2018 NBA Mock Draft 1.0

2018 NBA Mock Draft 1.0

Now that we are halfway through the NBA season and well into the college season, here is the first mock draft of the year.

Now that we are halfway through the NBA season and well into the college season, here is the first mock draft of the year.

The NBA draft is how teams retool, rebuild, or add a crucial piece to make a run. The trick is finding the balance between whether to take the best talent or fill the biggest need. Now that we are halfway through the NBA season and well into the college season, here is the first mock draft of the year. 

1. Atlanta Hawks - Luca Doncic PG Real Madrid

Doncic has the potential to be a generational talent. He is a 6'8 point guard who has been starting and dominating for Real Madrid at age 18. He possesses a maturity and feel for the game that isn't just rare at his age but essentially unheard of. He can score from all three levels and creates shooting space with pro-level moves and great body control. His ball handling and passing abilities are good but not great. These will need to, and will, continue to develop if he wants to be a team's primary ball handler. Doncic's biggest weakness though is his lack of explosiveness and lateral speed. This results in shots being more difficult to create and individual defensive issues.

2. Orlando Magic - DeAndre Ayton C Arizona

Ayton is another prospect that possesses that rare talent that could elevate not just him but an entire franchise to an elite level. He is an athletic freak that runs the floor well, has a 7'5 wingspan, is strong, and has a great second jump. He has a solid shooting form and can score from anywhere on the floor (34.6% from three). Defensively he is a true force. He is averaging 1.8 blocks and 1.5 steals on only 2.4 fouls. His high IQ doesn't mislead him on when to jump for a block and when to just contest. Despite his extraordinary talent, he can disappear at times seeming to just go through the motions. His post moves will need to continue to develop to be effective in the NBA. Any team will be lucky to get Ayton and he could easily go first.

3. Dallas Mavericks - Marvin Bagley III PF Duke

Bagley is another great athlete with great length. At 6'10 he is able to play above smaller defenders and then utilize his quick first step to blow by his bigger opponents. He has the ability to shoot from outside but isn't too reliable. He does most of his damage in the paint where he can really put to use his excellent footwork and touch. As a playmaker, he needs a lot of work. His dribbling can be sloppy and doesn't always make the right decision when passing. Defensively he is passable in the paint but needs a lot of work when not being posted up. He often loses track of his man and can be beaten off the dribble. 

4. Sacramento Kings - Michael Porter Jr SF Missouri

The Kings invested in Fox last year, have depth with big men, and desperately need help on the wing. Porter is a bit of a risk after missing this entire season with a back injury but the talent he displayed coming out of high school is undeniable. Porter has a very smooth shot that lets him score from all three levels, is a very good athlete and plays with a smoothness and sense of maturity that is rare at this age. His size will let him play and guard multiple positions. His shooting form often leads to him resorting to shooting over defenders instead of working to get an open shot. His ball handling needs work as he is often a straight-line driver and lacks the creativity and ball security to be a consistent primary ball handler. As long as he continues to develop and stay healthy, Porter should be a very nice piece for the rebuilding Kings.

5. Phoenix Suns - Trae Young PG Oklahoma

Trae Young is one of the most polarizing prospects this year. Some think his flashy, gunslinger mentality will flame out and be a detriment to the team while others view him as the next Steph Curry. Young has a limitless range and has an extremely quick shot release which makes him so dangerous. When defenders take one misstep he punishes them. The defender's need to guard him tightly so far from the basket creates the openings for Young to beat them off the dribble. He isn't an explosive athlete but his high-level ball handling and soft touch around the rim make him a threat inside as well. His lack of athleticism will make shot creation more difficult at the next level but not impossible. Defensively he isn't a star as his lack of size leads to him getting bullied and he can get caught ball watching. Due to his desire for flashy plays and high-level passing, he tends to commit more turnovers than one would like. With that said he is also on track to lead the country in both points and assists per game. The Suns would immediately have one of the most talented and entertaining backcourts by taking Young who is one of the first true manifestations of this new pace-and-space NBA era.

6. Chicago Bulls - Kevin Knox SF Kentucky

Knox has a very fluid game for his size. He has a nice jump shot but needs to continue to develop his outside shooting. He does a great job of creating his own scoring opportunities whether off catch-and-shoot opportunities or attacking off the dribble. He is a solid passer and rebounder which allow him to constantly push the ball in transition. He isn't great at finishing through contact but isn't afraid of it when he attacks the rim. As he gets stronger the ability to finish through contact should improve as well as his trips to the free throw line. His footwork, length, and lateral quickness give him all the tools to be a good defender. He does tend to disappear when he isn't the focal point of the offense and needs to improve his off-ball movement as he frequently becomes stagnant and easy to guard. He should be a nice fit to pair with the other young talent on the Bulls.

