2023 NBA Mock Draft 2

Now that the NBA Combine and deadline for NCAA players to withdraw from the draft have past, I am releasing my second Mock Draft for the 2023 Draft!  This has been known as a great draft in large part because of the talent at the top of the draft, but I think this draft has a lot of impressive depth as well.  As a note, these selections are not who I would select, but rather where they are currently projected based on the aggregate I have done.  All measurements are listed measurements for consistency’s sake except for the wingspan; if they were measured at the Combine, these measurements are rounded down to the nearest inch.  While there are some rumors regarding first round promises, I mentioned them but did not use them in my predictions.  With the “Reminds me of” section, this is not an analysis of what their ceiling/floor is, but rather who their playing style seems like.  There are 58 picks this year due to the Bulls and 76ers being stripped of a second round pick each due to tampering.

 

 

1:  San Antonio Spurs – Victor Wembanyama,

C, 7’4, 230 lbs., 8’0 Wing, Metropolitans 92 (France), 19

Reminds me of:  Modern version of Yao Ming

Previously:  1

No changes here, Wembenyama is the top prospect in the draft as a can’t miss prospect.  Given his size, shot, handle, basketball IQ, defensive skill, and personality, there isn’t a heck of a lot he can do to tank his stock.  While his jumper is streaky (something I think is partially from shot selection) and handle can be loose at times, I think the only way he doesn’t pan out is if he gets hurt (which is something to be mindful of).  He will absolutely be a star in San Antonio, and they also have a solid big to have him play alongside as his body develops in Zach Collins.

 

2:  Charlotte Hornets – Brandon Miller

SF, 6’9, 200 lbs., Alabama, Freshman, 20

Reminds me of:  Paul George

Previously:  2

I think Charlotte could go with either Miller or Scoot Henderson; while there are rumors that they could trade this pick, I don’t see that happening.  Miller’s potential and ability as a ball handler, playmaker, shooter, and defender have garnered a lot of praise.  There aren’t too many weaknesses in his game, though I have questions about his decision making as a passer and immediate impact as a shooter.  While he generated controversy due to his involvement in providing a gun that was used in a shooting, I’m not sure how bothered teams will be by this (it’s worth monitoring this in Charlotte since they are expected to bring back Miles Bridges, who just missed last season stemming from a domestic violence case).  On the court, he give the Hornets a star alongside LaMelo Ball who can play both on and off the ball, as well as projects to be a good defender.

 

3:  Portland Trail Blazers – Scoot Henderson

PG, 6’3, 195 lbs., G-League Ignite, 19

Reminds me of:  Smaller but better shooting Russell Westbrook

Previously:  3

I think one of two things will happen here:  either this pick gets traded (if it does and Miller is off the board, keep an eye on Orlando) or Damian Lillard gets traded.  Despite some inconsistencies late in the season, Henderson showed ability as a high energy player with scoring ability, shooting upside, and playmaking potential.  While I think he’s a bit more polished than people give him credit for, it is worth noting that his shot selection has not developed as many hoped, which is by far his biggest weakness.  While I think the odds of him playing with Lillard are not high, I think Henderson could provide another option as an aggressive scorer who can also serve as a willing passer and competitive defender, traits that would allow him to fit alongside a star.

 

4:  Houston Rockets – Amen Thompson

PG, 6’7, 190 lbs., 7’ Wing, Overtime Elite, 20

Reminds me of:  Some hybrid of a bigger Ja Morant and a more aggressive Ben Simmons

Previously:  4

It wouldn’t surprise me if Thompson is not the player that gets drafted here, especially if it looks like Houston is going to sign James Harden.  That said, I personally think he would fit with Houston either way.  I consider him to be the best athlete and playmaker (though I have gotten higher on Anthony Black on the latter) in this class, as well as being a hard worker and great defender.  All the questions with Thompson come down to the jump from OTE to the NBA (which is big) and his jumper (though I think there is potential for him to approach a league average jumper).  If Houston doesn’t sign Harden, they will get a starting point guard for the future; if they do, I think Thompson is big enough and athletic enough to defend 3’s and could develop into a smart enough cutter off the ball to succeed in a 3 guard lineup.

