Podcast Title: The Zach Lowe Show
Host: Zach Lowe, The Ringer
Episode Title: Complete NBA Draft Analysis With Tate Frazier and Mo DeKill. Plus, a Conversation With New Orlando Magic Teammate Desmond Bane
Release Date: June 26, 2025

Introduction

The episode kicks off with a high-energy introduction from host Zach Lowe, setting the stage for an in-depth analysis of the latest NBA draft and its aftermath. Joining him are special guests Tate Frazier and Mo DeKill, who bring expertise and fresh perspectives to the discussion. Towards the end of the episode, new Orlando Magic player Desmond Bane joins the conversation, offering unique insights from his recent trade.

I. NBA Draft Trades and Analysis

A. Pelicans-Hawks Trade

One of the standout moments of the draft night was the audacious trade between the New Orleans Pelicans and the Atlanta Hawks. The Pelicans, aiming to bolster their roster, made a significant move to acquire the 13th pick, selecting Derek Queen from Maryland. In return, they sent the 23rd pick along with an unprotected 2026 pick to the Hawks, who chose Asa Newell from Georgia.

Zach Lowe expresses his astonishment at the Pelicans' decision:

"I still in shock. I can't believe that they paid that price to go up 10 spots. Get there." ([03:07])

Tate Frazier defends the Pelicans' choice, highlighting Derek Queen's potential:

"Derrick Queen has these old school tendencies that you kind of fall in love with... People expect him to be a creator." ([08:12])

However, Mo DeKill raises concerns about how Queen will fit alongside star Zion Williamson:

"Is this going to be a thing where we can only play one of those guys at the same time?" ([10:06])

Despite the risks, both guests acknowledge the high upside Derek Queen brings to the Pelicans, making the trade a bold but potentially rewarding move.

B. Blazers' Moves

The Portland Trail Blazers made strategic moves by trading C.J. McCollum and an expiring contract to the Wizards in exchange for Jrue Holiday. This acquisition aims to strengthen their defensive lineup and add veteran leadership.

Zach Lowe discusses the long-term implications:

"Are Portland going to be sneaky good this year? Or is this irrational exuberance?" ([...)

Mo DeKill analyzes the roster changes, noting improvements in defense and the potential for future growth:

"Defense has been really what they were focused on... They have a bunch of young guys ready to compete." ([18:42])

This trade positions the Blazers as a more balanced team with enhanced defensive capabilities, though questions remain about their offensive roadmap.

C. Nets' Unconventional Draft

The Brooklyn Nets stunned observers by selecting five players from diverse backgrounds, sparking confusion and debate about their draft strategy.

Tate Frazier compares the Nets' approach to the 2009 Timberwolves' eclectic selections:

"This was the 2009 Minnesota Timberwolves draft where they just took everything." ([50:15])

The guests express skepticism about the Nets' ability to integrate such varied talents effectively, suggesting the team might be aiming to tank and accumulate assets for future rebuilding.

D. Other Notable Draft Moves

• Utah Jazz: Acquired Ace Bailey and Walter Clayton Jr., addressing their need for size and depth.

  Tate Frazier praises the fit:

  "Ace can do some things that'll make you go, wow, you know what I mean?" ([32:54])

• Memphis Grizzlies: Selected Cedric Coward, a player with significant upside, and Cedric's fit in Memphis is analyzed positively.

  Tate Frazier highlights Cedric's potential:

  "Cedric Coward just checks so many boxes... He has a high upside." ([22:00])

• Washington Wizards: Drafted Trey Johnson and acquired C.J. Holiday to mentor younger players and enhance team depth.

  Tate Frazier emphasizes Johnson's scoring prowess:

  "Trey Johnson was a freshman who led the SEC in scoring... very positive." ([36:36])

• Sacramento Kings: Focused on acquiring Nate Clifford, reflecting their strategic draft up moves.

• Phoenix Suns: Made swift moves by trading for Mark Williams from Charlotte and drafting Malawatch, adding depth to their center position.

  Zach Lowe critiques the Suns' roadmap:

  "I don't see what they're going to be... they have a ton of assets." ([57:04])

II. Western Conference Outlook

The discussion transitions to the broader landscape of the NBA's Western Conference. Both guests and Zach Lowe analyze the depth and competitiveness of the West, contemplating whether it might be overrated.

Zach Lowe questions the overall strength:

"Are people kind of overrating the West? Is it maybe a little kind of fat in the midsection?" ([16:16])

Mo DeKill concurs, suggesting there's room for surprise contenders:

"There's an opening for a random team to just suddenly be a 46-win team." ([...)

They acknowledge traditional powerhouses like Oklahoma City, Houston, and Denver but highlight potential vulnerabilities and the possibility of unexpected teams rising.

