2024 NBA Mock Draft: Timberwolves grab seasoned prospect, Wizards reach for center

29. Utah Jazz - Justin Edwards, Kentucky

A preseason lottery projection, Kentucky's Justin Edwards' draft stock has declined after a mediocre freshman season in Lexington. The 20-year-old forward averaged just 8.8 points per game in 21.5 minutes of action.

The former top-five recruit was the odd man out on a deep Wildcats squad. He started 30 of 32 games but never played in a featured role. Edwards possesses the prototypical combination of length, size, and athleticism. At 6-foot-6, 210 pounds with a 6-foot-10 wingspan, Edwards is picturesque.

However, Edwards is more of a hypothetical prospect at this point. Luckily for the Jazz, the 28th selection is their second of two first-round picks. After selecting a wing at number 10, they double down with yet another wing here.

The former Wildcat's best offensive skill is spot-up shooting. He can get to the rim, but his drives are basic and his finishing is left-hand exclusive. More creation from Edwards may have increased his draft stock. Perhaps playing on a guard-heavy Kentucky team limited their best recruit's game.

Like many freshman forwards, the idea of Edwards' defense is better than actuality. His physicals point to him being a plus-defender, but he wasn't active on the less glamorous end. Edwards racked up less than a steal per game. And far too often, the five-star freshman opted to foul his opponent. Edwards averaged 5.5 fouls per 40 minutes.