The Cleveland Cavaliers trade the #1 pick to Orlando Magic for #4, #12 and Aaron Afflalo
Right from the start we get a trade as a start to a crazy draft night. The Cavs have no idea who to choose out of Parker and Wiggins, the front office and Dan Gilbert disagree on who to take. The answer is to trade down and get more options to run with, as they go all in for LeBron while having a good fall back option. They have franchise players in potentially Irving and LeBron, so they figure they can get more complimentary piece by trading down. The Magic have a lot of talent, but lack the one franchise guy to lead them forward. Steep price to pay, but they feel it's worth it.
The Magic get their top guy to lead them forward, and that guy is Jabari Parker. They have good young defenders in Oladipo and Harkless but need a guy to carry the load for them offensively. Parker is a no-brainer and will be ready to contribute right away, even though the Magic are rebuilding.
2. Milwaukee Bucks - Andrew Wiggins (6'8'', SF, Kansas, Fresh.)
The Bucks are in a great spot in the draft, where they get a guy with superstar potential, without the #1 pick hype around him and without any real pressure of picking the right guy. They might prefer Parker, but Wiggins is a great consolation prize as the one with the higher ceiling and extra wow-factor. Wiggins and Giannis will provide the Bucks with a dynamic wing duo, who can do a lot of different things.
3. Philadelphia 76ers - Dante Exum (6'6'', SG, Australia)
The 76ers seemed to get really lucky and be able to pick Andrew Wiggins with this pick, but the recent Embiid injury news has made Wiggins go in the top 2. The 76ers might consider Embiid here, but having gone through a season without Nerlens Noel, I don’t think they are ready for the same again with Embiid, and will be scared away. Dante Exum reportedly had a strong workout here and has been very much in play at this pick for a while.
Embiid could be picked here, but judging by how Cleveland are one of the few teams that got a medical report on Embiid and that was enough to scare them off of him, I don't see them picking him. Vonleh is a safer pick in that respect, even though there are questions if he can contribute in the NBA after not getting all that featured in Indiana. He might get shipped in a Kevin Love trade, as Minnesota would be interested in Vonleh, or he is a good big man, who could possibly play a bit on the center spot due to his length.
5. Utah Jazz - Aaron Gordon (6'9'', PF, Arizona, Fresh.)
At #5, the Jazz covet Noah Vonleh for his fit with either of their bigs and potential to hit the floor. They won't be too sad about Vonleh not being here though, as they really like what they saw during Aaron Gordon's workouts with them. The Jazz had a tough time on defense, and Gordon could step in and help them in that respect straight away. With Kanter a free agent next summer, they will have coverage even if their center leaves, as Favors can slide to the center position.
6. Boston Celtics - Joel Embiid (7'0'', C, Kansas, Fresh.)
It doesn't seem like the Love to Celtics trade is happening anymore, so the Celtics need to start concentrating on a rebuild. Danny Ainge is a risk taker, and taking risks in this draft might just net you the very best player in Joel Embiid. Injury issues aside, Embiid is the top talent in this draft and the Celtics would love to properly start their rebuild around him at the Center position.
Trade!
The Los Angeles Lakers trade #7 and Steve Nash to the Philadelphia 76ers for Michael Carter Williams
The Lakers like both Marcus Smart and Julius Randle at this point in the draft, but have been clear about wanting players with experience in the league. The 76ers fanbase might be upset about trading away the rookie of the year, but with Exum picked at #3, MCW would be a bad fit next to him and Exum is 4 years younger with many of the same attributes. They get a chance of picking 3 of the top 10 picks in a deep draft.
7. Philadelphia 76ers - Julius Randle (6'9'', PF, Kentucky, Fresh.)
The Philadelphia 76ers will be salivating on the idea of getting Exum and Randle in the same draft, which would be unheard of at the start of the year, and certainly not what the Pelicans thought they traded away for Jrue Holiday (Noel and Randle). Randle is a beast offensively, who will bully his way to rebounds and points, and with Noel by his side, who will make up for his lack of shot-blocking and defensive deficiencies. They still have one more pick to go in the at #10 and are at a great position in their rebuild.
Trade!
The Sacramento Kings trade #8 pick, Ben McLemore, Jason Thompson and Travis Outlaw to the Boston Celtics for Rajon Rondo
The trades are rally coming in at this point, as both the Lakers and the Kings have been trying to get more win now talent. The Celtics are in full rebuild mode at this point with Love out of the question and Embiid picked at #6, so they trade away Rondo. The Kings have coveted Rondo for a good while and feel like they need a proven point guard to lead them to the playoffs. They have to give up a good pick and McLemore, but shed some unneeded salary as well.
8. Boston Celtics - Marcus Smart (6'3'', PG, Oklahoma State, Soph.)
The Celtics get a second top 8 pick and get one of the best talents available. Marcus Smart will bring them a lot of what they had in Rondo, as a competitive good defender, who will really pair up well with Celtics acquisition of Ben McLemore. The fans in Boston will love Smart's competitiveness and will give them hope for the future along with their young core.
9. Charlotte Hornets - Doug McDermott (6'7'', SF, Creighton, Sr.)
The newly renamed Charlotte Hornets will get a nice fit at the right value with their pick. 3PT shooting has been a huge problem for Charlotte and at #9, Doug McDermott would offer a valuable addition to help sort out their problems from behind the 3 point line. The other main option here would be Nik Stauskas, but Charlotte has a history of unconventional picks and McDermott certainly fits that. He will also be more of an off-ball option than Stauskas in Charlotte who will get the ball in Kemba Walker and Al Jefferson's hands more often than not on offense. McDermott is an elite scorer off the ball, coming off screens and using his BBIQ to get great looks.
10. Philadelphia 76ers - Nik Stauskas (6'6'', SG, Michigan, Soph.)
The 76ers have a fantastic young core of players at this point, but lacks a great shooter. There are no better shooters in this draft than Nik Stauskas, who not only makes sense as a fit here, but is also expected to be drafted in this range and is arguably the BPA at this point as well. What Stauskas lacks in quickness, they will have in Exum anyway, but Stauskas ability to stretch the floor will be of great value for the 76ers.
Denver are on the dreaded NBA treadmill, with a young team that has a lot of talent, but will struggle to qualify for the playoffs in the competitive Western Conference. The Nuggets still have a big need at the 2 guard position, and would preferably get a backup for Ty Lawson at PG as well. Zach LaVine has a lot of upside left at this pick and fits the Denver run and gun offense perfectly, with 3PT shooting and athletic dunks. With recent buzz having LaVine going in the lottery, the Nuggets won't risk trading down and keep their pick.
The Cleveland Cavaliers make their second lottery pick this year with the pick they acquire from the Orlando Magic and pick a guy that was mocked to them before they won the lottery and only had the #9 pick. Jusuf Nurkic is a beast down low who has dominated at a young age playing with pros in Europe. He's a legit center, who could fit well at center next to Vonleh if they keep him or be a nice trade chip as Nurkic has a couple of teams that love him around the NBA.
Trade!
The Minnesota Timberwolves trade Kevin Love, Kevin Martin and JJ Barea to the Golden State Warriors for David Lee, Klay Thompson and Harrison Barnes
The Timberwolves have sent out signals that they want to compete for a playoffs spot right away, even if they have to trade Kevin Love and they feel like a this trade with Golden State is the best way to do it. They still get young players with upside however and a guy who can replicate Kevin Love's rebounding and inside scoring in David Lee. The Warriors have fought to get more value out of this trade, but the lure of getting a top 10 player in Kevin Love, who wants to stay there long term will prove too enticing.
By getting players that are ready to win now, the Timberwolves will be ready to pick a guy that contributes right away for them. Gary Harris falls down to their pick at #13 and makes a lot of sense for the Timberwolves. Harris provides toughness and defense along with a good 3PT shot and potential as a second ball handler. He should be a great guard coming off the bench, for a team that really lacked depth last season in the NBA.
14. Phoenix Suns - James Young (6'7'', SG, Kentucky, Fresh.)
The Suns will be looking for a wing with this pick, as PJ Tucker is a free agent and they don't really have a true shooting guard as they successfully ran a two PG system last season. James Young can play both wing positions, is one of the youngest players in the draft and has a good 3PT shot that can be used when getting easy looks from Dragic and Bledsoe running the show. James Young fills a need and brings a lot of potential at the last pick in the lottery for the Suns.
15. Atlanta Hawks - Dario Saric (6'10'', PF, Croatia)
With the news that Dario Saric would stay 2 more years in Europe after getting drafted, he has dropped a bit in the draft, but stops at #15 to the Hawks. The Hawks model their franchise after the San Antonio Spurs and a fantastic euro prospect with unusual skills seems to be the right way to do it. Saric has even drawn similarities with Boris Diaw as a guy who can do it all and handle the ball. Shabazz Napier and surprise possibility Elfrid Payton get looks here, but the Hawks have reportedly given Saric a promise at #15, and they will be happy to see that he's still there when they are picking. Picking a guy to stash means that the Hawks save money, as they look for another great deal in free agency like they did with Millsap a year ago.
The Chicago Bulls have been trying to trade up, but can consider themselves lucky, as a great prospect in Elfrid Payton is still available. He might not bring the 3PT shooting the Bulls need, but he'll be able to bring everything else to a team that still can't trust Derrick Rose's knees. If his knees hold up though, there is nothing stopping the Bulls from playing Payton and Rose together. Shabazz Napier would be a favorite here if not for Payton's slide, but the added upside tips the scale towards Payton.
17. Boston Celtics - TJ Warren (6'8'', SF, North Carolina State, Soph.)
With their third pick in the draft, the Celtics were hoping to get Saric who they could stash in Europe for a while, but the Hawks beat them to it. The Celtics still get an opportunity to get a forward with unique skills and good potential however, with TJ Warren. Warren has done surprisingly well in workouts and proved in college that he can be a lethal scorer with his variety of moves. Fits in as a great scoring option with a team now loaded with defensive talent. Warren will also get the chance to develop his 3 point shot, as the Celtics are sure to tank for another year.
With Channing Frye opting out and possibly going away, Adreian Payne would cover a need at PF for the Suns, but also fit incredibly well with their athletic 3PT shooting style. Payne can do a lot of different things well after a fantastic senior season. Payne as a late bloomer, also has the potential to get even better, as he finally found out that he had mononucleosis, which makes his great senior season in college even more impressive.
