2021 First Round Mock Draft 1.0
The NBA Draft is less than a month away and today I will be releasing my first official mock draft. Keep in mind, drafting is not an exact science at all. Some prospects just flame out for a lot of reasons. Teams might have certain needs and then they go in a completely different direction that usually doesn’t work. Making a mock draft will never be accurate, however I will do my best to project where the next generation of NBA players will be going.
#1 – Detroit Pistons – Cade Cunningham
Like most drafts, the #1 overall pick is decided well before the draft. Cunningham is reportedly only working out with the Pistons, an early indicator that he’s heading to the Motor City. The franchise is in desperate need of a superstar and success. Cunningham can bring both of those things in a hurry.
Cunningham is a massive guard, he’s 6’8″, 225 pounds with a wingspan of over 7 feet. But along with his size, his versatility on the offensive end is so enticing at the next level. Cunningham can do it all offensively. He can play on and off ball, good shooter and a solid ball-handler, great passer, smart, good decision maker, aggressive at attacking the rim and offensive boards, he’s got the whole package offensively.
Defensively he has some questions on weather or not he can stay with guys on the perimeter, but you’re fine with that with his offensive repertoire and upside.
Cunningham’s offense is so versatile, he’s a perfect fit in the modern NBA as a bigger playmaking guard like Luka Doncic. The fit next to Killian Hayes is interesting and maybe Hayes, who was a top-10 pick last year, never pans out. I think you’re fine with that if you’re Detroit as long as you get your hands on a generational talent like Cade.
NBA Player Comparisons: Luka Doncic, Jimmy Butler
#2 – Houston Rockets – Evan Mobley
The Rockets were awful last year, but now they’re rebuild post James Harden can officially start with 3 first round picks this year, starting with the #2 overall pick. With this pick, they can go a few ways but I think Evan Mobley is going at the #2 spot. The incredibly versatile center from USC was dominant as a freshman last year and he should be very good in the NBA.
Offensively, for a 7-footer, Mobley is incredible versatile. He is a solid ball-handler and passer for his position and he moves well on the perimeter. His jumpshot looks smooth and he can step outside for some mid-range/3-PT shots. If he can develop that into a consistent shot, he can be unstoppable offensively. He is a lob threat in the pick and roll, explosive leaper, if paired with John Wall he’ll be very good. He has an array of finishes around the rim, he looks really good offensively.
But defense is where Mobley stands out. He was the Pac-12 defensive player of the year and he’s very good. Great leaping ability and timing led him to averaging nearly 3 blocks per game for USC. He can switch onto guards and he has the foot speed to keep up with them. He’s also good in the pick and roll, he can do it all defensively.
Mobley doesn’t have many issues, other than he’s skinny and sometimes he doesn’t give 100%.
Like with Detroit and Cade Cunningham, the fit next to Christian Wood is odd. Two versatile big guys who can move well is weird, but Mobley plays defense and Wood doesn’t. Mobley could become a generational center with his tools that are perfect for the modern NBA. He could be the face of a Rockets team trying to get back into contention in the Western Conference.
NBA Player Comparisons: Deandre Ayton, Chris Bosh
#3 – Cleveland Cavaliers – Jalen Green
The Cavaliers have a lot of young talent but still lack a direction. Rumors of them moving on from talented 3rd year guard Collin Sexton have arose this offseason, of them trying to build around Darius Garland and trade away Sexton (really good idea by the way). With the #3 pick, the Cavs can do a lot to give themselves a direction for the future and with this pick, I have them taking a boom or bust player in Jalen Green. Green is a 6’6″ guard who might end up being the best scorer in the draft, just what the Cavs need to kickstart their team offensively.
Green is shifty and explosive. He loves to get in transition and show off his impressive leaping abilities. He’s much improved shooting the ball and if his pull-up jumper can fall with more consistency, he can be a complete player. He has good touch around the rim and really good body control. If that perimeter game continues to progress, you’re looking at a very natural scorer with some size, similar to Michael Porter Jr. in a way.
But Green has a lot of developing to do in other areas. He plays a lot in isolation and doesn’t take the best shots always. Doesn’t have a left hand and isn’t the best playmaker. The defense is also iffy, sometimes he gambles and he isn’t exactly a big guard, so defense might be a struggle for him.
But the scoring is really tempting for a Cavs team that was the 30th ranked scoring offense this past year. Green is very raw and the Cavs will have to develop him, but Green has potential to be a very good scorer in the NBA. They could be getting a key player in their attempts to be good without Lebron James for the first time since the 1990’s.
NBA Player Comparisons: Zach Lavine, Kelly Oubre
#4 – Toronto Raptors – Jalen Suggs
The Raptors were one of the major winners of the lottery, jumping from the projected 7th pick to the 4th pick. The Raptors struggled last year with a thinned roster thanks to injuries and Covid and now they have decisions about their future. This 4th pick could change a lot for them and I have them taking Gonzaga guard Jalen Suggs. Suggs is very talented and with how Toronto develops young players? It’s a match made in heaven.
Suggs might be the safest pick in the draft. He has a complete game and he’s similar to Tyrese Haliburton or Desmond Bane from last year where they can come in and give you quality minutes from the jump, no rookie wall or anything like that. He has good size for the position at 6’4″, and he’s very quick and athletic. Loves to get to the rim, embraces contact, and has great body control.
He can play on or ball and he’s very unselfish. Can make the extra pass to a cutter or find the great shot when a good shot is available right in front of him. Good passer in the pick and roll, not turnover prone.
Defensively he is also very good, very committed. He wants to guard the opposing teams best player, he really tries on defense, which is half the battle for most rookies/players in the NBA. Good on and off-ball and he has great anticipation in the passing lanes.
Suggs isn’t much of a shooter, but his jumpshot looks good, he just didn’t shoot that well in college. No reason to believe he can’t become a good shooter in the NBA if he works at it. If he could add a floater to his game, he would be even more dangerous offensively. But Suggs is about as complete as a prospect can be coming into the NBA.
He can offer the Raptors some immediate impact from the jump and he could potentially be their Lowry replacement if he leaves in free agency. He can play on both ends and if he becomes more complete offensively, we could be looking at a franchise guard for the Raptors who look to get back into contention in the East very soon.
NBA Player Comparisons: Dejounte Murray, Lonzo Ball
#5 – Orlando Magic – Scottie Barnes
The Orlando Magic are in rebuild, but they have a lot of young talent. They have a lot of young talent at guard like Markelle Fultz and Cole Anthony. Jonathan Isaac is coming back from injury in the 2021-22 season. Down low you have Wendell Carter and Mo Bamba. So the Magic have talent and now they’re adding more talent with two picks inside the top 8. At pick #5, I have them taking Scottie Barnes. I like Barnes a lot for his versatility and I think he could become a very good player for Orlando.
Barnes is a unique forward. He has good size for the position, 6’9″, 227 pounds. He has a over 7 foot wingspan, he even has the tools to play small-ball center, something that is becoming more popular in the NBA today. He defended 1-5 in college, no reason he can’t defend 1-4 in the NBA, maybe even 1-5 again. He can stick with guards on the perimeter and battle with bigger guys in the post with his big build. Good on and off ball. Defensively he looks really, really promising.
