Doordoor's 2016 mock

[doordoor123]

This is NOT a mock of my favorite players and the players I think will be the best. Rather a mock based on team and where I think players will go based on reputation, hype, and of course ability. It's based on what teams might go for.

I'm going to add little one-liners and if you want to know more about reasoning, you can ask.

Ver.1 (initial mock)

1. 76ers: Ben Simmons (Should be number 1 no matter what)

2. Lakers: Brandon Ingram (Lakers have a huge hole at SF that can be fixed easily with this pick)

3. Celtics: Dragan Bender (If he's a project the Celtics have guys ahead of him as he develops)

4. Pelicans: Henry Ellenson (With Ryan Anderson likely gone, Ellenson is a good replacement and should contribute right away)

5. Timberwolves: Ivan Rabb (Athleticism at the PF position and he would make this team special when KG and Pekovic are gone)

6. Bucks: Kris Dunn (MCW is doing well off the bench so the Bucks need a starting PG)

7. Kings: Jaylen Brown (Kings embracing smaller line up around Boogie and Brown would be a nice versatile defender for them at positions they need defense)

8. Trail Blazers: Jakob Poeltl (Plumlee isn't working out and Poeltl is a better option)

9. Suns: Skal Labissiere (He may not be showcasing it, but Labissiere can shoot threes and he can move well = perfect Morris replacement)

10. Jazz: Jamal Murray (I'm not high on him, but teams are and why not another versatile wing?)

11. Wizards: Stephen Zimmerman (With the Wizards looking to stretch the floor, Zimmerman is their perfect fit and they play at a great pace for him)

12. Nuggets: Damian Jones (The Nuggets have been desperately looking for guys to play center -- look no further)

13. Celtics: Patrick McCaw (Celtics could use a player with great size for SF and McCaw will impress closer to the draft)

14. Hawks: Denzel Valentine (Type of player Hawks look for and they can actually use him well)

15. Raptors: Caris LeVert (Great tools and could be Terrence Ross' replacement)

16. Rockets: Wade Baldwin IV (Morey likes guys that could be steals and they could use a PG with Baldwin's length)

17. Nuggets: Furkan Korkmaz (Nuggets need some shooting)

18. Celtics: Chieck Diallo (Likely a project and some much needed interior defense)

19. Pistons: Timothe Luwawu (Pistons seem full at every other position, but they could use some wing depth)

20. Magic: Zhou Qi (Another project that could fit well next to Vucevic after he hopefully gains muscle -- can stretch the floor too)

21. Hornets: Dwayne Bacon (I don't like Bacon in the first round, but the hornets could use athleticism/energy and this seems like a typical Hornets bad draft pick)

22. Raptors: Domantas Sabonis (Perfect fit in Raptor's second unit as a scorer)

23. Clippers: Demetrius Jackson (Defense, toughness and energy that the Clippers have missed and they really need a back up PG)

24. 76ers: Grayson Allen (76ers will probably think he was a steal here)

25. Pacers: Deyonta Davis (Runs up and down the floor and a perfect back up center for the Pacer's fast pace offense)

26. Bulls: Taurean Prince (Someone else needs to defend to take the load off of Butler because he takes on other team's best players)

27. Suns: Isaiah Briscoe (Could use another PG)

28. Spurs: Melo Trimble (Need someone to replace Cory Joseph still)

29. 76ers: Malik Pope (Upside pick in hopes of developing and could fit next to their centers if developed well)

30. Warriors: Sviatoslav Mykhailiuk (They're looking for shooter behind their wings and this guy could learn from the best in the biz)

[doordoor123]

Ever since I posted this draft yesterday I didn't feel comfortable with it -- putting certain players in certain spots. I went through videos of a bunch of players (I didn't go through the players I know really well) and wanted to try using the eye test for all of them. This draft is more in my comfort zone.

