2020 Draft

[SUPERBALLMAN]

In my opinion Okoro is probably the #1 defensive wing prospect we’ve seen since Kawhi Leonard in 2011.

He reminds me of Leonard in that he’s like a robot on the court. Always locked in and rarely ever will he make a noticeable defensive error. You just don’t see those sorts of instincts from teenagers, especially with his frame and physicality.

Isaac also seems to be a great teammate , and it’s been said that as soon as he got to Auburn from day 1 earned the respect and deference of the seniors on the team - not easy to do at a Bruce Pearl program. I think if the right franchise gets their hands on him he’ll develop into an outstanding pro.

I watched a little video on him. I don't really see any shades of Kawhi Leonard. He doesn't have the long arms or rebounding instincts. I see more of a P.J. Tucker type of defender. He's strong, stout and moves his body really well. But he's not going to get a lot of steals and blocks. I think he can carve out a niche in this league and would be worthy of a mid first round pick, but I don't see anything more than a role player there.

Gotta disagree personally, I’ve watched every minute Okoro has played this season (Ive been recording a few college games a week on DVR) and without a doubt feel he has elite defensive talent as well as athleticism & explosiveness that PJ Tucker could never dream of.

Draymond Green isn’t more than a “role player” either but he’s capable of controlling entire aspects of a game. So to me, labeling Okoro in the mold of a role player doesn’t make him a worse prospect or anything. In this draft he’s steadily worked his way into the top 10 range.

May be situation where highlights don't do him justice to realize his impact on the game. What I know is I watched Vanderbuilt vs Auburn to see Nesmith, and came away thinking Okoro was the best player in the game. Then I watched Iowa St vs Auburn to see Haliburton, and again came away thinking Okoro was the best player in the game.

He has definitely grown on me. I think he'd be a great fit on this team. I love his talent level and mentality. He has a lot of what this team lacks. Draft Okoro and move TBJ to G.

The 2 guys that have moved from not being on my radar at all to the top of my list is Okoro and Maxey. But the more I see of Okoro the more I like.

[SUPERBALLMAN]

I do like the idea of adding a guard through the draft all things being equal...

It's such a deep draft for guards that the top of the 2nd round could have some steals. They have great advanced stats and are winning games

Gonzaga 6'5 sophomore Joel Ayayi
11/6/4 - 60TS% - 17.8 DRB% - 12.0 TRB% - 10.7 BPM

Kansas 6'2 sophomore Devon Dotson
18/4/4 - 26 PER - 58TS% - 11.8 BPM - 88 DRtg

Kentucky 6'3 sophomore Ashton Hagans:
14/4/7 - high ast/usg% - .651 FT rate

Duke 6`2 sophomore Tre Jones
15/4/6 - 2.2 stl per game - 88 DRtg

Baylor 6'3 sophomore Jared Butler
16/3/3 - 39% 3P - 9 BPM

Seniors Cassius Winston, Markus Howard (28 PPG), Payton Pritchard (20/4/6 on 41% 3P)

If We don't go PG in the 1st round we might be able to find a steal in the 2nd.

Tre Jones seems an ideal apprentice to Ish...

From draft room :

"Like a coach on the floor who is always working to put his teammates in the right position, Jones can orchestrate the flow of the offense and set the defense as well."
"A dynamic play-maker with a great feel for the game and the ability to make his teammates better. Gets after it on defense and always makes the right play."


Also I watched Kentucky yesterday to get a look at Maxey , and have to say he was outplayed on his team by Hagans, who is supposedly one of the best defenders at PG in the country.

[Illmatic12]

I watched a little video on him. I don't really see any shades of Kawhi Leonard. He doesn't have the long arms or rebounding instincts. I see more of a P.J. Tucker type of defender. He's strong, stout and moves his body really well. But he's not going to get a lot of steals and blocks. I think he can carve out a niche in this league and would be worthy of a mid first round pick, but I don't see anything more than a role player there.

Gotta disagree personally, I’ve watched every minute Okoro has played this season (Ive been recording a few college games a week on DVR) and without a doubt feel he has elite defensive talent as well as athleticism & explosiveness that PJ Tucker could never dream of.

