2019 NBA Super Mock Draft

[Celtics_History_Lesson]

Here is a mock draft. Watch college, and foreign, basketball to see future Celtics, then have a mock draft to see if those who are Celtics Material might get picked by Boston.

Usually, the Celtics let the fans down. With so many picks this time, there should be some happiness. If it is bad attitude tweener guard with no shooting followed by bad attitude tweener guard with no shooting followed by bad attitude tweener guard with no shooting it will be a sad draft with picks 14, 20 and 22. It is just as likely they trade away picks 14, 20 and 22.

Went with the usual three picks to start the draft. The Pelicans and Grizzlies and RJ seem to have told everyone what's happening. Pick 4 is very hard to figure out, and did try numerous players there.

No need to have a tantrum over the prospect comparisons. Often it is just a small aspect that is similar, or if you combine the player comparisons you get something similar. You won't even know who most of those players are anyway.

Mock draft was made just a bit before the last of the Green Room people were mentioned, but no alterations were made to the mock draft, which might mean some solid guesses were already there. Not that being invited really means a guarantee to go Top 20, there is always the chance of a slide to the second round for someone.

Post your own guesses, here or elsewhere, for the draft choices. Mock drafts, none of these "Big Boards" that are meaningless when the order is set and the players have entered their names.

Whoops, just before hitting send, the Lakers traded away their team and future for a guy they could have signed for free in a few months. Will leave Pick 4 below, and add a new description. Was watching a Mr. Belvedere episode when the news came in. The trade makes the draft a tad less predictable, although it could set off panic around a few teams which may make crazy moves during the draft to salvage something, like their jobs.





1. New Orleans
Zion Williamson 6-6 280 PF

Why for the team: The NBA looks silly when their teams fail, and they fail often in Louisiana. Relocations, name changes, and now a flow of top picks to stop them moving to Seattle. Zion puts the team on TV, sells tickets, and is certainly a unique and powerful player to have on the floor. He does need to be surrounded by a taller center/forward who can shoot, and then a small forward who can shoot, and a couple of guards who can pass and shoot. New Orleans struggled to find good parts to put around their star player before. Must be a chance to lead the NBA in FG% as a rookie. At least 3 for combined steals and blocks per game. A chance for 10 rebounds. Bad free throw % plus bad from 3, in other drafts he wouldn't be going top. 68% from the field, 64% from the foul line, he is "Short Shaq".


Random ramblings: Already has a National Park and a bank named after him? Irony, someone will pay him giant amounts of money to sell shoes, when his biggest worldwide claim to fame is his shoe broke. Don't know why not a single trade rumor has come about with this pick, they should be shopping it as a team could go crazy and offer way too much. Already involved in a court case, unlikely to ever hit free throws well, not going to grow taller, at least see what the crazy-insane teams will offer. Pick 3 and three unprotected future firsts? The Hornets would offer their entire team, which would not be anywhere near enough. No, the Pelicans are not trading him away, but nobody seems to be even sending offers.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Chris Webber/Antonio McDyess



2. Memphis
Ja Morant 6-3 175 PG

Why for the team: Coin-flip choice for the struggling team that gives away their first rounder next year, or the season after. Seems they are going after a point guard, and Morant would sell more tickets than Barrett. Should combine well with Jaren Jackson Jr. and make the team more exciting. 50, 36, 81, seems like elite NBA percentages. Didn't get them against NBA talent. 10 assists a game, not easy to do in college. Even gets blocks as a point guard, which shows how athletic he is. A year ago, he was appearing in the 20s or even out of the first round in mock drafts, so a lot has changed.


Random ramblings: Provided highlights every week, but against unknown schools and players. Texas State is in Texas, Michigan State is in Michigan, Murray State is in Murray? Murray State was destroyed by Belmont, Windler had 5 points, a confusing news item. Later, Murray State was the one destroying Belmont, Windler had 17 points. Morant was the best player each game, but high turnovers. A triple-double in the NCAA Tournament was impressive. 5 for 6 from 3 in his last college game was even more impressive, as that was supposed to be his weakness.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Stephon Marbury/Nick Van Exel



3. New York
RJ Barrett 6-7 210 G/F

Why for the team: There are three real top players, so they are unlikely to gamble on someone ranked lower. The team has huge holes everywhere, but also money to spend, and Barrett can play a couple of positions and fit in with who they have now or the better players they sign. Smith, Barrett, Knox, Free Agent, Robinson, not too exciting, so the Knicks could trade this pick to make the big splash they always try. Marbury, McDyess, Carmelo, E Curry, their big splash usually empties the pool of water and sets back their team a decade. 31% from college 3, 67% on free throws, a tad underwhelming. All his other numbers were big, including turnovers.


Random ramblings: Was supposed to be the best player in the draft, but maybe another Coach K failure. The coach failed, not the player. Barrett was a volume shooter, but also a very solid passer, and on another college team he could have averaged 30-12-6. When he played US players at the Hoop Summit he had 20 points, 9 rebounds, 6 assists and 5 steals. Against Team USA which had Reddish and Huerter and Langford an Diallo and L King, Barrett had 38 points, 13 rebounds and 5 assists. If he remembers how to shoot, RJ should be best player from the draft, like Tatum was in his draft.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Grant Hill/Michael Finley



4. New Orleans Pelicans
DeAndre Hunter 6-7 225 F

Update - Payton, Jrue, someone, Zion, center and then add Lakers. The media say Pick 4 is up for grabs right now, but will still pick Hunter as a good fit for their Pelicans/Hornets/Jazz team in New Orleans. Maybe Jrue, Ingram, someone, Zion, Someone. Ingram and Ball at 33% from 3, and 68% and 42% on free throws. A reason why they need more than that out there, so Hunter's 3 ability makes him a good pick still.