 

5:  Detroit Pistons – Cam Whitmore

SF, 6’7, 220 lbs., 6’8 Wing, Freshman, Villanova, 18

Reminds me of:  Miles Bridges (on the court)

Previously:  6

Despite weaknesses in Whitmore’s game, I think he could go as high as 4 depending on what Houston does.  He is an awesome athlete with a physical body who is a great finisher, talented rebounder, and competitive defender.  While his shot won’t be elite, I think that his biggest weaknesses stem from his decision making as a passer and shooter; I don’t see him being a good passer, which would limit his ceiling.  While Detroit might benefit from having an elite wing shooter, there isn’t one that is justifiable at this position, so Whitmore makes sense as a freak athlete who can develop off the ball and doesn’t need to be on the ball all the time.  I love the ideas of what a fast break could look like with him paired with Cade Cunningham and Jaden Ivy.

 

6:  Orlando Magic – Ausar Thompson

SG, 6’7, 190 lbs., 7’ Wing, Overtime Elite, 20

Reminds me of:  Some hybrid of Ben Simmons and early career Jaylen Brown

Previously:  5

First, it should be noted that I would not be surprised if this pick gets traded since Orlando has picks 6 and 11; in particular, watch for them to try to trade up.  While my previous post likely showed that I’m not the biggest Ausar Thompson fan, I think it’s undeniable that he is a skilled player with a high upside.  He is an elite defender, aggressive scorer, elite athlete, and solid playmaker with a lot of potential on that end.  While there has been a lot of talk about his jumper improving, I’m still incredibly skeptical of it; I think there are also concerns about the jump from OTE to the NBA and the fact that he struggled finishing when he wasn’t dunking, especially when covered.  While a shooting wing would fit better naturally for Orlando, the upside of having Thompson as a combo guard who can defend at a high level will likely be too difficult to pass up at this point, though there are others they could opt for here.

 

7:  Indiana Pacers – Jarace Walker

PF, 6’8, 240 lbs., 7’2 Wing, Houston, Freshman, 19

Reminds me of:  Draymond Green

Previously:  7

While some are not that high on Walker, I love him and think he will fit with several teams immediately.  He is a great athlete with amazing size, is a smooth playmaker, and is competitive on both ends while not needing many shots or the ball in his hand a lot, something that would help with finding a role.  I think the biggest concern with his game is the fact that I don’t believe his jumper will pan out despite it looking fine, something that could limit his upside.  I see him more as a high-level role player on a contending team, which is honestly a nice result for the 7^th pick in the draft.  I think he’ll fit with Indiana due to his physicality and defensive potential, which would allow him to fit alongside Myles Turner, play small ball 5, and create some looks via passes and screens for their guards and wings.

 

8:  Washington Wizards – Anthony Black

PG, 6’7, 185 lbs., 6’7 Wing, Arkansas, Freshman, 19

Reminds me of:  Josh Giddey, Lonzo Ball

Previously:  8

Black is someone who I’ve grown on due to his playmaking ability, especially at his size, something that also allows him to finish and defend well; both of these traits are ones that I expect will translate due to his IQ despite not being an elite athlete.  That said, the jumper is one that I’m not sure about with him; he hasn’t shown a ton of promise with that, but I still think he can be successful without it.  I have no idea what Washington is going to do with their team going forward given they have a new executive in charge of the front office, but I think Black can fit either way.  If they opt to compete, Black would thrive alongside offensive options like Bradley Beal, Kristaps Porzingis, and Kyle Kuzma; if they opt to rebuild, Black would be an interesting way to start the process given his size and playmaking, a combination of traits that I value above most others.

