2017 NBA DRAFT: MOCK 1.0
FIRST ROUND
1. BOSTON CELTICS
MARKELLE FULTZ-PG-WASHINGTON
6-4/196/8-6 standing reach
Freshman/age 19.1
NBA Comparison: Derrick Rose/Jrue Holiday
ROLE: Possible superstar, starting point guard on a perennial playoff team eventually
One way or another Fultz will be the pick here. Boston may trade the #1 pick in a Blockbuster deal for a star like Anthony Davis, Jimmy Butler or Paul George. Boston could also keep the pick, draft Fultz, and build a young core around him and 2016 #3 pick Jaylen Brown.
Fultz has star potential but will need a few years to develop his PG skills. He has drawn comparisons to James Harden and Russell Westbrook. However, I feel Derrick Rose and Jrue Holiday are more realistic comparisons given his size, skill set and athletic ability. Let's not forget how good both Rose/Holiday were before they got injured. If Fultz can become that, then he will clearly be worth the #1 pick this year.
2. LOS ANGELES LAKERS
LONZO BALL-PG-UCLA
6-6/190/8-5
Fr./19.6
NBA Comparison: Jason Kidd/Ricky Rubio
ROLE: Starting PG on a good team, perennial top assists leader in the league
The Lakers have some nice young pieces in DeAngelo Russell, Julius Randle and Brandon Ingram. Ball is a pass first true PG with superstar potential. He is from Southern California and was a star at UCLA last year. Magic Johnson is the Lakers new team President and you have to believe he sees parts of himself when he sees Ball play.
3. PHILADELPHIA 76ERS
DE'AARON FOX-PG-UK
6-3/170/8-4
Fr./19.4
NBA Comparison: Mike Conley/Nick Van Exel
ROLE: Starting PG on a good team, eventual top 10 PG, 3rd best player on a contender
Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid are the two pieces the 76ers are building around now. They also have Dario Saric and Jahlil Okafor. What they lack is the playmaking guard that is needed in today's fast paced league. They don't make them much faster than Fox. He is a lightning quick guard that can get to the rim at will.
4. PHOENIX SUNS
JOSH JACKSON-SF-KANSAS
6-8/203/8-3
Fr./20.3
NBA Comparison: Stephen Jackson/Trevor Ariza
ROLE: Starting SF with star potential, defensive stopper, #3/4 scorer on a playoff team
The Suns have a great young guard duo in Devin Booker, Eric Bledsoe and Brandon Knight. They took two young power forwards in the 2016 draft in Dragan Bender and Marquese Chriss. What they need now is a long, athletic SF.
Jackson is a great young prospect with elite level athleticism and a developing offensive game. Phoenix would be a great fit for his skill set as he would only need to be the 3rd/4th offensive option.
5. SACRAMENTO KINGS
JAYSON TATUM-SF-DUKE
6-8/205/8-11
Fr./19.2
NBA Comparison: Harrison Barnes/Danny Granger
ROLE: Starting SF with star potential, good shooter that may have to adjust to becoming a role player on a contender, top scoring option on an average/bad team
Tatum is a good scorer and a very low risk pick here. With Rudy Gay likely leaving via free agency this summer, this seems like a no brainier pick. The Kings need a new top scoring option and face of the franchise after trading away DeMarcus Cousins to New Orleans.
6. ORLANDO MAGIC
JONATHAN ISAAC-SF-FSU
6-11/206/9-0
Fr./19.6
NBA Comparison: Rashard Lewis/Jonathan Bender
ROLE: Boom/Bust prospect with star potential, has the length to play the SF/PF/C with a good offensive skill set, should be a very good role player on a good team
Isaac has the freakish length that NBA teams covet. He may have the highest upside of any player but also could end up being just a very good role player similar to Bender when he was on the Pacers.
7. MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES
MALIK MONK-SG-UK
6-3/206/8-3
Fr./19.3
NBA Comparison: OJ Mayo/Eric Gordon
ROLE: Starting SG, specialty scorer, great 6th Man
This pick will be indicative on how Minnesota feels about last year's #5 overall pick Kris Dunn. If they feel that he is the PG of the future, they will likely draft Monk or a big here. If they don't see him as that then they will take Frank Ntilikina or Dennis Smith Jr.
8. NEW YORK KNICKS
FRANK NTILIKINA-PG-BELGUIM/FRANCE PRO A LEAGUE
6-5/180
International/18.8
NBA Comparison: Dante Exum/Elfrid Payton
ROLE: Starting PG, better play maker than scorer, best as 4th/5th scoring option
Phil Jackson will likely take the better fit for the triangle offense here and pass on the more dynamic and athletic Smith Jr. Unless they can swing a trade for RIcky Rubio prior to the draft, the Knicks need to draft a PG here.
9. DALLAS MAVERICKS
DENNIS SMITH JR.-PG-NC ST.
6-3/190/8-1
Fr./19.6
NBA Comparison: Baron Davis/Eric Bledsoe
ROLE: Starting PG, top 10 PG potential, elite athlete and volume scorer that may struggle as a role player on a good team.