Offense is still a work in progress. He played guard at FSU and he was a solid playmaker and loved to get out in transition. But his jumpshot looks unnatural and he needs to hit better than 28% from 3 in the NBA, otherwise he’ll run into Ben Simmons problems. He can’t exactly go in isolation and get you a basket, he’s not a #1 option and more of a secondary scorer as of now.
Scottie Barnes is very interesting. He fits the mold of where the NBA is going but his offense needs a lot of work. Better dribbling and shooter for starters, among other things. But he has good defensive tools and he can be that glue guy like Draymond Green is for the Warriors. Mainly defense with some offense. I like Scottie’s fit with a growing Magic team and I think he can be a really good player.
NBA Player Comparison: Draymond Green, Boris Diaw
#6 – OKC Thunder – Jonathan Kuminga
The Thunder were one of the “losers” from this year’s lottery. But they have 3 first round picks, all inside the top 20 this year alone. They also have about 1,000,000 over the next 5 years, so one bad lottery isn’t the end of the world when they’re likely to have a lot more chances for good luck in the future. The Thunder are going all-in rebuilding and with the 6th pick, I have them taking lengthy power forward Johnathan Kuminga, the talented scorer who played in the G-League this past year.
Kuminga is another big forward, 6’8″, 220 pounds. He has an over 7-foot wingspan and moves well in space. Big frame allows him to be explosive in the open court where he displays his quickness, strength, and fluidity. He’s shown an ability to make perimeter shots in isolation. He has a smooth jumpshot, making shots off the dribble and even off of screens. The defense is inconsistent, looks good when he’s engaged but he’s not always engaged.
While his offense looks promising, lot of problems. Inefficient, not the best decision maker with his shot selection. Tunnel vision on drives, he’s not the easiest guy to play with. When he’s not scoring at a high level, doesn’t bring much to the table as of right now.
Below-average defender as of right now, not always engaged as I said earlier. Not great off-ball defender, gambles for steals and gets burned.
Kuminga can be a very good player. He has the length and tools to be a two-way scoring wing. But he has some flaws that he has to fix. He’s one sided offensively, he needs to add things like an off-ball game as well as some play-making abilities. Defensively, he has to be engaged otherwise it’s going to be tough for him to be good. Kuminga is another boom-or-bust player in this draft, but he can very good.
NBA Player Comparison: OG Anunoby, Jaylen Brown
#7 – Golden State Warriors – Davion Mitchell
(Special thanks to Minnesota) The Warriors were very top-heavy last year, carried by Steph Curry, Green, and Wiggins. Hopefully Klay Thompson comes back this season, but they still need a lot of help. They need to fill out their bench with more scoring help and with two lottery picks, they have the potential to do that. This is assuming they don’t trade these two picks for a more established player, which is also a likely scenario. But if they stay at #7, I have them taking Baylor guard Davion Mitchell, who should really help them get back into contention in the West.
Mitchell is a complete player, but he’s best defensively. He was the best defender not only in the BIG-12, but in the nation last year, winning the Naismith Defensive Player of the Year. He is one of, if not the best on-ball defender in this year’s draft. He has quick feet and is able to take charges on the perimeter with his aggressive defensive play-style. He is a tough defender who plays bigger than his 6’2″ size would suggest. He’s going to be a great defender from day 1.
He is explosive on offense, able to beat his defender without the help of a screen. Shot 45% from 3 during his final season with Baylor, so he can space the floor. Solid ball-handler and passer who rarely turns the ball over, very smart. Able to hit shots off the dribble and can get to the rim and finish with some NBA-level moves. Hard-worker, improved every single year and has played 90 college games, he is experienced.
His weaknesses aren’t glaring. Didn’t shoot many free throws and didn’t shoot them well, although he’s a good pure shooter, not a big worry as of right now. He doesn’t have a floater, only made 5 in his final season with Baylor. With him being a smaller guard, that floater would help him immensely.
Davion Mitchell is one of my favorite prospects from this year. He is going to be good from Day 1 one and could make an immediate impact for any team. He’s great on both ends and he has some great mentors like Steph Curry and Draymond Green on this Warriors team. Mitchell could be one of the most impactful players in the draft and whoever gets him is getting a very good player.
NBA Player Comparison: Jrue Holiday, Donovan Mitchell (not just because of name)
#8 – Orlando Magic – Moses Moody
(Enjoy Vucevic, Chicago) The Magic have a chance to get some quality players in this draft with their two lottery picks inside the top 8. I already had them taking Scottie Barnes with the 5th overall pick and with the 8th overall pick, I have them taking Arkansas guard Moses Moody. Moody was an integral part of the Razorbacks reaching their first Elite 8 since 1995. Here’s what the Magic are getting in Moody;
Offensively, Moody looks pretty talented. He’s 6’6″, 205 pounds, with a 7-1 wingspan. He has some length and that makes up for his lack of burst. He’s a solid shooter, 36% from 3 and 81% from the free throw line during his lone season at Arkansas. Has some-what of a mid-range game and he drew 6.9 free throws (nice) per 40 minutes. So he is aggressive and has a knack for drawing contact, important skill in the NBA nowadays.
Defensively, he has the size and length to be good and guard multiple positions. When engaged, he can be very good. He averaged 1.2 steals and 0.8 blocks per 40 minutes in college and took charges with regularity. Was asked to do a lot in college on both ends, so as a secondary option, he could be a solid 3&D wing at the next level.
Moody did do considerably better against worse competition in college. He shot 60% from 2 and 43% from 3 against teams with a losing record. He shot 42% from 2 and 31% from 3 against teams with a winning record. Again, he was asked to do a lot in college and he was guarded a lot tighter than he will be in the NBA as a role player, so I don’t see that as a big concern. His finishing and shot-creation needs some work. He takes a lot of tough shots when he’s a good, not great shooter as of right now.
A little smaller for his 6’6″ size, might struggle against elite wings in the NBA with that lack of size. Defensive intensity comes and goes, not always engaged.
I like Moses Moody a lot. I think was too little butter on too much bread in Arkansas, asked to do too much. But in a role similar to guys like Cam Johnson, some shooting, shot creation off the dribble, and some defense. Moody could become a very valuable 3&D player with his combination of length, scoring, and defense, and the Magic will be getting a solid project player for their future.
NBA Player Comparison: Cam Johnson, Mikal Bridges
#9 – Sacramento Kings – Keon Johnson
The Kings have collected a lot of talent over the past few years but they have absolutely nothing. They have their franchise star and some really nice pieces around De’Aaron Fox, but their coaching has been really bad. The main showing of that has been their defense, which was 30th in the league this past season, one of the worst defenses of all-time overall. While Luke Walton somehow continues to have a job, they have to address the defensive side of the ball. I think they can do that by selecting Tennessee guard Keon Johnson.
Johnson is one of the most athletic guys in the draft. He had a 48 inch vertical leap, a NBA combine record by 2.5 inches. He also had a 41.5 inch standing vertical leap, so he can really get up there. He’s not the biggest guard, 6’5″, but only 186 pounds. He is only 19 years old, so he should add some pounds in the coming years. He has an explosive first step and thrives in the open court. Showed some play-making flashes at Tennessee, as well as some shot-making in the mid-range and instincts at only 19 that signify growth in the future.
