The NBA draft is a time for teams to look forward. Rebuilding teams load up on picks to restock a barren roster and try to find the next superstar. Teams aiming for championships can use their picks as ammo to fill needs and acquire players for a playoff run.
But how many picks are available to teams across the league? Does the number of picks in the draft ever change?
How many picks are in the NBA draft?
There are 30 teams in the league and two rounds in the draft, so that would equal 60 picks. In a normal year, that's the case.
However, in recent years, as front offices use back channels to talk with free agents before free agency officially begins, the NBA has been taking away draft picks as punishment. In 2024, there will only be 58 picks, with the Philadelphia 76ers and Phoenix Suns being docked their second-round selections for tampering infractions.
Best late-round picks in Portland Trail Blazers history
The Trail Blazers have unearthed some gems with second-round picks, including a forward that's developed into a key rotation player in 2024:
- Jabari Walker, pick 57
- Patty Mills, pick 55
- Alvin Williams, pick 47