7. Memphis Grizzlies - Mikal Bridges SF Villanova

Bridges is one of the most mature and dynamic players in the country. After being patient and developing the last three years at Villanova, he has been able to develop a strong offensive game and become one of the best wing defenders in the country. His elite footwork lets him keep up with smaller guards, his strength and instincts let him battle with bigger opponents, and his length lets him suffocate all of the above. His shot has consistently developed and he has always had a high free throw percentage so he has a solid foundation with his form. He has the ability to become a really good three-and-D wing. His basketball IQ and maturity should fit nicely with the veterans of the Grizzlies.

8. Cleveland Cavaliers via Nets - Mohamed Bamba C Texas

The Cavs desperately need defensive help and rim protection which is exactly what they will get with Bamba. He is a 7'0 elite rim protector with a 7'9 wingspan. This year he is averaging 4.4 blocks and has great instincts on defense. He is able to avoid fouling while still affecting every shot in the paint. He has solid footwork and runs the floor well. Most of his offensive game comes from put-backs and dunks. He has shown flashes of being able to develop a face-up game but in general, he lacks any offensive ability that involves creating his own shot.

9. Philadelphia 76ers via Lakers (goes to Celtics if 2-5) - Collin Sexton PG Alabama

Sexton is one of the most explosive and dynamic guards in the country and would really help Philadelphia's need for backcourt help. When he combines his speed, strength, change of pace, and creativity there are few that can stop him. He is able to pull-up in the mid-range and isn't scared of finishing through contact at the rim despite his smaller size. He isn't afraid of the spotlight and can easily take over the game. His athleticism and competitive mindset make him a pesky defender. His shooting can be sporadic and he often takes ill-advised shots. His playmaking for others and decision making also need work as his assist to turnover ratio is less than ideal for a primary ball handler. Despite this, Sexton shows a lot of promise and should be able to help the 76ers right away.

10. Charlotte Hornets - Jaren Jackson Jr PF/C Michigan St

Jackson has proven this year that there are many aspects of his game that will translate to the next level. His athleticism, coordination, and fluidity lead to him finishing with both hands in the paint and has great touch. He is a very good rebounder who is also a very good shot blocker. His decision making on rotations and ability to get off the floor make him a solid rim protector. His ability in the pick-and-roll and pick-and-pop will immediately translate. He is able to stretch the floor but doesn't force or rely on it. He needs to work on handling contact as the physicality will only increase as he progresses. Also needs to learn to become less passive as it can take him out of games.

11. Utah Jazz - Shai Gilgeous-Alexander PG Kentucky

Gilgeous-Alexander isn't the typical superstar Kentucky prospect we've gotten used to seeing as he started the year coming off the bench but has taken advantage of his opportunities and has continuously improved throughout the year. He isn't great at one specific thing but shows a lot of promise across the board. He is a decent shooter and playmaker but won't change the game with either. He doesn't have great explosiveness but excels with changing direction and speed to get to the rim where he can use his length and touch to finish. His biggest upside is on the defensive end where his size can guard multiple positions and he does a great job off the ball by jumping passing lanes for steals and deflections. Gilgeous-Alexander's upside is a solid two-way guard who can guard multiple positions.

12. New York Knicks - Miles Bridges SF Michigan St

Bridges is arguably the best athlete in this draft. His explosiveness leads to incredible dunks, effective rebounding, and consistent shot blocking. He is very good at getting to and finishing at the rim with floaters, off-balance layups, and spectacular dunks. His shooting has improved but still needs work. His free throw percentage has jumped from 68.5% to 91.4% which is a great sign of how he has improved his form. As long as this isn't a fluke, his outside shooting should be able to improve if he is able to transfer his form. His ball handling and playmaking need a lot of work along with his shooting consistency. He will need to work on his creativity and off-ball movement as he strictly focuses on using his athleticism to gain an advantage which will be much harder to do in the NBA.

13. Los Angeles Clippers via Pistons (top 4 protected) - Chandler Hutchison SG Boise St

The combination of a shallow pool of wings and the Clippers need for wing depth make Hutchison a good fit for the Clippers. Hutchison has displayed his incredible work ethic by adding muscle and drastically improving his skill set since his freshman year. He has developed more of a perimeter game as his three-point percentage has improved every year. He is a very good rebounder and is more than capable of initiating the fast break on his own. His long strides and great footwork allow him to find creative alleys to the rim. His playmaking has improved but often ends up forcing it and turning it over too much throughout the game. His defense needs some work as he doesn't contest many shots but has the ability to turn into a solid two-way wing.

