2025 NBA Draft Scouting Report for Brooklyn Nets No. 22 Pick Drake Powell

The Brooklyn Nets have selected Drake Powell with the No. 22 pick in the 2025 NBA draft.

Powell entered this past collegiate season as a highly touted recruit and 2024 McDonald’s All-American, ultimately starting 24 of 37 games in his lone season at North Carolina.

He didn't put up flashy numbers as a freshman, but he showed glimpses of his potential on both ends. His frame, motor and willingness to compete give him a strong foundation to build on.

Of course, Powell's game is still raw, especially on offense. He will need time to polish his handle, shot and feel, particularly in the half court.

At just 19 years old and without a signature staple to his game, he presents as a bit of a gamble, and perhaps his floor might be lower than some prospects still on the board.

His ceiling, however, has the potential to rise in the right situation. And if the team is willing to let him play through mistakes, he could carve out a niche in the league, potentially developing into a two-way contributor.

Powell ranks No. 36 on B/R NBA draft expert Jonathan Wasserman's 2025 Prospect Big Board.

Essential Facts and Stats

College: North Carolina | Position: SG/SF | Height: 6'6" | Weight: 195 lbs | Age: 19 | Vertical: 43 | Wingspan: 7'0" | PPG: 7.4 | RPG: 3.4 | APG: 1.1 | BPG: 0.7 | SPG: 0.7 | FG%: 48.3 | 3PT%: 37.9

Realistic Pro Comparison: Royce O'Neale

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Powell may lack advanced offensive skill, but he could have a career like current Phoenix Suns forward Royce O'Neale.

Both offer defensive tools and toughness to help make up for lacking a deep bag of offensive tricks.

Early in his career, Powell will be used as mostly a specialist. The O'Neale comparison could evolve into a more skilled forward with a higher ceiling if he's able to develop more creativity.

Strengths

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Defense: Powell was likely drafted based on his defensive potential. He has both the playmaking ability and tools to lock down the perimeter or guard multiple positions.

Shooting Potential: He shot 40 percent on catch-and-shoot chances. Scouts have become more confident in a three-and-D outcome for him.

Physical Tools/Athleticism: As a shooting guard/small forward, he has an impressive 7'0" wingspan and got up for a combine-best 43-inch vertical.

Weaknesses

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Creation: Powell was used mostly off the ball at UNC. In fact, he played a whopping 50 percent of his possessions this year just spotting up, and he didn't get the chance to flash the early playmaking signs he'd previously shown as a senior in high school.

Shooting Versatility: The majority of Powell jumpers were stationary, spot-up threes. He'll need to add more to his pull-up arsenal and become a more active movement shooter.

Predictability: Powell doesn't create much, make plays for teammates or rebound above average. If he's not making spot-up threes, he might have trouble justifying full-time minutes.