Ace Bailey is the most controversial prospect in the 2025 NBA Draft. Some see Bailey as the second-best player in the class with an All-NBA ceiling. Others see him as a project who should fall lower than where the mocks place him. While I am relatively low on Ace Bailey, there are traits I believe in to make Bailey a featured player at the next level.
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Pros
Bailey is one of the best shot-makers in the class. His long frame allows him to rise above defenders and get his shot off at any level. Bailey routinely made tough shots in his lone year at Rutgers, bailing out the many rough offensive possessions the Scarlet Knights had last year. He is also abnormally bendy for a player of his size, able to contort his body to help himself on both sides of the court. With rose colored glasses, one could buy into a Kevin Durant-type scoring profile for Ace Bailey. Defensively, his frame makes him an off-ball menace. Jumping into passing lanes and rotating over to affect shots at the rim give Bailey a high defensive floor.
Cons
I am not a fan of Bailey's play style. While he can make tough shots, Bailey routinely settles for shots on the perimeter. These shots made it harder for Bailey to be effective. His decision-making on the offensive end needs some fine-tuning before turning into a key rotational piece. Bailey also struggles to handle ball pressure, due to his loose handle and poor decision-making. Defensively, he has the tools to be an All-NBA type asset, but he routinely gives a lack of effort.
Pro Comparison
In an ideal world, Bailey could become a Michael Porter Jr. model with better defense. In his first few years in the league, I think Ace Bailey will probably resort to focusing on his offensive abilities, trying to show he can provide value at the next level. With the right coaching staff around him, Bailey can be a monster two-way forward.
Conclusion
While lower than the consensus, it's hard for me to ignore the special traits that Ace Bailey has. I am cautiously optimistic about Bailey's potential and am hoping to be proven wrong.
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