14. Philadelphia 76ers - Dzanan Musa SF Cedevita

The 76ers are in desperate need of shooting and Musa will be able to help with that. He is one of the younger prospects but is still producing at some of the higher European levels. He has great range and is able to utilize his quick first step to drive past defenders who close out too hard. He is very comfortable shooting off the dribble and finish creatively around the rim which is a necessity due to his lack of explosiveness. He isn't a great playmaker but is more than happy to get his teammates involved and is a very unselfish player. His lack of athleticism and length will hurt on the defensive end but his awareness and instincts will help.

15. Los Angeles Clippers - Robert Williams C Texas A&M

After trading Griffin and Jordan potentially on the way out, Williams is a great fit for the Clippers. He is in the mold of what teams look for from the center position now. He is a freak athlete with great length who excels at rim running and protecting the rim. He is also a very good rebounder and even though his post game is raw, he has shown improvement. He isn't a good shooter but has shown some potential from 15 ft and in. Doesn't have a great feel for the game and can be a step late when sealing his opponent or rotating but his pure athleticism often makes up for it. 

16. Denver Nuggets - Troy Brown SF Oregon

Brown is one of the youngest prospects in this year's draft and could be a good option for the Nuggets who have struggled with the SF position this year. Brown has great size and length. He is a good playmaker who sees the floor well, often makes the right play, and constantly shows his high basketball IQ on both ends of the floor. He lacks the raw athleticism and explosiveness that is often seen at this position. His shooting needs a lot of work still but he has shown flashes of how good he could be. Brown doesn't turn 18 until July so there is plenty of room to improve and would be a nice fit with the rest of this young roster.

17. New Orleans Pelicans - Lonnie Walker IV SG Miami

Walker has the ideal body for a wing with a strong frame at 6'4, 204 lbs with a 6'10 wingspan. He is a good shooter from outside and does a great job of getting to the rim. His strong frame allows him to get to the rim, finish through contact, and use both sides of the rim. He has looked more comfortable shooting off the dribble instead of catch-and-shoot situations. He has the tools to be a good defender but the effort level comes and goes. He can disappear when playing off the ball and struggles to get involved. Should be able to provide wing help that is desperately needed in New Orleans.

18. Milwaukee Bucks (goes to Phoenix if 11-16) - Daniel Gafford C Arkansas

The Bucks need help at the center position and Gafford is likely the best option at this point in the draft. Gafford is very raw but has very impressive physical tools that make him a very good rim protector. His shot blocking ability is one of the best in the draft. He has good hands that let him be an effective finisher at the rim. His rebounding is adequate but should improve as he continues to develop his basketball IQ. Taking him out of the paint for anything but a pick-and-roll is a mistake. He doesn't have much to any range shooting, his free throws need a lot of work, and he struggles to defend outside of the paint. The Bucks interior defense consists of essentially just Giannis so the addition of Gafford will help alleviate some of that responsibility.

19. Indiana Pacers - Tevon Duval PG Duke

Duval is one of the most athletic guards in the draft with great length and excels at finishing around the rim. He has great body control, can finish with both hands, and thrives in transition. He is a solid passer with good instincts and has a strong understanding of how to run the pick-and-roll. The biggest issue is his shooting. His shot currently looks like it is beyond fixing as he is shooting 46%, 26% from three, and 60% from the line. To be an effective point guard in this era he will need to commit a complete overhaul on his shooting mechanics. The Pacers need someone to run the point and Duval will be a good option who won't be asked to do too much next to Oladipo.

20. Washington Wizards - Wendell Carter Jr C Duke

Carter is a very good offensively minded big man which is something that the Wizards really desire. He is a good athlete who is one of the most mobile big men in this draft. His post game is very developed for his age and shows a lot of versatility in his moves. His soft touch and nimble footwork allow him to finish off-balance and in creative ways that defenders can't anticipate. He is also a strong rebounder on both ends displaying his natural instincts to hunt down the ball. In transition, he doesn't run the floor well and needs a lot of work on defense. He struggles to close out on the shooter and often loses his man due to ball watching. His lack of footspeed often leads to him getting beat off the dribble.