 

9:  Utah Jazz – Taylor Hendricks

SF, 6’9, 210 lbs., 7’0 Wing, UCF, Freshman, 19

Reminds me of:  Denver Jerami Grant, Jae Crowder

Previously:  9

Something to note is that Utah has recently been linked to Bilal Coulibaly, which is something to watch as the draft approaches.  Hendricks is a guy who could go higher than this and likely won’t last much further than pick 10.  Many teams like his high floor as an off ball 3-and-D guy who is an amazing athlete and plays really hard, allowing him to slide into a role off the ball pretty quickly into his career.  I think the biggest questions regarding him relate to how he will adjust from playing at UCF and how effective he can be off the ball.  While I don’t think he has the ceiling that some other guys in this range have, his floor is pretty high, and he should be able to contribute to winning as a key role player, which is something that is a nice return at this pick.  While Utah could go a variety of directions here, he could provide a versatile 3 for them with this pick and allow them to take a risk on their next pick if they choose.

 

10:  Dallas Mavericks – Gradey Dick

SF, 6’7, 195 lbs., 6’8 Wing, Kansas, Freshman, 19

Reminds me of:  Bogdan Bogdanovic

Previously:  10

I would be surprised if Dallas selects a player with this pick; expect this to be traded in most situations.  Dick appears to be one of the most polarizing potential lottery picks in the draft, as some seem to think he is a no-brainer top-10 pick, and others are skeptical about him in the top-20.  He has solid size, has a high IQ, and is a one of the best shooters in this class, especially as a standstill shooter; I also think he has shown potential as a passer and playmaker.  While he plays hard on defense, he isn’t a good defender at this point, isn’t the best athlete, and is limited once he gets inside the paint, especially when finishing against coverage.  Even if he doesn’t reach his full potential, I think his jumper is enough to warrant a role.  If the pick remains in Dallas’ hands, Dick’s ability off the ball and as a shooter makes sense on offense, though I think it would be ill-advised on defense.

 

11;  Orlando Magic (from CHI) – Keyonte George

SG, 6’4, 205 lbs., Baylor, Freshman, 19

Reminds me of:  Cam Thomas

Previously:  12

Note that this pick could be packaged in a deal alongside the number 6 pick in the draft (watch to see if Orlando tries to trade into the top 3).  George is another guy who is polarizing, but I’m pretty high on him.  He is an aggressive scorer, has potential as a shooter, has an amazing handle, is an awesome athlete, is strong, and looks good on both ends when competitive.  While I don’t see him being an elite defender or playmaker, right now the biggest issue is his shot selection, which I would categorize as not great.  That said, I’m really high on him and wouldn’t bat an eye about taking him as a lottery pick.  I could see George fitting with this lineup as a scoring option off the bench who could slide into the starting lineup if his shot selection and efficiency improve.

 

12:  Oklahoma City Thunder – Jordan Hawkins

SG, 6’5, 175 lbs., 6’6 Wing, UConn, Sophomore, 21

Reminds me of:  Kyle Korver if he had a bit of the bus from Speed in him

Previously:  14

One thing that is worth noting is that there are recent rumors and reports that Oklahoma City is planning on Bilal Coulibaly, something that should be monitored as we approach the draft.  Hawkins is one of the best shooters in this draft and is who I think is easily the best shooter.  He has the ability to shoot in so many situations, including off-ball, off the dribble, and while moving.  He is really smart and competitive as well.; he also measured at a better size than I expected entering the Combine, which is reassuring.  I don’t think he will ever be that good as a defender, playmaker, dribbler, or finisher at the rim, all of which will limit his upside.  That said, the shooting and IQ should be enough to justify a role.  Even though I think OKC will go another direction based on recent reports, I could see Hawkins fitting a team that didn’t have the best shooters last year without taking opportunities from one of their stars.

 

13:  Toronto Raptors – Cason Wallace

PG, 6’3, 195 lbs., 6’8 Wing, Kentucky, Freshman, 19

Reminds me of:  Jrue Holiday

Previously:  11

Wallace will likely be one of the best defensive guards in the draft, and his Combine wingspan looks even more appealing.  He is intense and precise on defense, while also competitive and brilliant on that end; I also think he will be successful as a combo guard due to his playmaking and shooting potential.  It is worth noting that he is still a bit raw on offense, which is why I could see him ultimately falling out of the lottery, especially since he isn’t the best shooter or finisher at this time.  That said, I think a team that is patient with his offensive development would truly reap benefits from his potential.  I don’t expect Fred VanVleet will be back with Toronto next year.  If he is, Wallace would be a nice guard options who can develop off the bench; if he isn’t, Wallace could fit with Toronto with their defense while given a bit of leeway with his offense.