Ver. 2

1. 76ers: Ben Simmons
2. Lakers: Brandon Ingram
3. Celtics: Dragan Bender
4. Pelicans: Kris Dunn
5. Trail Blazers: Jakob Poeltl
6. Bucks: Jamal Murray
7. Suns: Skal Labassier
8. Timberwolves: Ivan Rabb
9. Kings: Timothe Luwawu
10. Nuggets: Furkan Korkmaz
11. Raptors: Jalen Brown
12. Wizards: Henry Ellenson
13. Celtics: Denzel Valentine
14. Hornets: Chieck Diallo
15. Jazz: Damian Jones
16. Nuggets: Demetrius Jackson
17. Rockets: Wade Baldwin
18. Clippers: Melo Trimble
19. Celtics: Patrick McCaw
20. Pistons: Zhou Qi
21. Magic: Jonathan Jeanne
22. Raptors: Stephen Zimmerman
23. Hawks: Caris LeVert
24. Bulls: Buddy Hield
25. Pacers: Pascal Siakam
26. 76ers: Malik Newman
27. 76ers: Petr Cornelie
28. Suns: Khalil Felder
29. Spurs: Jerome Robinson
30. Warriors: Dayonta Davis

[reanimator]

Huge reached 25-30. Valentine in the lotto is questionable. I'm souring on Korkmaz.

[doordoor123]

Huge reached 25-30. Valentine in the lotto is questionable. I'm souring on Korkmaz.

I'm trying to look at upside, ability to translate to the NBA and players that are trending up. Go look at these player's recent games rather than their overall performances. Plus, I'm not sold on the tools of a lot of these guys. Sabonis is one. I think he goes in the second round and people are going to be shocked, but his arms are so short and he can't shoot threes reliably. I can't imagine he makes it in the first round when so many other guys have better tools. Actually, a lot of guys have great tools, but they're not developed into their game. I'd think teams would take a potential pick before a guy that just played well in college. It's the reason Jimmer Fredette is playing in the D-League.

[skywalker33]

Doubt both Kings and Nuggets pass on Brown at that point in the draft, Jaylen has top 5 talent.

[doordoor123]

Doubt both Kings and Nuggets pass on Brown at that point in the draft, Jaylen has top 5 talent.

Right now he's a bad version of New York Iman Shumpert. Even if you develop him, he's not draftable in the first five picks. You want more stability there while also thinking of upside. The raw guys get drafted after 10 usually.

[doordoor123]

Ver. 3 mock

Mock Ver. 3
1. 76ers: Brandon Ingram SF
2. Lakers: Ben Simmons PF
3. Pelicans: Kris Dunn PG
4. Celtics: Dragan Bender PF
5. Nuggets: Skal Labassier PF
6. Trail Blazers: Jakob Poeltl PF/C
7. Kings: Jalen Brown SG/SF
8. Bucks: Jamal Murray PG/SG
9. Nuggets: Furkan Korkmaz SG
10. Rockets: Henry Ellenson PF
11. Timberwolves: Ivan Rabb PF
12. Wizards: Demetrius Jackson PG
13. Pistons: Chieck Diallo PF/C
14. Celtics: Damian Jones C
15. Suns: Stephen Zimmerman PF/C
16. Jazz: Petr Cornelie PF
17. Magic: Caris LeVert SG
18. Celtics: Jonathan Jeanne PF/C
19. Clippers: Pascal Siakam PF/C
20. Nuggets: Denzel Valentine SG/SF
21. Hornets: Diamond Stone C
22. Hawks: Buddy Hield SG
23. Raptors: Patrick McCaw SF
24. 76ers: Wade Baldwin PG
25. 76ers: Zhou Qi PF
26. Bulls: Melo Trimble PG/SG
27. Pacers: AJ Hammons C
28. Suns: Kahlil Felder PG
29. Spurs: Tyrone Wallace PG
30. Warriors: Dayonta Davis C

[doordoor123]

Mock Ver. 4
1. 76ers - Ben Simmons
2. Lakers - Brandon Ingram
3. Celtics - Dragan Bender
4. Suns - Skal Labassier
5. Pelicans - Jakob Poeltl
6. Nuggets - Kris Dunn
7. Timberwolves - Henry Ellenson
8. Kings - Jaylen Brown
9. Bucks - Jamal Murray
10. Trail Blazers - Damon Jones
11. Raptors - Ivan Rabb
12. Wizards - Demetrius Jackson
13. Hornets - Furkan Korkmaz
14. Pistons - Chieck Diallo
15. Nuggets - Jonathan Jeanne
16. Jazz - Petr Cornelie
17. Grizzlies - Caris LeVert
18. Celtics - Thomas Bryant
19. Celtics - Denzel Valentine
20. Magic - Stephen Zimmerman
21. Pacers - Pascal Siakam
22. 76ers - Wade Baldwin IV
23. Bulls - Buddy Hield
24. Hawks - Taurean Prince
25. Raptors - Patrick McCaw
26. Clippers - Ivica Zubac
27. 76ers - Grayson Allen
28. Suns - Zhou Qi
29. Spurs - Monte Morris
30. Warriors - Dayonta Davis