21. Portland Trail Blazers - Hamidou Diallo SG Kentucky

The Blazers have struggled to find help on the wing but the addition of Diallo should help them fill this need. Diallo is a freak athlete who springs off the floor, has great speed, and easily creates space on offense with a very quick first step. When given the motivation he is a very good defender who shows great lateral quickness, jumps passing lanes, contests and blocks shots, and rebounds at a high level. He doesn't lack any confidence or aggressiveness and has shown improvement in his ball handling. He needs to continue to develop his technical skills as he often relies solely on his athleticism. He also needs to improve every aspect of his shooting. He struggles shooting in the midrange, from three, and from the line. To be able to truly develop into a two-way wing he will need to develop a shot or else he will be a midlevel role player at best.

22. Phoenix Suns via Heat (1-7 protected) - Brandon McCoy C UNLV

McCoy is very raw but has shown improvement and a lot of potential. He has a solid post game and can utilize a pretty reliable mid-range jumper. He constantly uses his size to his advantage, runs the floor well, and has a great motor. He shows flashes of being a great rim protector but has room for improvement. He doesn't seem comfortable with the ball in his hand and doesn't have a great feel for the game. His work ethic has lead to overall improvement but he still has a way to go. The Suns need help with their interior defense and McCoy should be able to provide that right away.

23. Timberwolves via Thunder (lottery protected) - Shake Milton SG SMU

The Timberwolves have a very shallow bench and could use the scoring ability that Milton provides. Milton has the size and athleticism to defend all three backcourt positions. He also has the ability to shoot from outside as he is shooting 43.4% on 5.9 attempts this year. When coming off the bench he can be the primary ball handler with the second or third string as well. The biggest concern is his inconsistency. Some games he will score 20+ and others he completely disappears despite the level of competition they are playing.

24. Hawks via Timberwolves (lottery protected) - Bruce Brown SG Miami

The Hawks need some backcourt depth and Brown provides a mature playstyle that would fit nicely with this team. He is a tough defender and an active rebounder. His shooting is inconsistent but has shown enough success that suggests it could develop into a strength. He has had a disappointing season thus far but still has the talent to be a late first-round pick.

25. Cleveland Cavaliers - Mitchell Robinson C

Robinson is a lottery ticket. After deciding to not play college basketball this year he is one of the least NBA ready guys in the draft. He is, however, one of the most physically impressive. He has great length, leaping ability, and rim protection instincts. Robinson is very raw and will be a project but regardless if the Cavs keep LeBron or not, they need a lot of help with interior defense which Robinson will be able to provide.

26. San Antonio Spurs - Anfernee Simmons SG

Simmons is another high ceiling, low floor prospect. He will be a project and a few years from contributing but who is better at developing young talent than the Spurs? They still have some wing depth so he will be able to develop slowly and won't be asked to do anything outside his abilities. He is a very good athlete and has shown the ability to be a pure shot maker. He is far from NBA ready but if allowed to develop, could become a nice player.

27. Brooklyn Nets via Raptors (lottery protected) - Keita Bates-Diop SF Ohio St

The Nets have proven to take players of a similar physical build (long arms, good height) like Levert and Hollis-Jefferson. Bates-Diop has had a break out year showing his ability to shoot from the outside and play strong defense. His size will allow him to guard multiple positions and he has a very smooth style of play with a strong feel for the game. His outside shooting will need to continue to improve and he will need to get stronger to guard bigger opponents. The Nets have proven they love these types of players and are more than willing and able to develop them.

28. Boston Celtics - Chimezie Metu C USC

The Celtics are thin in their frontcourt and lack scoring off the bench. Metu will be able to help with both of these. He has a solid offensive game in the post showing dynamic moves, a soft touch, and creativity to create opportunities. He also has the ability to knock down midrange jumpers. He is an acceptable rebounder and has shown some shot blocking abilities but both require improvement. His slender frame will lead to him getting bullied in the post so he will need to add some muscle to be able to hold up.

29. Atlanta Hawks via Rockets (top 3 protected) - De'Anthony Melton PG USC

Unfortunately, the FBI's recruiting investigation has shut down Melton for the year so we will not get to see him. He is however still a very intriguing prospect that would be worth spending a late pick on. His size provides the defensive versatility that is frequently sought after. He is a good leader and has a great work ethic. He is a solid playmaker who looks to get his teammates involved and is not your typical score first point guard. He needs a lot of work on his shot as he is very unreliable shooting from anywhere but the rim. 

30. Golden State Warriors - Jalen Hudson SG Florida

Hudson fits perfectly into what the Warriors are always looking for. He is a 6'6 shooting guard who can guard multiple positions and shoot at a high level from outside. This year he is shooting 43% from three on six attempts per game while averaging 16.2 points. He is also a solid rebounder for a guard. He needs to improve his free throw shooting which is just at 69.1%. His defensive effort and effectiveness is lacking this year. This may be due to the offensive load he has to carry but he rarely has an impact on the defensive end.