Draymond Green isn’t more than a “role player” either but he’s capable of controlling entire aspects of a game. So to me, labeling Okoro in the mold of a role player doesn’t make him a worse prospect or anything. In this draft he’s steadily worked his way into the top 10 range.

May be situation where highlights don't do him justice to realize his impact on the game. What I know is I watched Vanderbuilt vs Auburn to see Nesmith, and came away thinking Okoro was the best player in the game. Then I watched Iowa St vs Auburn to see Haliburton, and again came away thinking Okoro was the best player in the game.

He has definitely grown on me. I think he'd be a great fit on this team. I love his talent level and mentality. He has a lot of what this team lacks. Draft Okoro and move TBJ to G.

The 2 guys that have moved from not being on my radar at all to the top of my list is Okoro and Maxey. But the more I see of Okoro the more I like.

That’s exactly it, Brown is a SG not a SF. So I think we need to draft a young wing with starter upside so TBJ can stay in his role as backup G

Okoro/Bonga is a great SF rotation defensively, and you can play them together .

[payitforward]

If highlights don't do Okoro justice, well... his numbers don't either.

Some guys who put up good numbers in the NCAA don't wind up making it in the league. But, no players who put up bad NCAA numbers ever make it in the league.

No exceptions.

[Ruzious]

If highlights don't do Okoro justice, well... his numbers don't either.

Some guys who put up good numbers in the NCAA don't wind up making it in the league. But, no players who put up bad NCAA numbers ever make it in the league.

No exceptions.

Meh, it's certainly not the norm, but there's gotta be several exceptions of solid NBA players who had previously put up bad numbers in college. I remember one NBA great - Michael Finley had an awful senior year at Sconsin. I just remember that because he was supposed to be a great player and was so disappointing that season - along with their 7 foot center - who's name I can't remember - Rashard Griffith - who later failed with the Bucks - no wonder I kindasorta remember.

Garrett Temple put up bad #s for 4 years at LSU - has more than a 10 year career going. Ish Smith's stats were mediocre at Wake Forest. Off the top o my head.

[gambitx777]

I really like okuro or McDaniel's. McDaniel's is really skiny but has a special kind of up side. Okuro is clearly the more really and we'll rounded physically .

Sent from my SM-G965U1 using RealGM mobile app

[Ruzious]

So far, I think Okongwu is the best choice for the Wizards - even if it's no sure thing he can play effectively with either Bryant or Wagner. I think he can, because he's light on his feet for a shot-blocker, and both Wagner and Bryant can hit 3's. They need an athletic defensive big like him. Wiseman is also an option - I think he's going 1st in the draft, and Okongwu might not even go top 10 if you believe most mocks. But I know Wiseman can't play with Bryant or Wagner. A positive sign on Okongwu - the last 3 games he's made 19 of 22 FT''s pushing his FT% up to 72.5. That gives me hope that he eventually can become a 3 point threat - that won't happen anytime soon, but maybe 3 or 4 years from now. Right now, none of our bigs play D except for Mahinmi - who can leave as a UFA, so we NEED to get someone to fix that. No, I don't consider Bonga a big - though against some small teams he might be able to help at the 4.

[SUPERBALLMAN]

If highlights don't do Okoro justice, well... his numbers don't either.

Some guys who put up good numbers in the NCAA don't wind up making it in the league. But, no players who put up bad NCAA numbers ever make it in the league.

No exceptions.

I gotta look into it, there are always exceptions....

There is something called the eye test... He reminds me of Caron in a way. it's more about the way he plays I think that makes him interesting to me. He is a very team oriented player. But he definitely has skill, for as defense oriented as he is and physical style of play, he passes it really well.

Here's some highlights from Okoro's last game vs Iowa State...

Watch on YouTube

[youngWizzy]

So far, I think Okongwu is the best choice for the Wizards - even if it's no sure thing he can play effectively with either Bryant or Wagner. I think he can, because he's light on his feet for a shot-blocker, and both Wagner and Bryant can hit 3's. They need an athletic defensive big like him. Wiseman is also an option - I think he's going 1st in the draft, and Okongwu might not even go top 10 if you believe most mocks. But I know Wiseman can't play with Bryant or Wagner. A positive sign on Okongwu - the last 3 games he's made 19 of 22 FT''s pushing his FT% up to 72.5. That gives me hope that he eventually can become a 3 point threat - that won't happen anytime soon, but maybe 3 or 4 years from now. Right now, none of our bigs play D except for Mahinmi - who can leave as a UFA, so we NEED to get someone to fix that. No, I don't consider Bonga a big - though against some small teams he might be able to help at the 4.