[skywalker33]

Ver. 3 mock

Mock Ver. 3
1. 76ers: Brandon Ingram SF
2. Lakers: Ben Simmons PF
3. Pelicans: Kris Dunn PG
4. Celtics: Dragan Bender PF
5. Nuggets: Skal Labassier PF
6. Trail Blazers: Jakob Poeltl PF/C
7. Kings: Jalen Brown SG/SF
8. Bucks: Jamal Murray PG/SG
9. Nuggets: Furkan Korkmaz SG
10. Rockets: Henry Ellenson PF
11. Timberwolves: Ivan Rabb PF
12. Wizards: Demetrius Jackson PG
13. Pistons: Chieck Diallo PF/C
14. Celtics: Damian Jones C
15. Suns: Stephen Zimmerman PF/C
16. Jazz: Petr Cornelie PF
17. Magic: Caris LeVert SG
18. Celtics: Jonathan Jeanne PF/C
19. Clippers: Pascal Siakam PF/C
20. Nuggets: Denzel Valentine SG/SF
21. Hornets: Diamond Stone C
22. Hawks: Buddy Hield SG
23. Raptors: Patrick McCaw SF
24. 76ers: Wade Baldwin PG
25. 76ers: Zhou Qi PF
26. Bulls: Melo Trimble PG/SG
27. Pacers: AJ Hammons C
28. Suns: Kahlil Felder PG
29. Spurs: Tyrone Wallace PG
30. Warriors: Dayonta Davis C

Nuggets wouldn't get the 9th pick, would got to TOR. Also, Nuggets would get the HOU pick which is at 16th pick right now. Are these your projects on how they end up or where are you getting your draft order ?

[doordoor123]

Ver. 3 mock

Mock Ver. 3
1. 76ers: Brandon Ingram SF
2. Lakers: Ben Simmons PF
3. Pelicans: Kris Dunn PG
4. Celtics: Dragan Bender PF
5. Nuggets: Skal Labassier PF
6. Trail Blazers: Jakob Poeltl PF/C
7. Kings: Jalen Brown SG/SF
8. Bucks: Jamal Murray PG/SG
9. Nuggets: Furkan Korkmaz SG
10. Rockets: Henry Ellenson PF
11. Timberwolves: Ivan Rabb PF
12. Wizards: Demetrius Jackson PG
13. Pistons: Chieck Diallo PF/C
14. Celtics: Damian Jones C
15. Suns: Stephen Zimmerman PF/C
16. Jazz: Petr Cornelie PF
17. Magic: Caris LeVert SG
18. Celtics: Jonathan Jeanne PF/C
19. Clippers: Pascal Siakam PF/C
20. Nuggets: Denzel Valentine SG/SF
21. Hornets: Diamond Stone C
22. Hawks: Buddy Hield SG
23. Raptors: Patrick McCaw SF
24. 76ers: Wade Baldwin PG
25. 76ers: Zhou Qi PF
26. Bulls: Melo Trimble PG/SG
27. Pacers: AJ Hammons C
28. Suns: Kahlil Felder PG
29. Spurs: Tyrone Wallace PG
30. Warriors: Dayonta Davis C

Nuggets wouldn't get the 9th pick, would got to TOR. Also, Nuggets would get the HOU pick which is at 16th pick right now. Are these your projects on how they end up or where are you getting your draft order ?

There are traded picks that are conditional and teams are all pretty close right now so the winning is up and down, moving the draft order.

[skywalker33]