The NBA draft is how teams retool, rebuild, or add a crucial piece to make a run. The trick is finding the balance between whether to take the best talent or fill the biggest need. Now that we are halfway through the NBA season and well into the college season, here is the first mock draft of the year. 

1. Atlanta Hawks - Luca Doncic PG Real Madrid

Doncic has the potential to be a generational talent. He is a 6'8 point guard who has been starting and dominating for Real Madrid at age 18. He possesses a maturity and feel for the game that isn't just rare at his age but essentially unheard of. He can score from all three levels and creates shooting space with pro-level moves and great body control. His ball handling and passing abilities are good but not great. These will need to, and will, continue to develop if he wants to be a team's primary ball handler. Doncic's biggest weakness though is his lack of explosiveness and lateral speed. This results in shots being more difficult to create and individual defensive issues.

2. Orlando Magic - DeAndre Ayton C Arizona

Ayton is another prospect that possesses that rare talent that could elevate not just him but an entire franchise to an elite level. He is an athletic freak that runs the floor well, has a 7'5 wingspan, is strong, and has a great second jump. He has a solid shooting form and can score from anywhere on the floor (34.6% from three). Defensively he is a true force. He is averaging 1.8 blocks and 1.5 steals on only 2.4 fouls. His high IQ doesn't mislead him on when to jump for a block and when to just contest. Despite his extraordinary talent, he can disappear at times seeming to just go through the motions. His post moves will need to continue to develop to be effective in the NBA. Any team will be lucky to get Ayton and he could easily go first.

3. Dallas Mavericks - Marvin Bagley III PF Duke

Bagley is another great athlete with great length. At 6'10 he is able to play above smaller defenders and then utilize his quick first step to blow by his bigger opponents. He has the ability to shoot from outside but isn't too reliable. He does most of his damage in the paint where he can really put to use his excellent footwork and touch. As a playmaker, he needs a lot of work. His dribbling can be sloppy and doesn't always make the right decision when passing. Defensively he is passable in the paint but needs a lot of work when not being posted up. He often loses track of his man and can be beaten off the dribble. 

4. Sacramento Kings - Michael Porter Jr SF Missouri

The Kings invested in Fox last year, have depth with big men, and desperately need help on the wing. Porter is a bit of a risk after missing this entire season with a back injury but the talent he displayed coming out of high school is undeniable. Porter has a very smooth shot that lets him score from all three levels, is a very good athlete and plays with a smoothness and sense of maturity that is rare at this age. His size will let him play and guard multiple positions. His shooting form often leads to him resorting to shooting over defenders instead of working to get an open shot. His ball handling needs work as he is often a straight-line driver and lacks the creativity and ball security to be a consistent primary ball handler. As long as he continues to develop and stay healthy, Porter should be a very nice piece for the rebuilding Kings.

5. Phoenix Suns - Trae Young PG Oklahoma

Trae Young is one of the most polarizing prospects this year. Some think his flashy, gunslinger mentality will flame out and be a detriment to the team while others view him as the next Steph Curry. Young has a limitless range and has an extremely quick shot release which makes him so dangerous. When defenders take one misstep he punishes them. The defender's need to guard him tightly so far from the basket creates the openings for Young to beat them off the dribble. He isn't an explosive athlete but his high-level ball handling and soft touch around the rim make him a threat inside as well. His lack of athleticism will make shot creation more difficult at the next level but not impossible. Defensively he isn't a star as his lack of size leads to him getting bullied and he can get caught ball watching. Due to his desire for flashy plays and high-level passing, he tends to commit more turnovers than one would like. With that said he is also on track to lead the country in both points and assists per game. The Suns would immediately have one of the most talented and entertaining backcourts by taking Young who is one of the first true manifestations of this new pace-and-space NBA era.

6. Chicago Bulls - Kevin Knox SF Kentucky

Knox has a very fluid game for his size. He has a nice jump shot but needs to continue to develop his outside shooting. He does a great job of creating his own scoring opportunities whether off catch-and-shoot opportunities or attacking off the dribble. He is a solid passer and rebounder which allow him to constantly push the ball in transition. He isn't great at finishing through contact but isn't afraid of it when he attacks the rim. As he gets stronger the ability to finish through contact should improve as well as his trips to the free throw line. His footwork, length, and lateral quickness give him all the tools to be a good defender. He does tend to disappear when he isn't the focal point of the offense and needs to improve his off-ball movement as he frequently becomes stagnant and easy to guard. He should be a nice fit to pair with the other young talent on the Bulls.