Agree about Okongwu being the best choice for the Wizards. However, there really is no need to play him alongside Bryant or Wagner. Bryant or Wagner just cannot switch out to anybody on the perimeter in a switch heavy modern NBA. Quite frankly, if you draft Okongwu there is no need for either Wagner or Bryant on the team and I believe there is still some interest in Bryant around the league. Finding a backup "Center" like Jordan Bell in free agency or hoping that Rui can develop defensively and become a small ball backup center would be far better than having Bryant or Wagner as a backup.

[Ruzious]

So far, I think Okongwu is the best choice for the Wizards - even if it's no sure thing he can play effectively with either Bryant or Wagner. I think he can, because he's light on his feet for a shot-blocker, and both Wagner and Bryant can hit 3's. They need an athletic defensive big like him. Wiseman is also an option - I think he's going 1st in the draft, and Okongwu might not even go top 10 if you believe most mocks. But I know Wiseman can't play with Bryant or Wagner. A positive sign on Okongwu - the last 3 games he's made 19 of 22 FT''s pushing his FT% up to 72.5. That gives me hope that he eventually can become a 3 point threat - that won't happen anytime soon, but maybe 3 or 4 years from now. Right now, none of our bigs play D except for Mahinmi - who can leave as a UFA, so we NEED to get someone to fix that. No, I don't consider Bonga a big - though against some small teams he might be able to help at the 4.

Agree about Okongwu being the best choice for the Wizards. However, there really is no need to play him alongside Bryant or Wagner. Bryant or Wagner just cannot switch out to anybody on the perimeter in a switch heavy modern NBA. Quite frankly, if you draft Okongwu there is no need for either Wagner or Bryant on the team and I believe there is still some interest in Bryant around the league. Finding a backup "Center" like Jordan Bell in free agency or hoping that Rui can develop defensively and become a small ball backup center would be far better than having Bryant or Wagner as a backup.

True that finding a backup center is very doable, but I think you gotta have a 3 point shooter playing next to Okongwu - and I do think both Bryant and Wagner can play. Otoh, they are tradable - so maybe you're right in that I shouldn't factor them in on the pick,

[youngWizzy]

Now with Okoro, I don't see how he will be able to play much of the three in the NBA. I see him as potentially a slightly better KCP with a better frame (their measurements are actually very close).

KCP: 6' 4.5" (w/o shoes), 8' 4.5" standing reach, 6'8" wingspan
Okoro: 6' 6" (w/ shoes), cant find standing reach, 6'8.5" wingspan

If you are aiming for a "superstar" or "star" wing, he just doesn't seem to pop out. Don't get me wrong, he can be a really solid role player like KCP is right now but ultimately you're going to have him on the roster for potentially 5+ years. If it was between Okoro and McDaniels, I wouldn't hesitate at a better physically gifted player with higher upside in McDaniels.

[Ruzious]

If highlights don't do Okoro justice, well... his numbers don't either.

Some guys who put up good numbers in the NCAA don't wind up making it in the league. But, no players who put up bad NCAA numbers ever make it in the league.

No exceptions.

I gotta look into it, there are always exceptions....

There is something called the eye test... He reminds me of Caron in a way. it's more about the way he plays I think that makes him interesting to me. He is a very team oriented player. But he definitely has skill, for as defense oriented as he is and physical style of play, he passes it really well.

Here's some highlights from Okoro's last game vs Iowa State...

Watch on YouTube

Kinda reminds me of Butler when he was at Marquette. It took him a few years before he had a decent NBA jump shot.