III. Specific Player Evaluations

A. Derek Queen (Pelicans)

Tate Frazier lauds Queen's creativity and potential star qualities, despite concerns about conditioning:

"Derrick Queen, who can create for others... he's a very likable kid, good locker room presence." ([08:12])

Mo DeKill remains cautious about the Pelicans' hefty price for Queen but acknowledges his talent:

"Giving up an unprotected pick when you are not projected to be good next year is absolutely insane." ([10:06])

B. Asa Newell (Hawks)

Selected at 23rd, Asa Newell is seen as a lottery talent who fits well within Atlanta's system.

Tate Frazier praises his immediate impact and comfort in Atlanta:

"He's a solid piece, can defend the rim, solid player from Georgia." ([28:49])

C. Cedric Coward (Grizzlies)

Drafted by Memphis, Cedric Coward is highlighted for his broad shoulders and potential as a wing-player paired with Jalen Wells.

Tate Frazier underscores their synergy:

"Jalen Wells and Cedric Coward... they also really like each other." ([22:00])

D. Trey Johnson (Wizards)

A top scorer from the SEC, Trey Johnson is anticipated to thrive under the mentorship of C.J. Holiday.

Tate Frazier emphasizes Johnson's scoring ability:

"He led the entire conference in scoring, very positive." ([36:36])

E. Ace Bailey & Walter Clayton Jr. (Jazz)

Addressing Utah's needs, Ace Bailey is seen as a high-potential guard paired with the experienced Walter Clayton Jr.

Tate Frazier appreciates their fit and potential impact:

"These two guys can kind of fit in with each other, have a kind of freedom with this team." ([32:54])

IV. Special Segment: Conversation with Desmond Bane

In a special guest segment, Desmond Bane, newly traded to the Orlando Magic, shares his experiences and expectations.

A. Trade Experience and Fit

Desmond discusses his seamless transition from the Memphis Grizzlies to the Magic, highlighting the strong team culture and defensive identity of Orlando.

Desmond Bane reflects on team chemistry:

"It's easy, you know, every team has different ways... fit the mold and a coach who can be the driving piece." ([85:47])

B. Expectations with the Magic

He expresses optimism about the Magic's potential to emulate the Grizzlies' "grit and grind" mentality, focusing on defense and teamwork to make deep playoff runs.

Desmond Bane on team identity:

"We can create something like that in Orlando... known for our rugged, hard-nosed basketball." ([96:53])

C. Lessons from Previous Teams

Drawing insights from his time with the Grizzlies and observing teams like Indiana Pacers, Desmond emphasizes the importance of unselfish leadership and collective competitiveness.

Desmond Bane on the Pacers' success:

"Togetherness. They compete like crazy on both ends of the floor... you have an unselfish leader." ([94:39])

V. Western Conference Contenders and Surprises

The conversation delves into potential contenders and dark horses in the Western Conference. The Houston Rockets, Denver Nuggets, and Minnesota Timberwolves are highlighted as primary threats, while teams like the Sacramento Kings and Phoenix Suns are seen with skepticism due to their recent roster changes and draft strategies.

Zach Lowe assesses the competitive landscape:

"If you asked me to line up teams two, three, and four behind Oklahoma City, it's Houston, Denver, and Minnesota." ([40:11])

Mo DeKill adds that despite building with assets, teams like the Suns might still struggle to find cohesion:

"I don't know if they really understand the assignment of what they got to do in terms of putting a team around Devin Booker." ([57:04])

VI. Conclusion

As the episode wraps up, Zach Lowe thanks his guests for their valuable insights and previews upcoming discussions. The depth of analysis provided by Tate Frazier and Mo DeKill, combined with Desmond Bane's first-hand experience, offers listeners a comprehensive understanding of the current NBA landscape post-draft.

Notable Quotes

• Zach Lowe:
  "I still in shock. I can't believe that they paid that price to go up 10 spots." ([03:07])

• Tate Frazier:
  "Derrick Queen has these old school tendencies that you kind of fall in love with... People expect him to be a creator." ([08:12])

• Mo DeKill:
  "Giving up an unprotected pick when you are not projected to be good next year is absolutely insane." ([10:06])

• Desmond Bane:
  "We create something like that in Orlando... known for our rugged, hard-nosed basketball." ([96:53])

Final Thoughts

This episode of The Zach Lowe Show offers a thorough examination of the NBA draft's implications, team strategies, and individual player potentials. With expert guests providing nuanced perspectives and a special conversation with Desmond Bane adding unique depth, listeners gain a well-rounded view of the evolving NBA landscape. Whether you're a seasoned fan or new to the league, this episode delivers valuable insights to stay informed and engaged with all things NBA.