2021 NBA Mock Draft 1.0: Timberwolves keep pick, Magic load up

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - MARCH 21: Cade Cunningham #2 of the Oklahoma State Cowboys reacts against the Oregon State Beavers during the second half in the second round game of the 2021 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Hinkle Fieldhouse on March 21, 2021 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /

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INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA – MARCH 22: Drew Peterson #13 and Evan Mobley #4 of the USC Trojans. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) /

2. Orlando Magic – Evan Mobley, Forward/Big, USC

The Magic, following a trade that sent their star to Chicago, would be reloading on young talent quickly if they were fortunate enough to have a top-3 selection in this draft. While, yes, the team received Wendell Carter as a part of the Bulls trade (as well as selecting Mo Bamba with a top-10 selection in 2018), Evan Mobley is the best player on the board, and getting talent should always be prioritized over fit in the draft (see: James Wiseman over LaMelo Ball, DeAndre Ayton/Marvin Bagley over Luka Doncic).

That said, Mobley might even be able to share the floor with Carter. Mobley brings an advanced all-around game that would allow him to stretch out to the perimeter at some points. He’s a good passer for his size, has shown an ability to hit 3-pointers, and is simply more mobile than 90-percent of NBA big men. Defensively, he’s the best rim protector in this draft class, and Mobley has the ability to switch and defend in space. Think Jaren Jackson.

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