If a few other notes or mentions sound silly below, and it is because of the A Davis trade, then it is just silly now but wasn't before the trade.


(The Earlier Draft Choice And Reasoning)
4. LA Lakers
DeAndre Hunter 6-7 225 F

Why for the team: Special mention here, the player is being selected for the Lakers and Pelicans, maybe GM LeBron sends the pick away for Jrue, or that other Pelican that everyone talks about. Hunter has defensive ability and an outside shot, and as Zion or LeBron are similar, but not similar, powerful power forwards a player who can hit an outside shot consistently is a good option to have out there with them. LeBron and Kuzma backed up by Hunter, that works well. Pelicans have always needed a small forward, Solomon Hill and his crazy contract should make you laugh, and Hunter and Zion work as two forwards and Zion at center and Hunter at power forward would be successful too. 44% from 3, maybe that and his very long arms and college team success get him the pick 4 spot ahead of the other ten or so contenders.


Random ramblings: It is very bad that one little clique, the LeBron player agency and the LeBron Lakers, can control and ruin basketball so much. Changing the CBA to only suit them, and to wreck other teams and players, and to also demand that no other teams can have players they want. You have to go back to 1972 when their championship was not tainted by players demanding only to be the Lakers and by scamming or rewriting the rules and the system. 11% chance to move up for this pick, not only do they redo CBA rules for the Lakers, repeatedly, but also the lottery rules.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Michael Finley/George Lynch



5. Cleveland
Jarrett Culver 6-7 194 G/F

Why for the team: Their best shooting guard is the best that the Philippines could provide, but could still be improved. Small forward needs help as well. Culver can play both spots. He can also pass a bit too, useful when the point guard is a shooting-first one, and probably shooting-second too. Cavs need everything, and Culver can score and pass and defend. 30% on 3s, one area that could drop him in the draft, or something he has already worked on to improve.


Random ramblings: There were times when he looked like a Top 3 pick, and other times when he looked like he wasn't Top 10 as he struggled to get open for his shot.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Michael Finley/Eddie Jones



6. Phoenix
Darius Garland 6-2 175 PG

Why for the team: They used to always need a center, ever since they missed on the chance to draft Lew Alcindor. The last draft changed that, although Luka was a better choice, and now the huge need is point guard. Garland can supposedly shoot, so with Booker hogging the ball that is useful. Everything about Garland is "supposedly" as he was injured after a few games against unknown players in small schools. 48% from 3, but only 5 games played.


Random ramblings: Winston Garland was the Darren Collison of his era, a nice backup point guard but you wouldn't want to start him. The senile commentator at TNT will think Winston Garland is still in the league next season, passing to Elston Turner.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Lindsey Hunter



7. Chicago
Coby White 6-5 190 G

Why for the team: Zach is LaComboGuard, so putting a similar guard beside him could work. They both attack the basket, Lauri and Otto hit outside shots, it has potential. White can play next to LaVine and also next to LaDunn. 80% free throws, only 35% from 3. 16 points and 4 assists. Could be one of those great draft moments when the hat does not fit.


Random ramblings: The Bulls are often talked about as willing to send this pick for Lonzo Ball. The media, is the proverb they carry the water for the Lakers, seem to think the worst shooter the NBA has ever seen, with apologies to Marcus Smart who isn't that bad now, is worth a lotto pick. If the Bulls do that trade, there will be so much laughing hospitalization will be needed.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Jalen Rose/Lindsey Hunter/(Moochie Norris for the hair)



8. Atlanta
Sekou Doumbouya 6-9 230 F

Why for the team: Small forward is the biggest need, and he might start his career as the backup power forward and then play small forward later after he gets his shot to be consistent. One game in Europe and his pre-draft shooting videos do show he can hit from outside. He is from Conakry, sounds Irish. "Hello, laddy, are you from Conakry, County Cork?" He is from France, via Conakry, Guinea. Sometimes his French team wore green and white uniforms. In the NBA, not expected to do that.


Random ramblings: The Hawks, right now before they pick up the small-money options on recently drafted players, have zero money they are spending a year from now. They could have room for three max players, at least two, and all their good young players on the roster as well.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: John Wallace/Donyell Marshall



9. Washington
Bol Bol 7-2 210 C

Why for the team: They need help up front, they need shooting. Just a bonus that Manute was there too. They can find a strong body to have in the paint with him, and Bol won't have trouble against inside scorers as he can be the help defender instead of trying to go body to body. He is mobile, and his outside shot is nearly unblockable, and went in more than half the time in college. 56, 52, 76, percentages you don't see every day. So much risk, for his injuries and attitude and off the court things, but he is a mobile 7-2 player who can dribble and hit turnaround 3s, and block shots. 21 points a game, and nearly 10 rebounds and 3 blocks. Someone who was never confused when people called out last name first instead of first name first?


Random ramblings: If he had gained weight while injured people would have complained, and now they complain because the numbers say he lost weight while injured. More likely, his college just made up the previous number and he never was heavier?

