Ace Bailey’s Puzzling Draft Strategy Has NBA Front Offices Scrambling Ahead of June 25
As the 2024 NBA Draft draws near, most teams and analysts have already locked in their predictions for the top picks. Cooper Flagg to Dallas. Dylan Harper to San Antonio. But when it comes to former Rutgers star Ace Bailey, confusion — not clarity — dominates the conversation.
Bailey, once projected to go as high as No. 3 overall, has sent shockwaves through the NBA scouting world with what many are calling a “perplexing” predraft strategy. With just days left before the draft, Bailey has yet to conduct a single publicly known workout, a move that has both raised eyebrows and created speculation across league front offices.
Inside the Mystery: What Is Bailey’s Camp Telling Teams?
According to ESPN’s Jonathan Givony, Bailey’s representation has declined several workout invitations from teams within his expected draft range. Instead, his camp has reportedly been telling teams they believe he is a top-3 player in this class and that Bailey is seeking a clear pathway to stardom — a message that could hint at some behind-the-scenes draft-day maneuvering.
“Bailey’s predraft workout strategy has perplexed some observers,” Givony reported. “Sources say Bailey’s camp has informed interested teams that they believe he is a top-3 player in the draft, but also seeks a clear pathway to stardom, perhaps feeling comfortable that a team will trade up to get him at Nos. 3 or 4, should he drop.”
The 18-year-old forward will reportedly conduct a private workout with the Philadelphia 76ers, who currently hold the No. 3 pick. Yet even that meeting comes with a layer of uncertainty, as rumors persist that Philly is also seriously considering Baylor star VJ Edgecombe, a guard climbing up several big boards in recent weeks.
Draft Stock Dropping? Or Just Draft Smoke?
The lack of public workouts and interviews isn’t the only concern. Givony noted that Bailey’s combine interviews were not especially well-received, leading to further speculation that his draft stock may be slipping.
In Givony’s latest mock draft, Bailey is projected to fall to No. 6 with the Washington Wizards, a significant drop for a player who once seemed like a lock for the top three.
That said, Bailey’s raw talent and upside are undeniable. At 6-foot-10 with explosive athleticism, scoring instincts, and a two-way presence, Bailey is one of the most naturally gifted players in this class. Despite the questions surrounding his predraft approach, several teams — including the Wizards and New Orleans Pelicans — remain highly intrigued by his potential.
“Should the Sixers pass on him,” Givony wrote, “he could very well slide to the No. 6 or No. 7 picks, two teams in Washington and New Orleans that are said to be highly intrigued with the 18-year-old’s talent. And both are situations in which there appear to be plenty of minutes and shots to be had.”
Strategy or Stumble?
The question now gripping draft insiders: Is this a bold, calculated strategy by Bailey’s camp to control the narrative and influence draft positioning? Or is it a misstep that could cost him millions and valuable early-career development opportunities?
Some believe the cryptic approach may signal that Bailey has received behind-the-scenes assurances from a team drafting in the top 5 — possibly with a plan to trade up for him on draft night. Others believe his camp is simply betting on his natural talent speaking for itself, avoiding the risk of overexposure during workouts.
But as more and more top prospects go through the typical pre-draft motions — interviews, workouts, team visits — Bailey’s radio silence grows louder.
What’s Next for Bailey?
With just a few days left until June 25, Bailey’s private workout with the Sixers could be the most pivotal session of his pre-draft process. Should Philly pass, all eyes will shift to the Wizards and Pelicans — both teams with young rosters, open floor time, and the infrastructure to develop a high-upside project like Bailey.
For now, the only certainty is that Ace Bailey has become one of the most fascinating wild cards in the 2024 NBA Draft.
And come draft night, we’ll find out if his strategy pays off — or backfires.
Stay locked in to trendysoccernews.com for the latest draft updates, exclusive prospect profiles, and real-time reactions as we count down to the 2024 NBA Draft.
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