 

14:  New Orleans Pelicans – Nick Smith

SG, 6’5, 185 lbs., Arkansas, Freshman, 19

Reminds me of:  Jamal Crawford

Previously:  13

Despite a rocky season due in large part to playing through an injury, Smith still has showcased interesting potential and talent.  He is an aggressive score first guard who also is a great athlete and has a nice handle; while he isn’t the best shooter or defender at this time, he has shooting upside and plays hard on defense, which could improve as he gets stronger.  I think the two biggest things that could limit his upside are his shot selection and his playmaking; he is not a good decision maker with either and is currently not an efficient scorer.  I think he projects to be a high-volume bench scorer, but improving his decision making could raise his ceiling.  While New Orleans might not need someone like Smith per se, I think that he could provide some scoring off the bench while also giving a high upside guy if all goes well.

 

 

15:  Atlanta Hawks – Jalen Hood-Schifino

PG, 6’6, 215 lbs., 6’10 Wing, Indiana, Freshman, 19

Reminds me of:  Penny Hardaway, early career Shaun Livingston

Previously:  15

Hood-Schifino appears to be a bit polarizing since he isn’t that great of a decision maker or shooter, but I think his combination of size, defensive ability, and potential will make him appealing.  It wouldn’t surprise me to see him rise after his wingspan being so wide, but he is raw.  Atlanta is in flux, but Hood-Schifino could still fit even if they stick with the status quo due to his size and potential.

 

16:  Utah Jazz (from MIN) – Kobe Bufkin

SG, 6’4, 180 lbs., Michigan, Sophomore, 19

Reminds me of:  Tyrese Maxey

Previously:  16

It should be noted that I have heard many predict Utah will use this pick to select a guard.  Bufkin looks like a guy who will be a consistent guard with potential on both ends of the court.  He is incredibly smart and a talented athlete, though he might take some time to develop his jumper and on defense.  I think he can succeed either as a starter or off the bench as a stabilizing guard who can also push the pace.

 

17:  Los Angeles Lakers – Dereck Lively

C, 7’1, 210 lbs., Duke, Freshman, 19

Reminds me of:  Early career Robert Williams

Previously:  22

One to watch

After drastically falling after entering college, he has been a rapid riser due to his athleticism and strong defensive ability, especially as a rim protector.  While his offensive game might be limited outside of dunking, it is worth noting that he has shown some potential as a passer.  He is raw and inconsistent, but he has been suggested as even a player who could slide in at 10.  Here, the Lakers can get a young rim protector who can still help immediately in the right amount of doses.

 

18:  Miami Heat – Leonard Miller

SF, 6’10, 211 lbs., 7’2 Wing, G-League Ignite, 19

Reminds me of:  Brandon Ingram with some Kyle Anderson playmaking ability

Previously:  20

Miller had a strong second half of the season in particular and really looks like an intriguing prospect.  He has incredible size with potential on both ends, and has also developed some guard skills, as he has a nice handle and some playmaking ability.  He is still inconsistent on both ends, especially with his jumper, but there is so much potential.  In Miami, they could take their time developing him and really reap the benefits.

 

19:  Golden State Warriors – Bilal Coulibaly

SF, 6’8, 195 lbs., 7’2 Wing, Metropolitans 92 (France), 18

Reminds me of:  Raw OG Anunoby

Previously:  24

One to watch

Coulibaly is a rapid riser who I have heard reports that both Utah and OKC are interested in (with Utah, he could be the 9^th pick).  He had an awesome finish to the season where he has shown potential as a defender and shooter with great size, though he is incredibly raw on both ends.  I think there is upside, though it might take some time.  Even though the two-timelines isn’t working Golden State, Coulibaly could be interesting as a bench player as a defender and scorer after a couple years.

