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Popped up on my feed just now, surprised I hadn't even heard the name yet. Time to dig deeper into the class
2024 NBA Draft Thread - the hawks might be on the clock
- Thread in 'Sports & Training' Thread starter Started by addict4sneakers,
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Yea he’s been gaining a lot of steam
Hollinger did a good write up on him, posted in here a few pages back. His age + production in that league make him a very strong prospect. Top 10 at worst
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Feel like Toronto is going to pick him at 7 unless they move up in the lotto. Definitely don't see him falling past both Sacramento and Charlotte though. 11 is probably his absolute floor.Yea he’s been gaining a lot of steam
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Thank god we can see him on a real team with other elite players for the first time
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Parents really named them Matt and Ryan their parents must be boring af
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Bruh didn't Team Final just beat Bates Fundamentals? Now he joining them a few weeks later lol. I know its AAU but cmon mannnn
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Hopefully Raptors get a high pick
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Love seeing all this first time stuff. Exciting times
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About time young hoopers can start getting that money legally. MLS has been trotting out pro 16-year-olds on the field for years now but folks don’t trip, we all know why...
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Green and Kuminga really paved the way.
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2021 NBA mock draft: Who will end up with the teams that missed the playoffs?
With the NBA's play-in tournament complete, we now know which teams will be in next month's NBA draft lottery, which will determine who has the top four picks in the 2021 NBA draft. For now, however, we can line the teams up based on their pre-lottery draft order to get a sense of whom these teams could be targeting when the draft rolls around in July. This draft class is loaded at the top, with a quintet of players who all have star potential, meaning it won't just be about who lands the top pick.
In addition to the lottery, a handful of draft-order ties will be broken by random draw next week, and we've noted those below.
Things could change a lot in the two months until the 2021 NBA draft, and things could change a lot between now and then, particularly as the 14 non-playoff teams shift fully into draft mode with their seasons now officially over. Using our latest intel and scouting, here's how we currently have things projected for all 60 picks.
www.espn.com
With the NBA's play-in tournament complete, we now know which teams will be in next month's NBA draft lottery, which will determine who has the top four picks in the 2021 NBA draft. For now, however, we can line the teams up based on their pre-lottery draft order to get a sense of whom these teams could be targeting when the draft rolls around in July. This draft class is loaded at the top, with a quintet of players who all have star potential, meaning it won't just be about who lands the top pick.
In addition to the lottery, a handful of draft-order ties will be broken by random draw next week, and we've noted those below.
Things could change a lot in the two months until the 2021 NBA draft, and things could change a lot between now and then, particularly as the 14 non-playoff teams shift fully into draft mode with their seasons now officially over. Using our latest intel and scouting, here's how we currently have things projected for all 60 picks.
1. Houston Rockets
Cade Cunningham
Oklahoma State
PG
Age: 19.6
Coming off a dismal season, the Rockets will be hoping this pick lands in the top four, which will ensure it does not get conveyed to Oklahoma City as part of the Russell Westbrook-Chris Paul swap. Should they hold on to it, the Rockets would surely be thrilled to add Cunningham, who is viewed by most teams as the consensus top prospect in the draft thanks to his outstanding combination of size, shooting prowess, court vision and two-way versatility.
2. Detroit Pistons
Evan Mobley
USC
C
Age: 19.9
The Pistons are still early in their rebuilding process and will likely look to target the most talented prospect regardless of fit. Mobley's mobility, perimeter skill and defensive versatility give him All-Star potential, and his selfless style of play will make him easy to integrate into many different lineup configurations -- including those with promising rookie big man Isaiah Stewart -- as his lanky frame fills out.
3. Orlando Magic
Jalen Green
G League Ignite
SG
Age: 19.2
Having recently decided to pivot to full-fledged rebuilding mode, the Magic will likely look to pick the player with the highest long-term upside left on the board. Enter Green, arguably the most explosive player in the draft who also possesses elite scoring instincts. He'd fit in nicely in lineup configurations including incumbent guards Markelle Fultz, Cole Anthony and R.J. Hampton, all multipositional players.
4. Cleveland Cavaliers
Jonathan Kuminga
G League Ignite
SF/PF
Age: 18.6
Although the two-way versatility and competitive instincts offered by Jalen Suggs will likely be attractive here, the Cavs are fairly well stocked in the backcourt and will surely be looking to add a bigger wing who can defend multiple positions and offer explosive ability and shot creation from the forward positions. Kuminga has one of the highest upsides of any prospect in the draft and is a strong positional fit here.