While he isn’t a big guard right now, he has defensive versatility. He’s aggressive and competitive on that end, can stay on guards and wings. He’s good at sliding his feet and containing the point of attack. Forces turnovers and mistakes from opponent with instincts and activity level.
While Johnson is good, he has lot of work to do to polish his game. Doesn’t have much of an offensive game in the half-court. Ball-handling, decision-making are works in progress as of right now. He is a smaller guard, definitely going to have to get bigger and stronger to finish through contact at the NBA level. His pull-up jumper is slow and lacks accuracy under duress. Shot 70% from the free throw line in college, needs some work. Didn’t really shoot 3’s at college, only 27% for his career, also needs some work.
Keon Johnson is solid right now, but at only 19, he has a long way to do. His shooting and ball-handling have a ways to go as well as his physical maturity, him getting bigger and stronger to deal with the NBA better in the years to come. But his defense looks solid already and if his offense improves a bit, he could be a solid two-way wing for a Sacramento team needing wing depth and defense badly.
NBA Player Comparison: Victor Oladipo, Jaylen Brown
#10 – New Orleans Pelicans – Corey Kispert
The Pelicans have a generational star in Zion Williamson, entering his 3rd year. They have an All-Star in Brandon Ingram. That should make you decent at the very worst, but the Pelicans were far worse than decent last year with Stan Van Gundy, who has since been fired. Their defense and spacing were awful and now Zion is unhappy. The Pelicans need to make moves and fast to avoid another Anthony Davis situation and their 10th pick is very important. With this pick, I have them taking Gonzaga forward Corey Kispert.
Kispert is a pretty big and strong forward, 6’7″ and 220 pounds. He is probably the best shooter in the draft. He shot 44% from 3 on 6.5 attempts during his senior season with the Bulldogs. Very good shooter when his feet are set, dangerous in transition when defenses can’t find him. Good off screens and can shoot off the move with impressive range. If run off the 3-PT line, good enough ball-handler to make a play, has a nice floater in his offensive repertoire.
Very smart player, doesn’t turn the ball over much. Very efficient, not one to force shots. Willing passer, good cutter, good off-ball, very good all-around offensive player.
He’s not great at doing multiple directions, more of a straight line driver. Not the best finisher in the world, better off of two feet than off balance. Not explosive off the dribble.
Defensively, he’s not that good. He’s a solid team defender off ball, but in the NBA he has to rely on his smarts to defend guys. Not the quickest guy, so on-ball defense will be a struggle and even though he went to 4 years at college, he’ll likely be a one-sided player.
While the Pelicans desperately need defense, keeping stars happy is another thing to keep in mind when running a franchise, and the Pelicans need spacing. Kispert is the best shooter in the draft and he offers a smart player who can give you good minutes off the bench. Not much of a defender, which is what New Orleans really needs, but you solve one problem at a time. With this pick, they add more shooting.
NBA Player Comparison: Joe Harris
#11 – Charlotte Hornets – Isaiah Jackson
The Hornets were one of the surprising teams last year, making it to the Eastern Conference play-in tournament when they were expected to be bad. Terry Rozier was great, Lamelo Ball was rookie of the year, and guys like Miles Bridges and Gordon Hayward had great years. They have talent all around their roster but they desperately need better centers than Zeller and Biyombo. With the 11th pick, they can get a solid big guy for their future, Isaiah Jackson.
Jackson looks like a physical specimen. 6’11”, 206 pounds with a 9-5 standing reach. One of the best athletes in the draft, can run the floor and get off the ground quickly for dunks and blocks. Has good coordination and agility, able to cover ground fast. Offensively, he’s not great but he’s shown flashes as a ball-handler, passer, and shooter. He has good hands and a soft touch, so the offense definitely has some potential.
Defensively is where he’s at his best. That elite size and speed allow him to be a great shot-blocker, 2.6 blocks with Kentucky this past season. Very good timing to block shots and he’s also a very good rebounder, averaged 2.1 offensive rebounds and 6.6 rebounds overall in college.
Jackson is a little weak right now, only 206 pounds. Obviously he’ll have to bulk up a little to find more success. While his defense looks very good, sometimes he falls asleep off-ball and isn’t consistent enough with his fundamentals. Can’t really step out onto the perimeter and stay with guards as of right now. Not much of a scorer yet, can’t do much on his own. Not much of a jump-shot as of right now.
Jackson is very raw but I like what he can bring as a lob threat and shot-blocker. The Hornets really need interior defense and Jackson can bring that to the table. He’s shown flashes of a jumpshot and ball-handling abilities, so he could become a very unique center in the NBA. He’ll get to play with Rozier and Ball, two of the better guards in the league, if the Hornets get Jackson, it’ll be a good pickup.
NBA Player Comparison: Nicolas Claxton
#12 – San Antonio Spurs – Franz Wagner
The Spurs have talent, but no direction. They’re likely losing DeMar DeRozan this off-season and they don’t have a direction. With the 12th pick, they can take a project player with the hopes of developing him for the future. That player being Franz Wagner, brother of Mo Wagner of the Orlando Magic. Perhaps the Spurs can get a key piece to help build their future contending teams.
Wagner has great size for the small forward position. He’s 6’9″, 220 pounds. He has grown a lot in the past few years and since he’s only 20, his frame can only get bigger. But despite his youth, he played 59 games in Europe. He then was a starter for two years with Michigan and they were the #1 seed in the NCAA Tournament this past year. So he has more experience than most players in this class and he’s only 20 years old.
Very good defender on or off ball. Big enough to guard most power forwards. Very smart defender, good in the passing lanes and as a rim protector. Offensively, he was the Wolverines point-forward. Keeps his head up while driving, delivering timely passes to cutters and open shooters to keep the offense flowing. Soft touch around the rim and has shown the ability to be a good shooter. He shot 84% from the free throw line during his college career.
He doesn’t have much explosiveness or burst. He can get beat in one-on-one situations. Definitely needs to get stronger, sometimes gets bullied on the boards and on drives. Not a primary scoring option, wasn’t a scorer with Michigan. Doesn’t show aggressiveness sometimes, just blends in.
Shot 33% from 3 in college, but sometimes passes open 3’s up. Confidence from outside is shaky. His jumpshot release is sometimes low and slow, especially off the dribble. His pull-up jumpshot looks decent, going to have to expand the range on that.
Wagner is interesting. He seems like a Spurs player, not flashy and not hyper athletic, just solid. His experience at just 20 years old means he can come in and make an immediate impact and his passing skills are enticing when ball movement is so important. The defense also looks pretty solid, if he can become bigger and a better scorer, he can be a really solid two-way point-forward wing type player.
NBA Player Comparison: Kyle Anderson, Nicolas Batum
#13 – Indiana Pacers – Jalen Johnson
The Pacers had a rough last season. They fired Nate McMillan and got Nate Bjorkgren, a Raptors assistant with ties to Nick Nurse. Things didn’t work as Bjorkgren was an awful coach, fired after just one season after Indiana didn’t make the playoffs. Meanwhile McMillan took over for the Hawks midseason and they went to to the Eastern Conference Finals. They hired Rick Carlisle and they have talent, now it’s time to get some depth to make them a real them. They have a really good chance to do that with the 13th pick and I have them selecting Duke forward Jalen Johnson.
