at least the top ten in the draft.
He’s described as a smooth yet explosive athlete who averaged 1.3 blocks per game in college, serving as a plus rim protector who can’t be targeted in space by ball-handlers.
Defensive plays like these make it hard to overlook Ace Bailey’s upside as a wing prospect.
Opposing scorers shot 30.8% (!) on jump shots + 40.9% at the rim when guarded by Bailey. pic.twitter.com/tq84X9MhmG
— Mohamed (@mcfdraft)
In PFSN’s latest NBA mock draft by Brandon Austin, Bailey is predicted to be selected at No. 3 overall by the Philadelphia 76ers.
“Bailey brings dynamic scoring and length to a frontcourt that has long lacked athletic, two-way wings,” Austin wrote. “The 6’10” forward flashed elite shot-making potential during his freshman season at Rutgers. In Philadelphia, Bailey won’t have to shoulder the same offensive load he did in college, which should allow his efficiency and overall impact to grow quickly.
“What makes Bailey so appealing is the combination of upside and versatility. He already possesses NBA-caliber shooting mechanics, and he’s displayed an ability to get buckets from nothing.”
If Tyrese Maxey, Paul George, and Joel Embiid are all healthy when the season begins, Bailey could very well bring his prowess to Philadelphia to complement this veteran trio. His defensive prowess and offensive highlights would fit in well alongside George and Maxey.