5. Chuma Okeke
Sophomore forward Chuma Okeke is one of the more polarizing prospects in the 2019 NBA Draft. He was the heart and soul of an Auburn team throughout the Tigers’ magical second half of the season. Bruce Pearl’s Run-N-Gun squad won each of the final 11 contests that Okeke played in, and if you watch him play, you will quickly see how many different ways he impacts the game.
While the Atlanta native will likely not offer volume scoring at the next level, he will provide excellent defensive IQ and rotational defense, all-out effort plays to energize his team, and solid 3-point shooting.
During his time at Auburn, Okeke was very effective in running a two-man game with point guard Jared Harper. Chuma frequently slipped or popped out of screens and screen rejections to find the short corner for three. Harper had a knack for taking Okeke’s defender with him on the drive, and the 6-foot-8, 230-pound big man was awesome at finding open spots on the floor for open jumpers and to create from.
Given the increased spacing in the NBA, this two-man ability would be awesome for the Wolves, especially if they can acquire Brooklyn Nets point guard D’Angelo Russell this summer.
Defensively, Okeke is one of the smartest guys in this draft. While he is not the most athletic defender available, he makes up for it with his 7-foot wingspan, which he loved employing to create deflections, steals, and fast breaks for an athletic Auburn group.
Additionally, he’s got a great frame which should help him battle down low on the defensive block and on both backboards.
Unfortunately, Okeke tore his ACL during the TIgers’ 97-80 Sweet 16 victory over North Carolina on March 29. While he would likely miss all of the 2018-19 season, there is a ton to be excited about in the second-year forward.
He would be a great long-term replacement for Taj Gibson and gets the nod over Thybulle because of Okogie’s spot on the roster.
His reel will make you a believer!