As the postseason marches on, NBA Draft season has just begun. The Minnesota Timberwolves punched their tickets to the Western Conference Finals by defeating the Denver Nuggets in Game 7 on Sunday night.
The squads joining the Timberwolves will be the Dallas Mavericks, Boston Celtics, and Indiana Pacers. Just as four teams hoping to compete for the Larry O'Brien trophy have come to an end, their sights have now been redirected to the draft. Two more will follow in the coming weeks, before the final two after the conclusion of the NBA Finals.
As it stands, 26 teams have nothing else to look forward to besides the offseason. With the draft up first, we'll project each squad's first-round selection based on team need and positional fit. Without further ado, the first mock draft of a three-part series.
1. Atlanta Hawks - Alexandre Sarr, Perth
The unanimous number one prospect in the draft is Alexandre Sarr. The 7-foot big man is the NBA's next unicorn. He's not as accomplished as the unicorns of seasons past, however. The 19-year-old center averaged 9.6 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game as a Perth Wildcat.
First and foremost, no matter what team won the lottery—Sarr was the likeliest choice. His combination of size, finesse, and foot speed make this selection an easy one. Like last year's first overall pick, Sarr should come in and make a difference on the defensive end. He's a talented, versatile defender. Sarr excels in drop coverage, as a help defender, and when defending guards and wings.
Sarr doesn't move like a 7-footer. He covers space extremely well—even better than most forwards. One of the 7-footer's best defensive showings was during a one-on-one matchup with fellow lottery prospect Ron Holland. In the possession, Sarr switched onto the 6-foot-8 Holland who barreled down the lane full speed. Sarr stuck with the Ignite star and swatted his shot off the glass.
The former Wildcats center's defense is further along than his offense. He's a premier interior threat due to his massive catch radius and quick leaping ability. Sarr is still improving his perimeter game. The potential first-overall pick shot just 29.8 percent on 47 3-point attempts this past season. His shot isn't the most fluid, but shooting 71.4 percent from the foul line bodes well for continued progress.
Furthermore, his skill level does usher some taller, Bam Adebayo comparisons. A Jaren Jackson Jr comparison is also valid, due to the two-way big versatility. Sarr is reminiscent of Adebayo as a short-roll playmaker. Before the bewilderment sets in, the former Kentucky star averaged just 0.8 assists as a freshman in college. Sarr averaged 0.9 assists but displayed a keen passing ability.
2. Washington Wizards - Donovan Clingan, UConn
The first surprise selection of this mock draft belongs to the Washington Wizards. UConn's Donovan Clingan isn't the unicorn like the 7-footer before, however, he is a fierce two-way presence. Clingan is a massive, 7-foot-2 big who sports a 7-foot-7 wingspan.
As a freshman, who only averaged 13.1 minutes, Clingan averaged 1.8 blocks per game. In an extended role this past season, the Huskies pivot averaged 2.5 swats. On a per-40-minute basis, he averaged an incredible 4.4 rejections per game.
Clingan operates best as a help or drop defender. Clingan isn't as mobile as a forward which prevents him from playing defense comfortably in space. While not capable of defending guards one-on-one, he has shown an impressive ability to pursue and recover when beaten.
Aside from his defensive prowess, Clingan is a great rebounder. He anticipates shots well and succeeds on both the offensive and defensive glass. The most questionable part of Clingan's game is his offensive versatility. He hasn't shown much besides dunks, lay-ups, or hook shots. His offensive repertoire might be basic, but he's a great pick-and-roll presence. Clingan's great hands allow him to catch all kinds of passes.
The 7-foot-2 big man will likely be used as a high-post passing hub. He demonstrated the ability to work well with dribble hand-offs and consistently hit his teammates when cutting back door. What makes drafting Clingan so high is his relative lack of production. His per-40-minute averages are beyond great. What's most concerning is Clingan has only played 30-plus minutes on three separate occasions. Can he be a worthwhile starter out the gate?
3. Houston Rockets - Zaccharie Risacher, JL Bourg
The Houston Rockets are in need of a star. While Alperen Sengun may qualify for star status, another All-Star caliber year will help catapult the Turkish star into the NBA's elite. Zaccharie Risacher isn't a surefire bet, not even as a borderline All-Star, but he is an intriguing 3-and-D prospect.
Houston's star search likely won't be fulfilled in this draft. Nevertheless, adding Risacher adds to an already impressive, young core. The 19-year-old is loaded with potential and can immediately add value as a spot-up shooter.
Even though drafting another forward might seem a bit redundant after adding Amen Thompson and Cam Whitmore a season ago, Risacher is the best prospect available at this point in the draft. It wouldn't be a major surprise to see Houston select either of the Kentucky guards in this spot instead.
Risacher, however, is a seamless fit on any squad. His size combined shooting potential will be too good to surpass. Between the LNB Pro A season and the EuroCup, the French wing knocked down 42.4 percent of his triples. Risacher doesn't possess great assist numbers, but that's because he hasn't been asked to create.