[youngWizzy]

So far, I think Okongwu is the best choice for the Wizards - even if it's no sure thing he can play effectively with either Bryant or Wagner. I think he can, because he's light on his feet for a shot-blocker, and both Wagner and Bryant can hit 3's. They need an athletic defensive big like him. Wiseman is also an option - I think he's going 1st in the draft, and Okongwu might not even go top 10 if you believe most mocks. But I know Wiseman can't play with Bryant or Wagner. A positive sign on Okongwu - the last 3 games he's made 19 of 22 FT''s pushing his FT% up to 72.5. That gives me hope that he eventually can become a 3 point threat - that won't happen anytime soon, but maybe 3 or 4 years from now. Right now, none of our bigs play D except for Mahinmi - who can leave as a UFA, so we NEED to get someone to fix that. No, I don't consider Bonga a big - though against some small teams he might be able to help at the 4.

Agree about Okongwu being the best choice for the Wizards. However, there really is no need to play him alongside Bryant or Wagner. Bryant or Wagner just cannot switch out to anybody on the perimeter in a switch heavy modern NBA. Quite frankly, if you draft Okongwu there is no need for either Wagner or Bryant on the team and I believe there is still some interest in Bryant around the league. Finding a backup "Center" like Jordan Bell in free agency or hoping that Rui can develop defensively and become a small ball backup center would be far better than having Bryant or Wagner as a backup.

True that finding a backup center is very doable, but I think you gotta have a 3 point shooter playing next to Okongwu - and I do think both Bryant and Wagner can play. Otoh, they are tradable - so maybe you're right in that I shouldn't factor them in on the pick,

Yeah. Even with shooters I think they are pretty easy to find. Bertans for example is one. Bonga has shown progress as shooter as well while being great defensively. Maybe even Otto in 2020? Really the bottom line is there's no need to pair another "big" alongside Okongwu. I wouldn't consider Bryant or Wagner "shooters" either.

[Ruzious]

Agree about Okongwu being the best choice for the Wizards. However, there really is no need to play him alongside Bryant or Wagner. Bryant or Wagner just cannot switch out to anybody on the perimeter in a switch heavy modern NBA. Quite frankly, if you draft Okongwu there is no need for either Wagner or Bryant on the team and I believe there is still some interest in Bryant around the league. Finding a backup "Center" like Jordan Bell in free agency or hoping that Rui can develop defensively and become a small ball backup center would be far better than having Bryant or Wagner as a backup.

True that finding a backup center is very doable, but I think you gotta have a 3 point shooter playing next to Okongwu - and I do think both Bryant and Wagner can play. Otoh, they are tradable - so maybe you're right in that I shouldn't factor them in on the pick,

Yeah. Even with shooters I think they are pretty easy to find. Bertans for example is one. Bonga has shown progress as shooter as well while being great defensively. Maybe even Otto in 2020? Really the bottom line is there's no need to pair another "big" alongside Okongwu. I wouldn't consider Bryant or Wagner "shooters" either.

Not shooters - but 3 point shooters - that can spread the floor for him. I think Wagner was proving to be good at that, and Bryant has the potential to do that.

[youngWizzy]

Wagners perimeter defense is almost not fixable. You just cant teach lateral quickness. I'd rather have a guy like Bonga, Bertans, or Otto if he ops out to potentially pair with Okongwu. Really just doesn't make sense to go big in the modern NBA.

[youngWizzy]

Paul Reed looks fantastic for where he is projected. If you miss out on a top pick like Okongwu then Paul Reed is a guy you must trade down for. The stats are incredible. Also, he is very light and mobile on his feet and can switch easily 1-4 in the NBA. Will need to get stronger to play and guard the 5. He has great defensive instincts but the key to becoming an elite role player will be his three point shot. Nearly 80% from the line is encouraging tho. Same thing goes for Tyler Bey.

Haliburton looks promising but I have yet to see him do a single thing with his left hand. It's almost like he has only one hand! With Maxey, I don't think he looks any good. For where he is projected I see no reason why you wouldn't take a guy like Bey or Reed over him.

[SUPERBALLMAN]

Paul Reed looks fantastic for where he is projected. If you miss out on a top pick like Okongwu then Paul Reed is a guy you must trade down for. The stats are incredible. Also, he is very light and mobile on his feet and can switch easily 1-4 in the NBA. Will need to get stronger to play and guard the 5. He has great defensive instincts but the key to becoming an elite role player will be his three point shot. Nearly 80% from the line is encouraging tho. Same thing goes for Tyler Bey.