19. Chicago Bulls - Rodney Hood (6'9'', SF, Duke, Soph.)
After picking Payton at #16, the Bulls will have an even stronger need for 3PT shooting and fills it with the knockdown 3PT shooter Rodney Hood. Chicago Bulls have struggled with 3PT shooting for a while, and Hood is the best 3PT shooter available at this point. He also has good length for his position and a developing mid-range game, which gives the stout defensive Bulls a versatile option offensively.
20. Toronto Raptors - Tyler Ennis (6'2'', PG, Syracuse, Fresh.)
The Toronto Raptors face a lot of uncertainty at the PG position as both of their point guards from last year in Kyle Lowry and Greivis Vasquez are free agents. The Raptors will feel the need to at least get some insurance at the position from the draft, and are in a perfect position with Tyler Ennis and Shabazz Napier being the top 2 talents available at this point. Tyler Ennis from Canada gets the nod, as he returns to his home country, will be nice consolation if the Raptors lose their crowd favorite Lowry or fill in nicely as a backup point if Lowry decides to stay.
OKC have great coverage at the point guard position, but have to consider their options next summer when Reggie Jackson becomes a free agent. Derek Fisher just retired however, which leaves open a guard spot for OKC to fill, and they stumble into a fantastic fit with Shabazz Napier. Napier has experience and championship pedigree that OKC would want, as they once again push for the NBA title. This also effectively ends the hopes in Miami of getting Shabazz Napier as a way to entice LeBron to stay.
22. Memphis Grizzlies – Jordan Adams (6’5”, SG, UCLA, Soph.)
The Grizzlies are looking to win now with an aging squad on its last legs. Jordan Adams has been a name getting some buzz late in the first round lately, and while he's one of the least athletic guards you'll find, he knows how to play, and can do a lot of other things. Especially the 3PT shooting will be interesting for the Grizzlies, who is a good fit for Adams with their slow pace and grit and grind mentality.
23. Utah Jazz - PJ Hairston (6'5'', SG, North Carolina, Jr.)
Utah Jazz got a great defender with Gordon at #5 and continues to add to that with Hairston at this pick. He brings something different than current Jazz talent Alec Burks at this position and fills the needs of defense and 3PT shooting for Utah. His off-court problems seem to be a thing of the past and he is already adjusted to the NBA 3. Adams is said to have a promise here, but it's a pick too late.
24. Charlotte Hornets – Kyle Anderson (6'9'', SF, UCLA, Soph.)
After watching Boris Diaw tearing it up in the finals, the Bobcats may look to get a similar player in Kyle Anderson. Anderson is versatile and has added a good 3PT shot that will appeal to the Bobcats. He can slot in at either forward position and he is also fully capable of running the offense. With McRoberts opting out, having some insurance in the draft also makes sense.
The one big problem the Houston Rockets suffered from was the lack of perimeter defense and KJ McDaniels bring just that. He is also very athletic and can run the floor for the Rockets who play at a high pace.
Jarnell Stokes is doing himself a lot of favors with a strong showing in workouts and seems like a lock to go as a late first rounder at this point. Some people feel like he isn’t far behind Julius Randle in talent, which would be very handy for a Miami Heat team heading into uncertainty. Haslem might retire and Battier has already confirmed retirement and Rashard Lewis is on his last legs. PF is a position of need and Stokes is the strongest candidate left both literally and figuratively.
With their third first round pick, the Suns will be able to pick a project they can stash in Europe for a couple of years. Capela was on his way to getting drafted much higher than this before he hurt his stock with poor play at the Nike Hoop Summit this year. Capela has a lot of time to develop however, and has length, athleticism and finishing ability to play a role in the NBA in the future.
28. LA Clippers - Jordan Clarkson (6’5”, PG, Missouri, Jr.)
Jordan Clarkson is another name that has received buzz for his workouts and has a good chance of going in the first round. The Clippers might be without a backup PG if Darren Collison rejects his player option, so getting insurance in Jordan Clarkson would make sense here. Clarkson is long, athletic and can play both guard positions.
29. Oklahoma City Thunder - Glenn Robinson III (6'7", SF, Michigan, Soph.)
The Thunder lack wing depth and would want players who fit their athletic style of play. GRIII is a bit of a disappointing prospect that still can blossom and become a good NBA player in the right situation. Robinson has a smooth game, but wouldn't be relied upon apart from playing the good defense he has shown that he has in Michigan, and that will probably fit him and OKC really well.
30. San Antonio Spurs - Bogdan Bogdanovic (6'6", SG, Serbia)
While I've had Mitch McGary to the Spurs in my previous 2 mock drafts, the latest word seems to be that McGary is seeking to be picked in the 2nd round to be able to choose his own salary. With the Spurs usually having everything in order, it seems unlikely that McGary is in play here, unless the rumors are just a ploy to keep teams higher in the first round to pick him. Bogdan Bogdanovic is another player that has been linked to the Spurs though, and as a euro who could get the Spurs a good replacement for Ginobili when he retires, he makes a lot of sense here.
Mock Draft 2.0:
Spoiler:
1. Cleveland Cavaliers - Andrew Wiggins (6'8'', SF, Kansas, Fresh.)
With the news that Joel Embiid has sustained a foot injury, the Cleveland Cavaliers have apparently decided to not draft him, after they’ve had him as their top target in the last weeks. With Embiid off the table, the pick is now between Wiggins and Parker. The Cavs already have a franchise player who closes the deal on offense, but struggles on D, so Wiggins gets the nod here. He’s extremely athletic, can play next to Irving and has almost as good potential as Embiid, without the injury issues.
Milwaukee Bucks seems to be leaning toward Jabari Parker, and with Embiid’s injury issues and Wiggins going #1, they are likely to stick with Parker as their pick. Parker can be an alpha scorer for them, as they continue to build their young core with Giannis, Henson and Sanders, who all offer the rim protection Parker lacks. A Knight-Giannis-Parker-Henson-Sanders core has a lot of talent and fit together well.
3. Philadelphia 76ers - Dante Exum (6'6'', SG, Australia)
The 76ers seemed to get really lucky and be able to pick Andrew Wiggins with this pick, but the recent Embiid injury news has made Wiggins go #1. The Cavs won’t be intrigued to trade down here either, as hopes of getting Parker with this pick are gone now that Embiid got injured. The 76ers might consider Embiid here though, but having gone through a season without Nerlens Noel, I don’t think they are ready for the same again with Embiid, and will be scared away. That leaves Dante Exum, a guard they have been intrigued with and would be happy to pick. Whether they use him next to MCW or trade their Rookie of The Year remains to be seen, but Exum is a great pick here.
4. Orlando Magic - Joel Embiid (7'0'', C, Kansas, Fresh.)
While the top 3 will be disappointed with the Embiid injury, it might be a blessing for the Orlando Magic. The drop off after the top 4 in talent is quite big, and while Noah Vonleh would get interest here, I think Embiid’s upside is too much to walk away from. The Magic are probably still going to be rebuilding and could wait for Embiid to get healthy in the process. The thought of getting yet another dominating center for a team that has had Shaq and Howard is tantalizing to say the least.
5. Utah Jazz - Noah Vonleh (6'10'', PF, Indiana, Fresh.)
Utah are the unlucky team that not only miss out on the top 4, but will get the pressure of choosing the right guy between the next tier of talent in the draft. Utah have good young potential players all over the floor, with no specific needs. While a leader and winner like Marcus Smart would make sense for them, I think Utah Jazz ultimately will go for the potential of a Vonleh-Favors-Kanter big man rotation, as Vonleh can slot in perfectly next to the other two, if he develops like the Jazz would expect him to. His length, ability to play both PF and C and stretch the floor is too alluring for the Jazz to pass on him.
Trade!
Celtics trade #6, #17, Brooklyn 2016 1st, Kelly Olynyk and filler to the Minnesota Timberwolves for Kevin Love and Kevin Martin
6. Minnesota Timberwolves - Aaron Gordon (6'9'', PF, Arizona, Fresh.)
While there is a lot of uncertainty on where exactly Love will be traded, the Celtics make the most sense. Minnesota are trying to get the most value they can from Boston, and this trade gives them a lot of value, starting with the #6 pick in this stacked draft. With Love gone, the Timberwolves don't have a starting PF next to Pekovic anymore, and would look to get a replacement right away with this pick. With Vonleh gone, there are two options in Randle and Gordon. Gordon with his defense and athleticism fits a lot better next to Rubio and Pekovic and with his outstanding defence replacing Kevin Love in the lineup, he will help the Timberwolves turn their organization around.
7. LA Lakers - Marcus Smart (6'3'', PG, Oklahoma State, Soph.)
The Lakers will also be looking to move this pick, but the fit for them in Marcus Smart actually seems really good. His competitive nature will certainly win the praise of Lakers fans, and he will be a good fit with Kobe Bryant with his winning attitude and being a more cap friendly contract than the Lakers star player. Lakers have needs all over the floor, but also need a leader once Kobe Bryant has earned his 48,5 million over the 2 next years.
Sacramento Kings trade #8, Derrick Williams and Jason Terry to the 76ers for #10 and Thaddeus Young
8. Philadelphia 76ers - Julius Randle (6'9'', PF, Kentucky, Fresh.)
The Sacramento Kings get a veteran PF that goes well next to Cousins in Thad Young, who doesn't fit with the young 76ers core. Instead, the 76ers use him to move up and get a nice young prospect in Derrick Williams in return. They also do this as they will be salivating on the idea of getting Exum and Randle in the same draft, which would be unheard of at the start of the year, and certainly not what the Pelicans thought they traded away for Jrue Holiday (Noel and Randle). No brainer for the 76ers and a good decision for the Kings as the clear BPA in Randle doesn't really fit them that well.
9. Charlotte Hornets - Doug McDermott (6'7'', SF, Creighton, Sr.)
The newly renamed Charlotte Hornets will also get a nice fit at the right value with their pick. 3PT shooting has been a huge problem for Charlotte and at #9, Doug McDermott would offer a valuable addition to help sort out their problems from behind the 3 point line. The other main option here would be Nik Stauskas, but Charlotte has a history of unconventional picks and McDermott certainly fits that. He will also be more of an off-ball option than Stauskas in Charlotte who will get the ball in Kemba Walker and Al Jefferson's hands more often than not on offense. McDermott is an elite scorer off the ball, coming off screens and using his BBIQ to get great looks.
The Sacramento Kings want a PG for the future as they still see Isiah Thomas as a 6th man type of player if they manage to resign him, with a tight cap situation. Elfrid Payton has been skyrocketing up the boards lately, with stellar play in workouts after being overlooked on an unknown Louisiana Lafayette throughout the season. Drawing comps with Gary Payton, Elfrid brings defense, toughness, passing and length to a team that really need all those qualities as they continue their playoffs push.