The sharpshooting wing has only shown glimpses of playmaking thus far. He's a spot-up threat who relies on others to create for him. Risacher is similar to another former third-overall selection—Otto Porter. The former Georgetown Hoya came into the league with a thin frame and loads of potential. He fit in extremely well as a 3-and-D wing on a fairly good Wizards team.
4. San Antonio Spurs - Rob Dillingham, Kentucky
A dark horse for the best player to come out of this draft class, Kentucky's Rob Dillingham is lightning in a bottle. The 19-year-old comes from a long line of John Calipari guards. He averaged 15.2 points and 3.9 assists per game while knocking down 44.4 percent of his triples.
Like his lottery-bound teammate, Dillingham came off the bench as a freshman for the Wildcats. Although he played a reserve role, the lightning-quick guard averaged 23.3 minutes per contest. In a somewhat limited role, he shined.
The Kentucky product is one of the best shot-makers in the draft. He can score from beyond the arc, in the mid-range, or at the rim. Dillingham is a quick ball-handler who possesses a slick dribble package. The burst from his crossover and between-the-legs dribble is next to none—he explodes after making a move to get past his defender.
What limits Dillingham is his size. He's very athletic, yet he's not a preternatural playmaker. Dillingham is a solid playmaker who can be relied upon to make basic reads. On the small side with a slight frame, the Kentucky guard will likely have a tough time finishing in the NBA.
Besides the potential finishing problems, Dillingham's lack of muscle and length plays a part in the lack of his defensive upside. Fortunately, being mocked to the Spurs will ease Dillingham's defensive burden. Having Victor Wembanyama as the last line of defense goes a long way. Furthermore, a Dillingham-Wembanyama duo could rival that of Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid.
5. Detroit Pistons - Cody Williams, Colorado
Several forwards are worth a look here at number five. After missing out on the first-overall pick yet again, the Detroit Pistons will look to fill their void at the wing position a bit later than expected. Enter Cody Williams.
The younger brother of star forward Jalen Williams, the Colorado product is a lanky 6-foot-7 forward who boasts a 7-foot-1 wingspan. The younger Williams wasn't able to put his talent on full display as a hyped freshman on a veteran-laden team. He only attempted 8.1 field goals per game this past season.
Despite the limited role, Williams scored 11.9 points per game and shot the ball with great efficiency. He canned 55.2 percent of his field goals and 41.5 percent of his triples. The former Buffalo hardly has any flaws on offense. His slight frame, rigid mechanics, and high turnover rate are a few nitpicks.
Even though he sports a tall frame with a lengthy wingspan, Williams is a below-the-rim athlete. He lacks the burst and strength to consistently finish at the rim. Adding muscle will be important for the 178-pound forward's development.
Williams' frame drastically increases his defensive potential, but he's only a so-so defender now. An encouraging sign from Williams' lone collegiate season was his average of 0.7 blocks per game. The 19-year-old wing brings high energy on defense. He does a great job of moving his feet and eluding picks to stay with his opposition.
6. Charlotte Hornets - Stephon Castle, UConn
A player this writer is very fond of, UConn's Stephon Castle is sure to be a polarizing prospect. He played as essentially the fifth fiddle on a championship squad. Castle averaged 27.0 minutes per game, but he just attempted 8.5 field goals.
Standing 6-foot-6 with a strong, athletic build, Castle is a prototypical off-guard prospect. Although he has the size to line up at the two, he possesses the requisite playmaking chops to run point. Castle's size allows for him to make nearly every pass. Plus, the former Husky is a quick processor who generally makes the right read.
Castle's biggest swing skill is his shooting. The UConn product shot just 26.7 percent from beyond the arc. He still impacted his team's offense without quality spot-up shooting; but if he ever adds a reliable, confident 3-point stroke—watch out.
Part of the excitement revolving around Castle is his defense. He's such a fluid athlete who gracefully moves up and down the floor. He's energetic when defending the ball and hyper-aware away from it. At 6-foot-6, it isn't a stretch to ask Castle to defend up to four positions.
The athletic guard's fit in Charlotte is ideal. He'd slide right in between LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller. Additionally, he'd be capable of handling point guard duties without Ball on the floor—a common theme throughout his career.
7. Portland Trail Blazers - Matas Buzelis, G-League Ignite
The Portland Trail Blazers are a rare bottom-tier squad without a glaring hole on their roster. The average age of positions one through three is 21 years. The frontcourt is a tad older and comprises several above-average, handsomely paid players—Jerami Grant and DeAndre Ayton.
The Blazers are still in need of a major talent infusion. In the seventh slot, G-League Ignite forward Matas Buzelis is one of the more intriguing prospects who offers loads of potential. The 6-foot-9 wing is a versatile offensive talent. Although he's the size of a power forward, he plays like a two-guard.