Johnson was supposed to be a top-10 pick, but his lone season with Duke was disappointing and he eventually quit the team midway through the season to enter the draft. Not the best look, however he’s still a very talented player. He has a great combo of strength and explosiveness at 6’9″, 220 pounds. Johnson is a very versatile defender that can defend multiple positions. Good rebounder, good off-ball defense, and is a good overhang defender for blocks and charges.
Offensively, he’s at his best in the open court. Pretty good ball-handler for his size and a solid passer. Very good on straight line drives, good at changing gears.
His shooting is a work in progress. Not very good in the half-court, unable to break down defenders one-on-one. Predictable as a shot-creator. Likes to catch, jab right, drive left. A little turnover prone, had more turnovers (33) than assists (29) at Duke.
Johnson is mostly a defensive guy for now. His defense should help an Indiana team lacking defense outside of Myles Turner. His offense is a bit lacking but he could turn into a solid secondary option, something Indiana needs as they are very reliant on their best players, not much of a bench. Johnson could make an immediate impact for a team trying to get some playoff success for the first time in a long time.
NBA Player Comparison: TJ Warren, Tobias Harris
#14 – Golden State Warriors – Josh Giddey
Again, the Warriors might trade this pick and their #7 pick for a star. But if they keep this pick, they can add some more depth to try and contend in the West next season. With this pick, I have them taking a large guard from Australia who struggles shooting the ball. Where have I heard this before? No, it’s not Ben Simmons, it’s Josh Giddey.
Giddey is the super-sized point guard, with a towering 6’9″ frame. He’s one of the youngest guys in the draft, so while he only weighs 185 pounds now, he can grow more physically over the years. He led the Australian NBL in assists this past season with 7.4. A maestro in the pick and roll, arguably the best passer in the draft with his court vision, awareness, and creativity. Very good ball-handler with great feel for game, changes pace well, able to manipulate defenses with fakes.
Not the best defender, but has good instincts as a rebounder and ball-thief. Was one of the best rebounders in the NBL despite lack of size and experience. Size and instincts suggest he’ll become a better defender once his frame fills out in the next few years.
Giddey isn’t a first option scorer, averaged just under 11 points in the NBL last year. Not the best shooter, 51% true shooting last year. Doesn’t have explosiveness or strength to consistently get by defenders. 29% shooting from 3, not the most comfortable from the outside. Can get beat off the dribble with his lack of strength, high center of gravity, and lack of high-end quickness.
Giddey is another guy who is destined to be a quality role player. Not the best scorer or shooter, but his playmaking and rebounding off the bench is valuable. Could become a solid defender if his frame fills out, needs to bulk up to compete at the NBA level. The Warriors could be getting a solid glue guy off the bench who can share the ball and be an extra body at that wing position.
NBA Player Comparison: Evan Turner
#15 – Washington Wizards – Usman Garuba
The Wizards have their backcourt duo of Beal and Westbrook. But the team around them isn’t much. Rui Hachimura is solid and Thomas Bryant should be coming back after tearing his ACL last year. Daniel Gafford was a great pickup at the deadline but with a guy who punches mascots as a side hobby and Alex Len in your center rotation, you definitely going to need an upgrade down low. With the 15th pick, there are a few options, but I have them taking Usman Garuba (best name ever).
Garuba is likely going to be a power forward in the NBA. He’s 6’8″, 229 pounds. While he has a great build for center, a little too small. But the Wizards need all the help they can get down low. Garuba played in the best leagues not named the NBA. Played nearly 90 professional games for Real Madrid, the top team in Spain. He’s played in a lot of big games, not going to be “star-struck” like some rookies are when they first enter the league.
Arguably the best defender in this draft. Has a 7-3 wingspan even though not incredibly tall. Quick feet, excellent hands, gives 100% effort all the time. He was tasked with guarding the best guards, but he’s strong and long enough to play down low against most bigs. Very smart defender, should be able to contain guards at the NBA level. Does the little things, the dirty things to win a game. Showed signs of a perimeter shot late in the season. He’s beloved by coaches and teammates, a team player who knows his role.
Didn’t score much, only averaged 5.6 points per game in 19 minutes for Real Madrid this past season. Mostly a screener in an offense. Not a very good shooter, career 32% 3-PT shooter, only making 41 3’s in 112 games. Although, 24 of those game in the 2020-21 season.
Garuba would be very good for the Wizards. A guy who knows his role and can play defense for a Wizards team lacking just that. Him, Bryant, and Gafford will bring youth and energy to this team. Garuba has played against and with the 2nd best competition in the world, so he’ll be good from the jump. He’ll be a good pairing with Westbrook, this would be a good pickup for the Wizards who are trying to contend (not a good idea).
NBA Player Comparison: Amir Johnson, PJ Washington
#16 – OKC Thunder – Alperen Sengun
(Special thanks to Boston for this pick) The Thunder have a lot of picks, so they can kind of pick whoever they want. They traded away Horford and Moses Brown this offseason, so their center position doesn’t have anybody there as of right now. With this pick, they can get one of the best big guys available, Turkish center Alperen Sengun.
Sengun is very young, he’s 18 right now and he’ll turn 19 in the middle of July (happy early birthday). Despite his youth, he was arguably the most productive 18-year old in high-level European basketball ever. He did it all for his team; he averaged 18.6 points, 8.9 rebounds, 2.7 assists, with 1.5 blocks and 1.3 steals per game. He shot 67% from the field and 81% from the free throw line.
He’s a very good interior scorer, crashes the offensive boards, good passer for the position, quick, good coordination, great footwork, and great hands and touch around the basket. Perimeter game showed itself at times and with his young age, no reason to doubt he can develop a perimeter game.
Good at getting in passing lanes, quick off his feet with great timing to be a great shot-blocker. He is a little under-sized at 6’9″, but he’s a sturdy 235 pounds.
But he is that in-between guy. Too slow to defend power forwards and perhaps too small to defend centers. Not a great pick and roll defender. Career 23% 3-point shooter on 227 attempts in 201 games. Only went 7/36 in 43 games this season. Indicates he can develop a perimeter game, but that’ll take some time to adjust to the NBA 3-PT line.
Turkish league wasn’t as competitive this season as in the past, maybe inflated numbers a little bit. His team might have also showcased him for the purposes of receiving a buyout. But the talent is definitely there, there’s no denying that.
I think that Sengun can be a very good player. He seems like a really good offensive player. He’s good down low as a scorer and rebounder and his passing is a lot better than most centers in the league. His defense is a little questionable with his size but his offense alone is enticing and if his defense become decent at best, he could be a solid rotational big in the league. The Thunder are very good at developing players, so Sengun could be getting the best treatment with OKC.
NBA Player Comparison: Domantas Sabonis
#17 – Memphis Grizzlies – Chris Duarte
The Grizzlies are on the rise in the West. They are so young and so deep and they have a great coaching staff. Ja Morant is their leader and they have so much talent. Their defense is great but their offense needs some work. Their shooting in particular needs work, as they ranked 24th in 3-PTM and 20th in 3-PT% last season. So they need some shooting outside of Allen, Brooks, and Desmond Bane. With the 17th pick they can get one of the best shooters in the draft, Chris Duarte.
