Why Nolan Traoré’s NBA Draft Pick at No. 19 Will Surprise Everyone!

Brooklyn Nets Select Nolan Traoré with 19th Pick in 2025 NBA Draft

The Brooklyn Nets have chosen French guard Nolan Traoré from Saint Quentin with their first-round pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. The selection has sparked discussions among analysts regarding Traoré’s potential and fit within the team.

Traoré is known for his exceptional speed and ball-handling skills, drawing comparisons to Dejounte Murray. Despite his quickness and ability to penetrate, he currently struggles with efficient scoring across all areas of the court, shooting around 31% from three-point range last season. His game is characterized by a tight handle and creative playmaking, especially in pick-and-roll situations, where his quick first step allows him to break down defenses and reach the rim effectively.

While defensively solid, Traoré has room to improve his consistency. Standing at 6’4″ with notable speed, he possesses the physical attributes to develop into a dependable defender. His playmaking abilities, combined with his rapid pace, make him an intriguing prospect with significant upside.

Many analysts see Traoré as one of the most skilled guards in this draft class, second only to Jeremiah Fear. His ability to control the ball and create opportunities on the floor makes him a valuable addition, especially in Brooklyn’s developing roster. The team’s approach offers him a fresh start where he can refine his skills and possibly become a star.

There was also some speculation about the draft process itself. Notably, there were reports that the Atlanta Hawks favored Traoré and intended to pick him at 13 before trading down and missing out when Brooklyn selected him, leading to questions about whether the Hawks had accurate information during their selection process.