Buzelis isn't there quite yet, but he projects as a quality playmaker down the road. The Ignite star averaged 1.9 assists to 2.1 turnovers per game this past season. What holds him back currently is a loose handle. His passing chops are superior to his ball-handling ability.
Scoring-wise, the 19-year-old is a good slasher and an adequate spot-up shooter. He only knocked down 27.3 percent of his looks from beyond the arc this past season. Playing for the Ignite, however, didn't do Buzelis any favors.
Without assessing Buzelis's numbers under too harsh of a microscope, he's a savvy player with a keen understanding of how to make a difference both offensive and defensively. Matching up one-on-one might not be a strong suit for the lanky forward, but his team-defensive potential is validated by averaging 0.9 steals and 2.1 blocks per game.
8. San Antonio Spurs - Nikola Topic, Crvena Zvezda
Another playmaker for San Antonio. After drafting franchise centerpiece Victor Wembanyama less than a year ago, there's no downside to adding multiple playmakers in one draft. Although Dillingham is an electric creator, Nikola Topic is more of a lanky, slithery creator at 6-foot-6.
Additionally, Topic isn't nearly as good of a shooter as Dillingham. What he makes up for in Dillingham's weaknesses is he's a manipulative offensive player. Topic doesn't just make the easy read, he's a Luka Doncic-like passer who makes passes with the second and third defenders in mind.
The 18-year-old is an elite live-dribble passer who's capable of whipping passes all around the court with one hand. Topic is a downhill driver who gets to the rim without extreme athleticism. He's equally as good at using both hands and does a great job of drawing fouls.
Where Topic falters on offense is shooting. He's not a comfortable spot-up shooter. His release isn't consistent and his motion is a bit funky. The young guard works best as an off-the-dribble scorer. If Topic was a plus-shooter, there'd be a conversation to be selected first.
Furthermore, Topic's defense is so-so. He's a savvy defender but lacks the strength or athleticism to make a difference on the less glamorous end. However, as it's already been mentioned, Topic's defensive chops are less of a selling point for the Spurs brass. With Wembanyama as a back-line defender, it doesn't matter who's out on the perimeter.
9. Memphis Grizzlies - Ron Holland, G-League Ignite
The now-defunct NBA G-League Ignite seemed to breed special athletes who lacked efficiency. Ron Holland epitomizes this exact scenario. The 6-foot-8 forward averaged 20.6 points per game, but he did so with subpar efficiency. Holland shot 44.4 percent from the floor and 24.0 percent from beyond the arc.
Although he shot such a low 3-point percentage, he wasn't gun-shy, letting 3.6 attempts rip from deep per game. Holland is a stiff shooter who doesn't look very comfortable off-the-catch. His motion offers unnecessary movement as he almost brings the ball to his knees before his final release. The top of his motion is workable, but the rest likely needs altering to improve consistency.
While he struggles to knock down spot-up attempts, he excels when cutting to the rim. Think former Ignite star Jonathan Kuminga when envisioning Holland. He's a phenomenal athlete who glides to the rim. The 6-foot-8 forward is an effortless athlete—one of the best in the draft.
His fit on the Memphis Grizzlies is ideal. Memphis is only picking this high in the draft because a rash of injuries decimated last season's squad. Next year, the Grizzlies will begin the season with nearly the same team that won 51 games two years ago.
As the Warriors did with Kuminga, the Grizzlies can bring Holland along slowly. Memphis is one of the few lottery teams that can offer Holland the chance to focus on developing his offense while honing his skills on the defensive end. At 19 years old, he's already a special defender. This past season, the Texas native averaged 2.5 steals and 0.7 blocks per game.
10. Utah Jazz - Ja'Kobe Walter, Baylor
After completely dismantling the team a few years ago, the Utah Jazz are suddenly a deep squad. Utah runs almost two-deep at every position. Despite the depth, the Jazz are without a true complementary scorer alongside Lauri Markkanen.
Sure, Utah has several endearing options such as Collin Sexton, Jordan Clarkson, John Collins, and Keyonte George. Still, a common theme amongst the aforementioned players is their lack of positional versatility.
Baylor's Ja'Kobe Walter is only 6-foot-4 but possesses a 6-foot-10 wingspan. He's also 200 pounds at 19-years-old which bodes well for future positional flexibility. At this stage in his career, Walter works best as an off-the-ball scorer.
He doesn't offer much ball-handling juice as his dribble package is somewhat limited. Walter either attempts to get past his defender using his speed or goes to a crossover when things go awry. His spot-up shooting is what separates Walter from other prospects.
The Baylor wing shot just 34.1 percent from beyond the arc, but he looked good doing so. Walter is an uber-confident shooter. He excels coming off screens and hand-offs to get open looks. His offensive game isn't the most robust just yet. Nonetheless, his game screams primary or secondary scoring potential.
11. Chicago Bulls - Dalton Knecht, Tennessee
Vying for the title of the best shooter in the draft, Tennessee's Dalton Knecht is a late bloomer. Already 23 years old, Knecht began his career playing for Northeastern Junior College in Colorado before finishing his junior and senior seasons in the Big Sky Conference.