Duarte is easily one of the best shooters in the draft. He shot 42% from 3 on 5.5 attempts last season with the Ducks (the best college, obviously). Very good mechanics and he’s not just a catch-and-shoot shooter. Great at creating separating with his step-back. Great balance on his pull-up jumpshot. Made 44 pull-ups in just 26 games last season. When run off the 3-PT line, comfortable in the mid-range or with side-stepping a closeout. Can run off of screens a bit. Very efficient inside the arc, shot 63% on 2’s last season. True shooting percentage over 66%, rare for a perimeter oriented player.
Solid ball-handler and passer. Ranked in the 94th percentile on 71 pick-and-roll possessions last season. Good defender on and off-ball. Averaged 2.3 steals and 0.9 blocks per 40 minutes this past season with the Ducks. NBA-ready on both sides of the floor with 2 years of college experience, over 50 games played.
Good tools for on off guard but not quite as big and long as a traditional 3&D style wing. He is 6’6″ but not the longest guy in the world. Good defender at Oregon, but can he keep up with guards at the next level?
While he’s a good free throw shooter (81%), he doesn’t get to the line much and can he upgrade his finishing ability at the next level. Not a lot of difficult finishes with the Ducks, would benefit from a floater/runner type shot.
I think Duarte is perfect for Memphis. He brings them so much offensively and he’s not just a shooter. He is one of the pure shooters in the draft but he also has passing and ball-handling abilities. His defense isn’t a liability, he should be very good off their bench and offer them a lot of much needed shooting. Desmond Bane is a similar player from last year and he was great last year as a rookie for the Grizzlies. Could see the same thing with a player like Duarte.
NBA Player Comparison: Smaller Klay Thompson, Desmond Bane
#18 – OKC Thunder – James Bouknight
Another pick? Better get used to this. Barring any Presti magic, this is the last pick the Thunder have in the first round of this draft. With how many picks they have for the future, it’s ok to take a few risky picks, some high risk, high reward type players. James Bouknight is that type of player and he could be available at the 18th slot.
Bouknight is one of the best pure scorers in the draft coming out of UConn. Good size for the shooting guard position, 6’5″. Good, shifty athlete in the open court, plays above the rim. Has the feet and length to become a good defender against guards, good rebounder for the position.
Smooth with the ball in his hands, good at changings speeds and directions. Elite hesitation going left and can make some tough shots off-balance. Creative finisher, can finish off of either foot with either hand and has a floater game.
Jumpshot is a bit streaky, defensive intensity isn’t always there. Better shooter off the dribble than in catch-and-shoot situations. Doesn’t offer much off-ball offensively as this point. Not much of a facilitator, more turnovers than assists during two years at UConn. Not much of a primary ball-handler, more of a pure-scorer off ball.
Bouknight is just a pure scorer who can maybe develop defensively. He’s like Lou Williams and Jordan Clarkson, he doesn’t offer much outside of scoring right now. But scoring off the bench is really valuable in the NBA as good benches usually lead to having a good team. Already with SGA on the roster, Bouknight as a secondary scorer type player is perfect for Bouknight.
NBA Player Comparison: Jordan Clarkson, Lou Williams
#19 – New York Knicks – Tre Mann
The Knicks were one of the most surprising teams in the league last year, their defense being much improved under Tom Thibodeau being the reason for their success. If their offense was consistent, they would be a lot better. Julius Randle was awful against Atlanta and they got dominated. So it’s clear that they need offense. That’s why with the 19th pick I have them taking some offense Florida guard Tre Mann (no relation to Terrence).
Mann is a pretty big point guard, 6’5″, 190 pounds. He was one of the best offensive players in the country last year for the Gators. Good ball-handler who can change speeds and directions well. Has multiple moves like a step-back and pull-up jumper. Good footwork.
Good touch from all around the floor. Shot 40% from 3 as a sophomore, has very deep range that should translate to the next level. Ranked in the 90th percentile of pull-ups last season. Feathery touch on floaters from inside the arc. Pick-and-roll threat with ability to score at all 3 levels. Improved passer in the pick and roll as well.
Ball screen passes generated 1.2 points per possession for Florida, which ranked in the 87th percentile in the country. Late growth spurt to 6’5″ allows him to see over the defense.
Not the best defender, doesn’t always show consistent effort on that end. His wingspan is 6-4 while his height is 6-5, so his limited length doesn’t allow him to be that versatile on that end. Still working on the passing game, 4.3 assists to 3.5 turnovers per 40 minutes as a sophomore. Still finding the right balance between scoring and playmaking. More of a finesse player who will sometime settle for a shot instead of attacking the defense.
Mann is what the Knicks need, some shooting and scoring. Defense isn’t really a concern, they desperately need scoring. Alec Burks and Reggie Bullock aren’t guaranteed to comeback this offseason as they are both free agents, so they need some scoring off the bench to help their mediocre offense. Mann offers then some punch off the bench, he would help them a lot.
NBA Player Comparison: Devin Harris, Coby White
#20 – Atlanta Hawks – Jared Butler
The Hawks were pretty bad during the middle of the season. They were 14-20 and 11th in the Eastern Conference, disappointing to many who had high hopes for a team full of new faces. But with Nate McMillan, they turned things around and made a run to the Eastern Conference Finals. One of their few flaws was depth, especially behind Trae Young. Kris Dunn was hurt all year and hardly played, and Lou Williams is 34 years old as well as a free agent this summer. So to sure up that guard position, I have the Hawks taking Baylor guard Jared Butler.
Butler has one of the most impressive resumes entering the draft. First-team All-American who won the national championship and was named Most Outstanding Player of the NCAA Tournament, all during his junior season with Butler. Butler is a very good, polished player offensively coming into the draft. Very versatile and efficient who can score well at all 3 levels as well as create for others. Flashy ball-handler who can operate out of a ball-screen and can play well on or off-ball.
Versatile shot-maker with his feet set or pulling up sharply off step-backs. Shot 42% from 3 on 6 attempts and 78% from the free throw line during his junior season. Improved defender who will chase guys off of screens, very disruptive in the passing lanes and digging out steals from ball-handlers.
Not the most physically imposing guard. Average size and length along with a slight frame, 6’3″ and 195 pounds. Not the best rebounder for his position (2.9 rebounds junior season). Best equipped to be a point guard defender but hasn’t shown he can run a half court offense. Decision making is sometimes questionable. Not the best finisher with lack of physicality, only shot 48% on 2-pointers in college. Although he did get better from inside in each of 3 seasons, still a work in progress. Doesn’t get to the free throw line much.
Butler is a decent scoring option off the bench. Not much of a playmaker, but the Hawks need to surround Trae Young with as much scoring as possible. Their guard position outside of Young is shaky and they can get a very good shooter and solid defender off the bench who can make an immediate impact to a playoff team.