Ver. 3 mock

Mock Ver. 3
1. 76ers: Brandon Ingram SF
2. Lakers: Ben Simmons PF
3. Pelicans: Kris Dunn PG
4. Celtics: Dragan Bender PF
5. Nuggets: Skal Labassier PF
6. Trail Blazers: Jakob Poeltl PF/C
7. Kings: Jalen Brown SG/SF
8. Bucks: Jamal Murray PG/SG
9. Nuggets: Furkan Korkmaz SG
10. Rockets: Henry Ellenson PF
11. Timberwolves: Ivan Rabb PF
12. Wizards: Demetrius Jackson PG
13. Pistons: Chieck Diallo PF/C
14. Celtics: Damian Jones C
15. Suns: Stephen Zimmerman PF/C
16. Jazz: Petr Cornelie PF
17. Magic: Caris LeVert SG
18. Celtics: Jonathan Jeanne PF/C
19. Clippers: Pascal Siakam PF/C
20. Nuggets: Denzel Valentine SG/SF
21. Hornets: Diamond Stone C
22. Hawks: Buddy Hield SG
23. Raptors: Patrick McCaw SF
24. 76ers: Wade Baldwin PG
25. 76ers: Zhou Qi PF
26. Bulls: Melo Trimble PG/SG
27. Pacers: AJ Hammons C
28. Suns: Kahlil Felder PG
29. Spurs: Tyrone Wallace PG
30. Warriors: Dayonta Davis C

Nuggets wouldn't get the 9th pick, would got to TOR. Also, Nuggets would get the HOU pick which is at 16th pick right now. Are these your projects on how they end up or where are you getting your draft order ?

There are traded picks that are conditional and teams are all pretty close right now so the winning is up and down, moving the draft order.

The 9th pick you are referencing would go to TOR. The Nuggets have the right to swap the NYK pick with the lesser pick going to TOR...FYI.

[doordoor123]

Nuggets wouldn't get the 9th pick, would got to TOR. Also, Nuggets would get the HOU pick which is at 16th pick right now. Are these your projects on how they end up or where are you getting your draft order ?

There are traded picks that are conditional and teams are all pretty close right now so the winning is up and down, moving the draft order.

The 9th pick you are referencing would go to TOR. The Nuggets have the right to swap the NYK pick with the lesser pick going to TOR...FYI.

I just took the list order from another mock so I blame the mock I got it from.

[doordoor123]

Door's BIG BOARD

1. PF Ben Simmons
2. SF Brandon Ingram
3. PG Kris Dunn
4. PF Dragan Bender
5. PF Ivan Rabb
6. PF Henry Ellenson
7. C Jakob Poeltl
8. SG Buddy Hield
9. PG/SG Jamal Murray
10. SG/SF Timothe Luwawu
11. SG/SF Jaylen Brown
12. PF/C Jonathan Jeanne
13. SG/SF Furkan Korkmaz
14. PF Skal Labissiere
15. C Diamond Stone
16. C Ivica Zubac
17. C Deyonta Davis
18. PG/SG Wade Baldwin IV
19. PF/C Stephen Zimmerman
20. C Thomas Bryant
21. PF Jarrod Uthoff
22. SG Caris LeVert
23. PG/SG Demetrius Jackson
24. PF/C Chieck Diallo
25. SG/SF Denzel Valentine
26. SG/SF Patrick McCaw
27. C Damian Jones
28. C Isaac Haas
29. PF Chimezie Metu
30. PG Melo Timble
31. C AJ Hammonds
32. PG/SG Malik Newman
33. PF Zhou Qi
34. C Amida Brimah
35. SG Isaia Cordinier
36. C Chinanu Onuaku
37. PF/C Pascal Siakam
38. SG Tim Quarterman
39. PF Petr Cornelie
40. PG Monte Morris

[doordoor123]