5. Oklahoma City Thunder
Jalen Suggs
Gonzaga
PG/SG
Age: 19.9
The Thunder would surely be thrilled to see Suggs, a strong candidate for many teams picking in the top three, fall to them. His defensive versatility, competitiveness and transition-scoring prowess would fit in very well with what the team already has in place on the court as well as with the culture Sam Presti is attempting to build in Oklahoma City.
Note: Cleveland and Oklahoma City finished with the same record in 2020-21. Their pre-lottery draft position will be determined by a coin flip to be held on Tuesday.
6. Golden State Warriors (from Minnesota)
Keon Johnson
Tennessee
SG
Age: 19.1
The Warriors elected to select James Wiseman over LaMelo Ball last year with the short-term goal of maximizing their championship window. Taking more of a long-term view might be more prudent now, considering the limitations of the team's roster. That approach could lead them in the direction of Johnson, who might very well have the highest upside of any player left on the board. Johnson is a tenacious defender who showed enough promising glimpses of playmaking and shot-making to suggest outstanding things to come for a team that is willing to be patient with his development.
7. Toronto Raptors
Davion Mitchell
Baylor
PG
Age: 22.6
With Kyle Lowry entering free agency, it makes sense for the Raptors to consider Mitchell, who shares some similarities in terms of dimensions and approach. Mitchell is one of the best in the draft on defense, an area in which the Raptors fell off markedly this past season, while also possessing strong playmaking and shot-making instincts that should allow him to operate in a variety of lineup configurations alongside Toronto's strong existing core.
8. New Orleans Pelicans
Franz Wagner
Michigan
SF
Age: 19.7
New Orleans had a disappointing season defensively and hasn't been able to surround Zion Williamson with enough shooting to adequately space the floor. Enter Wagner, one of the best off-ball defenders in the draft, who also brings promising passing and shooting indicators that suggest a very high floor as the type of two-way, role-playing combo forward every team covets.
9. Orlando Magic (from Chicago)
Jalen Johnson
Duke
SF/PF
Age: 19.4
The Magic struggled with wing depth all season long and can afford to take a home run swing on a high-upside prospect like Johnson, who brings the type of playmaking and defensive versatility that is very hard to find from a 6-foot-9 forward with guard skills. He'd be a strong fit alongside the likes of Jonathan Isaac and Chuma Okeke, while also having the potential to see time as a small-ball center, like he did at Duke.
10. Sacramento Kings
Scottie Barnes
Florida State
SF/PF
Age: 19.7
The worst defensive team in the NBA could be attracted to the versatility, intensity and instincts offered by Barnes, who has been a winner everywhere he has played. He'd bring the type of length and playmaking ability the Kings really lacked at the forward spots, giving them plenty of lineup flexibility around their core of De'Aaron Fox and Tyrese Haliburton.
Note: New Orleans, Chicago and Sacramento finished with the same record in 2020-21. Their pre-lottery draft position will be determined by a coin flip to be held on Tuesday. Chicago will send its first-round pick to Orlando unless it moves up into the top four via the lottery.
11. San Antonio Spurs
Isaiah Jackson
Kentucky
PF/C
Age: 19.3
The Spurs will likely be in the market for a starting-caliber center to build around long term, and Jackson could very well pique their interest. One of the most explosive players in the draft, Jackson is an elite shot-blocker who dropped strong glimpses of offensive potential, which gives him significant upside.
12. Charlotte Hornets
Corey Kispert
Gonzaga
SF
Age: 22.2
Charlotte's lack of wing depth was exposed by injuries to Gordon Hayward and others. Enter Kispert, one of the best shooters in the draft, who looks ready to make an immediate impact with his size, skill and experience.
Note: San Antonio and Charlotte finished with the same record in 2020-21. Their pre-lottery draft position will be determined by a coin flip to be held on Tuesday.
13. Indiana Pacers
Josh Giddey
Adelaide
PG
Age: 18.6
A big, multipositional backcourt player who can play both with and behind starting guards Malcolm Brogdon and Caris LeVert would likely go a long way in shoring up Indiana's depth chart. Giddey is one of the best passers in the draft and offers outstanding versatility as a 6-foot-9 guard who can operate on or off the ball.