Trade!
The Denver Nuggets trade #11 to the Chicago Bulls for #16 and #19
11. Chicago Bulls - Nik Stauskas (6'6'', SG, Michigan, Soph.)
The Chicago Bulls have been in talks with the Nuggets for a while now in a bid to move up to #11 in the draft, using their two draft picks. The Nuggets have a lot of options they want at #11 and figure that one of them will at least fall to #16 as they pick up another pick in a good draft. The Chicago Bulls are coveting Nik Stauskas and Gary Harris, who are lottery locks and they move up to #11 and get to choose between them. 3PT shooting and offense are the qualities the Bulls need and there are few prospects in this draft better at that than Nik Stauskas, at a team that can mask his defensive deficiencies.
Magic will still be rebuilding after next season, especially with the injured Embiid and can afford to give Dario Saric the time he needs to get over to the NBA and adjust to the new level of competition he would meet. Saric is a really intriguing prospect, as a point forward that can do mostly anything offensively, with his unique playing style. Length, 3PT shooting, passing, ball-handling and rebound ability is part of the package you get for Saric, making him an easy pick this late in the lottery.
With Kevin Love gone, you'd have to assume Kevin Martin will follow, which leaves a gaping hole at SG for the Timberwolves. Luckily, Gary Harris falls down to their pick at #13 and makes a lot of sense for the Timberwolves. Harris has the toughness and defense Minnesota could build their team on, along with a good 3PT shot and potential as a second ball handler next to Rubio. His size makes him slide, but alongside Rubio who might be more suited to guard opposing 2 guards, Gary Harris easily has enough size and lateral quickness to guard all the PGs in the league, which makes him a great fit here at #13.
14. Phoenix Suns - James Young (6'7'', SG, Kentucky, Fresh.)
The Suns will be looking for a wing with this pick, as PJ Tucker is a free agent and they don't really have a true shooting guard as they successfully ran a two PG system last season. James Young can play both wing positions, is one of the youngest players in the draft and has a good 3PT shot that can be used when getting easy looks from Dragic and Bledsoe running the show. James Young fills a need and brings a lot of potential at the last pick in the lottery for the Suns.
15. Atlanta Hawks - Jusuf Nurkic (6'11'', C, Bosnia)
The Hawks somehow managed to get to the playoffs as the last team in the weak eastern conference, even with a weak squad of players. They will be disappointed that Kristaps Porzingis withdrew from the draft as it is rumored that the Hawks were the team that gave him a promise. The Hawks can now go for another European prospect instead, with Jusuf Nurkic at the center position. Nurkic is a beast down low who can score with his back to the basket, and has dominated even at a young age. This might finally make the Hawks able to push Al Horford to his natural PF position, as Millsap only has a year left on his contract.
I had the Nuggets taking LaVine at #11 in my last mock, so getting him at #16 alongside #19 is very good value. The Nuggets are looking like a treadmill team and have to take some chances to get anywhere in the NBA. LaVine has the biggest potential to be a game changer at this point with his amazing athletic abilities, good ball handling and great 3PT shooting. With two mid first round picks, the Nuggets can afford to give LaVine the time he needs to adjust with this one.
With a third pick in the same draft, the Timberwolves might want to move the pick, or at least grab a European prospect they can draft and stash. Capela is the only euro prospect mocked this high, but the Timberwolves will already have a lot of young big men at this point, which also ends Minnesota's interest in Adreian Payne. With LaVine now gone, this point of the draft is filled with career NBA role-players, which would leave Ennis and Rodney Hood as the most interesting choices for Minnesota. 3PT shooting would still be a big need and there are few better 3PT shooters than Rodney Hood left. Hood can cover the 2 and 3 positions for the Timberwolves and can bring a scoring punch off the bench for a new look Timberwolves.
The Phoenix Suns are reportedly intrigued with TJ Warren at this pick, as a guy who can put up points in a hurry in a variety of ways. The Suns already have a lot of spacing, so his lack of a 3 point shot wouldn’t be as missed here, and the feeling is that Warren has a lot of upside at this point of the draft. If he can adjust to the NBA he has already shown that he has the skills to succeed.
The Nuggets have sufficient cover on all positions it seems like, except for a long term solution at back up PG. Tyler Ennis is thought to be perfect for this role, as he can do a bit of everything and facilitate for the second unit. Ennis has enough talent to go much higher than this, but has slid because he is more of a “game guy” than a “workout guy”. Ennis could possibly be a much younger, and more sane version of Andre Miller who successfully played in the Denver before he had a fall out with management.
20. Toronto Raptors - Shabazz Napier (6'1'', PG, UConn, Sr.)
The Raptors will be disappointed not to see Canadian Tyler Ennis fall to them, as they want to get insurance on their PG position with Kyle Lowry and Greivis Vasquez both hitting free agency. The Raports can go for the next best thing however, with Shabazz Napier who has been working his way up the draft boards ever since the NCAA tournament started. He has poise, long range shooting ability and will be ready to contribute right away.
Adreian Payne has the ability to go in the lottery, but sees a slide all the way down to OKC at #21. With Collison and Perkins on expiring contracts, Oklahoma needs more bigs, and after Payne’s fantastic senior season, he could give them a bit of everything off the bench. This role should suit Payne, who struggled playing for long periods of time with mono. OKC get a steal and a great fit at #21.
22. Memphis Grizzlies - Cleanthony Early (6'7'', SF Wichita State, Sr.)
The Grizzlies are looking to win now with an aging squad on its last legs. Early would be one of the more NBA ready players at this point and can give the Grizzlies some needed athleticism and more importantly 3PT shooting. Tayshaun Prince is about to be out of the league once his contract is up, and the Grizzlies need depth at the 3 position.
23. Utah Jazz - PJ Hairston (6'5'', SG, North Carolina, Jr.)
Utah Jazz got some nice length and added defense with Vonleh at #5 and continues to add to that with Hairston at this pick. He brings something different than current Jazz talent Alec Burks at this position and fills the needs of defense and 3PT shooting for Utah. His off-court problems seem to be a thing of the past and he is already adjusted to the NBA 3.
24. Charlotte Hornets – Kyle Anderson (6'9'', SF, UCLA, Soph.)
After watching Boris Diaw tearing it up in the finals, the Bobcats may look to get a similar player in Kyle Anderson. Anderson is versatile and has added a good 3PT shot that will appeal to the Bobcats. He can slot in at either forward position and he is also fully capable of running the offense. With McRoberts opting out, having some insurance in the draft also makes sense.
The one big problem the Houston Rockets suffered from was the lack of perimeter defense and KJ McDaniels bring just that. He is also very athletic and can run the floor for the Rockets who play at a high pace.
Jarnell Stokes is doing himself a lot of favors with a strong showing in workouts and seems like a lock to go as a late first rounder at this point. Some people feel like he isn’t far behind Julius Randle in talent, which would be very handy for a Miami Heat team heading into uncertainty. Haslem might retire and Battier has already confirmed retirement and Rashard Lewis is on his last legs. PF is a position of need and Stokes is the strongest candidate left both literally and figuratively.
With their third first round pick, the Suns will be able to pick a project they can stash in Europe for a couple of years. Capela was on his way to getting drafted much higher than this before he hurt his stock with poor play at the Nike Hoop Summit this year. Capela has a lot of time to develop however, and has length, athleticism and finishing ability to play a role in the NBA in the future.
28. LA Clippers - Jordan Clarkson (6’5”, PG, Missouri, Jr.)
Jordan Clarkson is another name that has received buzz for his workouts and has a good chance of going in the first round. The Clippers might be without a backup PG if Darren Collison rejects his player option, so getting insurance in Jordan Clarkson would make sense here. Clarkson is long, athletic and can play both guard positions.
29. Oklahoma City Thunder – Jordan Adams (6’5”, SG, UCLA, Soph.)
Jordan Adams has been described as a less athletic James Harden and could fill the void at SG in OKC after they lost… well, James Harden. Thabo Sefolosha is a free agent, so OKC are a little short at the 2 and would be interested in adding another talent at the position. Adams is pretty young and has good scoring instincts that could help OKC off the bench.
30. San Antonio Spurs - Mitch McGary (6'10'', PF, Michigan, Soph.)
With Tim Duncan getting older and Boris Diaw on an expiring contract, the Spurs are in need of some fresh talents in the front-court. Mitch McGary could have gone a lot higher had he come out last year, following an impressive March Madness tournament. Injuries have been a problem, but the Spurs are specialists in keeping their players from playing too much. McGary has really intriguing skills and has the BBIQ to fit into the Spurs system offensively and defensively.
Mock Draft 1.0:
Spoiler:
1. Cleveland Cavaliers - Joel Embiid (7'0'', C, Kansas, Fresh.)
Embiid seems to be the one clear number 1 pick lately, as the player with the most upside, but also the best fit for the Cavaliers. They really need a center for the future and there are probably any better centers for the future than Embiid. Embiid has tremendous upside both on offense and defense, for a guy who only started playing basketball a couple of years ago. That worked for Steven Adams and Gorgui Dieng last year, and Embiid has much better physical tools and most of all skills than those two and will be dominant at the next level.
2. Milwaukee Bucks - Andrew Wiggins (6'8'', SF, Kansas, Fresh.)
Wiggins is still one of the top guys of this draft, even with a slightly disappointing freshman year at Kansas. The Bucks don't have that many good players for the future, but the length of their young core with Wiggins-Giannis-Henson-Sanders is truly remarkable. Wiggins still has a lot of time to improve, being only 19 years old, and there is nothing broken about his game, while he will be one of the best athletes in the NBA when he plays his first game.
3. Philadelphia 76ers - Jabari Parker (6'8'', SF, Duke, Fresh.)
Philadelphia have been wanting Wiggins throughout the year, but didn't tank quite enough to make that happen. Jabari Parker is no bad consolation price however; as he might even be a better fit with the other two building blocks in Carter-Williams and Noel. Parker is the best scorer in this draft and one of the most NBA-ready players who can do a bit of everything. Back to back Rookie of The Year awards might go to the 76ers with this pick, which should help them win a few more games and start to build a winning culture.
Orlando are in a pretty nice spot at #4 and can just take the remaining player of the clear cut top 4 in this draft. Exum brings a lot of unknown potential, and will give Orlando an exciting back-court with Exum-Oladipo. Both players are lightning quick and will give Magic fans something to look forward to, as they continue their rebuild in the Eastern Conference.