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Carlos Rogers/Kevin Garnett/Walter McCarty



10. Atlanta
Cameron Reddish 6-8 210 G/F

Why for the team: Small forward is the need, but he is different to the pick at 8 and could also be a shooting guard too. Bazemore and Crabbe are just ending contracts, so there will soon be huge minutes available at shooting guard and small forward, so they need more than Huerter and old Vince. 36% from the field, despite five defenders trying to stop Zion, that is hard to figure out. Ranked as a high schooler above Zion, and most others, also hard to figure out. 77% on free throws, actually quite impressive compared to many early picks here. Center at this spot also makes sense, and made even more sense before they got another first rounder, from the Nets.


Random ramblings: Invited to the Green Room, which isn't a room and is not green, so he has to go high even though his college season was very bad.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Jamal Mashburn/Eric Williams



11. Minnesota
Nickeil Alexander-Walker 6-5 205 G

Why for the team: An unselfish player who can shoot seems rare for Minnesota. He instantly provides spacing for the overpaid "star" and the always-angry "superstar". 4 assists, 16 points, 37% from 3, a couple of steals, he can do a lot. He gets assists, steals and hits his shots but some people think he isn't exciting enough. He does get highlight plays, some of his passing, but some turnovers too.


Random ramblings: Many said he wasn't a first rounder, but he is a Green Room invite. The full list is Zion Williamson, Ja Morant, R.J. Barrett, Darius Garland, De'Andre Hunter, Jarrett Culver, Cam Reddish, Coby White, Sekou Doumbouya, Nassir Little, Jaxson Hayes, Rui Hachimura, Brandon Clarke, Romeo Langford, PJ Washington, Goga Bitadze, Tyler Herro, Keldon Johnson, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Bol Bol.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Sam Cassell/Ray Allen



12. Charlotte
Jaxson Hayes 6-11 220 F/C

Why for the team: Hayes gives them an interesting prospect, the rare athletic center prospect who can actually hit free throws. 73% from the field, 74% on free throws. One of those players who suddenly grew a foot taller, and might have been thinking of the NFL when he was a child, so there is the untapped upside that teams like to draft. 2.2 blocks a game.


Random ramblings: What they need is a complete rebuild, they are terrible. Michael Jordan, he might have sold a lot of shoes but he can't win behind a desk and should sell his team. What he should do is fire everyone, then hire someone to hire everyone, then go on holiday somewhere far away for a few years, and without his presence and meddling and "we should pick Kwame Brown" the Bobcats/Hornets might be a good team.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Marcus Camby/Theo Ratliff



13. Miami
Romeo Langford 6-6 210 SG

Why for the team: Wade is gone, again for them, so shooting guard makes sense. The Heat are an expensive mess for 2019-20, so they could use this pick to move out salary. Actually is, statistically, like Wade as he draws fouls and also blocks shots for a shooting guard. 26 of 32 games were played with an injured thumb, so if the team that picks him thinks he will shoot better than 27% from 3 they have a reason to think that.


Random ramblings: Dragic is opting in, so the Heat have a more complicated offseason now. Pat Riley failed horribly, too many players and not enough minutes, and roles not defined and always changing. He is sort of a poor man's Daniel Ainge, who also created a bad roster like that.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Kerry Kittles/Terry Dehere



14. Boston
Goga Bitadze 6-11 250 C

Why for the team: Their smallball idea is a huge failure. Horford at power forward could be the best idea, and using him there with a bigger center could mean more wins and a healthier Horford. Baynes is the muscle, R Williams is the athleticism, and the third part of the center rotation could be Goga with the possibility of being strong like Baynes and with the ability to block shots like Williams but also with more offensive moves and more range on his shot, which has improved a lot from outside compared to what he did a year ago. 55% from the field, 2.3 blocks, and he dominated against large European, and American, men so it wasn't like he was getting numbers against Green Mountain College. He has been to Atlanta and maybe San Antonio for workouts, expected to visit Boston soon. Spurs and Hawks have picks after this, and before Boston pick again. Hawks also have two picks earlier. Charlotte, also with a pick a bit earlier, may also be inviting Goga to visit. 11 points, 7 rebounds against Luigi Datome and Jan Vesely. 16 points, 8 rebounds against Sean Kilpatrick and Nick Calathes. 13 points, 10 rebounds, 3 blocks versus Anthony Randolph, Edy Tavares and Rudy Fernandez. 23 points, 8 rebounds, 3 blocks against Kaleb Tarczewski, Mindaugas Kuzminskas and NBA draft pick Arturas Gudaitis.


Random ramblings: The Hawks would really like him, just so they could say he is from Georgia? A year ago, nobody knew about this player, a few months ago it was the same thing, now those same people say he is a Top 10 pick.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Alan Henderson/Vitaly Potapenko/Jermaine O'Neal



15. Detroit
Cameron Johnson 6-9 205 SF

Why for the team: If they are going to try to win with Blake and Mr. Drummond, who are two super players, then the small forward has to shoot and hits 3s. That is what he does, plus he has good height for the position. They could look for a Reggie Jackson replacement, as he swings and misses a lot, but there are no great point guards in this spot of the draft and small froward is a much bigger need. 51, 46, 82, few prospects have those percentages. Johnson is a chance for an All-Rookie team, if he gets minutes.


Random ramblings: Teams and fans are "sleeping" on C Johnson, so he could be available later, and a team like Detroit that wants him might think about trading down to get him and something. Then again, teams like OKC and Utah draft soon after this and need a shooter like C Johnson.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Predrag Stojakovic/Allan Houston



16. Orlando
Ty Jerome 6-5 195 G/F

Why for the team: They are a strange team with an awkward rebuild, and they even traded for Fultz. They need shooting and passing, so Jerome gives them that. 5.5 assists, 40% from 3, as many steals as turnovers, he could help the Magic in numerous ways.


