Image Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

Maxime Raynaud Draft Projection: Where Will the French Big Man Land in the 2025 NBA Draft?

Versatile French big man eyes NBA leap

Image Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

Maxime Raynaud’s college journey started slow, but he’s now firmly on the radar for the 2025 NBA Draft. His journey began in Paris, where he developed his foundation before making the leap to the U.S. college system.

He attended Lycee-Henri IV, which is one of the most prestigious secondary schools. He posted 12.8 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 1.3 assists at Espoirs Nanterre which is the junior team of Nanterre 92, a top tier French club. Maxime Raynaud also competed in the Adidas next generation tournament alongside Victor Wembanyama.

For better opportunities, he then transitioned to NCAA and committed to Stanford University in 2021. After breaking into the rotation in his sophomore year, Raynaud developed into Stanford’s go-to option by his senior campaign.

Maxime Raynaud #Stanford

Hit The Music. pic.twitter.com/75gjPfZdHG
— Tyler Rucker (@tyler_rucker) May 28, 2025

Maxime Raynaud Scouting Report – Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths

Maxime Raynaud is a versatile scoring big who can post up, face up, and shoot from the deep. Few big men at his size possess such offensive versatility, making Raynaud a unique asset in today’s NBA schemes.

He remains a rebounding and interior presence, pulling down 10.6 rebounds per game, including 2.8 offensive boards. This is a top 10 mark among the NCAA bigs.

Weaknesses

Raynaud has limited athleticism and lacks vertical pop and quick-twitch explosiveness. He lacks the natural game for a true rim protector.

He relies on system touches rather than creating offense off the dribble. Playmaking remains a challenge, as Raynaud recorded more turnovers than assists last season, highlighting decision-making concerns under pressure.

Maxime Raynaud Stats and Accomplishments

Maxime averaged 20.2 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game. He shot 46.7 percent from the field and 34.7 percent from the three point line.

Raynaud accolades (2024-25 season)

All-ACC First Team
ACC Men’s Basketball Scholar – Athlete of the Year
Three Time ACC Player of the Week
USBWA National Player of the Week (November 19, 2024)
Stanford Athletic Board Donald Kennedy Award
Stanford Class of 2025 Award of Excellence
Top-15 nationally in both points and rebounding per game

Maxime Raynaud’s Draft Projection

Raynaud is unlikely to crack the lottery, but several mock drafts slot him between picks 26 and 35, right in the late first to early second-round territory.