Haliburton looks promising but I have yet to see him do a single thing with his left hand. It's almost like he has only one hand! With Maxey, I don't think he looks any good. For where he is projected I see no reason why you wouldn't take a guy like Bey or Reed over him.

There's this really good show I've been watching on FS1 called Elite Youth. If you get a chance to see it do, I don't know if it's on demand. It really shows some of these guys like Cole Anthony and Maxey among others. It's really well done and gives a great perspective.

Watch on YouTube

[SUPERBALLMAN]

Now with Okoro, I don't see how he will be able to play much of the three in the NBA. I see him as potentially a slightly better KCP with a better frame (their measurements are actually very close).

KCP: 6' 4.5" (w/o shoes), 8' 4.5" standing reach, 6'8" wingspan
Okoro: 6' 6" (w/ shoes), cant find standing reach, 6'8.5" wingspan

If you are aiming for a "superstar" or "star" wing, he just doesn't seem to pop out. Don't get me wrong, he can be a really solid role player like KCP is right now but ultimately you're going to have him on the roster for potentially 5+ years. If it was between Okoro and McDaniels, I wouldn't hesitate at a better physically gifted player with higher upside in McDaniels.

It's funny the different POV with prospects... I don't like McDaniels at all! I watched their last game , and pretty much off the bat I'm like um no thanks. That dude has flop written all over him IMO. But, you never know...

But him and Okoro basically couldn't be more opposite. Just depends on your perspective I guess, what style of game you like and what characteristics you look for in a player. I would absolutely love to see those two go against each other at some point this year! Maybe in the tournament ??

[payitforward]

If highlights don't do Okoro justice, well... his numbers don't either.

Some guys who put up good numbers in the NCAA don't wind up making it in the league. But, no players who put up bad NCAA numbers ever make it in the league.

No exceptions.

Meh, it's certainly not the norm, but there's gotta be several exceptions of solid NBA players who had previously put up bad numbers in college. I remember one NBA great - Michael Finley had an awful senior year at Sconsin. I just remember that because he was supposed to be a great player and was so disappointing that season - along with their 7 foot center - who's name I can't remember - Rashard Griffith - who later failed with the Bucks - no wonder I kindasorta remember.

Garrett Temple put up bad #s for 4 years at LSU - has more than a 10 year career going. Ish Smith's stats were mediocre at Wake Forest. Off the top o my head.

I just looked up Finley -- he did have a bad senior year. But he had a great Junior year & a very good Sophomore year. Temple had a passable Senior year.

nate made a passing comparison of Okoro to P.J. Tucker. Compare Tucker's Freshman numbers w/ Okoro's when you have a chance.

Now... it's still early in the kid's Freshman year -- he's played under 600 minutes. His numbers might jump considerably before the end of the year. But, if they don't, well... somebody will draft him, & we'll get to watch what happens. I wouldn't be bucking those odds.

[Ruzious]

If highlights don't do Okoro justice, well... his numbers don't either.

Some guys who put up good numbers in the NCAA don't wind up making it in the league. But, no players who put up bad NCAA numbers ever make it in the league.

No exceptions.

Meh, it's certainly not the norm, but there's gotta be several exceptions of solid NBA players who had previously put up bad numbers in college. I remember one NBA great - Michael Finley had an awful senior year at Sconsin. I just remember that because he was supposed to be a great player and was so disappointing that season - along with their 7 foot center - who's name I can't remember - Rashard Griffith - who later failed with the Bucks - no wonder I kindasorta remember.

Garrett Temple put up bad #s for 4 years at LSU - has more than a 10 year career going. Ish Smith's stats were mediocre at Wake Forest. Off the top o my head.

I just looked up Finley -- he did have a bad senior year. But he had a great Junior year & a very good Sophomore year. Temple had a passable Senior year.

nate made a passing comparison of Okoro to P.J. Tucker. Compare Tucker's Freshman numbers w/ Okoro's when you have a chance.

Now... it's still early in the kid's Freshman year -- he's played under 600 minutes. His numbers might jump considerably before the end of the year. But, if they don't, well... somebody will draft him, & we'll get to watch what happens. I wouldn't be bucking those odds.

Still, you're talking about his freshman year while ignoring Temple's first 3 years in your rule - Pif's Rule, as it's known.