Door's Mock V.4

1. 76ers: Ben Simmons
REASON: 76ers are looking for the next franchise player and Simmons looks to be the closest thing to that.
2. Lakers: Brandon Ingram
REASON: Ingram is the next best player available and fits right into the Laker's young core.
3. Celtics: Dragan Bender
REASON: It might not be what the Celtics need, but he has the most upside at this spot and Bender would fit in great with their interchangable defenders.
4. Timberwolves: Henry Ellenson
REASON: Bjelica has been a disappointment in helping stretch the floor for Wiggins and Towns to be on the block where they're comfortable. Ellenson gives the Wolves Kevin Love 2.0 and fits perfectly into their offense.
5. Suns: Kris Dunn
REASON: He's the best player on the board and the Suns are in need of more wing defense and they could use a guy to guard opposing point guards. This could also give reason to trade the always-injured Eric Bledsoe to get a Morris replacement.
6. Pelicans: Jakob Poeltl
REASON: Anthony Davis could use a big to be paired with and they've been using Kendrick Perkins, Omar Asik and Alexis Ajinca as their starters. Pelicans are in need of an upgrade.
7. Nuggets: Ivan Rabb
REASON: The Nuggets have tried countless power forwards, but none have had much upside. Finally the Nuggets get a big that can play above the rim and a much-needed replacement for Kenneth Faried.
8. Bucks: Skal Labassiere
REASON: Bucks want to compete now and they don't have much room on their roster. Picking Labassiere gives the Bucks time to develop him and add him to the longest team in the NBA. He provides much needed shooting the Bucks are looking for and he can potentially space the floor for Antetokounmpo.
9. Kings: Timothe Luwawu
REASON: The Kings need a wing defender that isn't a liability on offense (Jaylen Brown) and they don't want to wait for their players to develop.
10. Trail Blazers: Jaylen Brown
REASON: Trail Blazers could use a wing defender to take pressure off of their strong backcourt and it helps that Bown is an athlete that plays above the rim. With the Trail Blazers he's also in an environment that endorses growth.
11. Hornets: Diamond Stone
REASON: Hornets no longer make the upside pick, rather the pick that will help them right away. Assuming Jefferson leaves in free agency, the Hornets could use a replacement for him and with Al Jefferson's defensive success in Charlotte, it's safe to say Stone will be a great addition here.
12. Wizards: Stephen Zimmerman
REASON: The Wizards want to commit to spacing the floor with this new offense and to do so, they'll need a proper piece for their future. Zimmerman may seem like a reach, but he's arguably more ready at stretching the floor than most other prospects at his age and with his height.
13. Raptors: Furkan Korkmaz
REASON: The Raptors are already developing their share of talent and won't have much room for their pick. Korkmaz is a great upside pick that could replace Terrence Ross one day.
14. Magic: Jonathan Jeanne
REASON: Although they've played solid defense this year, Vucevic still needs a defender next to him. Jeanne has more upside than Vucevic, but the Magic's roster will also be pretty full. He could play overseas for them and come back to be one of their best players.
15. Jazz: Buddy Hield
REASON: The Jazz are ready to compete and to do so, they need more scoring and better wing defense. Hield provides both as well as maturity and would fit well next to Exum.
16. Nuggets: Caris LeVert
REASON: As good as Gary Harris has been, he doesn't provide the Nuggets with size at SG. Sure, Will Barton is there, but offensively the two can work together. LeVert has upside this Nuggets team can use.
17. Pistons: Jamal Murray
REASON: With Jennings likely gone in free agency, the Pistons could use someone that could play off the bench and hit threes when he's on the floor with Jackson.
18. Pacers: Chieck Diallo
REASON: This is an upside pick. Pacers would love an undersized shot blocker that could grow into their small-ball center and the Pacers have a history of drafting upside when it's available. They won't need him now, but he'd be good to have in their back pocket.
19. Celtics: Deyonta Davis
REASON: Celtics have been looking for a rim protecting center for years and Davis is a good fit.
20. Celtics: Troy Williams
REASON: As much as I want to think the Celtics would pick an overseas player for one of these picks, they could use an athletic wing and this one can shoot!
21. Grizzlies: Thomas Bryant
REASON: You may ask why? Wingspan. Bryant has a freakish 7'6 wingspan and he has potential to stretch his shot. He hasn't been a good defender, but with the guidance of Gasol (possibly both) he could be the next big thing.
22. 76ers: Wade Baldwin IV
REASON: Sixers need a longer-term idea at point guard and Baldwin has tons of upside for them as well as much-needed three point shooting. This is a Coangelo "good for us now, but with upside" pick.
23. Hawks: Denzel Valentine
REASON: Hawks love passers that can shoot and Valentine could plug right into the Hawks offense.
24. Bulls: Demetrius Jackson
REASON: Bulls need some scoring and a legitimate spark in the back court. And hey, if Rose goes down again the Bulls can use insurance.
25. Raptors: Jarrod Uthoff
REASON: Now that the Raptors got their stache pick, they could use some immediate help at PF/SF if they decide to let James Johnson go. Uthoff can fill that role nicely with a bit more athleticism and versatility.
26. Clippers: Chinanu Onuaku
REASON: This is hopeful thinking because I have no faith in GM Doc Rivers. Clippers need a defender when DeAndre is off the court and Onuaku is a great defender. They've needed it for a while... Please take it.
27. 76ers: Malik Newman
REASON: 76ers going for wings? Yes. Sixers will continue their search for scoring and if he isn't ready he can go to the D-League.
28. Suns: Zhou Qi
REASON: As bad as his frame might be, you can't deny his ability. Qi can do everything except have an NBA body. He fits in the Suns system to stretch the floor and provides weak-side defense. The Suns also have the ability to send him overseas as he tries to gain weight. Then again, the Suns medical staff might advise against drafting Qi.
29. Spurs: Patrick McCaw
REASON: Classic Spurs "Steal of the draft." The Spurs could use wings and McCaw could become Kawhi Leonard's future side-kick.
30. Warriors: AJ Hammonds
REASON: With Ezeli likely gone next season, the Warriors could use interior defense behind Bogut and Hammonds is experienced at age 23.