This kid is an athletic freak and has the big game to become the Mavs go to guy once Dirk retires.
10. SACRAMENTO KINGS
LAURI MARKKANEN-PF-ARIZONA
7-0/230
Fr./20.0
NBA Comparison: Christian Laettner/Andrea Bargnani
ROLE: Stretch 4/5, number one scoring option on an average/bad team, number 2/3 option on a playoff team, eventual 20 and 7 guy
The Kings get another scorer and lights out shooter in Markkanen. He is NOT on the Dirk, Pau, Porzingas level, but he should be a very good starter for many years in the Laettner/Bargnaini mold.
11. CHARLOTTE HORNETS
DONOVAN MITCHELL-SG/CG-LOUISVILLE
6-3/211/8-1
So./20.8
NBA Comparison: Ben Gordon/Tony Allen
ROLE: Starting Combo guard, defensive specialist, great 6th man, mid level starter
Mitchell is an ideal fit in Charlotte as Head Coach Steve Clifford loves defensive minded players that can also score. Mitchell can also be used as a primary ball handler when Kemba Walker goes to the bench.
12. DETROIT PISTONS
JUSTIN JACKSON-SF-UNC
6-7/201/8-9
Jr./22.2
NBA Comparison: Matt Barnes/Bruce Bowe
ROLE: Defensive specialist, high level 6th/7th man, low end starting wing
Jackson gives the Pistons a high IQ player that can contribute early on defense and hit wide open 3 pointers on offense.
13. DENVER NUGGETS
ZACH COLLINS-C-GONZAGA
7-0/232/9-3
Fr./19.6
NBA Comparison: Robin Lopez/Cody Zeller
Role: Role playing starting Center, upside to become a #3/4 scoring option
Zach Collins may need time to develop but he could end up being a very good all around big man. The Nuggets need depth up front behind 2017 break out player Nikola Jokic.
14. MIAMI HEAT
JOHN COLLINS-PF-WAKE FOREST
6-9/226/8-11
So./19.8
NBA Comparison: David West/Patrick Patterson
ROLE: Starting PF on a good team/eventually a 15 and 8 guy that could develop into a solid #3 scoring option
John Collins would be an ideal fit next to Hassan Whiteside with his ability to hit mid range shots. Collins is a South Florida native that burst onto the scene last year as he was dominant in ACC play. He has the skill set to be a starting PF for many years.
15. PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS
TJ LEAF-PF-UCLA
6-10/222/8-11
Fr./20.2
NBA Comparison: Troy Murphy/Nick Collison
Role: Starting PF, Good role player and rebounder, could develop into a solid #4 scoring option
Portland is in a very good spot to upgrade their frontcourt, they should have their choice of many high quality role players here. I think Leaf is the best fit to play alongside Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum, given his high IQ, rebounding and passing skills.
16. CHICAGO BULLS
JUSTIN PATTON-C-CREIGHTON
6-1/230/9-4
Fr./20.0
NBA Comparison: Chris Kaman/Gorgui Dieng
Role: Role playing starting Center, upside to become a #3/4 scoring option
Patton can give them a young big man to develop as he can play behind Robin Lopez for the next two years.
17. MILWAUKEE BUCKS
OG ANUNOBY-CF-INDIANA
6-8/232/9-0
So./20.0
NBA Comparison: Solomon Hill/Bobby Simmons
ROLE: Defensive stopper, has the skills to become an all-defensive team player early in his career, a hustle/glue guy, will need to stay healthy
The Bucks and Head Coach Jason Kidd preach defense and hustle. With Anunoby's ability to guard both forward spots, he would be an ideal fit to play alongside offensive stand weapon Jabari Parker.
18. INDIANA PACERS
LUKE KENNARD-SG-DUKE
6-6/196/8-3
So./21.0
NBA Comparison: Michael Redd/Morris Peterson
ROLE: Sharpshooting starting SG, #4/5 option that may struggle to create his own shot at the next level
The Pacers will likely have to overpay to keep Jeff Teague in Indy, which will mean they may not have the money to keep CJ Miles in town. Kennard would be a good replacement with his excellent outside shooting and ability to score the basketball.
19. ATLANTA HAWKS
JARRETT ALLEN-C-TEXAS
6-10/234/9.2
Fr./19.2
NBA Comparison: Hassan Whiteside/JaVale McGee
ROLE: Defensive stopper and rim protector
Allen is long term project that may take years to produce similar to Whiteside and DeAndre Jordan. Atlanta, Chicago and Portland would be the best landing spots for him as he would not be pressed into playing right away.
20. PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS
ISAIAH HARTENSTEIN-C/F-GERMANY/LITHANIAN LEAGUE
7-1/250/9-1
Int./19.1
NBA Comparison: Brook Lopez/Mehmet Okur
ROLE: Stretch 4/5, number 2/3 scoring option on an average/bad team, second unit scorer on a good team
I think Portland with end up trading this pick along with a player to a team like Brooklyn or Philly. Both of those teams could end up taking Hartenstein here. The 19 year old German has a very solid offensive game for a young player yet lacks athletic ability and will need time to adjust the speed of the NBA game.
21. OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER
TERRANCE FERGUSON-SG-USA/AUSTRALIAN LEAGUE
6-7/186/8-7
Int./19.1
NBA Comparison: Dorell Wright/Jeremy Evans
ROLE: Starting SF/SG, long term prospect that will need a few years to develop. 3 and D potential
The Thunder add another elite athlete to play with Russell Westbrook and Victor Oladipo. Ferguson is on that level as a dunker right now but he needs a lot of work on the rest of his game.
22. BROOKLYN NETS
HARRY GILES-PF/C-DUKE
6-11/232/9.2
Fr./19.2
NBA Comparison: Al Harrington/Josh McRoberts
ROLE: High injury risk player that can develop into a top 10 PF if he stays healthy
The Nets can afford to take a risk here. Giles has top 5 talent but has had his career derailed by multiple knee surgeries. The Nets are a LONG way from contending so they might as well swing for the fences here.
23. TORONTO RAPTORS
IVAN RABB-PF-CAL
6-10/220/9-1
So./20.4
NBA Comparison: Amir Johnson/Ed Davis
Role: Starting PF, Good role player and rebounder, high level backup
Ironically the two players I have for Rabb's player comparison had their best years when they played in Toronto. The Serge Ibaka experiment had mixed results and he is a free agent so the Raptors would be wise to grab a PF here.
24. UTAH JAZZ
DJ Wilson-PF-MICHIGAN
6-11/234/9-2
So./21.4
NBA Comparison: Charlie Villanueva/Brian Cook
ROLE: Solid role playing stretch four, best as second unit scorer/shooter
The Jazz have a nice frontcourt, however Derrick Favors will be a free agent in 2018 and Trey Lyles has been mediocre at best in his first two season. Wilson is a stretch four that is rising up draft boards due to his shooting and length.
25. ORLANDO MAGIC
JAWUN EVANS-PG-OK ST.
6-0/175/7-11
So./20.9
NBA Comparison: Ty Lawson/Lindsey Hunter
ROLE: Backup PG on a good team, starter on an average/bad team
Elfrid Payton has been solid but he is going into the final year on his rookie contract and the Magic should at least have a fall back plan.
26. PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS
JONATHAN JEANE-C-FRANCE/FRANCE PRO A LEAGUE
7-2/207/9-6
Int./19.9
NBA Comparison: Alexis Ajinca
ROLE: Defensive stopper and rim protector
Portland should go with the Euro stash here. Jeane has freakish length but is a few years away from making a impact in the NBA>
27. BROOKLYN NETS
RODIONS KURUCS-SF-LATVIA/SPAIN LEB (Second Level)
6-8/200
Int./19.4
NBA Comparison: Joe Ingles
ROLE: Sharpshooting wing, #4/5 option on an average team, quality depth on a good team
The Nets need scoring and are said to have interest in Kurucs according to many sources and he would be a good young player to develop.
28. LOS ANGELES LAKERS
JORDAN BELL-C/F-OREGON
6-9/224/8-9
Jr./22.4
NBA Comparison: Chris "Birdman" Anderson/Bo Outlaw
ROLE: Role playing hustle player that can average close to 9 boards and 2 blocks per game
After going with the dime dropping, playmaking Lonzo Ball at #2, they will need to get a guy who can to the dirty work at #28. Bell is NBA ready and can add some toughness to a front line that needs it.
29. SAN ANTONIO SPURS
TYLER LYDON-CF-SYRACUSE
SECOND ROUND
31. ATLANTA HAWKS
KYLE KUZMA-Stretch 4/CF-UTAH
6-10/223/9-0
Jr./22.0
NBA Comparison: Mike Muscala
KEY SKILL: Shooting big/Rebounding
32. PHOENIX SUNS
IKE ANIGBOGU-C-UCLA
6-10/252/9-3
Fr./18.7
NBA Comparison: Bismack Biyombo/Kyle O'Quinn
KEY SKILL: Rim Protection/Size/Shot Blocking
33. ORLANDO MAGIC
