New ESPN Mock Draft Top 3
1. Minnesota Timberwolves
Anthony Edwards
Georgia
G
Age: 19.2
Trade talks are still heavily in play for this pick, but most NBA teams are now getting the sense that Edwards is the likely selection if the Wolves stay put. He brings a positional fit with D'Angelo Russell and Karl-Anthony Towns, while Wiseman and Ball would overlap with those franchise cornerstones.
Since winning the lottery, the Timberwolves have at times sent out strong signals that they're interested in all three of Edwards, Wiseman and Ball (with whom they conducted another virtual interview over the weekend). That might be an indication of uncertainty or an attempt to juice trade offers. Regardless, the pick remains in flux, though most signs point to Edwards for now.
2. Golden State Warriors
James Wiseman
Memphis
C
Age: 19.6
While Wiseman has long looked like the safest pick and best positional fit here, he no longer appears to be a lock for Golden State after Ball conducted an impressive workout in front of key members of the Warriors' ownership group, front office and coaching staff. Ball's talent presents the possibility for special long-term upside, while Wiseman might be better equipped to immediately help the franchise return to the NBA Finals.
The Warriors have continued to do their due diligence by traveling to watch Anthony Edwards work out for a second time in recent days after an initially underwhelming first viewing.
3. Charlotte Hornets
LaMelo Ball
Illawarra
G
Age: 19.2
Though a serious fall in the draft has never really looked likely, Ball's series of strong private workouts in front of NBA teams this past week seems to have helped his case to stay in the top three.
Ball's incredible size, ball-handling and touch has popped even in a workout setting, according to observers. That could make the Hornets even more comfortable with the idea of selecting the best talent available, avoiding a need to use assets to trade up.
