NBA draft busts happen for various reasons. Sometimes it’s bad luck, like injuries derailing careers, as with Greg Oden. Other times, it’s poor development or mismatched expectations, where teams fail to nurture players’ skills or fit them into their systems. External pressures, mental health challenges, and even overhyping prospects can also play a role. It’s a mix of factors, and sometimes, players just don’t adapt to the league’s intensity or style.