Knecht transferred to the University of Tennessee for a fifth and final season after averaging 20.2 points for Northern Colorado. Despite spending most of his collegiate career on lesser-known squads, Knecht's best skill proved easily transferable to a major Division I program.
The former Volunteer is a knockdown 3-point shooter and advanced scorer. He buried 2.6 triples per game at a 39.7 percent clip as a senior at Tennessee. Knecht also showed a knack for drawing fouls. He averaged 5.7 free throw attempts per contest.
The sharpshooting wing's fit on the Chicago Bulls is interesting. The Bulls' best players are wings in DeMar DeRozan and Zach LaVine. However, Chicago is seemingly always wanting to compete and Knecht is the best prospect available at number 11.
DeRozan and former fourth-overall pick Patrick Williams are both free agents. The question is, does Chicago re-sign both players, just one of them, or let both walk? No matter what, Knecht is an intriguing fit on the roster and one of the more refined players in the draft.
12. Oklahoma City Thunder - Kel'el Ware, Indiana
Indiana's Kel'el Ware placement in the draft is almost boundless. Several mock drafts place Ware in the 20s, while others have him in the teens. In this mock draft, the athletic big man comes in at 12. Ware's fit on the Oklahoma City Thunder is picture-perfect.
At 7-foot, 230 pounds, Ware is a phenomenal athlete. Aside from his impressive physicals, he's a skilled player. The Indiana big man connected on 17-of-40 triples this season, good for a 42.5 percent clip from distance.
On offense, Ware offers plenty of pick-and-roll and pick-and-pop potential. He's a graceful athlete who dunks everything in sight. As a roll man, Ware is an adept lob catcher who understands positioning extremely well.
Besides dunks and spot-up shooting, Ware demonstrated an intriguing mid-range game. Rather than shying away from post-ups, Ware would routinely call for the ball on the interior. From there, he'd use a hook or even a fall-away jumper to score over defenders.
Although he's such a skilled prospect, there's some concern for Ware. He's not very physical and appears to lack strength. However, a 20-pound increase from his collegiate playing weight to the NBA Combine is a sign of what's to come for the 20-year-old big man.
13. Sacramento Kings - Reed Sheppard, Kentucky
Other draftniks regard Reed Sheppard much higher than myself. Here, Sheppard *drops* to the Sacramento Kings at 13. For the Kings, it's truly the best available player pick and a potential Malik Monk replacement.
The reason for a late-lottery placement is Sheppard's questionable fit in the NBA. His efficiency was incredible at Kentucky, but he only attempted 8.0 field goals per game. Can Sheppard be a strong scorer is a question many scouts and coaches are likely to pose.
After soaring up draft boards, Sheppard's final collegiate game left a sour taste in several evaluators' mouths. He scored only three points and made just 1-of-5 field goals in the Wildcats' first-round upset.
While small in stature, Sheppard doesn't project as a floor general at the next level. He displayed great passing instincts, averaging 4.5 assists per game, but he's not super shifty off the dribble and can struggle against length.
What makes Sheppard so unique is his defense. It's not every day you witness a 6-foot-3 guard with an equally long wingspan disrupt opposing offenses as consistently as Sheppard. The former Wildcat averaged 2.5 steals and 0.7 blocks per game as a freshman.
He does so in such a nonchalant way. Sheppard's processing time and hands are lightning-quick. One second he's a help defender, standing in the paint, the next, he's intercepting a pass at the 3-point line.
14. Portland Trail Blazers - Jared McCain, Duke
First a blend of playmaking and shot-creating, now onto shooting. Perhaps the best spot-up shooter in the draft, Duke's Jared McCain is either a potential Anfernee Simons replacement (if he were to be traded) or additional help to an injury-marred backcourt.
As a freshman in Durham, McCain averaged 14.3 points and connected on 87 of 210 triples. The 20-year-old guard shot 41.4 percent from deep and 88.5 percent from the foul line. His shooting is for real.
McCain's base is exactly what you look for when assessing a shooter. He stands shoulder-width apart with a slight bend in his knees. The Duke freshman is also already ready to shoot. He wastes no movement bending back down upon the catch, he expects the ball.
McCain isn't the best athlete, and his 6-foot-3 frame doesn't offer much margin for error. But lights-out shooting is the greatest skill in today's NBA. Despite his size, he's not a floor general. McCain profiles more so as a two-guard in the association.
Not to say the freshman guard isn't a good passer, he's just not a dynamic playmaker. McCain's playmaking abilities are best described as savvy. He makes the right read more times than not and doesn't get himself into precarious situations.
15. Miami Heat - Devin Carter, Providence
The Miami Heat lack a true floor general. While Tyler Herro and Terry Rozier can initiate the offense, neither guard poses a primary playmaker. Although Providence's Devin Carter isn't a typical lead guard, he's a premier perimeter defender and an above-average playmaker on the offensive end.