[doordoor123]

My next mock is going to be VERY different.

[S.W.A.N]

Why do you keep suggesting a t ross replacement for raps as a thing? He is signed long term. PF is our top draft concern by a vast amount....

[doordoor123]

Why do you keep suggesting a t ross replacement for raps as a thing? He is signed long term. PF is our top draft concern by a vast amount....

I'm more thinking it's possible DeRozan could leave. The next mock will be different though.

[S.W.A.N]

I'm more thinking it's possible DeRozan could leave. The next mock will be different though.

Nah, we gonna give him the 5 year max. And he likes it here... Lakers can suck it, they can go after Durant.

[doordoor123]

MOCK DRAFT V5
1. PHI: Brandon Ingram SF
WHY? The 76ers are looking for something special and while
eyes may be averted to Simmons, Ingram has more potential
to be an all-around player and a player to build around.
He doesn't have many questions should fit in with what the
76ers are trying to do with Okafor (while Simmons would
require the team to trade Okafor).
2. LAL: Ben Simmons PF
WHY? Simmons has some question marks that will keep himself
out of the number one pick, but he falls into the perfect
situation with the Lakers. Assuming Randle can finally get
a shot going Simmons can slide in at the three and can potentially
fit in really well with this fast-break team. Showtime back in LA.
3. PHX: Dragan Bender PF
WHY? The Suns are looking for a star to stand beside Booker and the
best thing on the board fills a need they had been looking for since
the whole Morris debacle. Bender fits well next to Alex Len and has
great fast-break passes that should fit in well with Bledsoe, Booker
and company. Bender should also help out a lot on defense with two
7-footers in the line up.
4. BOS: Jamal Murray SG
WHY? The Celtics need a creator and a guy that can make threes consistently.
While this might mean the end of the Thomas/Smart/Bradley backcourt, it is
well needed on the Celtics part. Murray is only 19 and gets the nod over Hield,
who will also be considered for this spot, but it's hard to find one of these
guys and at this age it's something the Celtics could build on. For a team that
has been looking for another star, this is a good starting place.
5. MIN: Ivan Rabb PF
WHY? It looks like the Timberwolves are happy with their young players and it
seems they want to continue to develop what they have. Rubio has been big for
them and it's tough for me to think they want to dump him for someone a little
younger (this takes Dunn out of the equation). While they could use a shooter
on the wing, I think the Wolves would rather have LaVine develop into that role
and I think they want to develop Wiggins/Muhammad shot. That being said, they
have a need at back up PF (and starting eventually) and Rabb can fit in well.
Rabb can control the post and let Towns roam a little more and he's a guy that
can keep the team competitive by drawing fouls. Long-term he also fits well as
a starting PF for this team.
6. NOL: Buddy Hield SG
WHY? The Pelicans want to contend as soon as possible while they still have the
future rising star of this league, Anthony Davis. That means keeping the PG that
has had success in Jrue Holiday and not starting over with Kris Dunn. That leaves
a hole that is hard to fix in free agency, the two. They need a shooter that can
score when needed. Hield is experienced and can fit right into their offense while
also giving the team a little boost in leadership and work ethic.
7. SAC: Kris Dunn PG
WHY? Rajon Rondo probably enjoyed his time with the Kings, but he will chase money
and will chase the most success. Unfortunately, it means he's likely leaving for
greener pastures. That's okay because he has been just short of a revolving door.
Collison is still a solid starter till Dunn can figure it out and Dunn can solve
big issues on the defensive side of the ball. Dunn is likely not the Kings first
choice, but he's the best player avilable and if Rondo decides to stay, the Kings
would have some nice trade chips.
8. DEN: Jaylen Brown SF
WHY? The Nuggets are a sort of rebuilding team that is filled at every position and
can afford to take the player with the highest upside. Fortunately, Brown also fits
a need for the Nuggets on defense. The Nuggets haven't had a guy to help take pressure
off of Gallinari and they haven't had a defensive stopper at the 3, but Brown could
come in and be that guy. He could draw fouls and eventually grow into a bigger role
on the team.
9. TOR: Henry Ellenson PF
WHY? Toronto has an ever-changing line up of power forwards, but none of them have