Random ramblings: Could be a player who is a point guard and a small forward in the NBA. Sort of Nate McMillan, without the defense, although he does try. Championship win should get him pushed up the draft a tad more than some expect.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Brent Barry/Jalen Rose/Aaron McKie



17. Atlanta
Brandon Clarke 6-8 210 PF/C

Why for the team: A bonus pick as they took a couple of firsts so the Nets could sign a couple of maximum contracts. Earlier Atlanta picks here are used on forwards, so this is a defensive forward/center to use next to offensive forward/center John Collins. 69% from the field, 69% on free throws. Weird numbers, no difference between taking his time and shooting or trying to score with five defenders putting their hands up to block the shot. 27% from 3, didn't take many of those. 9 rebounds, 3 blocks, a steal per game.


Random ramblings: Did laugh at those who said he was a lock for the Top 5. Although, if you just look at his stats and not his size and shooting range, he is worth Top 10. Those stats did come against short people from strange schools who played games when many didn't watch as it was too late.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Gary Trent/Roy Rogers/Brian Grant



18. Indiana
Rui Hachimura 6-8 235 F

Why for the team: Will consider this pick the replacement for Thaddeus Young. Everything but center makes sense, although picking a shooting guard might also be not the best idea as Oladipo will return. They recently drafted a young point guard. Rui the combo-forward does a lot for their depth. 42% from 3, on few attempts. 20 points a game, so he took a lot of shot attempts. 59% from the field, he hit many of his shots.


Random ramblings: Won't be to basketball what Ichiro was to baseball. Is 60 pounds over the sumo weight minimum. Weighs 15 pounds more than the lightest top division sumo wrestler. The biggest sumo weights 270 pounds more than Rui.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Glenn Robinson/Corliss Williamson



19. San Antonio
Nassir Little 6-6 225 SF

Why for the team: Small forward is the big need. They might think they can get the best out of a player who was ranked among the top prospects when entering college. Didn't really show anything in college, will be drafted high due to his body measurements and potential, but his free throw numbers at 77% show there is a potential shooter there as well as an athlete. Per minute got a lot of rebounds and points, but not much else.


Random ramblings: Is 6-6 tall but called "Little"?

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: JR Rider/Dontae Jones/Jimmy King



20. Boston
Tyler Herro 6-6 195 SG

Why for the team: The Celtics stink when it comes to hitting shots. Horrible ball hogs throwing up horrible bricks. If just hitting open shots is all he can do, he will be better than most of the 2018-19 Celtics roster. 94% free throws. Streaky 36% on 3s.


Random ramblings: Invited to the draft, so could be gone before this. Pistons need shooting, although someone a bit taller than Herro. Minnesota and Orlando might consider him too.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Allan Houston/Ray Allen/Voshon Lenard



21. Oklahoma City
Dylan Windler 6-7 195 G/F

Why for the team: You don't want to pass the ball to Andre Roberson for the shot. If the team is going to be only iso for Westbrook, or the iso for George, another shooter on the floor will make it work better and Windler can shoot. He has "win" in his name, better than "loss". 54, 43, 85 percentages, against many small schools. Numbers do show he will hit open shots, which many in the NBA cannot hit. His rebounding numbers, 11 a game, are very unlikely to transfer to the NBA.


Random ramblings: A bunch of promises here, according to the media. Windler was not mentioned in that news.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Wesley Person/Eric Piatkowski



22. Boston
PJ Washington 6-8 230 PF

Why for the team: Yabu and Semi are very bad, although that is with small minutes. The power forward with the bad attitude and laziness and selfishness is a free agent. The Celtics could have many power forward minutes available. Not taking the easy points, 63% on free throws, but improved a lot to go 42% from outside and 52% from the field. There might be some mini-Horford to his game, not only the outside shot but how he scores in the paint.


Random ramblings: Obviously this pick could be gone, all the Boston picks could be gone before the draft happens.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Antoine Walker/Jamal Mashburn



23. Utah
Luka Samanic 6-11 230 F

Why for the team: They need a tall forward who can shoot. They need players who won't mind staying in Utah, and arriving from a poor foreign country would make Utah seem great, compared to the draftees from NYC who arrive in Utah and want out. Luka doesn't get the My Name Is Luka song, that is already taken.


Random ramblings: Arrived at the draft camp, showed everyone he was tall and mobile and skilled, then he left. Everyone says that means first round lock.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Martin Muursepp/Zeljko Rebraca



24. Philadelphia
Carsen Edwards 6-0 200 PG

Why for the team: If they keep their entire team, or only some of it, they need shooters to surround their many max-salary players. Little but won't matter there if Simmons is the point guard, as he is a bit bigger than most guards. Was around 4 of 11 from 3 every game. A specialist, would likely hit more NBA 3s than 2s. Had as many turnovers as assists.


Random ramblings: Many more people called Carson than are Carsen.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Lindsey Hunter/Charlie Ward/Tyus Edney



25. Portland
Bruno Fernando 6-10 240 C

Why for the team: Some free agents and some injuries to the frontcourt players, so they can use his size and strength. 60, 30, 78, the 3% was very few attempts although before the draft he has been showing some range. Over 10 rebounds in 30 minutes a game.