NBA Player Comparison: Bryn Forbes, George Hill
#21 – New York Knicks – Kai Jones
(Thanks Dallas, enjoy Kristaps) Another thing the Knicks need aside from offense is big man depth. With the 19th pick, I gave them some added offense, something they need. With this pick I’m adding to their frontcourt. Mitchell Robinson is very good but this past season he was injured a lot. Nerlens Noel is also very good, but he’s a free agent this summer. Taj Gibson is 36 years old. So they need some frontcourt depth and I have them taking Texas big Kai Jones with the 21st pick.
Jones is very agile for a 6-10 big guy. Has a background in track and field, shows with his feet. Can get up and down the floor very well, important with the increased pace in the modern NBA. Scores 1.29 points per transition. Good footwork, enough to switch onto guards and wings on the perimeter. Not a liability in switch situations, very good athlete that can play above the rim.
Plays with a lot of energy, very active on both ends. Averaged 3.4 offensive rebounds per 40 minutes. Flies around the court for steals and blocks. Offense has shown glimpses of being promising. Shot 38% from 3 as a sophomore with Texas on 1.3 attempts per game. Has potential as a passer and ball handler as well.
Doesn’t have much experience, joined the game late in the Bahamas, which shows in some areas. Had 26 career assists to 59 turnovers during two years with Texas. Racked up 2.3 fouls per game in college, while playing just under 20 minutes per game over 2 seasons. Body is still developing at just 20 years old. Not the best defensive rebounder, just 5.0 per 40 minutes last season. Can improve ability to play through contact offensively and battle on the interior defensively. Blank canvas at this point, good at a lot of things but not great at one thing.
Kai Jones is like I said, a blank canvas, which is a good and bad thing. The Knicks have a very good coaching staff that can mold him defensively but with his lack of experience, it’ll take some time. Highly likely he’s going to the G-League wherever he ends up getting drafted, very, very raw as of right now. But he’s shown potential as a rotational center with his athleticism and versatility on both ends. Jones could end up being very good if in the right situation.
NBA Player Comparison: Jaxson Hayes, Christian Wood
#22 LA Lakers – Jaden Springer
The Lakers not picking late in the first round? Whaaaaaat? We all know what happened to the Lakers. Karma. It was really injuries, but Stephen A. Smith said that about the Nets, so the same thing applies to the Lakers. The Lakers offense struggled immensely again even when healthy and they lacked depth. They don’t have centers on the roster or shooting and what do they do with Dennis Schroder? Lots of questions, time to get some answers. With Kai Jones likely being off the board at this spot, I think you have to take one of the best players available in Jaden Springer.
Springer is a pretty big guard, 6’4″, 204 pounds coming out of Tennessee. At only 18 years old, he’s one of the youngest players in the draft. Offensively, Springer doesn’t do a whole bunch of scoring. His best way of scoring is finishing. Most of his shots come at the rim, where he shot 59% in the half-court. Loves to seek out contact and is fundamentally sound, great off of two feet in the paint. Gets to the free throw line well and shot 81% from the free throw line during his lone season at college.
Good cutter off-ball, especially cuts from the corner. Good playmaker, averaged 4.5 assists per 40 minutes in college. Had more assists than turnover as an 18-year old. Good at making passes in the paint, keeps his head up on drives.
Defensively he’s a very good on-ball defender, with his length he can guard 1-3 at the NBA level. Forced a turnover 24% of the time guarding PNR and ISOs, highly effective defender with a lot of room to grow at such a young age. Physical defender, good at cutting off driving lanes, doesn’t foul often. Really good potential defensively.
Not the best shooter. He did shoot 44% from 3 in college, but only shot 46 3’s in 26 games. Shot 10/28 on catch-and-shoot 3’s, not the best off-ball offensive player with lack of shooting. Stiff looking jumpshot, looks really uncomfortable at times. Shot 71 pull-up jumpshots, but made only 28% of them. Mechanics need a lot of work overall. More of a strong athlete, doesn’t have the quickest first step to blow by guys. Doesn’t create a lot of separation.
Springer is a work in progress. The defense looks really good for him only being 18 years old and he’ll only get better. More of a slasher as of right now, can get to the rim and draw contact very well. But the shooting needs work overall, needs better mechanics and needs to become a better off-ball shooter and his pull-up jumpshot needs work. A project player who could work out in a few years, similar to a player like Talen Horton-Tucker for the Lakers.
NBA Player Comparison: Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Malcolm Brogdon
#23 – Houston Rockets – Ziaire Williams
(Special thanks to the Blazers for this pick). The Rockets hold both the 23rd and 24th pick. So they can potentially take some high risk, high reward players, trying to gamble to accelerate their rebuild. With the 23rd pick, I have them taking Ziaire Williams, a very interesting player. Williams was one of the highest ranked recruits in this class coming into college, but his lone season at college was far from spectacular. But the talent is definitely there for the Stanford one-and-done.
Williams is a tall, fluid wing at 6-8 with a 6-10.5 inch wingspan. Light on his feet, can finish above the rim, and can change speeds and directions very well for a guy his size. Has shown shot-making potential both off the catch and the bounce. Good enough footwork to rise into pullup shots and can create space with step-back. Comfortable ball-handler with great balance who can play in the pick-and-roll. Has upside as a creator and is a willing passer.
Good off-ball defender with good instincts in the passing lanes.
Only 185 pounds, very thin, definitely going to need to add some weight and muscle. Lack of strength currently limits him defensively and as a finisher around the rim. Gets pushed around defensively and sometimes can’t get around screens due to thin frame. Still finding the balance between when to be aggressive and when to be a facilitator. Settles for bad shots sometimes. Doesn’t get to the free throw line often (2.5 FTA). Sometimes goes long stretches without doing much offensively.
Streaky shooter, confidence in jumpshot comes and goes. Very inefficient in college, 37% FG and 29% from 3.
Williams could be very good. He has really good size for how good he could become as a shot-maker. He will be better as more of a secondary option offensively, meaning he won’t be as horrendous shooting the ball as he was in college. Definitely has to gain some weight, because he will get bullied in the NBA at only 185 pounds will trying to guard forwards. Williams is a very boom or bust guy, but it could be just what the Rockets needed.
NBA Player Comparison: Michael Porter Jr, Paul George
#24 – Houston Rockets – Sharife Cooper
(Special thanks to Milwaukee for this pick) Hey, it’s you again. The Rockets can essentially take whoever they want, so why not take one of the best players available at this spot? Cooper was very good as a freshman and showed some signs of being a very good player at the next level. It’s not unrealistic to say that the Rockets will be in position to take the Auburn guard.
Cooper was one of the most productive freshman in the country last year. Averaged 20.2 points and 8.1 assists in just 33 minutes. Although he is just 6-1, 180 pounds, he’s a fearless player who never lacks confidence. Although he is small, averaged 10.3 free throw attempts per 40 minutes, seeks out contact. Feathery touch on his floaters. Great pace to his game, very slick ball-handler. Can change speed and direction effortlessly. Has the ball on a string, allows him to get anywhere he wants on the floor.
One of the best passers in the draft. Shades of Trae Young with his combination of handles, passing, and swagger. Great vision in the pick-and-roll. Can make every read in the book. Can make passes into tight windows with precision, gunslinger mentality, not afraid to make passes.