7. Memphis Grizzlies - Mikal Bridges SF Villanova

Bridges is one of the most mature and dynamic players in the country. After being patient and developing the last three years at Villanova, he has been able to develop a strong offensive game and become one of the best wing defenders in the country. His elite footwork lets him keep up with smaller guards, his strength and instincts let him battle with bigger opponents, and his length lets him suffocate all of the above. His shot has consistently developed and he has always had a high free throw percentage so he has a solid foundation with his form. He has the ability to become a really good three-and-D wing. His basketball IQ and maturity should fit nicely with the veterans of the Grizzlies.

8. Cleveland Cavaliers via Nets - Mohamed Bamba C Texas

The Cavs desperately need defensive help and rim protection which is exactly what they will get with Bamba. He is a 7'0 elite rim protector with a 7'9 wingspan. This year he is averaging 4.4 blocks and has great instincts on defense. He is able to avoid fouling while still affecting every shot in the paint. He has solid footwork and runs the floor well. Most of his offensive game comes from put-backs and dunks. He has shown flashes of being able to develop a face-up game but in general, he lacks any offensive ability that involves creating his own shot.

9. Philadelphia 76ers via Lakers (goes to Celtics if 2-5) - Collin Sexton PG Alabama

Sexton is one of the most explosive and dynamic guards in the country and would really help Philadelphia's need for backcourt help. When he combines his speed, strength, change of pace, and creativity there are few that can stop him. He is able to pull-up in the mid-range and isn't scared of finishing through contact at the rim despite his smaller size. He isn't afraid of the spotlight and can easily take over the game. His athleticism and competitive mindset make him a pesky defender. His shooting can be sporadic and he often takes ill-advised shots. His playmaking for others and decision making also need work as his assist to turnover ratio is less than ideal for a primary ball handler. Despite this, Sexton shows a lot of promise and should be able to help the 76ers right away.

10. Charlotte Hornets - Jaren Jackson Jr PF/C Michigan St

Jackson has proven this year that there are many aspects of his game that will translate to the next level. His athleticism, coordination, and fluidity lead to him finishing with both hands in the paint and has great touch. He is a very good rebounder who is also a very good shot blocker. His decision making on rotations and ability to get off the floor make him a solid rim protector. His ability in the pick-and-roll and pick-and-pop will immediately translate. He is able to stretch the floor but doesn't force or rely on it. He needs to work on handling contact as the physicality will only increase as he progresses. Also needs to learn to become less passive as it can take him out of games.

11. Utah Jazz - Shai Gilgeous-Alexander PG Kentucky

Gilgeous-Alexander isn't the typical superstar Kentucky prospect we've gotten used to seeing as he started the year coming off the bench but has taken advantage of his opportunities and has continuously improved throughout the year. He isn't great at one specific thing but shows a lot of promise across the board. He is a decent shooter and playmaker but won't change the game with either. He doesn't have great explosiveness but excels with changing direction and speed to get to the rim where he can use his length and touch to finish. His biggest upside is on the defensive end where his size can guard multiple positions and he does a great job off the ball by jumping passing lanes for steals and deflections. Gilgeous-Alexander's upside is a solid two-way guard who can guard multiple positions.

12. New York Knicks - Miles Bridges SF Michigan St

Bridges is arguably the best athlete in this draft. His explosiveness leads to incredible dunks, effective rebounding, and consistent shot blocking. He is very good at getting to and finishing at the rim with floaters, off-balance layups, and spectacular dunks. His shooting has improved but still needs work. His free throw percentage has jumped from 68.5% to 91.4% which is a great sign of how he has improved his form. As long as this isn't a fluke, his outside shooting should be able to improve if he is able to transfer his form. His ball handling and playmaking need a lot of work along with his shooting consistency. He will need to work on his creativity and off-ball movement as he strictly focuses on using his athleticism to gain an advantage which will be much harder to do in the NBA.

13. Los Angeles Clippers via Pistons (top 4 protected) - Chandler Hutchison SG Boise St

The combination of a shallow pool of wings and the Clippers need for wing depth make Hutchison a good fit for the Clippers. Hutchison has displayed his incredible work ethic by adding muscle and drastically improving his skill set since his freshman year. He has developed more of a perimeter game as his three-point percentage has improved every year. He is a very good rebounder and is more than capable of initiating the fast break on his own. His long strides and great footwork allow him to find creative alleys to the rim. His playmaking has improved but often ends up forcing it and turning it over too much throughout the game. His defense needs some work as he doesn't contest many shots but has the ability to turn into a solid two-way wing.

