Ace Bailey Reportedly Viewed as 'More of a Project' by NBA Execs Than VJ Edgecombe

Rutgers forward Ace Bailey is reportedly seen "as more of a project" by NBA personnel than Baylor wing VJ Edgecombe, per Sam Vecenie of The Athletic.

"It’s expected that the Sixers will listen to offers for No. 3, but it’s unclear whom the team would take if it stays," Vecenie wrote. "Rutgers’ Bailey has been seen as the biggest upside swing, and he fills a theoretical position of need for Philly as a big wing. But he is also viewed as more of a project by scouts and executives, and this is a Sixers front office that likely needs to win next year to keep its jobs. I’ve also gotten a wider sense of appreciation from NBA front offices for Edgecombe than Bailey."

The Dallas Mavericks plan to select Duke forward Cooper Flagg at No. 1 overall, per ESPN's Tim MacMahon. As for the San Antonio Spurs at No. 2, Vecenie reported that Rutgers guard Dylan Harper "is nearly unanimously considered the second-best player in the draft class by NBA executives and scouts." If the Spurs stay at No. 2, Harper would appear to be the choice.

Then there's a debate for No. 3, where the Philadelphia 76ers are currently selecting. The two top candidates at this early juncture appear to be Bailey and Edgecombe.

B/R's Jonathan Wasserman has Bailey going third overall in his latest mock draft, with Edgecombe going fourth to the Charlotte Hornets. Here's what Wasserman had to say in part about the two in his description of the Hornets' pick.

"Every team's tier behind Flagg and Harper will include VJ Edgecombe. Front offices that value his 100th percentile explosiveness, shotmaking and defensive quickness could slot him at No. 3, particularly if they question Ace Bailey's handle and tunnel vision, Tre Johnson's lack of rim pressure and Jeremiah Fears' shooting.

"The draft process should only help illuminate his incredible athletic ability and improving shooting stroke."

Ultimately, both Bailey and Edgecombe look like great picks on paper. Bailey might need more work upon arrival, but he's only 18 years old and has plenty of time to develop and reach his sky-high potential.