 

20:  Houston Rockets (from LAC) – Kris Murray

PF, 6’8, 225 lbs., 6’11 Wing, Iowa, Junior, 22

Reminds me of:  Keegan Murray…ironically

Previously:  23

Murray is a smart player on both ends who projects to be a solid off-ball contributor.  I think he could play the role of a 3-and-D player, though he might have stretches where he could do something on-ball and other times where he will struggle adjusting.  That said, he could help a team immediately.  If Houston is competitive next year, he could provide a boost for them on both ends; if they’re not, he could still be a nice bonus given all the guys they have that are best on the ball.

 

21:  Brooklyn Nets (from PHO) – Jett Howard

SF, 6’7, 220 lbs., Michigan, Freshman, 20

Reminds me of:  Bojan Bogdanovic

Previously:  17

I have heard that Brooklyn will likely target a guard with one of their picks, so that’s worth noting.  Even as Howard has fallen lately, I still believe in him due to his shooting ability at his size.  I also think he has some playmaking potential and has a higher IQ than people give him credit for.  While the biggest complaint most people have is that he didn’t contribute to winning, I think the bigger issues are his lack of athleticism and defensive fundamentals.  I think Howard could fit in Brooklyn who could give him time to develop on both ends.  That said, he could fall further.

 

22:  Brooklyn Nets – Brice Sensabaugh

PF, 6’6, 235 lbs., Ohio State, Freshman, 19

Reminds me of:  Bigger but less athletic Norman Powell

Previously:  21

One thing to note is that Sensabaugh wasn’t at many events at the combine, leading me to wonder if he received a first-round promise.  Sensabaugh showed as a freshman that he is an amazing scorer who is also smooth with the ball in his hand, which will be tougher to guard at his size.  That said, he is an underwhelming athlete and poor defender.  I think he can fit with Brooklyn if they’re rebuilding to develop as a high-volume scorer or provide additional scoring off the bench if they’re competing.

 

23:  Portland Trail Blazers (from NYK) – Rayan Rupert

SG, 6’7, 190 lbs., 7’2 Wing, New Zealand Breakers (New Zealand), 19

Reminds me of:  Andre Roberson with offensive upside

Previously:  19

Rupert showed that he is an amazing defender already, whose length, athleticism, and intensity will make him useful at that end immediately.  That said, he is raw, especially on offense, though he does have a good handle and has shown some potential as a playmaker and shooter.  For a team that appears to be stronger on offense than defense, Rupert could provide some versatility against wings or guards.

 

24:  Sacramento Kings – Dariq Whitehead

SF, 6’6, 196 lbs., 6’10 Wing, Duke, Freshman, 18

Reminds me of:  Early career Andrew Wiggins with a better jumper

Previously:  25

While raw, Whitehead looks like a talented player who is an elite shooter, smart, and competitive.  I think that he isn’t the best decision maker with the ball in his hand regarding both shooting and playmaking, but I chalk some of that to youth.  If selected by the Kings, he would likely struggle defensively initially, but he could provide them with yet another shooting option and offensive threat.

 

25:  Memphis Grizzlies – Noah Clowney

PF, 6’10, 210 lbs., Alabama, Freshman, 18

Reminds me of:  Early career Bam Adebayo without the passing

Previously:  26

Clowney is young and raw, but he is a talented athlete who is competitive and is willing to do little things, which is uncommon for many younger players to do; I think he will end up being a versatile defender.  I’m not sure what he will be offensively, but he could at least be a threat at the rim.  Given the injuries Memphis suffered with their bigs, he will play hard and can be a supporting cast member would help.

 

26:  Indiana Pacers (from CLE) – GG Jackson

PF, 6’9, 210 lbs., 6’11 Wing, South Carolina, Freshman, 18

Reminds me of:  Inefficient Paolo Banchero, Orlando Magic Aaron Gordon

Previously:  18

One to watch

One thing to note is that it is rumored that Indiana has promised to select Brandin Podziemski, potentially with this pick.  Despite having some amazing tools and upside, Jackson continues to slip.  He is an aggressive scorer with a great handle and upside on defense.  I think his biggest weaknesses are related to his decision making, especially with his shot and playmaking; it’s worth noting that he might be slipping due to a reputation of being immature (something I disagree with).  Indiana could afford to have him come in and work out his weaknesses without much pressure.