BAM ADEBAYO-C/F-UK
6-10/243/9-0
Fr./19.3
NBA Comparison: JJ Hickson/Thomas Robinson
KEY SKILL: Rebounding/Power
34. SACRAMENTO KINGS
DERRICK WHITE-SG-COLORADO
6-5/190/8-6
Sr./22.9
NBA Comparison: Allen Crabbe
KEY SKILL: Scoring/Playmaking
35. ORLANDO MAGIC
DWAYNE BACON-SF/SG-FSU
6-6/222/8-8
So./21.8
KEY SKILL: Length/Elite Athlete
36. PHILADELPHIA 76ERS
ANZEJS PASECNIKS-C-LATVIA/SPAIN ACB LEAGUE
7-2/230
Int./21.5
NBA Comparison: Primoz Brezec
KEY SKILL: Mobility for size
37. BOSTON CELTICS
JOHNATHAN MOTLEY-PF-BAYLOR
6-9/238/9-0
Jr/22.2
NBA Comparison: Taj Gibson
KEY SKILL: Rebounding/Mid range shooting
38. CHICAGO BULLS
CALEB SWAINIGAN-PF-PURDUE
6-9/246/9-0
So./20.2
NBA Comparison: Carl Landry
KEY SKILL: Rebounding/Low block scoring
39. PHILADELPHIA 76ERS
JOSH HART-SG-VILLANOVA
6-5/210/8-5
Sr./22.2
NBA Comparison: Jodie Meeks
KEY SKILL: Shooting/Scoring
40. NEW ORLEANS PELICANS
SINDARIUS THORNWELL-SG-SOUTH CAROLINA
6-5/212/8-7
Sr./22.9
NBA Comparison: Rashad McCants
KEY SKILL: Scoring/Defense
41. CHARLOTTE HORNETS
JARON BLOSSOMGAME-SF-CLEMSON
6-7/219/8-9
Sr./23.7
KEY SKILL: Defense and hustle
42. UTAH JAZZ
TYLER DORSEY-SG-OREGON
6-5/183/8-4
So./21.3
KEY SKILL: Shooting/Scoring
43. HOUSTON ROCKETS
PJ DOZIER-SG/SF-SOUTH CAROLINA
6-7/201/8-5
So./20.6
KEY SKILL: Length/Versatility
44. NEW YORK KNICKS
WESLEY IWUNDU-SF/SG-WASHINGTON
6-7/193/8-10
Sr./22.5
KEY SKILL: Defense/Length
45. HOUSTON ROCKETS
FRANK JACKSON-SG/CG-DUKE
6-4/202/8.2
Fr./19.2
KEY SKILL: Shooting/Scoring
46. PHILADELPHIA 76ERS
THOMAS BRYANT-C-INDIANA
6-11/248/9-5
So./19.8
KEY SKILL: Length/Size
47. INDIANA PACERS
ALEC PETERS-CF-VALPARISO
6-9/232/8-9
Jr./22.0
KEY SKILL: Shooting big
48. MILWAUKEE BUCKS
TONY BRADLEY-C-UNC
6-11/249/9-5
Fr./19.4
KEY SKILL: Length/Size
49. DENVER NUGGETS
FRANK MASON-PG-KANSAS
6-0/189/7-10
Sr./23.2KEY SKILL: Leadership/Playmaking
50. PHILADELPHIA 76ERS
DILLON BROOKS-SF-OREGON
6-6/220/8-5
Jr./21.4
KEY SKILL: Scoring/Power for a wing
51. DENVER NUGGETS
MATHIAS LESSORT-C-FRANCE/FRANCE PRO A LEAGUE
6-9/250
Int./21.7
KEY SKILL: Size/Hustle
52. WASHINGTON WIZARDS
EDMOND SUMNER-PG-XAVIER
6-6/176/8-7
So./21.4
KEY SKILL: PG size/passing
53. BOSTON CELTICS
JONAH BOLDIN-PF-AUSTRALIA/SERBIAN LEAGUE
6-10/230
Int./21.4
KEY SKILL: Rebounding/Shooting
54. PHOENIX SUNS
KOBI SIMMONS-PG-ARIZONA
6-6/166/8-3
Fr./20.0
KEY SKILL: PG size/passing
55. UTAH JAZZ
MONTE MORRIS-PG-IOWA ST
6-3/175/8-1
Sr./21.9
KEY SKILL: Playmaking/Versatility
56. BOSTON CELTICS
DEVIN ROBINSON-SF-FLORIDA
6-8/200/8-10
Jr./22.2
KEY SKILL: Defense/Length
57. BROOKLYN NETS
LJ PEAKE-SG-GEORGETOWN
6-5/212/8-7
Jr./21.3
KEY SKILL: Scoring/Size
58. NEW YORK KNICKS
CAM OLIVER-PF-NEVADA
6-8/240/8-11
So./20.9
KEY SKILL: Elite Athlete/Power
59. SAN ANTONIO SPURS
KOSTA MUSHIDI-SF/SG-BELGUIM/SERBIAN LEAGUE
6-5/226/8-8
Int./19.0
KEY SKILL: Defense/Power
60. ATLANTA HAWKS
NIGEL WILLIAMS GOSS-PG-GONZAGA
6-3/190/8-3
Jr./22.7
KEY SKILL: Passing/leadership
1. BOSTON CELTICS
MARKELLE FULTZ-PG-WASHINGTON
6-4/196/8-6 standing reach
Freshman/age 19.1
NBA Comparison: Derrick Rose/Jrue Holiday
ROLE: Possible superstar, starting point guard on a perennial playoff team eventually
One way or another Fultz will be the pick here. Boston may trade the #1 pick in a Blockbuster deal for a star like Anthony Davis, Jimmy Butler or Paul George. Boston could also keep the pick, draft Fultz, and build a young core around him and 2016 #3 pick Jaylen Brown.