Doesn’t have the size for a starting PG in the NBA, limits his defensive versatility. With that lack of size, such a small margin of error and sometimes doesn’t play with the intensity needed to play decent defense for his size. Going to be an immediate target for defenses at the NBA level. He did average 5.0 turnovers per 40 minutes in college, so at the NBA level he’ll have to be even more creative in finding passing lanes.
Shot just 23% from 3 as a freshman. He did shot 83% from the free throw line with his many attempts, but his 3-PT jumpshot is a work in progress. Struggled to make teams pay for going under his screens. Just 10/39 (0.64 points per possession) on pull-up jumpers. Since he relies on his pick-and-roll game so much offensively, developing a 3-PT/mid-range jumpshot is key so that defenses can’t just go under screens every time. Off-ball offense isn’t a factor right now. 46% of offense came from isolation or pick-and-rolls. Catch-and-shoot ability has to improve to be able to work off-ball.
Cooper is a very good offensive player. Very good passer and ball-handler. Very shifty and crafty, able to get to the rim and the free throw line very well. The shooting needs some work but he’s the complete package offensively. Defensively, it’s a weakness and it always will be. His size is similar to that of Collin Sexton and Darius Garland, small guards who are just going to get picked on. Don’t see him becoming a Kyle Lowry or Fred VanVleet type of small guard defender, so that’s what limits him from becoming very good. But still a very talented player for whoever gets him.
NBA Player Comparison: Collin Sexton
#25 – LA Clippers – Joshua Primo
The Clippers are a very good team but an unfortunate injury to Kawhi Leonard derailed their chances at the title. But they are still one of the best teams in the West and they might not even take this pick, trading it in another win-now move. But considering this is one of the few first-round picks they have for the next decade, they might want to take this pick. With this pick, I have them taking Alabama guard Joshua Primo.
Primo is only 18 years old, which means he has a lot of growing room. But Primo is already a very good offensive player. He is one of the best shooters in the draft, shooting 38% from 3 on nearly 4 attempts per game in college. He’s best as a catch-and-shoot shooter. He shot 44% on catch-and-shoot attempts in the half-court for Alabama. He has a fluid stroke and is always ready pre-catch. He showed flashes of having deep range in college, and is a very good corner shooter.
As an offensive player in general, Primo has great potential. He didn’t do off the dribble much, but he did show flashes at times. His pull-up jumpshot is also very good, you can’t go under his screens. Solid finisher who uses his 6-9 wingspan to his advantage. Very good in the open court as both a shooter and finisher. Some isolation shot-making potential as well.
Primo’s defense also has upside. His 6-9 wingspan gives him great length for the position, combined with his speed, gives him all the tools to be a good defender at the next level. He can guard both guard positions well. Very good at moving his feet on the perimeter without fouling, only 50 fouls in over 670 minutes at college. The length at the guard position is so enticing, looks to be a good defender in the future.
Still has work to do as a finisher. Doesn’t have much of a left hand as of right now, gets caught always trying to go right. Not a contact finisher, only averaged 1.5 free throw attempts per game at college. At only 190 pounds, definitely going to need to bulk up in the NBA. Not the most explosive or athletic guy, limits what he can do off the dribble. Settles for shots because of lack of athleticism. Not the best at creating separation.
I really like Primo as a role player on any team. He’s a good catch-and-shoot shooter who plays well next to a good play-making guard. Is a solid offensive player in general, adding some weight and a left hand would help him a lot. The length and lateral movement defensively is enticing, he could be a solid 3&D type player in the NBA, something that every team could use.
NBA Player Comparison: Mikal Bridges, Justin Holiday
#26 – Denver Nuggets – Ayo Dosunmu
The Nuggets surprisingly beat by Blazers in the first round despite missing so much of their backcourt (still salty) but they were dominated by the Suns with those same problems. Jamal Murray is almost guaranteed to miss the start of the 2021-22 season, so Denver needs some scoring to aide MVP Nikola Jokic. With the 26th pick, they can get a very good scorer in Ayo Dosunmu, who burst onto the scene this past year with Illinois.
Dosunmu was one of the best players in college this past season as a junior. Was first team All-American and winner of the Bob Cousy award, given to the nation’s best point guard. During his junior season, he averaged 20.1 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 5.3 assists while shooting 39% from 3 (2.9 3-PTA) and 78% from the free throw line while Illinois was one of the best programs in the country.
Dosunmu is a big guard, 6-4 with a 6-9 wingspan. Also weighs 200 pounds. One of the most efficient scorers in the pick-and-roll. Plays with good pace, timing, and has good basketball IQ. Good shooter off the dribble who can also create for others. Swiss-army knife type player who excels in the open court. Crashes the glass aggressively, good off-ball defender.
Not the strongest guy in the world, nor the most explosive. More of a secondary ball-handler than a high volume creator in the halfcourt. Game is heavily reliant on skill and instincts, doesn’t have the highest margin for error due to average tools. Average finisher, struggled at time against bigger and stronger defenders in the Big Ten. More of a mid-range bucket getter than a sniper from 3-PT range as of right now. Shot 34% from 3 during his 3 years at college. Shot 4x as many 2’s as he did 3’s this past season. Floor spacing still a question.
Jack of all trades, master of none. Good all-around player who needs to improve as a creator, finisher, shooter, and one-on-one defender to find a niche at the highest levels. Productive, versatile player who may lack a degree of upside.
Dosunmu is going to likely be going to a good team near the end of the first round and Denver is a good team. So he’ll be a complimentary piece, which is perfect. He’s a solid offensively player who can do a little bit of everything. Can shoot, ball handle, pass, and rebound well enough and his defense isn’t a liability. He’ll have to improve at a few things to be really good, but with his experience and all-around skills, he can make an immediate impact for teams.
NBA Player Comparisons: Reggie Jackson, Delon Wright
#27 – Brooklyn Nets – Charles Bassey
The Nets got hit hard with injuries this past season and they lost in the 2nd round. While some might call it karma (Stephen A. Smith), it was just bad luck and they likely don’t need much more than health to win. But Giannis Antetokounmpo dominated them down low in the 2nd round of the players and their interior defense needs some work. Charles Bassey would be a nice addition to a team lacking an interior presence.
Bassey is one of the most athletic bigs in this year’s draft. He’s 6-11 with a 7-3 wingspan. This helps him with his biggest strength, his defense. He averaged nearly 12 rebounds per game and an impressive 3.1 blocks per game with Western Kentucky this past season. He is very mobile, good in pick and rolls. He can switch pretty well onto wings and guards. He has elite recovery time to get back to block shots and he’s also good in the post. Could become a very good rim protector and inside presence.
Offensively, he has also shown flashes. His athleticism makes him the perfect lob threat big in pick and rolls. If he goes to the Nets with James Harden? Look out NBA. He’s very mobile in the open court, runs the floor exceptionally well for his size. Great offensive rebounder (3.3 per game), gives multiple efforts and is rarely outworked. Quick leaper off the ground and has great footwork down low. He has also shown flashes as a shooter. He shot 31% from 3 and shoots most of his 3’s from the top of the key. He’s best when he’s given time to line things up, but as a trailer and pick-and-pop big guy? There’s potential for him to be an inside-out big guy. Also a solid free throw shooter at around 70%.