Random ramblings: His name is like an Italian barber added to a Mexican pitcher. Barkley will now be able to give his opinion about an Angolan NBA player.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Kurt Thomas/Malik Rose



26. Cleveland
Keldon Johnson 6-6 215 G/F

Why for the team: The Cavs seem like they will try a very long rebuild, instead of the NBA-assisted quick rebuild they used before. Even with a swingman early, they can take another here. 38% from 3. One of the strange prospects which are more common now that struggle in many areas but already are solid from outside. Only 70% on free throws.


Random ramblings: The Cavs really need to remove Love. They signed him, for no reason, to more money and years. JR Smith is likely to be traded during the draft?

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Bryon Russell/Monty Williams



27. Brooklyn
Daniel Gafford 6-10 240 F/C

Why for the team: They looked very small in the playoffs. This pick gets them a defensive backup center, and maybe a lot more. Better to have his long arms guarding the basket than Jared Dudley and whatever he brought to the games.


Random ramblings: Seem to be becoming the Knicks, and after building with financial smarts and sensible moves are throwing all that away for a couple of high-priced "stars". This makes Gafford, 2 blocks a game and 66% shooting, a player they need to defend and dunk in the paint.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Marcus Camby/Corie Bount



28. Golden State
Admiral Schofield 6-5 240 SF

Why for the team: Should draft someone ready to go, an older player, and also one who can just stand there and hit outside shots so he fits with that. 42% from 3. Shorter than some shooting guards, weighs more than some centers. He can score inside, so might be more than just a shooter.


Random ramblings: The Warriors have major problems and general chaos, they can't get David Robinson so this Admiral would be swell.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Rodney Rogers/Shandon Anderson/Lamond Murray



29. San Antonio
Deividas Sirvydis 6-8 195 SF

Why for the team: They like to have a few dozen players overseas, and they also need some outside shooting. He does look like a quality shooter, although the NBA is bigger and longer range. Adam Hanga, Nemanja Dangubic, Nikola Milutinov and Cady Lalanne are some of the Spurs who are hidden away overseas. 46% from 3. Teams that need a guy who just shoots from 3 will like that number.


Random ramblings: It is a bad year for foreign draft and leave away prospects.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Fred Hoiberg/Chris Mills



30. Milwaukee
Mfiondu Kabengele 6-10 255 F/C

Why for the team: Traded away some centers, and probably want the best player called Mfiondu. Has some range on his shot, useful as their big star needs space to attack the paint. Some threes and blocks, an assist once a month. 37% from long range.


Random ramblings: Many basketball fans can say this complete name, Dikembe Mutombo Mpolondo Mukamba Jean-Jacques Wamutombo, Kabengele can probably remember all that too.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Travis Knight/Walter McCarty







31. Brooklyn
Jontay Porter 6-11 210 F/C

Why for the team: A bunch of risky picks in this draft, due to many reasons, so early in the second round is a good spot to have a choice as guaranteed money won't wreck the planning of the roster if a problem occurs. Nets could pick him, sign their overpaid free agents, then have Porter get healthy on a two-way contract or a league-minimum one. They might later get a center who can pass and do other helpful things. 2 assists and 2 blocks a game. 36% from long range. Everyone knows about his family, as they all get injured.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Juwan Howard



32. Phoenix
Nicolas Claxton 6-11 215 F/C

Why for the team: The Suns do need depth on the bench for the center spot. He was a late enter, and then stay in the draft, note so that could mean a higher spot has been promised. A couple of blocks and assists, plus a steal, per game, might become a PJ Brown type of player who does lots of little things from the paint to help his team.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Sharone Wright/Theo Ratliff/Donyell Marshall



33. Philadelphia
Naz Reid 6-10 255 C

Why for the team: They have many free agents, and a center who is hurt a lot, so if you read that Boban is going elsewhere then Reid could get minutes. He can hit free throws, and sometimes a 3-pointer, so he is more than just a big body. 33% from 3 for a freshman center seems promising.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Samaki Walker/Erick Dampier/Don Reid



34. Philadelphia
Kevin Porter 6-5 215 G/F

Why for the team: They do forget how to score at times, and might lose a few scorers. He does seem like a silly version of Lance Stephenson, but the media and others are obsessed and think he should be a lotto pick. He thinks he is a star, then hits half his free throws. 52% free throws, 2 turnovers a game, only 9.5 points. 41% from 3, so there is that for the hype. The media were saying he was going Top 10, but no Green Room invite.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Isaiah Rider/Shawn Respert



35. Atlanta
Kyle Guy 6-2 170 G

Why for the team: The Hawks do like shooting from the point guard spot, although this guy won't pass as well as their starter. It does mean they can run many of the same plays if he is the backup. With teams going very small a lot, he could also get some shooting guard minutes when teams put their benches on the floor. Hits big shots, under huge pressure, 43% on college threes.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Tony Delk



36. Charlotte
KZ Okpala 6-9 210 G/F

Why for the team: Maybe they lose their two veteran point guards, but they can't replace them with a pick here. This pick is instead some athleticism which might be needed if old Batum and little Monk play more. 46, 37, 67 percentages show his shot is all over the place.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Scott Burrell/Antonio Lang



37. Dallas
Grant Williams 6-7 240 PF

Why for the team: He can fill a minor role, help the team with some passing, so he will keep the ball moving as they play a fun way with passing and Luka. 3 assists a game in college, great from the field and free throw line, only 33% on 3s.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Dejan Bodiroga/Donyell Marshall