5. Utah Jazz - Noah Vonleh (6'10'', PF, Indiana, Fresh.)
Utah are the unlucky team that not only miss out on the top 4, but will get the pressure of choosing the right guy between the next tier of talent in the draft. Utah have good young potential players all over the floor, with no specific needs. While a leader and winner like Marcus Smart would make sense for them, I think Utah Jazz ultimately will go for the potential of a Vonleh-Favors-Kanter big man rotation, as Vonleh can slot in perfectly next to the other two, if he develops like the Jazz would expect him to. His length, ability to play both PF and C and stretch the floor is too alluring for the Jazz to pass on him.
6. Boston Celtics - Julius Randle (6'9'', PF, Kentucky, Fresh.)
Boston will be looking to ship out this pick, as their GM Danny Ainge isn't in love with this draft as much as he is in love with a certain NBA All-Star. If they are staying however, I think they go for a player that can step right in and compete right away, to give Rondo some assurance that Boston might be a good place to stay for him. Smart and Rondo would struggle to space the floor, regardless of how tantalizing the pairing seems defensively, but Julius Randle is able to give the Celtics a scoring option right away as one of the most NBA-ready players.
7. LA Lakers - Marcus Smart (6'3'', PG, Oklahoma State, Soph.)
The Lakers will also be looking to move this pick, but the fit for them in Marcus Smart actually seems really good. His competitive nature will certainly win the praise of Lakers fans, and he will be a good fit with Kobe Bryant with his winning attitude and being a more cap friendly contract than the Lakers star player. Lakers have needs all over the floor, but also need a leader once Kobe Bryant has earned his 48,5 million over the 2 next years.
8. Sacramento Kings - Aaron Gordon (6'9'', PF, Arizona, Fresh.)
Sacramento and their new owners really want to push for the playoffs and would also like to trade this pick for a veteran. Luckily for them, Aaron Gordon would be the guy left with the most potential, which makes this an easy pick as he would either be a good trade chip or stay in Sacramento and be a good fit next to DeMarcus Cousins. Kings head coach Mike Malone was not at all happy with his teams defence last year, which is one thing we can be sure Gordon will provide. His speed and athleticism will allow him to run with Isiah Thomas and McLemore on the fast-break as well.
9. Charlotte Hornets - Nik Stauskas (6'6'', SG, Michigan, Soph.)
The newly renamed Charlotte Hornets will also get a nice fit at the right value with their pick. 3PT shooting has been a huge problem for Charlotte and at #9, Nik Stauskas would offer a valuable addition to help sort out their problems from behind the 3 point line. Not only is Stauskas a terrific catch and shoot option, he can also handle the ball and shoot on the move, as well as being an unselfish player who makes the right pass. He can even play PG when Kemba Walker needs to rest and opening up a lot of possible lineups for Hornets coach Steve Clifford.
10. Philadelphia 76ers - Gary Harris (6'4'', SG, Michigan State, Soph.)
Philadelphia got a nice offensive scorer with the 3rd pick and would need some more 2 way players to build around for the future to go along with their talented core. Gary Harris has been a lottery pick all year, with great defense and promising shooting. The only worry about Harris as an NBA 2 guard is his length, with the lengthy Carter-Williams next to him; they can switch on defense and have Harris guard the opposing PG's. His knockdown 3PT ability will also be handy next to Carter-Williams, making them a great fitting back-court for the future in Philadelphia.
Denver are on the dreaded NBA treadmill, with a young team that has a lot of talent, but will struggle to qualify for the playoffs in the competitive Western Conference. The Nuggets still have a big need at the 2 guard position, and would preferably get a backup for Ty Lawson at PG as well. Zach LaVine has a lot of upside left at this pick and fits the Denver run and gun offense perfectly, with 3PT shooting and athletic dunks.
Magic are probably still rebuilding after next season and can afford to give Dario Saric the time he needs to get over to the NBA and adjust to the new level of competition he would meet. Saric is a really intriguing prospect, as a point forward that can do mostly anything offensively, with his unique playing style. Length, 3PT shooting, passing, ball-handling and rebound ability is part of the package you get for Saric, making him an easy pick this late in the lottery.
With the uncertain future of their franchise player Kevin Love, the Timberwolves would probably pick the best player available at this pick. Doug McDermott is clearly the best player available, as he has been one of the most dominant college players of all time. Like Love, McDermott can score in a variety of ways and also stretch the floor for the Timberwolves who sorely need it. He is the best 3PT shooter in this draft, who will certainly have a role to play in the NBA right away and in the future.
The Phoenix Suns was this season’s biggest surprise in the NBA, with exciting up and down basketball, knocking down 3's with quick, athletic players going up and down the floor. When the games slowed down however, Phoenix struggled and their lack of big men became apparent as rookie Alex Len didn't provide much. Jusuf Nurkic is a beast down low, who could give the Suns offense another dimension offensively. Getting someone as skilled at this point in the draft, for a guy who is only 19 years old, posting great numbers in Europe and with room to improve makes this a great pick.
15. Atlanta Hawks - James Young (6'7'', SG, Kentucky, Fresh.)
The Hawks somehow managed to get to the playoffs as the last team in the weak eastern conference, even with a weak squad of players. James Young has the length, 3PT shooting and scoring Atlanta would need to get to the next level. Being one of the youngest players in the draft, there is still a lot of upside with Young, as he has the length to play either the 2 or the 3 for a team that could need players in both positions.
16. Chicago Bulls - Tyler Ennis (6'2'', PG, Syracuse, Fresh.)
Chicago have 2 mid-late picks they might try to package together in a trade, but at #16, they can get great insurance at the point guard position, if Derrick Rose continues to struggle with injuries. Ennis is a solid PG who can do a little of everything, who could easily slot in as a backup if Rose needs more time. With a great Assist/Turnover ratio and solid defense, Ennis could continue to help Tom Thibodeau's team be as efficient as they have been the last couple of years.
While Elfrid Payton is a junior, he is really young for his class, and might turn a couple of heads once he enters the NBA, after being hidden away at Louisiana Lafayette through his collegiate career. Drawing comparisons to Gary Payton, Elfrid will be a competitive, defense first kind of guy, who can give Boston many of the same traits they could get from Marcus Smart, but 11 picks later. Payton could also fit in anywhere else in the NBA, should the Celtics want to trade this pick for a win now piece.
Continuing to shore up the front-court in Phoenix, Adreian Payne would cover a need at PF for the Suns, but also fit incredibly well with the athletic 3PT shooting style of the Suns, as Payne can do a lot of different things well after a fantastic senior season. Payne-Nurkic seems like a good pairing, as physical and talented players, who cover each other well on both sides of the floor. Payne also has the potential to get even better, as he finally found out that he had mononucleosis, which makes his great senior season in college even more impressive.
19. Chicago Bulls - Rodney Hood (6'9'', SF, Duke, Soph.)
With a drop-off in talent at this point, the Bulls fill a need with the knockdown 3PT shooter Rodney Hood. Chicago Bulls have struggled with 3PT shooting for a while, and Hood is the best 3PT shooter available at this point. He also has good length for his position and a developing mid-range game, which gives the stout defensive Bulls a versatile option offensively with Hood.
20. Toronto Raptors - Kyle Anderson (6'9'', SF, UCLA, Soph.)
The Raptors are coming off a strong season and have pretty good starters at all 5 positions if they keep Lowry. Kyle Anderson is a prospect that is really hard to pin-point, but certainly a player who can do a little bit of everything coming off the bench at this point in the draft at the 3, 4 or even the 1 position. His improved 3PT shooting will help out and likely knock Novak out of the rotation that played during the playoffs.
OKC have gotten their success through being an athletically imposing team. With scorers like Durant, Westbrook, the need is not someone who can create for themselves, but someone who can do a bit of everything and give max effort, whether that is with the first or the second unit. He can either replace Sefolosha, or come off the bench with his top class athleticism and defense.
22. Memphis Grizzlies - Cleanthony Early (6'7'', SF Wichita State, Sr.)
The Grizzlies are looking to win now with an aging squad on its last legs. Early would be one of the more NBA ready players at this point and can give the Grizzlies some needed athleticism and more importantly 3PT shooting. Tayshaun Prince is about to be out of the league once his contract is up, and the Grizzlies need depth at the 3 position.
23. Utah Jazz - PJ Hairston (6'5'', SG, North Carolina, Jr.)
Utah Jazz got some nice length and added defense with Vonleh at #5 and continues to add to that with Hairston at this pick. He brings something different than current Jazz talent Alec Burks at this position and fills the needs of defense and 3PT shooting for Utah. His off-court problems seem to be a thing of the past and he is already adjusted to the NBA 3.
24. Charlotte Hornets - TJ Warren (6'8'', SF, North Carolina State, Soph.)
Charlotte Hornets were a really solid defensive team last year, but struggled with options other than Big Al Jefferson when they looked to score last season. TJ Warren at the small forward position has the potential to work well with Big Al as he draws double teams and creates mismatches, meaning that the Hornets can get their points in unusual ways if they need them.
25. Houston Rockets - Jerami Grant (6'8'', SF, Syracuse, Soph.)
The one big problem the Houston Rockets suffered from was the lack of perimeter defense and there is no better perimeter defender left on the board at this point. Grant still needs to refine his skills, but defense and garbage baskets left from Harden and Howard from this team, will be more than enough for Jerami Grant as he learns how to play at the highest level.
With Mario Chalmers about to hit free agency, the Miami Heat are left a little short at the guard spot. Coming off a great NCAA championship win, Shabazz Napier can step right into the NBA and impact the game from the point guard position, like Chalmers and Norris Cole has done before him. LeBron James himself questioned whether any NBA team would pick a point guard in front of Shabazz in this draft and will likely be thrilled to get him at #27.
With their third first round pick, the Suns will be able to pick a project they can stash in Europe for a couple of years. Capela was on his way to getting drafted much higher than this before he hurt his stock with poor play at the Nike Hoop Summit this year. Capela has a lot of time to develop however, and has length, athleticism and finishing ability to play a role in the NBA in the future.
28. LA Clippers - Patric Young (6'10'', PF, Florida, Sr.)
The Clippers are in dire need of big men that can provide something for their team and Patric Young seems like a very good pick for them, with his toughness and ability to run and dunk in “Lob City”. Young hustles, sets hard screens and cleans up misses and can really add to the Clippers front-court right away. Coming out of Florida, Young will know what it’s about at the high level of basketball he’d be up against.
