Tahaad Pettiford has proven himself one of Auburn’s most explosive freshmen, making a strong case for the 2025 NBA Draft. His combination of shooting and playmaking has caught the attention of NBA scouts.
Pettiford has speed and a killer instinct, which is exactly what NBA teams look for in a young guard. Analysts see him as a borderline first-round pick, with some believing his explosive athleticism and scoring ability could push him into the late first round. Others think he might slip into the second, making him a steal for any team willing to bet on his upside.
The big question is where he will land in the 2025 NBA Draft. Let’s break down five teams that could use his talents.
Possible NBA Landing Spots for Auburn’s Tahaad Pettiford
New York Knicks
The Knicks have their star in Jalen Brunson, but their bench could use an electric scorer who can come in and change the game’s pace. Pettiford, averaging 11.7 points per game while shooting 37.4% from deep this season, would be a perfect fit. He can run the second unit, breaking down defenses and giving New York a much-needed scoring punch.
Orlando Magic
The Magic have size and star power in Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, but they desperately need a guard to stretch the floor. Pettiford’s 37.4% three-point shooting and ability to score in transition make him an ideal fit.
He wouldn’t have to be the main playmaker—Banchero and Wagner already handle that—but he could be the knockdown shooter and secondary scorer they’ve been missing. Spacing is also an issue for Orlando, and Pettiford could be the guy to help fix it.
Indiana Pacers
Indiana plays fast. They push the pace and thrive in transition, which makes Pettiford a natural fit. His elite speed and his 2.9 assists per game would make him a dangerous weapon alongside Tyrese Haliburton. Pettiford wouldn’t have to carry the offense, but he’d be deadly running the floor and attacking defenses before they could set up.
Haliburton is one of the best passers in the league, and having a guard like Pettiford, who can keep up and knock down shots, would make Indiana’s offense even scarier.
Washington Wizards
Washington is starting over, and they need young talent with star potential. Pettiford fits that mold. His 79.3% free throw shooting shows his touch is there, and his ability to get to the rim would give the Wizards a much-needed offensive weapon. He could develop alongside Jordan Poole and Bilal Coulibaly, forming a young, athletic core.
With Poole being more of a scorer than a true point guard, Pettiford could step in as a playmaker, setting up teammates and taking over when needed. Washington needs a spark, and Pettiford has the tools to be that guy.
Atlanta Hawks
The Hawks’ future is uncertain, with Trae Young the subject of constant trade rumors. Even if he stays, they need more firepower off the bench. Pettiford’s 42.5% field goal percentage makes him a great fit. He could be a lightning-fast backup who keeps the offense humming when Young sits, or if Young eventually leaves, Pettiford could be developed as his successor.
His ability to play on and off the ball means he could fit seamlessly alongside Young, making Atlanta’s backcourt even more dangerous.