38. Chicago
Tacko Fall 7-7 290 C

Why for the team: No more Lopez, probably, so they will lack size. This center has size. Players and coaches in the NBA are not too smart these days, and there is an idea that Fall is too tall for basketball. That is crazy stuff, and he would be useful in various specialized situations and possibly could do a lot more. Chuck Nevitt was often on teams that went to the NBA Finals, so just having extreme height on the roster for practice might be useful. 75% from the field, Fall is good. 36% on free throws, Fall does have some weaknesses.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Priest Lauderdale/Zydrunas Ilgauskas/Shawn Bradley/Gheorghe Muresan



39. New Orleans
Ignas Brazdeikis 6-7 220 SF

Why for the team: Want to keep defenders away from Zion, so after getting him they will want shooters, in the draft or with free agency. 39% from 3, doesn't turn the ball over, doesn't do much but shoot from outside. A role player who knows their role. 77% on free throws.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Rex Walters/Lawrence Moten



40. Sacramento
Moses Brown 7-2 240 C

Why for the team: They could have had a settled center spot with Zach Collins but traded him away, and then traded Skal Labissiere away too. Willie Cauley-Stein may not be their future, Giles is hurt a lot, the Kings can use some help at the center spot. Brown has no range but he is tall and athletic and with Buddy and all those Bogdans they have shooting around the floor so if the center can't shoot it won't be too important.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Theo Ratliff/Ervin Johnson



41. Atlanta
Chuma Okeke 6-8 235 F

Why for the team: The Hawks might have drafted an entire team by the time this part of the draft is over, and grabbing an injured prospect who was expected to go early second round or maybe get into the first round makes sense. Was showing big improvement and then got injured. 50, 39, 72, his percentages show he can score but the free throw is a concern. Does get steals and some blocks.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Calbert Cheaney



42. Atlanta
Yovel Zoosman 6-7 200 SG

Why for the team: So many picks. Probably trade several, might go overseas with several. 46, 38, 85, solid percentages overseas. Playing for a big team so his numbers are more impressive than some who play in lower divisions in other leagues.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Doron Sheffer/Lucious Harris



43. Minnesota
Zach Norvell 6-6 205 SG

Why for the team: Need outside shooting. Might be the only thing he does, but they go in. 7 shots from 3 per game, only 4 from 2. 37% from 3. Free throws went in at 87%. He can shoot better than Wiggins, but most people can do that.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Wesley Person



44. Philadelphia
Matisse Thybulle 6-5 200 G/F

Why for the team: They need someone to stop the star swingmen who beat them. Plenty of talk he is a first rounder, although if the NBA is all about outside shooting now he may not fit, or go that high. Why he is a second rounder, 9 points on 42% shooting. Why he could be first, 5.8 combined blocks and steals per game. Projects somewhere between Ron Artest and Kris Clack.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Jerome Williams/Aaron McKie



45. Detroit
Darius Bazley 6-9 210 F

Why for the team: Blake gets hurt and needs a backup, small forward is a disaster, the Pistons need small forwards and Bazley could also be a power forward. Hard to know his best spot when he doesn't play games. As he has the LeBron people with him, he may already have a landing spot in the draft already decided. Old video of him showed a shot release slower, but not as ugly, than Amir Johnson's.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Joe Smith/Evers Burns



46. Orlando
Louis King 6-8 195 SF

Why for the team: A team that can't really win but after plenty of drafts has no specific need, and nothing a second rounder will address. A backup small forward, and they may need one of those if T Ross goes. King might want to be another Morris brother, as he shoots the ball a lot but doesn't really do much else. 39% from 3, but few assists and 0.2 blocks.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Donny Marshall/Ed O'Bannon



47. Sacramento
Ky Bowman 6-2 180 PG

Why for the team: Might be minutes there behind Fox, but not many. Yogi The Bear is there too. Bowman can do a bunch of things, but the more rebounds and assists he got the lower his FG%. 40% this season. Was 49% a few seasons ago when his team was better.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Howard Eisley/Jeff McInnis



48. LA Clippers
Sagaba Konate 6-8 250 F/C

Why for the team: Could be Montrezl Harrell's stunt-double for the other Hollywood team. Konate had a huge amount of blocks and rebounds in college, but also showed range on his shot. 39% from 3, 81% free throws.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Corliss Williamson/Jason Caffey



49. San Antonio
Shamorie Ponds 6-1 180 PG

Why for the team: Mills is someone who looks like he needs a new team. Maybe the Spurs will want to go younger, moving him and Belinelli. Ponds gives them someone different to D White and D Murray. Ponds was 84% from the line, and can draw fouls. 2.6 steals per game is big too.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Chris Whitney



50. Indiana
Robert Franks 6-8 230 F

Why for the team: It seems like all their forwards could leave. Need more forwards even if most stay. He can contribute in small minutes already, fill various roles.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Michael Smith/Monty Williams



51. Boston
Jalen Lecque 6-4 185 G

Why for the team: Athletic tweener guard who can't shoot or pass and has a draft "promise", Ainge probably takes him at 20. Can play defense, likes to dunk. His shot in workouts looks a tad odd, but in games it looks more smooth. Not a lot of good video for him, more video than Bigfoot has but not much more. Might win a dunk contest, but maybe a dunk contest in China. Celtics could obviously sell this pick, or go foreign. Maybe Laurynas Birutis, which translated from Lithuanian means Larry Bird, could be an overseas option for them. Brewster Academy? Wants to sign a contract for Brewster's Millions.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: James Robinson/Darnell Mee