29. Oklahoma City Thunder - Kristaps Porzingis (7', PF, Latvia)
OKC have 2 picks and can add someone they can develop on a different team while they wait for Kendrick Perkins’ contract to run out. Porzingis is long, athletic and can finish and fits the Thunder organization like a glove.
30. San Antonio Spurs - Mitch McGary (6'10'', PF, Michigan, Soph.)
With Tim Duncan getting older and Boris Diaw on an expiring contract, the Spurs are in need of some fresh talents in the front-court. Mitch McGary could have gone a lot higher had he come out last year, following an impressive March Madness tournament. Injuries have been a problem, but the Spurs are specialists in keeping their players from playing too much. McGary has really intriguing skills and has the BBIQ to fit into the Spurs system offensively and defensively.
Added my explanations for each pick. Here comes my tier list in terms of how I think the NBA teams are ranking the players in the draft so far(not my personal opinion about the prospects):
Tier 1 (Franchise players)
Joel Embiid
Tier 2 (Multiple All-Star/franchise potential)
Andrew Wiggins Dante Exum Jabari Parker
Tier 3 (All-Star level talent)
Julius Randle Noah Vonleh Marcus Smart Aaron Gordon
Tier 4 (Good NBA starters/Possible All-Star)
Stauskas Harris LaVine Saric
Tier 5 (Solid NBA starters)
McDermott Nurkic Young Ennis Payton Payne
Tier 6 (Rotational role)
Hood Anderson McDaniels Early Warren Grant
Tier 7 (Role players)
Napier Young McGary Dinwiddie Robinson Adams Stokes Daniels Burton
Tier 8 (Stashing potential)
Ingles (<- Look out for this one) Porzingis Capela Bogdanovic Tavares
I will adjust my mock draft a couple of days before the actual draft, and once the draft is finished, I will individually evaluate whether I think the players drafted in the first draft will succeed or not.
If you have any criticism or suggestions, please let me know!
Gonna wait and see which teams these NBA talents end up with before I evaluate this draft class, but last year I took a chance on guessing top 5 booms and busts even before the players got drafted.
So this is what I predicted last year:
Maefteda wrote:NBA Busts
Ben McLemore
McLemore has been a top pick for most of the year, but has seen a slight fall in the last couple of weeks. While he has a fantastic shooting stroke, looked like a decent defensive prospect in college and has freakish athleticism, there have been a couple of question marks around him that have been creeping up. From what I can see in interviews, he seems like just a kid who won't be able to realize is potential. He wasn't assertive enough in college, which is one of the more important things to be if you want to succeed and become an all-star in this league. McLemore will most likely go to a bad NBA team that will not only reveal that he isn't as good defensively as we thought he was, but also a team that will put too much pressure on a guy who hasn't really adapted to that pressure in college.
Shabazz Muhammad
Shabazz is actually likely to fall out of even the top 15, as he has been on a constant slide ever since he was clearly upset about not getting to shoot a game winning shot against Washington earlier this year. It says a lot about Muhammad, especially when you look at how he explained the situation in interviews later. It is evident that Muhammad is more in it for himself than the team, and while he has a drive to become a star, his skills don't match up. He is getting a few comparisons to Harden, but with way worse ball handling, not being the same 3 point shooter either spotting up or off the dribble and with a bad attitude, Shabazz will likely be a bust, even after sliding on the draft boards.
Alex Len
Len has great size, interesting and polished skills for a big man and has the potential to be a two-way player. He didn't have the best college career however and while getting better guards to put him in a better position for easy baskets in the NBA, he will also face bigger and tougher players in the league that may leave him even more frustrated than he looked at times in Maryland. Another huge concern is his stress fracture injury in his leg. Injuries like that are a lot more scary than say Noel's ACL tear, as Len's injury can come back to haunt him even when he gets healthy again. His horrid steal rate, along with his injury concerns and small attitude problems makes me believe Len will be a bust in the league, even though he might have a Andre Drummond like turnaround if he sorts out those things.
Anthony Bennett
Bennett was able to score in a variety of ways in college, as he dominated for UNLV with with his strong build, and inside-out skills which have made him a top pick in the draft. Looking at similar guys in recent years however, they never seem to fully reach their potential. His position is unclear at the NBA level at the moment, and while Bennett himself has expressed a desire to be a 3 or even a 2(!) in the league, there are a lot of reasons as to why he might not be able to fulfill that desire. Recently weighing as much as 261 pounds, Bennett doesn't seem to be nimble enough to defend the best SFs at the next level. On the offensive end Bennett lacks post moves and will probably have a hard time getting used to the longer NBA 3PT line. With not the best defense to go along with that and no true position, Bennett will likely be a bust.
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope
Caldwell-Pope has for the most part been a lock at #9 in this draft going to Minnesota Timberwolves as they seem to be great fits to each other. KCP has indeed a nice shooting stroke, he has defensive potential with good lateral quickness and size/athleticism. KCP actually tries hard on defense when he is in an ISO situation, but as shown lapses of concentration and actually trying a bit too hard on D some times. He will likely be caught off guard in the NBA by more skilled and smarter players with their tricks and pump fakes, and in a league where team defense rules, KCP doesn't have enough skills defensively to stand out. His poor decision making will probably be his downfall, as KCP needs to make the most of his skills to succeed in the NBA, but I think his BBIQ will prevent him from doing this and relegate him to being a 8th man off the bench instead of a quality NBA starter.
Boom:
Nerlens Noel
Noel has been the only player consistently in the top 3 through his whole college season, and for good reason. His defense is unquestionable, with great length, good athleticism and a fantastic motor for a big man that has seen him excel at both blocks and steals. The questions around Noel has been his offense, the ACL injury and his weight. Players tend to come back just as strong from ACL tears nowadays, his weight isn't that bad compared to other top NBA centers coming into this league and the team picking Noel will know that he is a long term player that won't even be able to contribute right away. Noel will not be one of the main scoring options for a team, but as he will get minutes mainly because of his defensive prowess, I don't think it's unlikely that Noel develops a couple of go to moves on offense, which will keep him as a starter for his whole NBA career in my mind and a couple of All-Star appearances. Considering that Noel is one of the youngest players in this draft as well, he will have plenty of time to develop. Victor Oladipo
Oladipo on the other hand saw a marked rise on the draft boards this year, as his hard work paid off in getting him noticed by NBA GMs and scouts. Oladipo's floor is higher than most other draftees' ceilings as he is a defensive stopper day one, but his work ethic and motor is what makes NBA execs gush over the possibilities of landing a future all-star in this guy. Oladipo reminds me of Kawhi Leonard in many ways, who proved in this years playoffs that he can be a important guy on a contending team. I expect Oladipo to adjust to the NBA 3 the same way, and maybe being even better when it comes to defense.
Otto Porter
Porter had a great sophmore season, and manage to develop even more skills to his already solid arsenal. Porter can do it all, pass, handle, shoot and play defense and while he might not have the same elite ability in some areas like Noel and Oladipo, Porter will know his limitations and likely be a great glue guy on a NBA team. That doesn't mean he won't be assertive however, as he has shown an ability to close out games for the Georgetown Hoyas. I expect him to make a good NBA player, like many former Georgetown alumni.
CJ McCollum
Another guy who will likely make the most of his transition to the NBA is CJ McCollum. He has continuously impressed in pre-draft workouts and interviews, showing a great level of understanding for the NBA game. Being a Patriot league player, McCollum also has a chip on his shoulder, while he is smart enough to know how to adapt to whichever team picks him on draft night. His ability to create and make his own shots is pivotal in the NBA, and with his very high BBIQ will find a way to contribute even more for his NBA team. CJ will at least be a scoring combo guard off the bench, but I wouldn't be surprised to see him as one of the favorites to win Rookie of the year at the end of the season.
Trey Burke
Trey Burke has a lot of skills that is useful for a PG in the NBA. He can facilitate and score at the same time, and also proved his ability as a leader when leading Michigan to the NCAA tournament finals. He has been getting comparisons to Chris Paul and for good reason. His size is one of the only things holding him back from being a #1 pick, but with a good wingspan, that shouldn't be as big of a problem as it is made out to be. Burke has the ability to either shot from 3, drive in and score or kick it out which is something every PG in the NBA should strive to have. The assertiveness he brings as well, will likely make Burke flourish in a PG heavy league, even with his lack of size.
It's a bit early, but I'm quite happy with my choices. Otto Porter is the one big blemish, and I could actually probably switch him with Shabazz. Missed out on Rookie of The Year Michael Carter-Williams though, so it wasn't perfect.
This year however, I'm waiting until I see where all the talents land, and then I will go through all 30 first round draftees and label them as either boom, bust or trust. I'll explain in more detail when the time comes.
I feel like they all have a lot of value at their picks, but it is too many big men on one team for sure. Definitely looking to change that in my next mock, so what do you reckon is wrong with it? James Young instead of Nurkic?
He's really young, great physical tools and can do a bit of everything. Inglis has played SF, and has been looking good when it comes to handling the ball and passing. I really like his instincts defensively as well, it seems like he just gets it.
He really needs to refine his skills, but he's only just 19 and has a lot of time. Not too far-fetched that he gets picked up by the Spurs at #30, even though they have players in similar positions, like Leonard and Jean-Charles who they picked up last year.
Updated mock, Post Embiid injury news with trades added:
Mock Draft 2.0:
1. Cleveland Cavaliers - Andrew Wiggins (6'8'', SF, Kansas, Fresh.)
With the news that Joel Embiid has sustained a foot injury, the Cleveland Cavaliers have apparently decided to not draft him, after they’ve had him as their top target in the last weeks. With Embiid off the table, the pick is now between Wiggins and Parker. The Cavs already have a franchise player who closes the deal on offense, but struggles on D, so Wiggins gets the nod here. He’s extremely athletic, can play next to Irving and has almost as good potential as Embiid, without the injury issues.
Milwaukee Bucks seems to be leaning toward Jabari Parker, and with Embiid’s injury issues and Wiggins going #1, they are likely to stick with Parker as their pick. Parker can be an alpha scorer for them, as they continue to build their young core with Giannis, Henson and Sanders, who all offer the rim protection Parker lacks. A Knight-Giannis-Parker-Henson-Sanders core has a lot of talent and fit together well.