 

27:  Charlotte Hornets (from DEN) – Maxwell Lewis

SF, 6’7, 195 lbs., 7’0 Wing, Pepperdine, Sophomore, 20

Reminds me of:  Jalen Williams, possibly cheap man’s Mikal Bridges

Previously:  27

Lewis is a guy who starred at Pepperdine, but projects to be more of a 3-and-D player due to his jumper and defensive upside; he also has a nice handle and some potential as a passer.  That said, he isn’t the best athlete (though his vertical measurements at the combine were better than I expected).  Even though Charlotte is rebuilding, it would help to have a reliable role player like Lewis in their build.

 

28:  Utah Jazz (from PHI) – Brandin Podziemski

SG, 6’5, 195 lbs., 6’5 Wing, Santa Clara, Sophomore, 20

Reminds me of:  Some combo of Jalen Williams and Andrew Nembhard

Previously:  37

One to watch

Something that is rumored is that Indiana has promised to take Podzeimski, so he might not be on the board here.  Podzeimski looks to be a versatile player on offense, as he has a nice jumper, is a solid playmaker, is a great rebounder for a guard, and competes hard.  He likely will have difficulties transitioning to the NBA due to his size and defense.  While I didn’t have him pegged as a great athlete, he held his own in both the scrimmages and athletic tests at the Combine.  Utah would get a wing who is versatile and will do what it takes to win in Podziemski, which will be nice to have when competing.

 

29:  Indiana Pacers (from BOS) – James Nnaji

C, 6’10, 225 lbs., 7’7 Wing, Barcelona (Spain), 18

Reminds me of:  Clint Capela, Steven Adams

Previously:  33

There are rumors that Indiana promised to select Bobi Klintman, and he would be likely to go around here.  While incredibly raw, Nnaji has shown a lot of potential to be an exciting prospect.  He projects to be a great defender (especially in the paint) and great finisher who is super strong.  His game is likely limited outside of the paint, and Nanji barely played in Spain, so he will take a lot of development.  In Indiana, he’d come off the bench behind Turner, which will allow Nnaji to grow and develop slowly.

 

30:  Los Angeles Clippers (from MIL) – Andre Jackson

SF, 6’6, 210 lbs., 6’9 Wing, UConn, Junior, 21

Reminds me of:  Jae’Sean Tate, Matisse Thybulle with more offense

One to watch

Jackson is rising rapidly due to an awesome combine where he thrived in several athletic measures.  He is an excellent athlete and defender who I think could translate quickly on defense; he also is a great dunker and is extremely competitive.  That said, I question just what his offensive game will be; he isn’t a good shooter and is limited with scoring.  In L.A., he would be a versatile wing who can thrive in fast breaks while providing a lot of defensive help.

 

 

31:  Detroit Pistons – Colby Jones

SF, 6’6, 203 lbs., 6’8 Wing, Xavier, Junior 20

Previously:  30

 

32:  Indiana Pacers (from HOU) – Jaime Jaquez

SF, 6’6, 220 lbs., 6’9 Wing, UCLA, Senior, 22

Previously:  32

 

33:  San Antonio Spurs – Amari Bailey

SG, 6’4, 190 lbs., 6’7 Wing, UCLA, Freshman, 19

Previously:  38

One to watch

Already a riser due to his potential, Bailey had an awesome combine, which could help his cause more.

 

34:  Charlotte Hornets – Bobi Klintman

SF/PF, 6’10, 225 lbs., Wake Forest, Freshman, 20

Previously:  43

One to watch

Klintman was already rising when he abruptly skipped the combine, leading to speculation that he received a first-round promise.  Rumor is that he received one from Indiana.

 

35:  Boston Celtics (from POR) – Trayce Jackson-Davis

PF, 6’9, 235 lbs., Indiana, Senior, 23

Previously:  29

One to watch

Jackson-Davis didn’t have the best combine with athletic testing, though I could see him rising after workouts.