14. Golden State Warriors
Alperen Sengun
Besiktas
PF/C
Age: 18.8
After adding a promising wing earlier in the draft, the Warriors could look to improve in the frontcourt, where the team is thin in terms of depth and has little in the way of scoring prowess. Sengun is one of the most productive players in the draft, and his old-school style of play could be a strong fit alongside the likes of Draymond Green and James Wiseman.
15. Washington Wizards
Usman Garuba
Real Madrid
PF
Age: 19.1
The fastest-paced team in the NBA, the Wizards made significant progress defensively this season but still could stand to improve on that end of the floor. Enter Garuba, one of the most intense and versatile defenders in this draft class. He is capable of playing either big man spot, making him a strong fit with the Wizards' existing frontcourt pieces.
16. Boston Celtics
Cameron Thomas
LSU
SG
Age: 19.5
The Celtics cycled through a host of wing options all season and will likely continue to look to fortify this position to complement Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown and Marcus Smart. Thomas is one of the best scorers in the draft and will likely need very little time to acclimate himself offensively thanks to the instincts he brings on that end of the floor.
17. Memphis Grizzlies
Kai Jones
Texas
PF
Age: 20.3
One of the deepest teams in the NBA, the Grizzlies could stand to add some explosiveness and versatility in the frontcourt to shore up their depth in an attempt to establish themselves as contenders in the Western Conference. Jones is a versatile defender who showed some promise as a floor spacer to complement his rim-running, offensive rebounding and finishing prowess, giving him plenty of upside to grow into long term.
18. Oklahoma City Thunder (from Miami)
Moses Moody
Arkansas
SG
Age: 18.9
Like every team, the Thunder could look to bolster their wing depth with as many floor-spacing, multipositional defenders as they can find. Moody is an ideal 3-and-D prospect who happens to be one of the youngest players in the draft, having yet to turn 19.
19. Atlanta Hawks
Tre Mann
Florida
PF
Age: 20.2
Finding a combo guard who can play on or off the ball and complement star point guard Trae Young could very well be a priority for the Hawks. Mann is a promising pick-and-roll ball handler whose size and 40% 3-point shooting will allow him to play in a variety of lineup configurations.
20. New York Knicks
James Bouknight
Connecticut
SG
Age: 20.6
One of the deeper teams in the NBA, the Knicks could look to bolster their backcourt with another explosive guard who can play on or off the ball. Bouknight's scoring instincts, ability to hit difficult shots off the dribble and long-term potential could be very attractive at this stage of the draft.
Note: Atlanta and New York finished with the same record in 2020-21. Their draft position will be determined by a coin flip to be held on Tuesday.
21. New York Knicks (from Dallas)
Ziaire Williams
Stanford
SG/SF
Age: 19.6
While it remains to be seen how much of an appetite the Knicks will have for adding two first-round picks to their already crowded rotation, a tall, shot-making small forward such as Williams could prove useful. He started the season projected much higher than this and still has plenty of upside to tap into, making him an interesting option to consider in the 20s.
22. Houston Rockets (from Portland)
Sharife Cooper
Auburn
PG
Age: 19.9
With little in the way of long-term options committed to their roster, the Rockets can afford to take a swing on whichever prospect they deem to have the highest long-term upside regardless of positional fit. There's a strong case to be made for Cooper as the most talented player available at No. 22. He's an elite ball handler and passer who is an absolute wizard operating out of pick-and-roll thanks to his terrific burst, creativity and feel for the game.
23. Los Angeles Lakers
Ayo Dosunmu
Illinois
SG
Age: 21.3
Dosunmu was one of the best players in the college game and looks like an easy fit in the NBA game as a versatile 3-and-D guard with strong competitive traits. With much of the Lakers' backcourt depth on the verge of entering free agency, it makes sense to look to an experienced player like Dosunmu who can defend multiple positions and has strong role-playing potential operating alongside stars.
Note: Dallas, Portland and the L.A. Lakers finished with the same record in 2020-21. Their draft position will be determined by a coin flip to be held on Tuesday.
24. Houston Rockets (from Milwaukee)
Jared Butler
Baylor
PG/SG
Age: 20.7
The Rockets have plenty of minutes available in the backcourt, where the team rotated through a cascade of characters in a dismal season. Adding a playmaking combo guard such as Butler makes plenty of sense. He is a capable ball handler, shooter and defender and showed he already knows how to play an efficient role alongside other good players en route to winning a national championship while earning most outstanding player honors in the NCAA tournament.