14. Philadelphia 76ers - Dzanan Musa SF Cedevita

The 76ers are in desperate need of shooting and Musa will be able to help with that. He is one of the younger prospects but is still producing at some of the higher European levels. He has great range and is able to utilize his quick first step to drive past defenders who close out too hard. He is very comfortable shooting off the dribble and finish creatively around the rim which is a necessity due to his lack of explosiveness. He isn't a great playmaker but is more than happy to get his teammates involved and is a very unselfish player. His lack of athleticism and length will hurt on the defensive end but his awareness and instincts will help.

15. Los Angeles Clippers - Robert Williams C Texas A&M

After trading Griffin and Jordan potentially on the way out, Williams is a great fit for the Clippers. He is in the mold of what teams look for from the center position now. He is a freak athlete with great length who excels at rim running and protecting the rim. He is also a very good rebounder and even though his post game is raw, he has shown improvement. He isn't a good shooter but has shown some potential from 15 ft and in. Doesn't have a great feel for the game and can be a step late when sealing his opponent or rotating but his pure athleticism often makes up for it. 

16. Denver Nuggets - Troy Brown SF Oregon

Brown is one of the youngest prospects in this year's draft and could be a good option for the Nuggets who have struggled with the SF position this year. Brown has great size and length. He is a good playmaker who sees the floor well, often makes the right play, and constantly shows his high basketball IQ on both ends of the floor. He lacks the raw athleticism and explosiveness that is often seen at this position. His shooting needs a lot of work still but he has shown flashes of how good he could be. Brown doesn't turn 18 until July so there is plenty of room to improve and would be a nice fit with the rest of this young roster.

17. New Orleans Pelicans - Lonnie Walker IV SG Miami

Walker has the ideal body for a wing with a strong frame at 6'4, 204 lbs with a 6'10 wingspan. He is a good shooter from outside and does a great job of getting to the rim. His strong frame allows him to get to the rim, finish through contact, and use both sides of the rim. He has looked more comfortable shooting off the dribble instead of catch-and-shoot situations. He has the tools to be a good defender but the effort level comes and goes. He can disappear when playing off the ball and struggles to get involved. Should be able to provide wing help that is desperately needed in New Orleans.

18. Milwaukee Bucks (goes to Phoenix if 11-16) - Daniel Gafford C Arkansas

The Bucks need help at the center position and Gafford is likely the best option at this point in the draft. Gafford is very raw but has very impressive physical tools that make him a very good rim protector. His shot blocking ability is one of the best in the draft. He has good hands that let him be an effective finisher at the rim. His rebounding is adequate but should improve as he continues to develop his basketball IQ. Taking him out of the paint for anything but a pick-and-roll is a mistake. He doesn't have much to any range shooting, his free throws need a lot of work, and he struggles to defend outside of the paint. The Bucks interior defense consists of essentially just Giannis so the addition of Gafford will help alleviate some of that responsibility.

19. Indiana Pacers - Tevon Duval PG Duke

Duval is one of the most athletic guards in the draft with great length and excels at finishing around the rim. He has great body control, can finish with both hands, and thrives in transition. He is a solid passer with good instincts and has a strong understanding of how to run the pick-and-roll. The biggest issue is his shooting. His shot currently looks like it is beyond fixing as he is shooting 46%, 26% from three, and 60% from the line. To be an effective point guard in this era he will need to commit a complete overhaul on his shooting mechanics. The Pacers need someone to run the point and Duval will be a good option who won't be asked to do too much next to Oladipo.

20. Washington Wizards - Wendell Carter Jr C Duke

Carter is a very good offensively minded big man which is something that the Wizards really desire. He is a good athlete who is one of the most mobile big men in this draft. His post game is very developed for his age and shows a lot of versatility in his moves. His soft touch and nimble footwork allow him to finish off-balance and in creative ways that defenders can't anticipate. He is also a strong rebounder on both ends displaying his natural instincts to hunt down the ball. In transition, he doesn't run the floor well and needs a lot of work on defense. He struggles to close out on the shooter and often loses his man due to ball watching. His lack of footspeed often leads to him getting beat off the dribble.

21. Portland Trail Blazers - Hamidou Diallo SG Kentucky

The Blazers have struggled to find help on the wing but the addition of Diallo should help them fill this need. Diallo is a freak athlete who springs off the floor, has great speed, and easily creates space on offense with a very quick first step. When given the motivation he is a very good defender who shows great lateral quickness, jumps passing lanes, contests and blocks shots, and rebounds at a high level. He doesn't lack any confidence or aggressiveness and has shown improvement in his ball handling. He needs to continue to develop his technical skills as he often relies solely on his athleticism. He also needs to improve every aspect of his shooting. He struggles shooting in the midrange, from three, and from the line. To be able to truly develop into a two-way wing he will need to develop a shot or else he will be a midlevel role player at best.