3. Philadelphia 76ers - Dante Exum (6'6'', SG, Australia)
The 76ers seemed to get really lucky and be able to pick Andrew Wiggins with this pick, but the recent Embiid injury news has made Wiggins go #1. The Cavs won’t be intrigued to trade down here either, as hopes of getting Parker with this pick are gone now that Embiid got injured. The 76ers might consider Embiid here though, but having gone through a season without Nerlens Noel, I don’t think they are ready for the same again with Embiid, and will be scared away. That leaves Dante Exum, a guard they have been intrigued with and would be happy to pick. Whether they use him next to MCW or trade their Rookie of The Year remains to be seen, but Exum is a great pick here.
4. Orlando Magic - Joel Embiid (7'0'', C, Kansas, Fresh.)
While the top 3 will be disappointed with the Embiid injury, it might be a blessing for the Orlando Magic. The drop off after the top 4 in talent is quite big, and while Noah Vonleh would get interest here, I think Embiid’s upside is too much to walk away from. The Magic are probably still going to be rebuilding and could wait for Embiid to get healthy in the process. The thought of getting yet another dominating center for a team that has had Shaq and Howard is tantalizing to say the least.
5. Utah Jazz - Noah Vonleh (6'10'', PF, Indiana, Fresh.)
Utah are the unlucky team that not only miss out on the top 4, but will get the pressure of choosing the right guy between the next tier of talent in the draft. Utah have good young potential players all over the floor, with no specific needs. While a leader and winner like Marcus Smart would make sense for them, I think Utah Jazz ultimately will go for the potential of a Vonleh-Favors-Kanter big man rotation, as Vonleh can slot in perfectly next to the other two, if he develops like the Jazz would expect him to. His length, ability to play both PF and C and stretch the floor is too alluring for the Jazz to pass on him.
Trade!
Celtics trade #6, #17, Brooklyn 2016 1st, Kelly Olynyk and filler to the Minnesota Timberwolves for Kevin Love and Kevin Martin
6. Minnesota Timberwolves - Aaron Gordon (6'9'', PF, Arizona, Fresh.)
While there is a lot of uncertainty on where exactly Love will be traded, the Celtics make the most sense. Minnesota are trying to get the most value they can from Boston, and this trade gives them a lot of value, starting with the #6 pick in this stacked draft. With Love gone, the Timberwolves don't have a starting PF next to Pekovic anymore, and would look to get a replacement right away with this pick. With Vonleh gone, there are two options in Randle and Gordon. Gordon with his defense and athleticism fits a lot better next to Rubio and Pekovic and with his outstanding defence replacing Kevin Love in the lineup, he will help the Timberwolves turn their organization around.
7. LA Lakers - Marcus Smart (6'3'', PG, Oklahoma State, Soph.)
The Lakers will also be looking to move this pick, but the fit for them in Marcus Smart actually seems really good. His competitive nature will certainly win the praise of Lakers fans, and he will be a good fit with Kobe Bryant with his winning attitude and being a more cap friendly contract than the Lakers star player. Lakers have needs all over the floor, but also need a leader once Kobe Bryant has earned his 48,5 million over the 2 next years.
Sacramento Kings trade #8, Derrick Williams and Jason Terry to the 76ers for #10 and Thaddeus Young
8. Philadelphia 76ers - Julius Randle (6'9'', PF, Kentucky, Fresh.)
The Sacramento Kings get a veteran PF that goes well next to Cousins in Thad Young, who doesn't fit with the young 76ers core. Instead, the 76ers use him to move up and get a nice young prospect in Derrick Williams in return. They also do this as they will be salivating on the idea of getting Exum and Randle in the same draft, which would be unheard of at the start of the year, and certainly not what the Pelicans thought they traded away for Jrue Holiday (Noel and Randle). No brainer for the 76ers and a good decision for the Kings as the clear BPA in Randle doesn't really fit them that well.
9. Charlotte Hornets - Doug McDermott (6'7'', SF, Creighton, Sr.)
The newly renamed Charlotte Hornets will also get a nice fit at the right value with their pick. 3PT shooting has been a huge problem for Charlotte and at #9, Doug McDermott would offer a valuable addition to help sort out their problems from behind the 3 point line. The other main option here would be Nik Stauskas, but Charlotte has a history of unconventional picks and McDermott certainly fits that. He will also be more of an off-ball option than Stauskas in Charlotte who will get the ball in Kemba Walker and Al Jefferson's hands more often than not on offense. McDermott is an elite scorer off the ball, coming off screens and using his BBIQ to get great looks.
The Sacramento Kings want a PG for the future as they still see Isiah Thomas as a 6th man type of player if they manage to resign him, with a tight cap situation. Elfrid Payton has been skyrocketing up the boards lately, with stellar play in workouts after being overlooked on an unknown Louisiana Lafayette throughout the season. Drawing comps with Gary Payton, Elfrid brings defense, toughness, passing and length to a team that really need all those qualities as they continue their playoffs push.
Trade!
The Denver Nuggets trade #11 to the Chicago Bulls for #16 and #19
11. Chicago Bulls - Nik Stauskas (6'6'', SG, Michigan, Soph.)
The Chicago Bulls have been in talks with the Nuggets for a while now in a bid to move up to #11 in the draft, using their two draft picks. The Nuggets have a lot of options they want at #11 and figure that one of them will at least fall to #16 as they pick up another pick in a good draft. The Chicago Bulls are coveting Nik Stauskas and Gary Harris, who are lottery locks and they move up to #11 and get to choose between them. 3PT shooting and offense are the qualities the Bulls need and there are few prospects in this draft better at that than Nik Stauskas, at a team that can mask his defensive deficiencies.
Magic will still be rebuilding after next season, especially with the injured Embiid and can afford to give Dario Saric the time he needs to get over to the NBA and adjust to the new level of competition he would meet. Saric is a really intriguing prospect, as a point forward that can do mostly anything offensively, with his unique playing style. Length, 3PT shooting, passing, ball-handling and rebound ability is part of the package you get for Saric, making him an easy pick this late in the lottery.
With Kevin Love gone, you'd have to assume Kevin Martin will follow, which leaves a gaping hole at SG for the Timberwolves. Luckily, Gary Harris falls down to their pick at #13 and makes a lot of sense for the Timberwolves. Harris has the toughness and defense Minnesota could build their team on, along with a good 3PT shot and potential as a second ball handler next to Rubio. His size makes him slide, but alongside Rubio who might be more suited to guard opposing 2 guards, Gary Harris easily has enough size and lateral quickness to guard all the PGs in the league, which makes him a great fit here at #13.
14. Phoenix Suns - James Young (6'7'', SG, Kentucky, Fresh.)
The Suns will be looking for a wing with this pick, as PJ Tucker is a free agent and they don't really have a true shooting guard as they successfully ran a two PG system last season. James Young can play both wing positions, is one of the youngest players in the draft and has a good 3PT shot that can be used when getting easy looks from Dragic and Bledsoe running the show. James Young fills a need and brings a lot of potential at the last pick in the lottery for the Suns.
15. Atlanta Hawks - Jusuf Nurkic (6'11'', C, Bosnia)
The Hawks somehow managed to get to the playoffs as the last team in the weak eastern conference, even with a weak squad of players. They will be disappointed that Kristaps Porzingis withdrew from the draft as it is rumored that the Hawks were the team that gave him a promise. The Hawks can now go for another European prospect instead, with Jusuf Nurkic at the center position. Nurkic is a beast down low who can score with his back to the basket, and has dominated even at a young age. This might finally make the Hawks able to push Al Horford to his natural PF position, as Millsap only has a year left on his contract.
I had the Nuggets taking LaVine at #11 in my last mock, so getting him at #16 alongside #19 is very good value. The Nuggets are looking like a treadmill team and have to take some chances to get anywhere in the NBA. LaVine has the biggest potential to be a game changer at this point with his amazing athletic abilities, good ball handling and great 3PT shooting. With two mid first round picks, the Nuggets can afford to give LaVine the time he needs to adjust with this one.
With a third pick in the same draft, the Timberwolves might want to move the pick, or at least grab a European prospect they can draft and stash. Capela is the only euro prospect mocked this high, but the Timberwolves will already have a lot of young big men at this point, which also ends Minnesota's interest in Adreian Payne. With LaVine now gone, this point of the draft is filled with career NBA role-players, which would leave Ennis and Rodney Hood as the most interesting choices for Minnesota. 3PT shooting would still be a big need and there are few better 3PT shooters than Rodney Hood left. Hood can cover the 2 and 3 positions for the Timberwolves and can bring a scoring punch off the bench for a new look Timberwolves.
The Phoenix Suns are reportedly intrigued with TJ Warren at this pick, as a guy who can put up points in a hurry in a variety of ways. The Suns already have a lot of spacing, so his lack of a 3 point shot wouldn’t be as missed here, and the feeling is that Warren has a lot of upside at this point of the draft. If he can adjust to the NBA he has already shown that he has the skills to succeed.
The Nuggets have sufficient cover on all positions it seems like, except for a long term solution at back up PG. Tyler Ennis is thought to be perfect for this role, as he can do a bit of everything and facilitate for the second unit. Ennis has enough talent to go much higher than this, but has slid because he is more of a “game guy” than a “workout guy”. Ennis could possibly be a much younger, and more sane version of Andre Miller who successfully played in the Denver before he had a fall out with management.
20. Toronto Raptors - Shabazz Napier (6'1'', PG, UConn, Sr.)
The Raptors will be disappointed not to see Canadian Tyler Ennis fall to them, as they want to get insurance on their PG position with Kyle Lowry and Greivis Vasquez both hitting free agency. The Raports can go for the next best thing however, with Shabazz Napier who has been working his way up the draft boards ever since the NCAA tournament started. He has poise, long range shooting ability and will be ready to contribute right away.
Adreian Payne has the ability to go in the lottery, but sees a slide all the way down to OKC at #21. With Collison and Perkins on expiring contracts, Oklahoma needs more bigs, and after Payne’s fantastic senior season, he could give them a bit of everything off the bench. This role should suit Payne, who struggled playing for long periods of time with mono. OKC get a steal and a great fit at #21.
22. Memphis Grizzlies - Cleanthony Early (6'7'', SF Wichita State, Sr.)
The Grizzlies are looking to win now with an aging squad on its last legs. Early would be one of the more NBA ready players at this point and can give the Grizzlies some needed athleticism and more importantly 3PT shooting. Tayshaun Prince is about to be out of the league once his contract is up, and the Grizzlies need depth at the 3 position.