25. Denver Nuggets
Chris Duarte
Oregon
SG
Age: 23.9
Adding quality wing depth should be a priority for the Nuggets, who will likely be without Jamal Murray next season and will see several rotation players enter free agency. Duarte is one of the oldest players projected to be drafted and looks like a plug-and-play fit thanks to his strong perimeter shooting, passing and defensive playmaking instincts.
26. LA Clippers
Charles Bassey
Western Kentucky
C
Age: 20.5
The Clippers might look to add depth at center with a player they can develop into a long-term contributor. Bassey's versatility as a shot-blocking, pick-and-roll finishing, floor-spacing big man is intriguing, and he already has the strength and experience to help a team sooner rather than later.
Note: Denver and the LA Clippers finished with the same record in 2020-21. Their draft position will be determined by a coin flip to be held on Tuesday.
27. Brooklyn Nets
Marcus Bagley
Arizona State
SF/PF
Age: 19.5
Finding quality role players to surround the Nets' stars will always be a priority, and Bagley's fit as a 3-and-D forward who can space the floor, shoot off movement and display solid instincts as a team defender could make him an interesting long-term player to develop if the team decides to keep the pick.
28. Philadelphia 76ers
Max Abmas
Oral Roberts
PG
Age: 20.1
The Sixers reshaped their roster by adding quite a bit of perimeter shooting to surround their All-Star core of Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid. Abmas would represent another step in that direction. He ranked as the most efficient half-court scorer in college basketball, largely thanks to his ability to make difficult shots from beyond the arc operating out of pick-and-roll. His range, savvy and speed should also allow him to see time playing off the ball.
29. Phoenix Suns
Jaden Springer
Tennessee
PG/SG
Age: 18.6
With much of the Suns' backcourt depth entering free agency, it could make sense for Phoenix to swing for the fences in selecting Springer. The Tennessee guard is both one of the youngest players in this draft class and one of its best perimeter defenders. He is a strong, instinctual scorer whose ability to get out in transition and into the lane with his powerful first step should help him carve out a role as his perimeter shooting and decision-making continue to evolve.
30. Utah Jazz
Greg Brown
Texas
PF
Age: 19.7
Coming off a phenomenal regular season, the Jazz can afford to swing for the fences in picking Brown, a raw prospect who was a top-10 recruit a year ago. The Jazz don't have much depth at power forward, and Brown's budding perimeter shooting and potential defensive versatility give him a solid foundation to build on as he continues to round out his skill level and decision-making.
Second round
31. Bucks (from Rockets)
Trey Murphy III | Virginia | SG/SF | Age: 20.9
32. Knicks (from Pistons)
Day'Ron Sharpe | North Carolina | C | Age: 19.5
33. Magic
Aaron Henry | Michigan State | SG | Age: 21.7
34. Thunder
Filip Petrusev | Mega Soccerbet | PF/C | Age: 21
35. Pelicans (from Cavaliers)
Terrence Shannon Jr. | Texas Tech | SG/SF | Age: 20.7
36. Thunder (from Timberwolves)
Brandon Boston Jr. | Kentucky | SG | Age: 19.4
37. Pistons (from Raptors)
Miles McBride | West Virginia | PG | Age: 20.4
38. Pelicans (from Bulls)
Roko Prkacin | Cibona Zagreb | PF | Age: 18.4
39. Kings
Josh Christopher | Arizona State | SG | Age: 19.4
40. Bulls (from Pelicans)
Joshua Primo | Alabama | SG | Age: 18.3
41. Spurs
Austin Reaves | Oklahoma | PG/SG | Age: 22.9
42. Pistons (from Hornets)
RaiQuan Gray | Florida State | PF | Age: 21.8
43. Pelicans (from Wizards)
Rokas Jokubaitis | Zalgiris | PG | Age: 20.4
44. Nets (from Pacers)
Ariel Hukporti | Nevezis | C | Age: 19
45. Celtics
Juhann Begarin | Paris | SG | Age: 18.7
46. Raptors (from Warriors)
Jeremiah Robinson-Earl | Villanova | PF | Age: 20.5
47. Raptors (from Grizzlies)
Kessler Edwards | Pepperdine | SF/PF | Age: 20.7
48. Hawks (from Heat)
Matthew Hurt | Duke | PF | Age: 21
49. Nets (from Hawks)
Johnny Juzang | UCLA | SF | Age: 20.1
50. 76ers (from Knicks)
Isaiah Todd | G League Ignite | PF | Age: 19.5
51. Pistons (from Lakers)
Isaiah Livers | Michigan | SF/PF | Age: 22.8
52. Grizzlies (from Trail Blazers)
