Maxime Raynaud shines at NBA Combine and could see his stock rise

Maxime Raynaud (7’1″, 22 years old) was expected to perform, and he didn’t disappoint. Present at the NBA Combine in Chicago, the French big man who played at Stanford took advantage of the scrimmages to demonstrate his full potential. A notable performance that could change NBA franchises’ perception of him just weeks before the Draft.

20 points and 9 rebounds this Wednesday

In the competitive context of the NBA Combine, Maxime Raynaud managed to stand out. The Stanford center shined during the scrimmages, these games between prospects that are closely watched by NBA scouts. Jonathan Givony from ESPN didn’t miss it: for him, Raynaud delivered « the most striking performance of the day in terms of draft value. » In just 25 minutes, the Parisian collected 20 points, 9 rebounds and 3 assists.

Boxscore from Game 2 of the NBA Combine.

Outstanding performance from Stanford’s Maxime Raynaud with 20 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists.

Ryan Nembhard 13 points, 8 assists, 1 turnovers.

All-around performance from Micah Peavy with 12 points, 8 rebounds and tremendous defense. pic.twitter.com/yTWl3SpX7x

— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) May 14, 2025

Beyond the numbers, it was the Frenchman’s complete skillset that impressed: moving three-point shot, passing ability, low post game with good touch, as well as vocal and physical presence on defense. Long criticized for his defensive limitations at Stanford, Raynaud showed new intensity in Chicago, combining his impressive reach (7’1″ with shoes, 11’2″ standing reach) with much more assertive engagement in rim protection and pick and roll defense.

A modern profile that intrigues NBA teams

His profile is particularly intriguing as he combines characteristics highly sought after in today’s NBA: a center capable of spacing the floor, making passes and having decent defensive impact. Jonathan Givony even compares him physically to Jakob Poeltl (7’0″, 29 years old), noting that Raynaud has a much more developed technical skillset.

Maxime Raynaud impressing early on in the interior on both ends. pic.twitter.com/yyO1rY9jfk

— Mohamed (@mcfdraft) May 14, 2025

Currently, the Frenchman is projected early second round, around the 34th position by ESPN. But with this noteworthy performance and successful workouts, Raynaud could see his stock rise. More than his draft position, the former Charenton and Nanterre player will need to find a favorable context to develop his game and establish a defined role in a patient and development-focused franchise.

*The « standing reach » is the measurement of height reached with arms raised while standing. It’s an indicator that combines height, wingspan and shoulder height to give a precise idea of the ability to contest shots or catch balls near the rim.