At this point in the draft, the top guards are already off the board while the others would feel like a reach. Usc Trojans' Isaiah Collier is certainly an option here, but Carter just feels like a Miami pick. He's tough, has a high basketball IQ, and plays with an unmatched level of intensity.
The Friar guard's strong passion for the game showed up in the box score. Carter averaged 8.7 rebounds, 1.8 steals, and 1.0 blocks per game despite standing 6-foot-3. Aside from the hustle stats, Carter's shown a knack for scoring throughout his collegiate career.
Carter averaged 19.7 points while canning 2.5 triples per game this past season. He's as comfortable driving as he is spotting up from beyond the arc. The junior guard is decisive when he drives even though he doesn't possess an advanced handle.
Shooting is likely Carter's biggest swing skill. His form doesn't reaffirm optimism in his junior year percentages. The third-year guard shot 26.7 percent as a freshman and 29.9 percent as a sophomore before knocking down 37.7 percent of his 3-pointers a season ago.
16. Philadelphia 76ers - Tidjane Salaun, Cholet Basket
The Philadelphia 76ers will likely be focused on free agency and the trade market rather than the draft. With over $50 million to spend, Philadelphia will surely make a run at marquee-free agents such as Paul George or Klay Thompson.
Besides Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, next year's Philadelphia squad will look much different, however, before the draft comes free agency. The Sixers are fortunate enough to draft inside the top 20 for the first time in six years.
Here, France's Tidjane Salaun is the selection. The 6-foot-9 forward is only 18 years old. He projects as a two-way, versatile combo forward. Salaun averaged 8.9 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 1.1 steals per game as one of the youngest players in France's LNB Elite league.
The Frenchman is more of a long-term bet at this stage. He's the classic raw European prospect who possesses elite intangibles. Salaun's length and his impressive instincts make his potential defensive versatility easy to envision.
His offensive potential is much more difficult to project. Salaun isn't a consistent shooter, yet he appears confident when letting it go from deep. He only shot 32.6 percent on 4.2 triples per game. All in all, Salaun is reminiscent of a prospect the Sixers would've selected during "the Process" era.
17. New Orleans Pelicans - Yves Missi, Baylor
Back-to-back raw prospects appear in this mock draft. This time around, Yves Missi is a big man who played stateside this past season. The Bears' center averaged 10.7 points, 5.6 boards, and 1.5 blocks per game.
While Salaun was the classic European prospect, Missi is the classic rim-rolling big. He's a high-flyer who feeds off lobs on offense. The Baylor center shot 61.4 percent from the floor as a freshman. 63 of his 140 made field goals were dunks.
Standing 7-foot with a 7-foot-5 wingspan, Missi's the ideal rim protector. He's long, strong, and mobile. The Belgium-born center came to Baylor likely close to his high school weight of 215. Now, Missi is listed at a chiseled 235 pounds.
He's a fluid athlete who'd fit right in with the New Orleans Pelicans. Thus far into Zion Williamson's career, New Orleans has employed Jonas Valanciunas next to the former first-overall pick. While Valanciunas stretches the floor, he doesn't offer much rim protection. The Pelicans ranked in the bottom third of the league in blocks and opponent's paint field goal percentage.
Missi is exactly the type of player to alleviate these shortcomings. At 19 years old, he may not be ready to step into a heavy minute role right away. Nevertheless, Missi is a high-upside prospect at this stage of the draft who resembles players like Jalen Duren and Mark Williams.
18. Orlando Magic - Terrence Shannon Jr., Illinois
Scoring, scoring, and more scoring. That's what Illinois' Terrence Shannon Jr. does. What makes Shannon Jr. such an ideal fit for the Orlando Magic is his what was reiterated thrice to begin the paragraph—scoring.
Shannon Jr. is the ideal shotmaker. He's a 6-foot-6 shooting guard with elite athleticism. If the high-flying guard was 19, there'd be an argument to be made for Shannon Jr. to be drafted first overall. However, the former Texas Tech Red Raider will be 24 years old by the beginning of next season.
Ideally, Shannon Jr. is a plug-and-play prospect. The Magic are loaded with quality defenders and jumbo-sized wings. Yet the Floridian squad lacks a downhill attacking point guard and a high-volume scorer. Shannon Jr. offers the latter.
As a graduate senior, Shannon Jr. averaged 23.0 points per game. He shot 47.5 percent from the field, 36.2 percent from beyond the arc, and 80.1 percent on 8.6 free throw attempts per contest. Despite his advanced age, Shannon Jr. does carry some risk.
The 23-year-old guard was merely an average contributor through his first three seasons in Lubbock. His breakout came once he transferred to Illinois. Although there's some risk in drafting a 24-year-old in the top 20, Shannon Jr.'s shotmaking appears to be a transferrable skill.
Shannon Jr. is a top-notch athlete who excels in the halfcourt and transition. His shooting may be come-and-go, but his high free-throw percentage (79.3 percent for his career) is a sign of a consistent shooter.