Fultz has star potential but will need a few years to develop his PG skills. He has drawn comparisons to James Harden and Russell Westbrook. However, I feel Derrick Rose and Jrue Holiday are more realistic comparisons given his size, skill set and athletic ability. Let's not forget how good both Rose/Holiday were before they got injured. If Fultz can become that, then he will clearly be worth the #1 pick this year.
2. LOS ANGELES LAKERS
LONZO BALL-PG-UCLA
6-6/190/8-5
Fr./19.6
NBA Comparison: Jason Kidd/Ricky Rubio
ROLE: Starting PG on a good team, perennial top assists leader in the league
The Lakers have some nice young pieces in DeAngelo Russell, Julius Randle and Brandon Ingram. Ball is a pass first true PG with superstar potential. He is from Southern California and was a star at UCLA last year. Magic Johnson is the Lakers new team President and you have to believe he sees parts of himself when he sees Ball play.
3. PHILADELPHIA 76ERS
DE'AARON FOX-PG-UK
6-3/170/8-4
Fr./19.4
NBA Comparison: Mike Conley/Nick Van Exel
ROLE: Starting PG on a good team, eventual top 10 PG, 3rd best player on a contender
Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid are the two pieces the 76ers are building around now. They also have Dario Saric and Jahlil Okafor. What they lack is the playmaking guard that is needed in today's fast paced league. They don't make them much faster than Fox. He is a lightning quick guard that can get to the rim at will.
4. PHOENIX SUNS
JOSH JACKSON-SF-KANSAS
6-8/203/8-3
Fr./20.3
NBA Comparison: Stephen Jackson/Trevor Ariza
ROLE: Starting SF with star potential, defensive stopper, #3/4 scorer on a playoff team
The Suns have a great young guard duo in Devin Booker, Eric Bledsoe and Brandon Knight. They took two young power forwards in the 2016 draft in Dragan Bender and Marquese Chriss. What they need now is a long, athletic SF.
Jackson is a great young prospect with elite level athleticism and a developing offensive game. Phoenix would be a great fit for his skill set as he would only need to be the 3rd/4th offensive option.
5. SACRAMENTO KINGS
JAYSON TATUM-SF-DUKE
6-8/205/8-11
Fr./19.2
NBA Comparison: Harrison Barnes/Danny Granger
ROLE: Starting SF with star potential, good shooter that may have to adjust to becoming a role player on a contender, top scoring option on an average/bad team
Tatum is a good scorer and a very low risk pick here. With Rudy Gay likely leaving via free agency this summer, this seems like a no brainier pick. The Kings need a new top scoring option and face of the franchise after trading away DeMarcus Cousins to New Orleans.
6. ORLANDO MAGIC
JONATHAN ISAAC-SF-FSU
6-11/206/9-0
Fr./19.6
NBA Comparison: Rashard Lewis/Jonathan Bender
ROLE: Boom/Bust prospect with star potential, has the length to play the SF/PF/C with a good offensive skill set, should be a very good role player on a good team
Isaac has the freakish length that NBA teams covet. He may have the highest upside of any player but also could end up being just a very good role player similar to Bender when he was on the Pacers.
7. MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES
MALIK MONK-SG-UK
6-3/206/8-3
Fr./19.3
NBA Comparison: OJ Mayo/Eric Gordon
ROLE: Starting SG, specialty scorer, great 6th Man
This pick will be indicative on how Minnesota feels about last year's #5 overall pick Kris Dunn. If they feel that he is the PG of the future, they will likely draft Monk or a big here. If they don't see him as that then they will take Frank Ntilikina or Dennis Smith Jr.
8. NEW YORK KNICKS
FRANK NTILIKINA-PG-BELGUIM/FRANCE PRO A LEAGUE
6-5/180
International/18.8
NBA Comparison: Dante Exum/Elfrid Payton
ROLE: Starting PG, better play maker than scorer, best as 4th/5th scoring option
Phil Jackson will likely take the better fit for the triangle offense here and pass on the more dynamic and athletic Smith Jr. Unless they can swing a trade for RIcky Rubio prior to the draft, the Knicks need to draft a PG here.
9. DALLAS MAVERICKS
DENNIS SMITH JR.-PG-NC ST.
6-3/190/8-1
Fr./19.6
NBA Comparison: Baron Davis/Eric Bledsoe
ROLE: Starting PG, top 10 PG potential, elite athlete and volume scorer that may struggle as a role player on a good team.
This kid is an athletic freak and has the big game to become the Mavs go to guy once Dirk retires.
10. SACRAMENTO KINGS
LAURI MARKKANEN-PF-ARIZONA
7-0/230
Fr./20.0
NBA Comparison: Christian Laettner/Andrea Bargnani
ROLE: Stretch 4/5, number one scoring option on an average/bad team, number 2/3 option on a playoff team, eventual 20 and 7 guy
The Kings get another scorer and lights out shooter in Markkanen. He is NOT on the Dirk, Pau, Porzingas level, but he should be a very good starter for many years in the Laettner/Bargnaini mold.