52. Charlotte
Isaiah Roby 6-8 215 F

Why for the team: The horror of Marvin Williams and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist has to end there soon. Unable to win or entertain, new forwards are needed. Miles Bridges is miles ahead of them and Roby, but depth is needed. Rick Robey had a very interesting career, Top 3 pick and traded for Dennis Johnson, but nobody mentions him. Not a relative of this Roby. Roby can block shots, not efficient on offense.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Lou Roe



53. Utah
Cody Martin 6-6 190 G

Why for the team: A versatile guard with height works with what Utah has, like running the pick and roll with Rudy and lobbing it up for the dunk. Martin can do that, plus he and his brother played college not too far away from the Jazz so they should know his ability. Is this the better brother? He is ready to play and can pass the ball, and good height so the backcourt isn't small with D Mitchell at shooting guard. With Exum injured all the time, Cody Martin can just fill his spot for Utah practices. Martin's shot isn't great, but as a role player his size and steals and passing could be very useful.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Eric Snow



54. Philadelphia
Brian Bowen 6-7 200 G/F

Why for the team: Might have another year of overseas play to go, and 76ers have many picks so this is a foreign stash type. Was a big prospect a year or two ago but hasn't shown great ability yet, although he is playing in a pro league and not getting easy stats and minutes in college. Other foreign league players teams may consider, not in this mock, include Vanja Marinkovic, Amine Noua, Karim Jallow, Tamir Blatt, Jordan Sakho and maybe Nik Slavica. The Celtics looked at Sakho a few years ago in a predraft workout.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Darrin Hancock



55. New York
Ethan Happ 6-9 235 PF

Why for the team: Rebounds and passing, he can be useful off the bench. Seems to be the first draft prospect ever that tells everyone his wish is to be a role player, so he knows what he can do and doesn't lie or exaggerate. 10 rebounds and 4.5 assists per game. Under 50% on free throws, would be under 0% on 3s if it was possible to do. 53% from the field as he operates close to the basket.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Bill Curley/Andrew DeClercq



56. LA Clippers
Luguentz Dort 6-4 220 SG

Why for the team: Lou Williams can have an understudy. They have shooting with Gallinari and Lou and Laundry Shamed, so Dort attacking the basket brings some balance. 40, 30, 70 percentages. Gets to the foul line a lot, so gets quantity points without quality shooting.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Reggie Geary



57. New Orleans
Joshua Obiesie 6-6 195 G

Why for the team: Foreign guy with potential makes sense late, and a 6-6 player who might play point guard is even more potential. Left-handed as well, so the Pelicans could be stocking up on them. 93% of people stopped reading this. 95% of viewers have turned the draft off at this point. 65% of fans have left the draft by now.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Randy Livingston



58. Golden State
Jalen McDaniels 6-9 190 F

Why for the team: They look old and tired, while he has energy. Can play their Iggy role for 5 or 10 minutes a game. Turns the ball over a lot, but can get it back, his length gets some steals. Only 32% from 3.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Dontae Jones



59. Toronto
Talen Horton-Tucker 6-4 235 G/F

Why for the team: Plenty of players at those positions could leave for better cities. Has a strange arrest record, which isn't as helpful as a basketball scoring record when you want to get drafted. Should be able to defend right away in the NBA. 4-, 30, 63, the percentages say scoring in the NBA is a long way away.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Tony Dumas/Chris Robinson



60. Sacramento
Adam Mokoka 6-5 210 | SG

Why for the team: Bad, small-market teams like to go foreign as those players won't mind being drafted to them, plus this late in the draft it is often the stash type. Of course, the Kings did find a very useful player at this spot in the draft before, Isaiah Thomas. Adam Mokoka could be a defensive stopper of point guards, his shooting isn't great but he has developed the passing part of his game.

1993-1996 NBA Draft Prospect Comparison: Chris Carr

[captain green]

We don't need another herro. Dude will be a bust I'm 89% certain of it. Outside that good post yo lots of work here. I enjoyed it.

[Celtics_History_Lesson]

We don't need another herro. Dude will be a bust I'm 89% certain of it. Outside that good post yo lots of work here. I enjoyed it.

Don't know if they still have the record but the 1989-90 Celtics set the record for best season for a team free throw %. Adding Herro, it pushes the Celtics back close to that level, although the team needs more attempts. Always good to have plenty of players who can shoot well, and not just shoot.

By percentages, the Celtics could lose their five most accurate from long range last season, although hat list includes Hunter and also Wanamaker and Theis, so there is a need for outside shooting. If everyone does go, that would leave Tatum as the only player left on the roster who was dependable from 3 last season, although others who were down can shoot better.

Outside shooting, Herro is better at it than most Celtics, and he wasn't getting the open looks the Celtics were. Assuming that Horford, and others, are running great offense that should mean Herro open and getting 40% of his 3s to go.

Will say that the Celtics don't "need" anyone in this draft, as only the top pick or so would change things a lot, but a couple of role players could make the team function better. Tina Turner also said "what's Love got to do with it" and Kevin Love would later go on to win a title in the NBA so she doesn't know everything about basketball.

[captain green]

We don't need another herro. Dude will be a bust I'm 89% certain of it. Outside that good post yo lots of work here. I enjoyed it.

Don't know if they still have the record but the 1989-90 Celtics set the record for best season for a team free throw %. Adding Herro, it pushes the Celtics back close to that level, although the team needs more attempts. Always good to have plenty of players who can shoot well, and not just shoot.