19. Toronto Raptors - Carlton Carrington, Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh's Carlton Carrington is an interesting prospect. He's still 18 years old and coming off a season where he averaged 13.8 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game. The Pitt Panther's shortcomings were his shooting percentages. He shot only 41.2 percent from the floor and 32.2 percent from 3-point land.
Carrington's field goal percentage likely suffered due to his high difficulty of shots. The freshman is fantastic in the mid-range, but his favorite area of the floor also tends to yield the lowest percentages.
What makes Carrington an intriguing fit in Toronto is his bucket-getting ability. The Toronto Raptors drafted a spot-up marksman last offseason in Gradey Dick. This time around, the Raptors add a young shotmaker.
Immanuel Quickley, the Raptors' midseason trade acquisition, is somewhat redundant to Carrington, but where the players differ is Quickley's vast improvement as a lead guard. The former Knick averaged 6.8 assists in Toronto. It's likely the Raptors draft based on potential rather than fit.
With Gary Trent Jr. hitting free agency, another scoring guard will do wonders for the Toronto offense. Additionally, the Raptors are in a bit of disarray after dealing franchise centerpiece Pascal Siakam last season. It's time for Toronto to take a home-run approach in the draft.
20. Cleveland Cavaliers - Isaiah Collier, USC
Isaiah Collier's minor slide ends in Cleveland. Of course, the Cavaliers are set in the backcourt with Donovan Mitchell (maybe) and Darius Garland. Nonetheless, drafting in the 20s usually yields reserves.
The Cavaliers lack quality reserve guard play. Aside from Caris LeVert, the Cavs' rotated between Sam Merrill and Craig Porter Jr. as the backup guards. Both Garland and Mitchell are more than capable ball handlers, but both guards have yet to suit up for at least 70 games since Garland entered the league in 2019.
Isaiah Collier is reminiscent of the 2023 NBA Draft's 20th selection, Cam Whitmore. He's a good prospect, likely to have a successful rookie season, but some things are missing. With Whitmore, it was concerning medicals and inconsistent workouts.
Similar to Whitmore, Collier's physicals are top-notch sans the height. However, Collier won't have the same concerning medicals. What the USC guard suffers from is the Trojans' porous season and inefficient marks from both the 3-point and free-throw line.
The 6-foot-5 guard shot 33.8 percent from beyond the arc and 67.3 percent from the charity stripe. Despite the inefficiency, he averaged 16.3 points per game and knocked down 49.0 percent of his field goals.
Collier is a big guard who possesses a unique frame for a point guard. He's strong but also quick at 205 pounds. Collier is a shifty ball handler who uses a wide array of dribble moves to get past his primary defender. Aside from his scoring, Collier's passing potential is vast.
21. New Orleans Pelicans - Johnny Furphy, Kansas
Another jumbo-sized wing? Check. The New Orleans Pelicans are flush with athletic, 6-foot-7, and up wings who can handle the ball, shoot it from the outside, and defend multiple positions. However, it looks like one of these forwards will be off the roster come next season.
Adding Kansas' Johnny Furphy toes the line between present positional fit and potential long-term value. Although the Pelicans were swept in the first round, the roster is flush with talent. Sure, a true point guard looks like a need, but New Orleans has appeared content with C.J. McCollum, Jose Alvarado, Dyson Daniels, and even Zion Williamson handling the point.
Furphy is an athletic, 6-foot-9 wing who offers spot-up shooting and elite off-ball movement. Unlike many of the current Pelicans, Furphy is active away from the ball. He'll fit right in as a transition weapon. The Jayhawks' forward would form a dynamic duo with fellow Aussie Daniels in the reserve unit.
Defensively, Furphy's flaws would be well hidden as the Pelicans are replete with numerous lanky defenders. The 19-year-old is by no means a bad defender. However, a lack of agility has hurt Furphy's one-on-one defense.
The Kansas wing is reminiscent of Wizard's forward Bilal Coulibaly. Both players are raw at this stage and will only offer transition buckets and spot-up shooting out the gate. Neither player is a confident ball handler due to a lack of dribble moves.
22. Phoenix Suns - Kevin McCullar Jr., Kansas
The Phoenix Suns have no choice but to choose a win-now player. Phoenix will essentially run it back after being swept by the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round of the playoffs. Last year's starting five of Devin Booker, Grayson Allen, Bradley Beal, Kevin Durant, and Jusuf Nurkic are locked in for years to come.
Kansas' Kevin McCullar Jr. is already 23 years old and profiles well in just about any system. Thus making him a realistic option for the Suns. Midseason addition, Royce O'Neale who played 26.0 minutes per game in the postseason, is set to be a free-agent, and McCullar Jr. makes for a worthy replacement.
The Jayhawks forward took a massive step this past season after four average seasons split between the Texas Tech Red Raiders and Jayhawks. In three seasons in Lubbock, McCullar Jr. averaged just 8.7 points and shot below 30.0 percent from beyond the arc.