11. CHARLOTTE HORNETS
DONOVAN MITCHELL-SG/CG-LOUISVILLE
6-3/211/8-1
So./20.8
NBA Comparison: Ben Gordon/Tony Allen
ROLE: Starting Combo guard, defensive specialist, great 6th man, mid level starter
Mitchell is an ideal fit in Charlotte as Head Coach Steve Clifford loves defensive minded players that can also score. Mitchell can also be used as a primary ball handler when Kemba Walker goes to the bench.
12. DETROIT PISTONS
JUSTIN JACKSON-SF-UNC
6-7/201/8-9
Jr./22.2
NBA Comparison: Matt Barnes/Bruce Bowe
ROLE: Defensive specialist, high level 6th/7th man, low end starting wing
Jackson gives the Pistons a high IQ player that can contribute early on defense and hit wide open 3 pointers on offense.
13. DENVER NUGGETS
ZACH COLLINS-C-GONZAGA
7-0/232/9-3
Fr./19.6
NBA Comparison: Robin Lopez/Cody Zeller
Role: Role playing starting Center, upside to become a #3/4 scoring option
Zach Collins may need time to develop but he could end up being a very good all around big man. The Nuggets need depth up front behind 2017 break out player Nikola Jokic.
14. MIAMI HEAT
JOHN COLLINS-PF-WAKE FOREST
6-9/226/8-11
So./19.8
NBA Comparison: David West/Patrick Patterson
ROLE: Starting PF on a good team/eventually a 15 and 8 guy that could develop into a solid #3 scoring option
John Collins would be an ideal fit next to Hassan Whiteside with his ability to hit mid range shots. Collins is a South Florida native that burst onto the scene last year as he was dominant in ACC play. He has the skill set to be a starting PF for many years.
15. PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS
TJ LEAF-PF-UCLA
6-10/222/8-11
Fr./20.2
NBA Comparison: Troy Murphy/Nick Collison
Role: Starting PF, Good role player and rebounder, could develop into a solid #4 scoring option
Portland is in a very good spot to upgrade their frontcourt, they should have their choice of many high quality role players here. I think Leaf is the best fit to play alongside Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum, given his high IQ, rebounding and passing skills.
16. CHICAGO BULLS
JUSTIN PATTON-C-CREIGHTON
6-1/230/9-4
Fr./20.0
NBA Comparison: Chris Kaman/Gorgui Dieng
Role: Role playing starting Center, upside to become a #3/4 scoring option
Patton can give them a young big man to develop as he can play behind Robin Lopez for the next two years.
17. MILWAUKEE BUCKS
OG ANUNOBY-CF-INDIANA
6-8/232/9-0
So./20.0
NBA Comparison: Solomon Hill/Bobby Simmons
ROLE: Defensive stopper, has the skills to become an all-defensive team player early in his career, a hustle/glue guy, will need to stay healthy
The Bucks and Head Coach Jason Kidd preach defense and hustle. With Anunoby's ability to guard both forward spots, he would be an ideal fit to play alongside offensive stand weapon Jabari Parker.
18. INDIANA PACERS
LUKE KENNARD-SG-DUKE
6-6/196/8-3
So./21.0
NBA Comparison: Michael Redd/Morris Peterson
ROLE: Sharpshooting starting SG, #4/5 option that may struggle to create his own shot at the next level
The Pacers will likely have to overpay to keep Jeff Teague in Indy, which will mean they may not have the money to keep CJ Miles in town. Kennard would be a good replacement with his excellent outside shooting and ability to score the basketball.
19. ATLANTA HAWKS
JARRETT ALLEN-C-TEXAS
6-10/234/9.2
Fr./19.2
NBA Comparison: Hassan Whiteside/JaVale McGee
ROLE: Defensive stopper and rim protector
Allen is long term project that may take years to produce similar to Whiteside and DeAndre Jordan. Atlanta, Chicago and Portland would be the best landing spots for him as he would not be pressed into playing right away.
20. PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS
ISAIAH HARTENSTEIN-C/F-GERMANY/LITHANIAN LEAGUE
7-1/250/9-1
Int./19.1
NBA Comparison: Brook Lopez/Mehmet Okur
ROLE: Stretch 4/5, number 2/3 scoring option on an average/bad team, second unit scorer on a good team
I think Portland with end up trading this pick along with a player to a team like Brooklyn or Philly. Both of those teams could end up taking Hartenstein here. The 19 year old German has a very solid offensive game for a young player yet lacks athletic ability and will need time to adjust the speed of the NBA game.
21. OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER
TERRANCE FERGUSON-SG-USA/AUSTRALIAN LEAGUE
6-7/186/8-7
Int./19.1
NBA Comparison: Dorell Wright/Jeremy Evans
ROLE: Starting SF/SG, long term prospect that will need a few years to develop. 3 and D potential
The Thunder add another elite athlete to play with Russell Westbrook and Victor Oladipo. Ferguson is on that level as a dunker right now but he needs a lot of work on the rest of his game.