While the pick-and-pop idea sounds enticing, it’s just an idea for now. Just 5/20 on pick-and-pop jumpshots. When he misses outside shots, they’re bad misses. Like I said, he’s best when the defense gives him time to set up for shots. Hasn’t found consistency in jumpshot yet. Not much of a play-maker or ball-handler. Struggles at finishing through contact, sometimes avoids it at times. Gets frazzled and rushed.
Bassey could become a very good player. He played 3 years at college and while the competition wasn’t great, experience is experience. But his athleticism and defensive potential is there and the offense could be heightened with a playmaking PG. Bassey could become a very good starter or one of the better backups in the league. Definitely a great pick if Brooklyn can get him, as they desperately need his defensive prowess.
NBA Player Comparison: Clint Capela, Jaxson Hayes
#28 – Philadelphia 76ers – Max Abmas
The 76ers are the anti-modern NBA. They’re best player is a low post center who dominates big guys with the likes of early 2000’s Shaquille O’Neale. They have 3 guys on the all-defensive teams while they were one of the worst shooting teams in the league. Ben Simmons, their former #1 overall pick, it scared to shoot the ball. They’re likely to make some major moves this offseason and this pick might not even be there’s in a few weeks. But if they keep this pick, they need shooting. Max Abmas provides that.
Abmas is a short king, standing at 6’0″ and weighing only 162 pounds. But he can flat out ball. He led the nation in scoring last year, averaging 24.6 points per game. He led Oral Roberts to upsets over Ohio State and Florida in the NCAA Tournament, his offense is very good. His shooting range is very good, he can score off the dribble very well. Very good free throw shooter. Pretty good athlete for his size, he’s a very good shooter and scorer.
But everything else is questionable. Only averaged 3.8 assists in college to 2.3 turnovers. His size is a target for NBA defenses and he sometimes takes bad shots. His efficiency in college was poor due to the fact that he didn’t play at a big college, he was at Oral Roberts. Not a defender or rebounder in any sense of the way, very undersized.
Abmas is a simple player. Shorter player who can’t succeed at the NBA level like most guards. Isaiah Thomas (the worse one), had one great season with the Celtics but he fell out of the league because of his lack of size and defense. Abmas may come to the same feat because he’s a shooter/scorer and that’s about it. But the 76ers desperately need his shooting and that’s why they should likely take him if he’s available. They already had 3 (maybe 2 if Simmons is traded) All-Defensive guys and a very good defense overall. Time to build that offense.
NBA Player Comparision: Isaiah Thomas, Tyler Ulis
#29 – Phoenix Suns – Cameron Thomas
The Suns are very good, evidently. They’re in the NBA finals for gods sake. But if they have any weakness, it’s at the guard position. Sure Chris Paul is good and likely coming back this summer, but he’s getting older. Cameron Payne is a UFA this summer, so it E’Twuan Moore. So they’re going to need reinforcements at the guard position. One of their things is depth and this pick can solidify that. They can get one of the best scorers in the draft, Cameron Thomas from LSU.
Talented scorer who can score in bunches from all over the floor. Pretty efficient player thanks to his ability to get to the free throw line (7.6 FTA) and his ability to make them (88%). Shot-maker with deep range on his jumpshot. Can score in isolation, pick-and-rolls, and using his sharp step-back. Powerful first step, polished footwork, outstanding body control and ability to bounce off defenders with his strong frame allow him to be a shot-creating weapon.
Game appears to come easy to him. Good at getting in passing lanes. Has never been asked to defend or pass. Show glimpses of being able to do both in very small doses, but he’s a pure scorer.
Not the best defender, especially off-ball. Plays a very casual style, bites on almost every fake, gives up on plays. Getting into better shape and adding some weight to his frame could help him a bit on-ball. Selfish brand of basketball predicated on making tough shots or getting to the free throw line. Took over 200 3’s in college, only made 33% of them. Not the easiest guy to play with, only 42 assists in 29 games. Most assists in a game was 4. Had more turnovers than assists (49-42). Body language is questionable.
Thomas is a scorer. That’s about it. The Suns winning culture might have a change on him, but he might be a guy who plays 10-15 minutes per game and has the ultimate green light, similar to Jamal Crawford, Lou Williams, or Jordan Clarkson. Don’t know if he’s ever going to be more than a scorer, but scoring is valuable and he could be valuable to any team’s backcourt.
NBA Player Comparison: Lou Williams, Jordan Clarkson
#30 – Utah Jazz – Miles McBride
The Jazz collapsed in the 2nd round due to injuries in their backcourt and their inability to defend the Clippers small-ball lineup. While Rudy Gobert took the brunt of the blame defensively, he wasn’t all that was wrong. The Jazz don’t have a lot of defense outside of Gobert and they need it, badly. They also need to shoot less 3’s, but that’s a topic for another day. If they want to compete in a loaded Western Conference, they need defense. Miles McBride provides that.
McBride is a defensive first guy, but the offense is really solid. He is a very good one-on-one scorer. He can hit pull-up 3’s, step-back mid-range shots, he can hit tough shots. He’s a strong guard so he can also overpower smaller guards, also has shown a post jumper at times. He shot 46% on catch-and-shoot 3’s as well, so the off-ball offense is there. Best at the middle third of the floor, but is also a decent corner shooter. Solid ball-handler with either hand and is a good passer with a spread floor. Good at making skip passers to the corners, not very turnover prone (4.8 apg to 1.8 tov). McBride can do a little bit of everything offensively and his isolation shot-creation is enticing for any team.
Defense is the main calling card for McBride, who is a dog defensively. Very physical, pushes defenders far away from the line. Very good feet, stays with defenders and cuts off drives very well. Rarely gets beat and his 6-5 wingspan allows him to contest shots very well. Good in the post with big body, fights over screens very well, great recovery when he does occasionally get beat. Creates turnovers and chaos on the perimeter, very controlled at closing out on shooters. Defense isn’t going to be a struggle for McBride at the next level.
McBride is a pretty good finisher, but he doesn’t really take layups or anything like that. He is a tough shot-maker because he struggles to get by guys. When he does, he just settles most of the time. Doesn’t explode to the rim, kind of just settles for tough jumpshots in the lane, gets blocked a lot because he goes off of two feet instead of getting right to the rim. While his feet are very good defensively, he doesn’t have burst offensively, which is just weird. With this lack of burst, just settles most of the time.
While his defense is great, his aggressiveness works against him when he gambles for steals or gets beat by being too greedy. Also gets beat backdoor because of that greediness for steals. He’ll come to learn that it’s hard to be greedy in the NBA and get away with it. Ball-watches sometimes as well.
McBride could be a very good player. He looks really good defensively and I’ll just have to take a bet that he’ll be a little less aggressive in the NBA gambling for steals. Missing on a few of those will certainly not make the coaches happy. He can shoot well off-ball and can also hit some tough shots. That lack of paint scoring is a little weird, definitely going to have to attack more. But he can be a solid bench guy who isn’t a real liability on either side of the ball. Really solid player overall.
NBA Player Comparison: Patrick Beverley, Bryn Forbes
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