22. Phoenix Suns via Heat (1-7 protected) - Brandon McCoy C UNLV

McCoy is very raw but has shown improvement and a lot of potential. He has a solid post game and can utilize a pretty reliable mid-range jumper. He constantly uses his size to his advantage, runs the floor well, and has a great motor. He shows flashes of being a great rim protector but has room for improvement. He doesn't seem comfortable with the ball in his hand and doesn't have a great feel for the game. His work ethic has lead to overall improvement but he still has a way to go. The Suns need help with their interior defense and McCoy should be able to provide that right away.

23. Timberwolves via Thunder (lottery protected) - Shake Milton SG SMU

The Timberwolves have a very shallow bench and could use the scoring ability that Milton provides. Milton has the size and athleticism to defend all three backcourt positions. He also has the ability to shoot from outside as he is shooting 43.4% on 5.9 attempts this year. When coming off the bench he can be the primary ball handler with the second or third string as well. The biggest concern is his inconsistency. Some games he will score 20+ and others he completely disappears despite the level of competition they are playing.

24. Hawks via Timberwolves (lottery protected) - Bruce Brown SG Miami

The Hawks need some backcourt depth and Brown provides a mature playstyle that would fit nicely with this team. He is a tough defender and an active rebounder. His shooting is inconsistent but has shown enough success that suggests it could develop into a strength. He has had a disappointing season thus far but still has the talent to be a late first-round pick.

25. Cleveland Cavaliers - Mitchell Robinson C

Robinson is a lottery ticket. After deciding to not play college basketball this year he is one of the least NBA ready guys in the draft. He is, however, one of the most physically impressive. He has great length, leaping ability, and rim protection instincts. Robinson is very raw and will be a project but regardless if the Cavs keep LeBron or not, they need a lot of help with interior defense which Robinson will be able to provide.

26. San Antonio Spurs - Anfernee Simmons SG

Simmons is another high ceiling, low floor prospect. He will be a project and a few years from contributing but who is better at developing young talent than the Spurs? They still have some wing depth so he will be able to develop slowly and won't be asked to do anything outside his abilities. He is a very good athlete and has shown the ability to be a pure shot maker. He is far from NBA ready but if allowed to develop, could become a nice player.

27. Brooklyn Nets via Raptors (lottery protected) - Keita Bates-Diop SF Ohio St

The Nets have proven to take players of a similar physical build (long arms, good height) like Levert and Hollis-Jefferson. Bates-Diop has had a break out year showing his ability to shoot from the outside and play strong defense. His size will allow him to guard multiple positions and he has a very smooth style of play with a strong feel for the game. His outside shooting will need to continue to improve and he will need to get stronger to guard bigger opponents. The Nets have proven they love these types of players and are more than willing and able to develop them.

28. Boston Celtics - Chimezie Metu C USC

The Celtics are thin in their frontcourt and lack scoring off the bench. Metu will be able to help with both of these. He has a solid offensive game in the post showing dynamic moves, a soft touch, and creativity to create opportunities. He also has the ability to knock down midrange jumpers. He is an acceptable rebounder and has shown some shot blocking abilities but both require improvement. His slender frame will lead to him getting bullied in the post so he will need to add some muscle to be able to hold up.

29. Atlanta Hawks via Rockets (top 3 protected) - De'Anthony Melton PG USC

Unfortunately, the FBI's recruiting investigation has shut down Melton for the year so we will not get to see him. He is however still a very intriguing prospect that would be worth spending a late pick on. His size provides the defensive versatility that is frequently sought after. He is a good leader and has a great work ethic. He is a solid playmaker who looks to get his teammates involved and is not your typical score first point guard. He needs a lot of work on his shot as he is very unreliable shooting from anywhere but the rim. 

30. Golden State Warriors - Jalen Hudson SG Florida

Hudson fits perfectly into what the Warriors are always looking for. He is a 6'6 shooting guard who can guard multiple positions and shoot at a high level from outside. This year he is shooting 43% from three on six attempts per game while averaging 16.2 points. He is also a solid rebounder for a guard. He needs to improve his free throw shooting which is just at 69.1%. His defensive effort and effectiveness is lacking this year. This may be due to the offensive load he has to carry but he rarely has an impact on the defensive end.

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