By percentages, the Celtics could lose their five most accurate from long range last season, although hat list includes Hunter and also Wanamaker and Theis, so there is a need for outside shooting. If everyone does go, that would leaave Tatum as the only player left on the roster who was dependable from 3 last season, although others who were down can shoot better.

Outside shooting, Herro is better at it than most Celtics, and he wasn't getting the open looks the Celtics were. Assuming that Horford, and others, are running great offense that should mean Herro open and getting 40% of his 3s to go.

Will say that the Celtics don't "need" anyone in this draft, as only the top pick or so would change things a lot, but a couple of role players could make the team function better. Tina Turner also said "what's Love got to do with it" and Kevin Love would later go on to win a title in the NBA so she doesn't know everything about basketball.

Good reply but I still think he will be a bust.

[Kalela]

Tina Turner also said "what's Love got to do with it" and Kevin Love would later go on to win a title in the NBA so she doesn't know everything about basketball.

Nice post/thread, CHL. I like Herro for the Celtics. Not sure if he will be available with the 20th pick though. I don't know what to think of Goga though. He could be another Nurkic and that would be a good pick but he could also be another Zizic.

[return2glory]

Good post. I wonder that Goga’s ceiling can be?

I would love for the Celtics to go center at 14 if there is a really good center out there than can be a starter.

I love Herro at 20, but I feel he will be taken by 20. Washington could be a good Morris replacement from who little I’ve seen of his game.

[Celtics_History_Lesson]

Good post. I wonder that Goga’s ceiling can be?

I would love for the Celtics to go center at 14 if there is a really good center out there than can be a starter.

I love Herro at 20, but I feel he will be taken by 20. Washington could be a good Morris replacement from who little I’ve seen of his game.

The Celtics don't win small, hoping they smarten up and go big. Pick 14 should have lots of solid centers, all with a lot of potential. At least one of Bitadze, Bol or Hayes should be there?

Watch on YouTube

It isn't the Tatum predraft video of his 25 3s in a row, but for someone a year ago who was mainly a monster shotblocker and also inside scorer Bitadze has a very smooth shot and they go in, especially from the corners.

Baynes got noticed playing in a similar part of the world before joining the NBA, and it took him a decade to find a, sometimes effective, outside shot, while Bitadze might have the shooting already.

Bol hits half his 3s. Who cares if he is strange off the court and thin when he hits half his threes, and drives through traffic to the basket too.

Hayes is one of those players who grew a foot suddenly, like The Kelly Olynyk or a lesser player like Anthony Davis, and he has to get used to that but is already hitting 75% from the field and free throw line, while blocking shots too. All three of these prospects can play next to Williams, and would be even better next to Horford.


The media is hyping everyone up, when Pick 14 comes around Celtics fans should have the chance to get someone they think is exciting, and a draft slider should appear at 20 as well. It doesn't mean the Celtics will pick the right ones, as Dort is short and can't shoot you know the Ainge Cartel wants to pick him in the lottery.

Nice post/thread, CHL. I like Herro for the Celtics. Not sure if he will be available with the 20th pick though. I don't know what to think of Goga though. He could be another Nurkic and that would be a good pick but he could also be another Zizic.

Zizic is very good. Never be anti-Zizic. Ante Zizic shoots 55% from the field, gets a double-double if played starter's minutes.

Bitadze looked similar to Zizic a year ago but with explosive shotblocking and more nimble feet inside on offense, but Bitadze is a quicker player than he was then and has expanded his range a lot.


If the Celtics used Williams and Bitadze off the bench together, it would be the best shotblocking combo anywhere in the NBA, and Goga would have enough range to keep defenders away from Williams and his many lob dunks.



Goga said he went Atlanta, San Antonio, Boston, Detroit for workouts, with Charlotte still to come.

Bitazde learned basketball from Garnett and Pachulia, so he only watches players who win.

“One freshman that just knows how to play is the Herro kid,” Raftery said on The Sidelines with Evan Daniels podcast. “He’s great without the ball, he’s unselfish, pull-up game, just handles it nicely.”

“He reminds me quite a bit of Larry Bird in his total package,” he added. “I think [Devin] Booker was better coming off screens, but don’t forget, this kid’s going to learn, so, that comparison — if he can stroke it like him, my goodness. What a dimension that kid [will bring].”

Herro's hero may be Booker.


PJ Washington's favorite player is a Laker.


Bitadze actually played a game against Herro and Washington a year ago. Kentucky won.

[return2glory]

It will be interesting to see which way Boston goes with this draft. I’m hoping we keep at least two of the 3 first rounders. It would be great to coming out of this the great with a future starting center.

I’ve heard the Booker comparisons before for Herro. He knows how to play the game and I feel he will be a better pro than a college player much like Booker.

[Taget]

We don't need another herro. Dude will be a bust I'm 89% certain of it. Outside that good post yo lots of work here. I enjoyed it.

Sorry can't resist.

Watch on YouTube

Always love the NBA "comparisons" they have in mock drafts. You always see Michael Jordan or Tim Duncan or Gary Payton when you're lucky if anyone below pick 10 is better than Greg Kite, Jerome Moiso, or Omar Cook. Unless it's Toronto or San Antonio who use some evil voodoo magic. I give this mock draft major kudos for making a Priest Lauderdale comparison!

[m haynes]

Bol Bol swing for the fences

Watch on YouTube