In McCullar Jr.'s fifth season, he averaged 18.3 points and canned 33.3 percent of his looks from downtown. The Kansas forward has always been a reliable rebounder and plus-playmaker, but his scoring development has pushed him up draft boards.
Think of a less-efficient Josh Hart as a reasonable comparison. Both players value rebounding and can score when called upon, but neither player is the first, second, or even third option. McCullar Jr.'s shooting will be heavily analyzed as the combine ensues. If the 23-year-old shoots it well, he could find himself chosen before 22.
23. Milwaukee Bucks - Tyler Smith, G-League Ignite
Selecting Tyler Smith of the G-League Ignite feels like a John Hammond-esque choice. The current Orlando Magic senior advisor and former Milwaukee Bucks general manager made a living selecting lanky, raw forwards.
Smith is a 19-year-old, versatile forward who averaged 13.5 points, 1.0 blocks and shot 36.4 percent on 4.0 long-range looks per game. The lefty forward has a smooth shooting stroke with a high release point.
While Milwaukee is set in the frontcourt, the Bucks are suddenly one of the oldest teams in the association. Adding Smith bodes extremely well for the future. He fits nicely next to franchise centerpiece Giannis Antetokounmpo as forward or center.
What makes Smith an intriguing prospect is his potential. He's still adding muscle—listed 205 as a senior in high school, then 224 pounds a season ago. If Smith bulks up to 230 pounds, he'll likely improve on the defensive end.
The Ignite forward has the size and athleticism to become a quality defender, but he's far from it. Smith's lack of defensive IQ and intensity were apparent in the G-League. He often looked lost when defending both the pick-and-roll and away from the ball.
24. New York Knicks - Kyle Filipowski, Duke
New York native, Kyle Filipowski, came back for a second season at Duke and showed all-around improvement. Despite a slight increase in counting stats, Filipowski's offensive efficiency and defense looked much improved.
The 7-footer shot 50.5 percent from the floor as a sophomore, a six-percent increase over his freshman season. Additionally, Filipowski's 3-point percentage rose from 28.2 percent to 34.8 percent.
If anything, Filipowski will add a jolt of offense the New York Knicks desperately need. New York has relied heavily upon Jalen Brunson to score in the postseason. The loss of Julius Randle has forced the Knicks to rely on their lefty floor general and former Villanova Wildcats Josh Hart and Donte DiVincenzo.
Sure, Filipowski won't come in and average double-digit points, especially on a Tom Thibodeau-ran squad. But he's a nice fit as a backup four who can soak up minutes at the five. The Knicks starting center, Isaiah Hartenstein, will likely price himself out of New York. With two picks in the late first round, adding a Hartenstein replacement is essential.
The 20-year-old big man projects as a solid two-way big. His offensive game is well-rounded and his defense is serviceable. Filipowski averaged 1.5 blocks and 1.1 steals per game in Durham a season ago. At 7-foot and 230 pounds with good coordination, Filipowski won't be a weak link on the defensive end of the floor.
25. New York Knicks - Ryan Dunn, Virginia
Now Ryan Dunn is a Thibodeau pick. The 6-foot-8 forward by way of Virginia is an absolute menace on the defensive end. When looking up a Dunn scouting report, it typically begins with his defense. As a sophomore, the athletic forward averaged 6.9 rebounds, 1.3 steals, and 2.3 blocks per contest.
The Cavaliers' ball-hawking ability will immediately translate from the collegiate landscape to the NBA a la Matisse Thybulle. Dunn's feet seem to always be moving and he possesses an otherworldly ability to anticipate passing lanes and shot attempts.
Although he stands at just 6-foot-8, Dunn is a lethal help defender. He's a deterrent on the interior, constantly blocking shots and forcing erratic looks. Like a star linebacker, Dunn is terrific from sideline to sideline. There were many times when Dunn wasn't the nearest help defender but he positioned himself to make the play or cut off a driving line.
The key to unlocking Dunn is his 3-point shooting. Through two seasons at Virginia, the 21-year-old forward only knocked down 12 of 51 attempts from deep. Dunn's shot doesn't necessarily look clunky, but there is wasted movement in his motion. He starts with a wide base before narrowing his feet upon release. And, his release is long, he tends to bring the ball down to his waist as soon as he catches.
Dunn is well aware of his offensive limitations. Upon the catch, he looks to do two things: pass, or not so often, shoot. His best offensive skill is his off-ball movement. Like on defense, the sophomore forward always seems to be moving and finding space. A great athlete who stands 6-foot-8, Dunn is an extremely good and powerful finisher.
26. Washington Wizards - Tristan Da Silva, Colorado
After selecting a high-upside prospect with their first of two first-round selections, the Wizards decide to add a seasoned prospect with 26. Colorado's Tristan Da Silva played in four seasons for the Buffaloes and racked up 98 starts in his time in Boulder.