David Johnson | Louisville | PG | Age: 20.2
53. Pelicans (from Mavericks)
Gabriele Procida | Cantu | SG | Age: 18.9
54. Pacers (from Bucks)
Matthew Mayer | Baylor | SF/PF | Age: 21.6
55. Thunder (from Nuggets)
Luka Garza | Iowa | C | Age: 22.3
56. Hornets (from Clippers)
Trendon Watford | LSU | PF | Age: 20.5
57. Hornets (from Nets)
Herbert Jones | Alabama | SF | Age: 22.6
58. Knicks (from 76ers)
Santi Aldama | Loyola Maryland | PF | Age: 20.3
59. Nets (from Suns)
Daishen Nix | G League Ignite | PG/SG | Age: 19.2
60. Pacers (from Jazz)
Sandro Mamukelashvili | Seton Hall | PF/C | Age: 21.9
Cade Cunningham
Oklahoma State
PG
Age: 19.6
Coming off a dismal season, the Rockets will be hoping this pick lands in the top four, which will ensure it does not get conveyed to Oklahoma City as part of the Russell Westbrook-Chris Paul swap. Should they hold on to it, the Rockets would surely be thrilled to add Cunningham, who is viewed by most teams as the consensus top prospect in the draft thanks to his outstanding combination of size, shooting prowess, court vision and two-way versatility.
2. Detroit Pistons
Evan Mobley
USC
C
Age: 19.9
The Pistons are still early in their rebuilding process and will likely look to target the most talented prospect regardless of fit. Mobley's mobility, perimeter skill and defensive versatility give him All-Star potential, and his selfless style of play will make him easy to integrate into many different lineup configurations -- including those with promising rookie big man Isaiah Stewart -- as his lanky frame fills out.
3. Orlando Magic
Jalen Green
G League Ignite
SG
Age: 19.2
Having recently decided to pivot to full-fledged rebuilding mode, the Magic will likely look to pick the player with the highest long-term upside left on the board. Enter Green, arguably the most explosive player in the draft who also possesses elite scoring instincts. He'd fit in nicely in lineup configurations including incumbent guards Markelle Fultz, Cole Anthony and R.J. Hampton, all multipositional players.
4. Cleveland Cavaliers
Jonathan Kuminga
G League Ignite
SF/PF
Age: 18.6
Although the two-way versatility and competitive instincts offered by Jalen Suggs will likely be attractive here, the Cavs are fairly well stocked in the backcourt and will surely be looking to add a bigger wing who can defend multiple positions and offer explosive ability and shot creation from the forward positions. Kuminga has one of the highest upsides of any prospect in the draft and is a strong positional fit here.
5. Oklahoma City Thunder
Jalen Suggs
Gonzaga
PG/SG
Age: 19.9
The Thunder would surely be thrilled to see Suggs, a strong candidate for many teams picking in the top three, fall to them. His defensive versatility, competitiveness and transition-scoring prowess would fit in very well with what the team already has in place on the court as well as with the culture Sam Presti is attempting to build in Oklahoma City.
Note: Cleveland and Oklahoma City finished with the same record in 2020-21. Their pre-lottery draft position will be determined by a coin flip to be held on Tuesday.
6. Golden State Warriors (from Minnesota)
Keon Johnson
Tennessee
SG
Age: 19.1
The Warriors elected to select James Wiseman over LaMelo Ball last year with the short-term goal of maximizing their championship window. Taking more of a long-term view might be more prudent now, considering the limitations of the team's roster. That approach could lead them in the direction of Johnson, who might very well have the highest upside of any player left on the board. Johnson is a tenacious defender who showed enough promising glimpses of playmaking and shot-making to suggest outstanding things to come for a team that is willing to be patient with his development.
7. Toronto Raptors
Davion Mitchell
Baylor
PG
Age: 22.6
With Kyle Lowry entering free agency, it makes sense for the Raptors to consider Mitchell, who shares some similarities in terms of dimensions and approach. Mitchell is one of the best in the draft on defense, an area in which the Raptors fell off markedly this past season, while also possessing strong playmaking and shot-making instincts that should allow him to operate in a variety of lineup configurations alongside Toronto's strong existing core.