been a long-term option. Nabbing Ellenson here gives them a player for the future.
Even if he isn't ready right away, he fits in with what they're doing in Toronto
and a bit more depth at the position.
10. ORL: Marquese Chriss PF
WHY? The Magic like their athletes and tend to draft them every year. Don't look
now, but Aaron Gordon is becoming a real option at SF, dribble moves and everything.
The question is if Gordon can defend opposing threes. Chriss can come in playing PF
and can defend the threes for Gordon. These two athletes on defense would be a sight
for opposing offenses -- jumping everywhere. This also gives Payton another dangerous
option off the lob. With Oladipo, Hezonja, Gordon and Chriss this can be the new lob
city. Chriss has some developing to do so this could take a second to become reality,
but he fits in really well with that the team is doing on offense and on defense.
11. MIL: Jakob Poeltl C
WHY? The Bucks have some moves to make, but either way they need a different center.
Monroe is good in certain situations, but in the long-term he doesn't make sense on this
team. If Monroe isn't gone, Poeltl can serve as an alternate against certain teams and
he fits in much better with what this team is trying to do. He can defend a little, he
can actually run a pick and roll (potentially) and he's a big body ready to bang in the
paint.
12. UTA: Thomas Bryant C
WHY? Bryant would be the youngest player in this draft and he has a huge wingspan. His
detriment would be strength and defense, but he's the youngest player in this draft.
Being the youngest player in the draft could mean he has the most underdeveloped muscles,
which means he could gain that strength over time and can become a legitmate player in
the league. Not only can he handle the ball a little, he can hit shots from anywhere on
the floor. The Jazz love Gobert and Favors, but they need depth behind Gobert and Bryant
could potentially fit well next to Gobert, Favors and eventually Lyles. Surly he can learn
to play defense from one of the most intimidating forces next to a net in Rudy Gobert.
13. PHX: Timothe Luwawu SG
WHY? PJ Tucker is getting older and TJ Warren can't really move well on defense. Luwawu
can give depth behind Booker, he can defend in place of Tucker and he has big upside.
If the Suns want to develop him a bit more they could even send him overseas (they have
three picks in this draft). Luwawu has a great body for defending, but he's quick and
can also shoot -- he fits in well with the Suns.
14. DET: Deyonta Davis C
WHY? Two of the Pistons biggest needs are at back up PG and back up C. While the PG need
is big, the center need is even bigger. The Pistons need a guy that can make free throws
while Drummond is on the floor while also giving some support defensively. Davis can also
replicate what Drummond gives in terms of being quick on his feet for a big. There is
room for Davis to grow next to Drummond as well as a PF in time. Davis has a shot, but
if he can extend his shot to the three point line, in time the Pistons could have their
PF of the future.
15. BOS: Diamond Stone C
WHY? Come free agency, the Celtics will have to make choices on some of their bigs,
leaving room for the Celtics to get a center in the draft. They already got a creator
in Jamal Murray, so why not another one at center? Stone can come off the bench and
score for the Celtics and if he can develop his defense he can become a long term option
there.
16. DEN: Skal Labissiere PF
WHY? The Nuggets can afford to take a shot in the dark here because as I said ealier,
they have filled all their positional needs. Labissiere likely won't get picked till
after the lottery and he could fall right into the Nugget's hands as they have two picks
in a row there. He's a guy that will ride the end of the bench and make multiple visits
to the D-league, but he's worth the risk long term if he can develop.
17. DEN: Demetrius Jackson PG
WHY? Jackson is a scoring point guard who could play next to both Emmanual Mudiay and
Garry Harris. He can play point or off-guard. With the Nuggets lacking depth at point,
Jackson could be a good fit.
18. CHI: Tyler Ulis PG
WHY? The Bulls are likely sticking with their playoff hopes in Derrick Rose and that
means insecurity at the PG Postion. Brooks is likely on his way out and E'twaun Moore
has impressed, but the Bulls still need a guy that can facilitate their offense (especially
when there are no facilitators on the floor). Ulis could help get guys open that need
to take better shots and he's a leader that can shore up the locker room. The Bulls need
someone that can organize them and Ulis here is a great pick up for them.