22. BROOKLYN NETS
HARRY GILES-PF/C-DUKE
6-11/232/9.2
Fr./19.2
NBA Comparison: Al Harrington/Josh McRoberts
ROLE: High injury risk player that can develop into a top 10 PF if he stays healthy
The Nets can afford to take a risk here. Giles has top 5 talent but has had his career derailed by multiple knee surgeries. The Nets are a LONG way from contending so they might as well swing for the fences here.
23. TORONTO RAPTORS
IVAN RABB-PF-CAL
6-10/220/9-1
So./20.4
NBA Comparison: Amir Johnson/Ed Davis
Role: Starting PF, Good role player and rebounder, high level backup
Ironically the two players I have for Rabb's player comparison had their best years when they played in Toronto. The Serge Ibaka experiment had mixed results and he is a free agent so the Raptors would be wise to grab a PF here.
24. UTAH JAZZ
DJ Wilson-PF-MICHIGAN
6-11/234/9-2
So./21.4
NBA Comparison: Charlie Villanueva/Brian Cook
ROLE: Solid role playing stretch four, best as second unit scorer/shooter
The Jazz have a nice frontcourt, however Derrick Favors will be a free agent in 2018 and Trey Lyles has been mediocre at best in his first two season. Wilson is a stretch four that is rising up draft boards due to his shooting and length.
25. ORLANDO MAGIC
JAWUN EVANS-PG-OK ST.
6-0/175/7-11
So./20.9
NBA Comparison: Ty Lawson/Lindsey Hunter
ROLE: Backup PG on a good team, starter on an average/bad team
Elfrid Payton has been solid but he is going into the final year on his rookie contract and the Magic should at least have a fall back plan.
26. PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS
JONATHAN JEANE-C-FRANCE/FRANCE PRO A LEAGUE
7-2/207/9-6
Int./19.9
NBA Comparison: Alexis Ajinca
ROLE: Defensive stopper and rim protector
Portland should go with the Euro stash here. Jeane has freakish length but is a few years away from making a impact in the NBA>
27. BROOKLYN NETS
RODIONS KURUCS-SF-LATVIA/SPAIN LEB (Second Level)
6-8/200
Int./19.4
NBA Comparison: Joe Ingles
ROLE: Sharpshooting wing, #4/5 option on an average team, quality depth on a good team
The Nets need scoring and are said to have interest in Kurucs according to many sources and he would be a good young player to develop.
28. LOS ANGELES LAKERS
JORDAN BELL-C/F-OREGON
6-9/224/8-9
Jr./22.4
NBA Comparison: Chris "Birdman" Anderson/Bo Outlaw
ROLE: Role playing hustle player that can average close to 9 boards and 2 blocks per game
After going with the dime dropping, playmaking Lonzo Ball at #2, they will need to get a guy who can to the dirty work at #28. Bell is NBA ready and can add some toughness to a front line that needs it.
29. SAN ANTONIO SPURS
TYLER LYDON-CF-SYRACUSE
6-10/215/9-0
So./21.2
NBA Comparison: Omri Casspi/Doug McDermott
ROLE: Solid role playing stretch four, best as second unit scorer/shooter
The Spurs almost always go best player available. Lydon is a skilled shooter that lacks ideal athleticism. The Spurs value guys with good college production.
30. UTAH JAZZ
SEMI OJELEYE-CF-SMU
6-7/241/8-6
Jr./22.5
NBA Comparison: Jae Crowder/Kenneth Faried
ROLE: Defensive stopper, high energy hustle/glue guy
After going with an offensive player at #24, I have the Jazz getting a great defender and elite level athlete in Ojeleye. The SMU product looks more like a NFL TE than a NBA player and could be a beast on defense and the glass.
So./21.2
NBA Comparison: Omri Casspi/Doug McDermott
ROLE: Solid role playing stretch four, best as second unit scorer/shooter
The Spurs almost always go best player available. Lydon is a skilled shooter that lacks ideal athleticism. The Spurs value guys with good college production.
30. UTAH JAZZ
SEMI OJELEYE-CF-SMU
6-7/241/8-6
Jr./22.5
NBA Comparison: Jae Crowder/Kenneth Faried
ROLE: Defensive stopper, high energy hustle/glue guy
After going with an offensive player at #24, I have the Jazz getting a great defender and elite level athlete in Ojeleye. The SMU product looks more like a NFL TE than a NBA player and could be a beast on defense and the glass.