 

36:  Orlando Magic – Sidy Cissoko

SG, 6’7, 200 lbs., 6’9 Wing, G-League Ignite, 19

Previously:  28

One to watch

I’m not sure why Cissoko has dropped so much; he was average at the combine, so maybe it was just that someone had to fall when others rose?

 

37:  Oklahoma City Thunder (from WAS) – Oliver-Maxence Prosper

PF, 6’8, 220 lbs., 7’1 Wing, Marquette, Junior, 20

Previously:  Not drafted

One to watch

After an awesome combine, Prosper has risen rapidly to the point that he could sneak into the late first round.

 

38:  Sacramento Kings (from IND) – Marcus Sasser

SG, 6’2, 195 lbs., 6’7 Wing, Houston, Senior, 22

Previously:  36

 

39:  Charlotte Hornets (from UTA) – Terquavion Smith

SG, 6’4, 165 lbs., 6’6 Wing, NC State, Sophomore, 20

Previously:  31

One to watch

His Combine performance largely showcased exactly what he is:  a high-volume scorer who likes to shoot; the issue is that some were hoping for some change.  No idea what will happen with his stock.

 

40: Denver Nuggets (from DAL) – Julian Phillips

SF, 6’7, 210 lbs., 6’11 Wing, Tennessee, Freshman, 19

Previously:  Undrafted

 

41:  Charlotte Hornets (from OKC) – Julian Strawther

SF, 6’7, 200 lbs., 6’9 Wing, Gonzaga, Junior, 21

Previously:  35

One to watch

Strawther’s Combine was a mixed bag, as he shot well in the drills, but was a bit underwhelming in the athletic metrics.  He could still rise as the Draft approaches.

 

42:  Washington Wizards (from CHI) – Jalen Wilson

SF/PF, 6’8, 215 lbs., 6’8, Kansas, Redshirt Senior, 22

Previously:  34

One to watch

Wilson had a tough combine and also measured smaller than expected.  While the combine results will be possible to improve on, the measurements are harder.

 

43:  Portland Trail Blazers (from ATL) – Jordan Walsh

SF, 6’7, 190 lbs., 7’1 Wing, Arkansas, Freshman, 19

Previously:  47

 

44:  San Antonio Spurs (from TOR) – Ben Sheppard

SG, 6’6, 185 lbs., 6’7 Wing, Belmont, Senior, 21

Previously:  Undrafted

 

45:  Memphis Grizzlies (from MIN) – Tristan Vuckcevic

C, 6’10, 205 lbs., Partizan Mozzart Bet (Serbia), 20

Previously:  57

One to watch

While Vuckcevic struggled in most areas at the Combine, he thrived in one:  shooting.  As a big who can shoot, he could rise more.

 

46:  Atlanta Hawks (from NOP) – Kobe Brown

SG/SF, 6’8, 250 lbs., 7’0 Wing, Missouri, Senior, 23

Previously:  46

 

47:  Los Angeles Lakers:  Ricky Council IV

SG, 6’6, 205 lbs., Arkansas, Junior, 21

Previously:  39

One to watch

Council had a rough combine, where he was largely average in athleticism and did poorly in the shooting and scrimmages.  Doing well in the workouts could reclaim his stock a bit.

 

48:  Los Angeles Clippers – Keyontae Johnson

SF, 6’5, 230 lbs., 7’0 Wing, Kansas State, Redshirt Junior*, 22

*Note:  Johnson had two redshirt years for medical reasons

Previously:  42

One to watch

Johnson’s stock all depends on his health.  He was cleared by the NBA, but he missed almost 2 seasons.

 

49:  Cleveland Cavaliers (from GSW) – Emoni Bates

SF, 6’9, 190 lbs., 6’7 Wing, Eastern Michigan, Sophomore, 19

Previously:  51

 

50:  Oklahoma City Thunder (from MIA) – Seth Lundy

SG/SF, 6’6, 220 lbs., 6’10 Wing, Penn State, Senior, 23

Previously:  Undrafted

 

51:  Brooklyn Nets – Isaiah Wong

SG, 6’4, 185 lbs., 6’6 Wing, Miami, Senior, 22

Previously:  53

 

52:  Phoenix Suns:  Nikola Djurisic

SG/SF, 6’8, 200 lbs., Mega Basket (Serbia), 19

Previously:  40

One to watch

Djurisic likely fell due to not participating in any tests at the combine other than measurements.  That said, I expect he’ll rise due to being a draft-and-stash player.