23. Utah Jazz - PJ Hairston (6'5'', SG, North Carolina, Jr.)
Utah Jazz got some nice length and added defense with Vonleh at #5 and continues to add to that with Hairston at this pick. He brings something different than current Jazz talent Alec Burks at this position and fills the needs of defense and 3PT shooting for Utah. His off-court problems seem to be a thing of the past and he is already adjusted to the NBA 3.
24. Charlotte Hornets – Kyle Anderson (6'9'', SF, UCLA, Soph.)
After watching Boris Diaw tearing it up in the finals, the Bobcats may look to get a similar player in Kyle Anderson. Anderson is versatile and has added a good 3PT shot that will appeal to the Bobcats. He can slot in at either forward position and he is also fully capable of running the offense. With McRoberts opting out, having some insurance in the draft also makes sense.
The one big problem the Houston Rockets suffered from was the lack of perimeter defense and KJ McDaniels bring just that. He is also very athletic and can run the floor for the Rockets who play at a high pace.
Jarnell Stokes is doing himself a lot of favors with a strong showing in workouts and seems like a lock to go as a late first rounder at this point. Some people feel like he isn’t far behind Julius Randle in talent, which would be very handy for a Miami Heat team heading into uncertainty. Haslem might retire and Battier has already confirmed retirement and Rashard Lewis is on his last legs. PF is a position of need and Stokes is the strongest candidate left both literally and figuratively.
With their third first round pick, the Suns will be able to pick a project they can stash in Europe for a couple of years. Capela was on his way to getting drafted much higher than this before he hurt his stock with poor play at the Nike Hoop Summit this year. Capela has a lot of time to develop however, and has length, athleticism and finishing ability to play a role in the NBA in the future.
28. LA Clippers - Jordan Clarkson (6’5”, PG, Missouri, Jr.)
Jordan Clarkson is another name that has received buzz for his workouts and has a good chance of going in the first round. The Clippers might be without a backup PG if Darren Collison rejects his player option, so getting insurance in Jordan Clarkson would make sense here. Clarkson is long, athletic and can play both guard positions.
29. Oklahoma City Thunder – Jordan Adams (6’5”, SG, UCLA, Soph.)
Jordan Adams has been described as a less athletic James Harden and could fill the void at SG in OKC after they lost… well, James Harden. Thabo Sefolosha is a free agent, so OKC are a little short at the 2 and would be interested in adding another talent at the position. Adams is pretty young and has good scoring instincts that could help OKC off the bench.
30. San Antonio Spurs - Mitch McGary (6'10'', PF, Michigan, Soph.)
With Tim Duncan getting older and Boris Diaw on an expiring contract, the Spurs are in need of some fresh talents in the front-court. Mitch McGary could have gone a lot higher had he come out last year, following an impressive March Madness tournament. Injuries have been a problem, but the Spurs are specialists in keeping their players from playing too much. McGary has really intriguing skills and has the BBIQ to fit into the Spurs system offensively and defensively.
Yup. I looked more into your needs and rumors and feel like you make out well in this one. I think you might consider Payne still with #17 though, but Warren seems like a better fit. You might be involved in a trade as well.
In general I feel like there will be more trades towards the end of the first round. I tried to find a way to trade Charlotte's 24th pick, but with Wiggins instead of Embiid at #1, it's a bit difficult.
No way the Kings make that trade. As has been said many times on the T&T board Thad Young is an awful fit on that team. Why would the Kings move out of a tier (your words) in exchange for taking an awful fit?
How is Thad Young an awful fit though? He's a pretty solid defender, doesn't need the ball in his hands and can run up and down the floor alongside Cousins and Gay without getting in their way. Randle is a beast down low, which you already have and much more in Cousins. They are too similar to play together, so even if you do trade down one tier (which Randle has almost gone to himself), you are getting a much better fit, while shedding some salary and filling a veteran at the PF spot. You also clear some cap space with Williams and Terry going out.
Maefteda wrote:How is Thad Young an awful fit though? He's a pretty solid defender, doesn't need the ball in his hands and can run up and down the floor alongside Cousins and Gay without getting in their way.
The Kings' biggest problems last year were outside shooting (27th in the league in 3pt%) and interior defense (20th in the league--plus Cousins has pined for a shot blocker next to him). Thad Young doesn't help either of these one bit. So while the "doesn't need the ball in his hands" thing is nice it's only 1/2 of what the Kings need. The Kings need a guy who doesn't need the ball AND can shoot it. Thad Young is a HORRIBLE shooter (32% from mid range last year).
Nice job. It was a great read. Totally agree with our pick at #21. You may be right at #29, but I'm thinking Micic as insurance against Jackson leaving next year.
If Wolves went with Gordon/Harris with their two lottery picks in your latest mock then we would not go Hood later. Would go with Ennis to back up Rubio
"That's why the last two years weren't guaranteed," Walsh said. "Either way, he knew it could have happened either way."
Yeah, I'm thinking we trade away that pick though. Not many teams use 3 picks in one draft. Trying to see if the Wolves can gazump Bulls' offer for #11 and pick Stauskas for themselves. Problem is I don't think the TImberwolves FO really have a preference for Stauskas, and I'd need to find some compensation from Nuggets, because 13 + 17 is a lot better than 16 + 19. Maybe add inn the Foye for Budinger swap as well.
New and final mock on Wednesday night I'm thinking. Stay tuned!
My last mock draft, number 3.0 is here, and there are a lot of changes at the top. There are so many possibilities here, but using information from other sites, team needs and trying to rack my brain around every pick, I came out with a really entertaining and also believable mock draft. Enjoy!
Mock Draft 3.0:
Trade!
The Cleveland Cavaliers trade the #1 pick to Orlando Magic for #4, #12 and Aaron Afflalo
Right from the start we get a trade as a start to a crazy draft night. The Cavs have no idea who to choose out of Parker and Wiggins, the front office and Dan Gilbert disagree on who to take. The answer is to trade down and get more options to run with, as they go all in for LeBron while having a good fall back option. They have franchise players in potentially Irving and LeBron, so they figure they can get more complimentary piece by trading down. The Magic have a lot of talent, but lack the one franchise guy to lead them forward. Steep price to pay, but they feel it's worth it.
The Magic get their top guy to lead them forward, and that guy is Jabari Parker. They have good young defenders in Oladipo and Harkless but need a guy to carry the load for them offensively. Parker is a no-brainer and will be ready to contribute right away, even though the Magic are rebuilding.
2. Milwaukee Bucks - Andrew Wiggins (6'8'', SF, Kansas, Fresh.)
The Bucks are in a great spot in the draft, where they get a guy with superstar potential, without the #1 pick hype around him and without any real pressure of picking the right guy. They might prefer Parker, but Wiggins is a great consolation prize as the one with the higher ceiling and extra wow-factor. Wiggins and Giannis will provide the Bucks with a dynamic wing duo, who can do a lot of different things.
3. Philadelphia 76ers - Dante Exum (6'6'', SG, Australia)
The 76ers seemed to get really lucky and be able to pick Andrew Wiggins with this pick, but the recent Embiid injury news has made Wiggins go in the top 2. The 76ers might consider Embiid here, but having gone through a season without Nerlens Noel, I don’t think they are ready for the same again with Embiid, and will be scared away. Dante Exum reportedly had a strong workout here and has been very much in play at this pick for a while.
Embiid could be picked here, but judging by how Cleveland are one of the few teams that got a medical report on Embiid and that was enough to scare them off of him, I don't see them picking him. Vonleh is a safer pick in that respect, even though there are questions if he can contribute in the NBA after not getting all that featured in Indiana. He might get shipped in a Kevin Love trade, as Minnesota would be interested in Vonleh, or he is a good big man, who could possibly play a bit on the center spot due to his length.
5. Utah Jazz - Aaron Gordon (6'9'', PF, Arizona, Fresh.)
At #5, the Jazz covet Noah Vonleh for his fit with either of their bigs and potential to hit the floor. They won't be too sad about Vonleh not being here though, as they really like what they saw during Aaron Gordon's workouts with them. The Jazz had a tough time on defense, and Gordon could step in and help them in that respect straight away. With Kanter a free agent next summer, they will have coverage even if their center leaves, as Favors can slide to the center position.
6. Boston Celtics - Joel Embiid (7'0'', C, Kansas, Fresh.)
It doesn't seem like the Love to Celtics trade is happening anymore, so the Celtics need to start concentrating on a rebuild. Danny Ainge is a risk taker, and taking risks in this draft might just net you the very best player in Joel Embiid. Injury issues aside, Embiid is the top talent in this draft and the Celtics would love to properly start their rebuild around him at the Center position.
Trade!
The Los Angeles Lakers trade #7 and Steve Nash to the Philadelphia 76ers for Michael Carter Williams
The Lakers like both Marcus Smart and Julius Randle at this point in the draft, but have been clear about wanting players with experience in the league. The 76ers fanbase might be upset about trading away the rookie of the year, but with Exum picked at #3, MCW would be a bad fit next to him and Exum is 4 years younger with many of the same attributes. They get a chance of picking 3 of the top 10 picks in a deep draft.
7. Philadelphia 76ers - Julius Randle (6'9'', PF, Kentucky, Fresh.)
The Philadelphia 76ers will be salivating on the idea of getting Exum and Randle in the same draft, which would be unheard of at the start of the year, and certainly not what the Pelicans thought they traded away for Jrue Holiday (Noel and Randle). Randle is a beast offensively, who will bully his way to rebounds and points, and with Noel by his side, who will make up for his lack of shot-blocking and defensive deficiencies. They still have one more pick to go in the at #10 and are at a great position in their rebuild.
Trade!
The Sacramento Kings trade #8 pick, Ben McLemore, Jason Thompson and Travis Outlaw to the Boston Celtics for Rajon Rondo
The trades are rally coming in at this point, as both the Lakers and the Kings have been trying to get more win now talent. The Celtics are in full rebuild mode at this point with Love out of the question and Embiid picked at #6, so they trade away Rondo. The Kings have coveted Rondo for a good while and feel like they need a proven point guard to lead them to the playoffs. They have to give up a good pick and McLemore, but shed some unneeded salary as well.
8. Boston Celtics - Marcus Smart (6'3'', PG, Oklahoma State, Soph.)
The Celtics get a second top 8 pick and get one of the best talents available. Marcus Smart will bring them a lot of what they had in Rondo, as a competitive good defender, who will really pair up well with Celtics acquisition of Ben McLemore. The fans in Boston will love Smart's competitiveness and will give them hope for the future along with their young core.