At 23 years old, Da Silva is the type of player to produce right away. He's a valuable catch-and-shoot player who can also score off the dribble. Da Silva is a career 49.3 percent shooter from the floor and 38.6 percent shooter from beyond the arc.
Unlike Washington's recent draft picks, Da Silva's offensive repertoire is already vast. At 6-foot-9, he's a nimble athlete. Da Silva moves well around the arc and appears ready to shoot as soon as he catches.
The senior forward isn't solely a half-court threat. He's equally viable as a ball handler and gunner in transition. Whether it be making a play for others or taking it himself, Da Silva is comfortable on the fast break.
Furthermore, his half-court offense is propped up by an avid post-game. Da Silva does a nice job using his frame to score over and with his back to his opponents. The Wizards are full of forwards, but many of them are singular in their skills—Da Silva provides an optimal range of offensive talent.
27. Minnesota Timberwolves - Tyler Kolek, Marquette
The Timberwolves are in uncharted waters. Minnesota has reached the Conference Semifinals for the first time in 20 years. Due to the squad's success, they'll draft near the end of the first round. In this slot, the typical selection is either a raw prospect or an established collegian.
This pick exemplifies the latter. Marquette's Tyler Kolek spent four seasons at the collegiate level, one with George Mason and the rest with the Golden Eagles. Kolek's best season came as a senior. That season, he averaged 15.3 points, 7.7 assists, and 1.6 steals per game.
The senior guard is one of the best passers in the draft class. He's a pick-and-roll maestro with a penchant for making the right play and breaking down defenses. As with many great passers, Kolek excels at making the help or secondary defender commit before making his move.
Kolek projects to be a decent scorer in the big leagues. His scoring production will likely remind some of Tyus or Tre Jones. He's a below-the-rim finisher, but a good driver. His shooting was pretty consistent in his final two seasons at Marquette. However, Kolek has never been a volume shooter. He plays within the rhythm of the offense.
Adding Kolek to the Wolves roster seems too perfect. Minnesota's starting point guard is a 36-year-old lefty who likely shouldn't be playing 30-plus minutes for too much longer. The reserves are Monte Morris and Jordan MacLaughlin—two players on expiring contracts. Kolek would fit extremely well as a backup guard whose primary goal is to distribute the rock.
28. Denver Nuggets - Bobi Klintman, Cairns
Bobi Klintman of Sweden has taken a winding path to find himself in the draft. After growing up overseas, Klintman played his senior year of high school stateside. The versatile forward then committed to the University of Wake Forrest. There, he averaged just 5.3 points and 4.5 rebounds per game before declaring for the 2023 NBA Draft.
Instead of keeping his name in last year's draft, he departed for Australia. Klintman suited up for the Cairns Taipans of the National Basketball League (NBL). In his lone season down under, the versatile forward averaged 9.7 points and 4.8 rebounds per contest.
The 6-foot-10 forward is a raw prospect with extremely high upside. Klintman's frame, agility, and shooting potential add to his intrigue. The Denver Nuggets may lack the requisite depth of most championship contenders, but that doesn't mean they can't take a risk with their first-rounder.
As a 21-year-old, both Klintman's offense and defense are unrefined. He's shown glimpses of high-level two-way versatility, but it's clear that the Swedish forward has a long way to go. He is at his best spotting up, cutting, or in transition. Klintman isn't quick enough or strong enough to succeed as a driver.
On defense, Klintman lacks a true position. As mentioned above, he doesn't have the strength to bang with bigs or the quickness to stay in front of guards. Despite being a tweener, there's so much room for growth. Klintman has demonstrated his competitiveness on the defensive end. And, if he bulks up, he'll easily be able to defend the power-forward spot.
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.
30. Boston Celtics - Zach Edey, Purdue
Last, but certainly not least, one of the most accomplished players of the past decade—Zach Edey. The hulking center from Purdue won back-to-back AP Player of the Year awards. Edey averaged 18.2 points, 9.6 boards, and 1.7 blocks per game over his four-year career as a Boilermaker.
Edey is easily one of the most divisive prospects in the draft. He's a 7-foot-4, 300-pound old-school big man. The Toronto-born center excelled with his back to the basket. His combination of size and skill allowed Edey to score at will in the collegiate ranks. His tremendous career was capped off by a 37-point performance in the National Championship game.
Despite Edey's accomplishments, his fit in today's NBA is questionable. Some scouts have pegged Edey as a lottery pick. Others, including this writer, have Edey near the bottom of the first round. Additionally, if not for the weak draft class, the Purdue big man would likely go in the second round.
Although his physical profile is hulking, he's durable and possesses fantastic stamina. Over Edey's final four games of his collegiate career, he averaged 39.0 minutes per game. Unlike the NBA's recent massive bigs, Edey could likely play an extended role for an NBA squad.
Edey's position in the draft is due to his playstyle. The NBA's increased pace doesn't allow for post-ups. Only two players averaged more than 4.0 post-ups per game this past season compared to 12 in 2015-16.