 

53:  Minnesota Timberwolves (from NYK) – Adama Sanogo

PF, 6’9, 240 lbs., 7’2 Wing, UConn, Junior, 21

Previously:  Undrafted

 

54:  Sacramento Kings – Mouhamed Gueye

PF, 6’11, 195 lbs., 7’3, Washington State, Sophomore, 20

Previously:  Undrafted

 

55:  Indiana Pacers (from CLE) – Jaylen Clark

SG, 6’5, 195 lbs., 6’9 Wing, UCLA, Junior, 21

Previously:  55

 

56:  Memphis Grizzlies – Jordan Miller

SF, 6’7, 195 lbs., 6’11 Wing, Miami, Redshirt Senior, 23

Previously:  56

 

57:  Washington Wizards (from BOS) – Toumani Camara

SF, 6’8, 220 lbs., 7’0 Wing, Dayton, Senior, 20

Previously:  Undrafted

 

58:  Milwaukee Bucks – Adam Flagler

SG, 6’3, 180 lbs., 6’4 Wing, Baylor, Redshirt Senior, 23

Previously:  Undrafted

 

 

Next 10:

1.       Azuolos Tubelis, PF, 6’9, 243 lbs., 6’11 Wing, Arizona, Junior, 21

2.       Oscar Tshiebwe, C, 6’9, 252 lbs., 7’3 Wing, Kentucky, Senior, 23

3.       Chris Livingston, SF/PF, 6’6, 220 lbs., 6’11 Wing, Kentucky, Freshman, 19

4.       Mojave King, SG, 6’5, 195 lbs., 6’8 Wing, G-League Ignite, 21

5.       Mike Miles, PG, 6’1, 195 lbs., 6’0 Wing, TCU, Junior, 20

6.       Hunter Tyson, SF, 6’8, 215 lbs., Clemson, Redshirt Senior, 23

7.       Tosan Evbuomwan, PF, 6’8, 217 lbs., Princeton, Senior, 22

8.       Jazian Gortman, PG, 6’2, 175 lbs., Overtime Elite, 20

9.       Drew Timme, C, 6’9, 232 lbs., 7’1 Wing, Gonzaga, Senior, 22

10.   Jalen Slawson, SF/PF, 6’7, 210 lbs., 6’11 Wing, Furman, Redshirt Senior, 23

 

 

The following players fell out of the draft:

·         DaRon Holmes II (44, withdrew)

·         Terence Shannon (45, withdrew)

·         Adem Bona (48, withdrew)

·         Trey Alexander (49, withdrew)

·         Dillon Mitchell (50, withdrew)

·         Zach Edey (52, withdrew)

·         Judah Mintz (54, withdrew)

·         Mike Miles (58)

 

 

Biggest Risers (by percent change, minimum 5 spots)

1.       Andre Jackson (41 to 30, 11 spots, 26.83%)

2.       Brandin Podziemski (37 to 28, 9 spots, 24.32%)

3.       Dereck Lively (22 to 17, 5 spots, 22.73%)

4.       Tristan Vukcevic (57 to 45, 12 spots, 21.05%)

5.       Bobi Klintman (43 to 34, 9 spots, 20.93%)

 

Biggest Fallers (by percent change, minimum 5 spots)

1.       GG Jackson (18 to 26, 8 spots, -44.44%)

2.       Nikola Djurisic (40 to 52, 12 spots, -30%)

3.       Sidy Cissoko (28 to 36, 8 spots, -28.57%)

4.       Terquavion Smith (31 to 39, 8 spots, -25.81%)

5.       Jalen Wilson (34 to 42, 8 spots, -23.53%)

Note:  While Jett Howard tied for 5^th, he didn’t meet the criteria as he only dropped 4 spots

 

 

Who do you like in the draft?  Let me know in the comments!