9. Charlotte Hornets - Doug McDermott (6'7'', SF, Creighton, Sr.)
The newly renamed Charlotte Hornets will get a nice fit at the right value with their pick. 3PT shooting has been a huge problem for Charlotte and at #9, Doug McDermott would offer a valuable addition to help sort out their problems from behind the 3 point line. The other main option here would be Nik Stauskas, but Charlotte has a history of unconventional picks and McDermott certainly fits that. He will also be more of an off-ball option than Stauskas in Charlotte who will get the ball in Kemba Walker and Al Jefferson's hands more often than not on offense. McDermott is an elite scorer off the ball, coming off screens and using his BBIQ to get great looks.
10. Philadelphia 76ers - Nik Stauskas (6'6'', SG, Michigan, Soph.)
The 76ers have a fantastic young core of players at this point, but lacks a great shooter. There are no better shooters in this draft than Nik Stauskas, who not only makes sense as a fit here, but is also expected to be drafted in this range and is arguably the BPA at this point as well. What Stauskas lacks in quickness, they will have in Exum anyway, but Stauskas ability to stretch the floor will be of great value for the 76ers.
Denver are on the dreaded NBA treadmill, with a young team that has a lot of talent, but will struggle to qualify for the playoffs in the competitive Western Conference. The Nuggets still have a big need at the 2 guard position, and would preferably get a backup for Ty Lawson at PG as well. Zach LaVine has a lot of upside left at this pick and fits the Denver run and gun offense perfectly, with 3PT shooting and athletic dunks. With recent buzz having LaVine going in the lottery, the Nuggets won't risk trading down and keep their pick.
The Cleveland Cavaliers make their second lottery pick this year with the pick they acquire from the Orlando Magic and pick a guy that was mocked to them before they won the lottery and only had the #9 pick. Jusuf Nurkic is a beast down low who has dominated at a young age playing with pros in Europe. He's a legit center, who could fit well at center next to Vonleh if they keep him or be a nice trade chip as Nurkic has a couple of teams that love him around the NBA.
Trade!
The Minnesota Timberwolves trade Kevin Love, Kevin Martin and JJ Barea to the Golden State Warriors for David Lee, Klay Thompson and Harrison Barnes
The Timberwolves have sent out signals that they want to compete for a playoffs spot right away, even if they have to trade Kevin Love and they feel like a this trade with Golden State is the best way to do it. They still get young players with upside however and a guy who can replicate Kevin Love's rebounding and inside scoring in David Lee. The Warriors have fought to get more value out of this trade, but the lure of getting a top 10 player in Kevin Love, who wants to stay there long term will prove too enticing.
By getting players that are ready to win now, the Timberwolves will be ready to pick a guy that contributes right away for them. Gary Harris falls down to their pick at #13 and makes a lot of sense for the Timberwolves. Harris provides toughness and defense along with a good 3PT shot and potential as a second ball handler. He should be a great guard coming off the bench, for a team that really lacked depth last season in the NBA.
14. Phoenix Suns - James Young (6'7'', SG, Kentucky, Fresh.)
The Suns will be looking for a wing with this pick, as PJ Tucker is a free agent and they don't really have a true shooting guard as they successfully ran a two PG system last season. James Young can play both wing positions, is one of the youngest players in the draft and has a good 3PT shot that can be used when getting easy looks from Dragic and Bledsoe running the show. James Young fills a need and brings a lot of potential at the last pick in the lottery for the Suns.
15. Atlanta Hawks - Dario Saric (6'10'', PF, Croatia)
With the news that Dario Saric would stay 2 more years in Europe after getting drafted, he has dropped a bit in the draft, but stops at #15 to the Hawks. The Hawks model their franchise after the San Antonio Spurs and a fantastic euro prospect with unusual skills seems to be the right way to do it. Saric has even drawn similarities with Boris Diaw as a guy who can do it all and handle the ball. Shabazz Napier and surprise possibility Elfrid Payton get looks here, but the Hawks have reportedly given Saric a promise at #15, and they will be happy to see that he's still there when they are picking. Picking a guy to stash means that the Hawks save money, as they look for another great deal in free agency like they did with Millsap a year ago.
The Chicago Bulls have been trying to trade up, but can consider themselves lucky, as a great prospect in Elfrid Payton is still available. He might not bring the 3PT shooting the Bulls need, but he'll be able to bring everything else to a team that still can't trust Derrick Rose's knees. If his knees hold up though, there is nothing stopping the Bulls from playing Payton and Rose together. Shabazz Napier would be a favorite here if not for Payton's slide, but the added upside tips the scale towards Payton.
17. Boston Celtics - TJ Warren (6'8'', SF, North Carolina State, Soph.)
With their third pick in the draft, the Celtics were hoping to get Saric who they could stash in Europe for a while, but the Hawks beat them to it. The Celtics still get an opportunity to get a forward with unique skills and good potential however, with TJ Warren. Warren has done surprisingly well in workouts and proved in college that he can be a lethal scorer with his variety of moves. Fits in as a great scoring option with a team now loaded with defensive talent. Warren will also get the chance to develop his 3 point shot, as the Celtics are sure to tank for another year.
With Channing Frye opting out and possibly going away, Adreian Payne would cover a need at PF for the Suns, but also fit incredibly well with their athletic 3PT shooting style. Payne can do a lot of different things well after a fantastic senior season. Payne as a late bloomer, also has the potential to get even better, as he finally found out that he had mononucleosis, which makes his great senior season in college even more impressive.
19. Chicago Bulls - Rodney Hood (6'9'', SF, Duke, Soph.)
After picking Payton at #16, the Bulls will have an even stronger need for 3PT shooting and fills it with the knockdown 3PT shooter Rodney Hood. Chicago Bulls have struggled with 3PT shooting for a while, and Hood is the best 3PT shooter available at this point. He also has good length for his position and a developing mid-range game, which gives the stout defensive Bulls a versatile option offensively.
20. Toronto Raptors - Tyler Ennis (6'2'', PG, Syracuse, Fresh.)
The Toronto Raptors face a lot of uncertainty at the PG position as both of their point guards from last year in Kyle Lowry and Greivis Vasquez are free agents. The Raptors will feel the need to at least get some insurance at the position from the draft, and are in a perfect position with Tyler Ennis and Shabazz Napier being the top 2 talents available at this point. Tyler Ennis from Canada gets the nod, as he returns to his home country, will be nice consolation if the Raptors lose their crowd favorite Lowry or fill in nicely as a backup point if Lowry decides to stay.
OKC have great coverage at the point guard position, but have to consider their options next summer when Reggie Jackson becomes a free agent. Derek Fisher just retired however, which leaves open a guard spot for OKC to fill, and they stumble into a fantastic fit with Shabazz Napier. Napier has experience and championship pedigree that OKC would want, as they once again push for the NBA title. This also effectively ends the hopes in Miami of getting Shabazz Napier as a way to entice LeBron to stay.
22. Memphis Grizzlies – Jordan Adams (6’5”, SG, UCLA, Soph.)
The Grizzlies are looking to win now with an aging squad on its last legs. Jordan Adams has been a name getting some buzz late in the first round lately, and while he's one of the least athletic guards you'll find, he knows how to play, and can do a lot of other things. Especially the 3PT shooting will be interesting for the Grizzlies, who is a good fit for Adams with their slow pace and grit and grind mentality.
23. Utah Jazz - PJ Hairston (6'5'', SG, North Carolina, Jr.)
Utah Jazz got a great defender with Gordon at #5 and continues to add to that with Hairston at this pick. He brings something different than current Jazz talent Alec Burks at this position and fills the needs of defense and 3PT shooting for Utah. His off-court problems seem to be a thing of the past and he is already adjusted to the NBA 3. Adams is said to have a promise here, but it's a pick too late.
24. Charlotte Hornets – Kyle Anderson (6'9'', SF, UCLA, Soph.)
After watching Boris Diaw tearing it up in the finals, the Bobcats may look to get a similar player in Kyle Anderson. Anderson is versatile and has added a good 3PT shot that will appeal to the Bobcats. He can slot in at either forward position and he is also fully capable of running the offense. With McRoberts opting out, having some insurance in the draft also makes sense.
The one big problem the Houston Rockets suffered from was the lack of perimeter defense and KJ McDaniels bring just that. He is also very athletic and can run the floor for the Rockets who play at a high pace.
Jarnell Stokes is doing himself a lot of favors with a strong showing in workouts and seems like a lock to go as a late first rounder at this point. Some people feel like he isn’t far behind Julius Randle in talent, which would be very handy for a Miami Heat team heading into uncertainty. Haslem might retire and Battier has already confirmed retirement and Rashard Lewis is on his last legs. PF is a position of need and Stokes is the strongest candidate left both literally and figuratively.
With their third first round pick, the Suns will be able to pick a project they can stash in Europe for a couple of years. Capela was on his way to getting drafted much higher than this before he hurt his stock with poor play at the Nike Hoop Summit this year. Capela has a lot of time to develop however, and has length, athleticism and finishing ability to play a role in the NBA in the future.
28. LA Clippers - Jordan Clarkson (6’5”, PG, Missouri, Jr.)
Jordan Clarkson is another name that has received buzz for his workouts and has a good chance of going in the first round. The Clippers might be without a backup PG if Darren Collison rejects his player option, so getting insurance in Jordan Clarkson would make sense here. Clarkson is long, athletic and can play both guard positions.
29. Oklahoma City Thunder - Glenn Robinson III (6'7", SF, Michigan, Soph.)
The Thunder lack wing depth and would want players who fit their athletic style of play. GRIII is a bit of a disappointing prospect that still can blossom and become a good NBA player in the right situation. Robinson has a smooth game, but wouldn't be relied upon apart from playing the good defense he has shown that he has in Michigan, and that will probably fit him and OKC really well.
30. San Antonio Spurs - Bogdan Bogdanovic (6'6", SG, Serbia)
While I've had Mitch McGary to the Spurs in my previous 2 mock drafts, the latest word seems to be that McGary is seeking to be picked in the 2nd round to be able to choose his own salary. With the Spurs usually having everything in order, it seems unlikely that McGary is in play here, unless the rumors are just a ploy to keep teams higher in the first round to pick him. Bogdan Bogdanovic is another player that has been linked to the Spurs though, and as a euro who could get the Spurs a good replacement for Ginobili when he retires, he makes a lot of sense here.
That concludes my mock draftss for this year, but I'll post my impressions on all 30 first round picks some time after the draft, once I've restored my sanity and gathered my thoughts. Stay tuned!