SECOND ROUND
31. ATLANTA HAWKS
KYLE KUZMA-Stretch 4/CF-UTAH
6-10/223/9-0
Jr./22.0
NBA Comparison: Mike Muscala
KEY SKILL: Shooting big/Rebounding
32. PHOENIX SUNS
IKE ANIGBOGU-C-UCLA
6-10/252/9-3
Fr./18.7
NBA Comparison: Bismack Biyombo/Kyle O'Quinn
KEY SKILL: Rim Protection/Size/Shot Blocking
33. ORLANDO MAGIC
BAM ADEBAYO-C/F-UK
6-10/243/9-0
Fr./19.3
NBA Comparison: JJ Hickson/Thomas Robinson
KEY SKILL: Rebounding/Power
34. SACRAMENTO KINGS
DERRICK WHITE-SG-COLORADO
6-5/190/8-6
Sr./22.9
NBA Comparison: Allen Crabbe
KEY SKILL: Scoring/Playmaking
35. ORLANDO MAGIC
DWAYNE BACON-SF/SG-FSU
6-6/222/8-8
So./21.8
KEY SKILL: Length/Elite Athlete
36. PHILADELPHIA 76ERS
ANZEJS PASECNIKS-C-LATVIA/SPAIN ACB LEAGUE
7-2/230
Int./21.5
NBA Comparison: Primoz Brezec
KEY SKILL: Mobility for size
37. BOSTON CELTICS
JOHNATHAN MOTLEY-PF-BAYLOR
6-9/238/9-0
Jr/22.2
NBA Comparison: Taj Gibson
KEY SKILL: Rebounding/Mid range shooting
38. CHICAGO BULLS
CALEB SWAINIGAN-PF-PURDUE
6-9/246/9-0
So./20.2
NBA Comparison: Carl Landry
KEY SKILL: Rebounding/Low block scoring
39. PHILADELPHIA 76ERS
JOSH HART-SG-VILLANOVA
6-5/210/8-5
Sr./22.2
NBA Comparison: Jodie Meeks
KEY SKILL: Shooting/Scoring
40. NEW ORLEANS PELICANS
SINDARIUS THORNWELL-SG-SOUTH CAROLINA
6-5/212/8-7
Sr./22.9
NBA Comparison: Rashad McCants
KEY SKILL: Scoring/Defense
41. CHARLOTTE HORNETS
JARON BLOSSOMGAME-SF-CLEMSON
6-7/219/8-9
Sr./23.7
KEY SKILL: Defense and hustle
42. UTAH JAZZ
TYLER DORSEY-SG-OREGON
6-5/183/8-4
So./21.3
KEY SKILL: Shooting/Scoring
43. HOUSTON ROCKETS
PJ DOZIER-SG/SF-SOUTH CAROLINA
6-7/201/8-5
So./20.6
KEY SKILL: Length/Versatility
44. NEW YORK KNICKS
WESLEY IWUNDU-SF/SG-WASHINGTON
6-7/193/8-10
Sr./22.5
KEY SKILL: Defense/Length
FRANK JACKSON-SG/CG-DUKE
6-4/202/8.2
Fr./19.2
KEY SKILL: Shooting/Scoring
46. PHILADELPHIA 76ERS
THOMAS BRYANT-C-INDIANA
6-11/248/9-5
So./19.8
KEY SKILL: Length/Size
47. INDIANA PACERS
ALEC PETERS-CF-VALPARISO
6-9/232/8-9
Jr./22.0
KEY SKILL: Shooting big
48. MILWAUKEE BUCKS
TONY BRADLEY-C-UNC
6-11/249/9-5
Fr./19.4
KEY SKILL: Length/Size
49. DENVER NUGGETS
FRANK MASON-PG-KANSAS
6-0/189/7-10
Sr./23.2KEY SKILL: Leadership/Playmaking
50. PHILADELPHIA 76ERS
DILLON BROOKS-SF-OREGON
6-6/220/8-5
Jr./21.4
KEY SKILL: Scoring/Power for a wing
51. DENVER NUGGETS
MATHIAS LESSORT-C-FRANCE/FRANCE PRO A LEAGUE
6-9/250
Int./21.7
KEY SKILL: Size/Hustle
52. WASHINGTON WIZARDS
EDMOND SUMNER-PG-XAVIER
6-6/176/8-7
So./21.4
KEY SKILL: PG size/passing
53. BOSTON CELTICS
JONAH BOLDIN-PF-AUSTRALIA/SERBIAN LEAGUE
6-10/230
Int./21.4
KEY SKILL: Rebounding/Shooting
54. PHOENIX SUNS
KOBI SIMMONS-PG-ARIZONA
6-6/166/8-3
Fr./20.0
KEY SKILL: PG size/passing
55. UTAH JAZZ
MONTE MORRIS-PG-IOWA ST
6-3/175/8-1
Sr./21.9
KEY SKILL: Playmaking/Versatility
56. BOSTON CELTICS
DEVIN ROBINSON-SF-FLORIDA
6-8/200/8-10
Jr./22.2
KEY SKILL: Defense/Length
57. BROOKLYN NETS
LJ PEAKE-SG-GEORGETOWN
6-5/212/8-7
Jr./21.3
KEY SKILL: Scoring/Size
CAM OLIVER-PF-NEVADA
6-8/240/8-11
So./20.9
KEY SKILL: Elite Athlete/Power
59. SAN ANTONIO SPURS
KOSTA MUSHIDI-SF/SG-BELGUIM/SERBIAN LEAGUE
6-5/226/8-8
Int./19.0
KEY SKILL: Defense/Power
60. ATLANTA HAWKS
NIGEL WILLIAMS GOSS-PG-GONZAGA
6-3/190/8-3
Jr./22.7
KEY SKILL: Passing/leadership
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