19. IND: Dejounte Murray PG
WHY? Murray is no where near ready for the NBA, but the Pacers like to take their shot
at guys with a lot of upside. They did it when they drafted Paul George and they did
it again with Myles Turner. At one point Larry Bird said Willie Cauley-Stein was a 100
million dollar player. That, to me, says that he loves athletes. Murray is an athlete
that can mold into multiple positions and can become one of their next stars in the future.
As quick as he is, Murray also fits the new running style of the Pacers really well.
20. CHA: Denzel Valentine SG
WHY? Batum could be on his way out of Charlotte after this season, but either way the Hornets
are going to lose a wing. This is how they rebound, drafting an offensive guy (because they
have a megadefender in MKG) that can do multiple things. Valentine can almost replicate what
Batum is doing on the offensive end since both are great passers and shooters. If Batum stays,
the Hornets could still use that depth. The Hornets also love 4 year players as opposed to the
younger players because they've had way too many "projects" fail on them.
21. ATL: Taurean Prince SF
WHY? I'm not comparing Prince to DeMarre Carroll here. Prince is lockdown defender on defense
and can be a scorer on offense. He can jump into the Hawks and become an impact player immediately.
If the Hawks somehow lose Bazemore, Prince is a great replacement. This pick could give the Hawks
the best bench in the league.
22. BOS: Furkan Korkmaz SG
WHY? Korkmaz is the next guy up with high upside, but the Celtics would probably have a pretty
full roster by this pick and I could see them taking Korkmaz to keep overseas. He's a kind of
high upside guy that Ainge would want to keep on the side (if the pick isn't traded).
23. MEM: Wade Baldwin IV PG
WHY? The Grizzlies could lose Mike Conley and would likely want to take the point guard with
the most upside to replace him. If Conley doesn't leave, the Grizzlies could still use a back
up that can also play beside him and grow with the team. Baldwin fills two of the Grizzlies
biggest needs in three point shooting and a back up for Conley. He would be the ideal pick here.
24. PHI: Grayson Allen SG
WHY? Allen and Ingram played well in college together, why not do it again? The 76ers could use
someone as aggressive as Allen and a guy that can be lights out from the three-point line. He's
also a guy that can fit in with the rest of what Philly has going on. It's hard to predict what
exactly the kind of play Allen will be, but the 76ers will take the gamble.
25. LAC: Domantas Sabonis PF
WHY? The Clippers have been looking for someone to play behind Griffin and Jordan for a while
and they're a team that has dealt with mismanaging toughness. Sabonis can be the enforcer of
this team that takes it to the other team, backs it up and make his free throws. He's exactly
what the Clippers need.
26. PHI: Juan Hernangomez PF
WHY? I'm assuming Hernangomez goes here as a player to keep overseas and with the high upside as
well as a potential in a trade chip, the 76ers wouldn't let him get by them. He can stretch the
floor for Okafor and can be a good fit at the 4 position on the team (but then you also have Jerami
Grant and Dario Saric is coming over).
27. TOR: Ivica Zubac C
WHY? The Raptors aren't totally set at their center position because Valanciunas has his flaws
and Biyombo also has his. As they get older more things might come up and the Raptors need someone
in waiting at that position. Zubac can be an overseas player that can wait for his opportunity
to sweep in.
28. PHX: Caris LeVert SG
WHY? The Suns need depth at wing badly and they should be willing to take a chance on a guy like
LeVert, who might be recovering his first year. He's a guy that could play three positions and
could fit well with the Suns if this works out. The Suns are also likely the best place for him
with their legendary training staff.
29. SAS: Malik Beasley
WHY? With this year likely being Manu Ginobili's last, they could use a young new wing. The Spurs
could also use some athleticism and Beasley could fit right into that realm. Under Pop, he could
become a huge steal for the Spurs.
30. GSW: Stephen Zimmerman
WHY? With Ezeli likely gone in the offseason, the Warriors could use a back up C. Now they already
have Draymond Green, so why not go with someone that could fit well next to Green? The Warriors
haven't had a center that can shoot threes yet (on this iteration) and Zimmerman's size could be
great with Green on the floor.

[skywalker33]

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