8. New Orleans Pelicans
Franz Wagner
Michigan
SF
Age: 19.7
New Orleans had a disappointing season defensively and hasn't been able to surround Zion Williamson with enough shooting to adequately space the floor. Enter Wagner, one of the best off-ball defenders in the draft, who also brings promising passing and shooting indicators that suggest a very high floor as the type of two-way, role-playing combo forward every team covets.
9. Orlando Magic (from Chicago)
Jalen Johnson
Duke
SF/PF
Age: 19.4
The Magic struggled with wing depth all season long and can afford to take a home run swing on a high-upside prospect like Johnson, who brings the type of playmaking and defensive versatility that is very hard to find from a 6-foot-9 forward with guard skills. He'd be a strong fit alongside the likes of Jonathan Isaac and Chuma Okeke, while also having the potential to see time as a small-ball center, like he did at Duke.
10. Sacramento Kings
Scottie Barnes
Florida State
SF/PF
Age: 19.7
The worst defensive team in the NBA could be attracted to the versatility, intensity and instincts offered by Barnes, who has been a winner everywhere he has played. He'd bring the type of length and playmaking ability the Kings really lacked at the forward spots, giving them plenty of lineup flexibility around their core of De'Aaron Fox and Tyrese Haliburton.
Note: New Orleans, Chicago and Sacramento finished with the same record in 2020-21. Their pre-lottery draft position will be determined by a coin flip to be held on Tuesday. Chicago will send its first-round pick to Orlando unless it moves up into the top four via the lottery.
11. San Antonio Spurs
Isaiah Jackson
Kentucky
PF/C
Age: 19.3
The Spurs will likely be in the market for a starting-caliber center to build around long term, and Jackson could very well pique their interest. One of the most explosive players in the draft, Jackson is an elite shot-blocker who dropped strong glimpses of offensive potential, which gives him significant upside.
12. Charlotte Hornets
Corey Kispert
Gonzaga
SF
Age: 22.2
Charlotte's lack of wing depth was exposed by injuries to Gordon Hayward and others. Enter Kispert, one of the best shooters in the draft, who looks ready to make an immediate impact with his size, skill and experience.
Note: San Antonio and Charlotte finished with the same record in 2020-21. Their pre-lottery draft position will be determined by a coin flip to be held on Tuesday.
13. Indiana Pacers
Josh Giddey
Adelaide
PG
Age: 18.6
A big, multipositional backcourt player who can play both with and behind starting guards Malcolm Brogdon and Caris LeVert would likely go a long way in shoring up Indiana's depth chart. Giddey is one of the best passers in the draft and offers outstanding versatility as a 6-foot-9 guard who can operate on or off the ball.
14. Golden State Warriors
Alperen Sengun
Besiktas
PF/C
Age: 18.8
After adding a promising wing earlier in the draft, the Warriors could look to improve in the frontcourt, where the team is thin in terms of depth and has little in the way of scoring prowess. Sengun is one of the most productive players in the draft, and his old-school style of play could be a strong fit alongside the likes of Draymond Green and James Wiseman.
15. Washington Wizards
Usman Garuba
Real Madrid
PF
Age: 19.1
The fastest-paced team in the NBA, the Wizards made significant progress defensively this season but still could stand to improve on that end of the floor. Enter Garuba, one of the most intense and versatile defenders in this draft class. He is capable of playing either big man spot, making him a strong fit with the Wizards' existing frontcourt pieces.
16. Boston Celtics
Cameron Thomas
LSU
SG
Age: 19.5
The Celtics cycled through a host of wing options all season and will likely continue to look to fortify this position to complement Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown and Marcus Smart. Thomas is one of the best scorers in the draft and will likely need very little time to acclimate himself offensively thanks to the instincts he brings on that end of the floor.
17. Memphis Grizzlies
Kai Jones
Texas
PF
Age: 20.3
One of the deepest teams in the NBA, the Grizzlies could stand to add some explosiveness and versatility in the frontcourt to shore up their depth in an attempt to establish themselves as contenders in the Western Conference. Jones is a versatile defender who showed some promise as a floor spacer to complement his rim-running, offensive rebounding and finishing prowess, giving him plenty of upside to grow into long term.
18. Oklahoma City Thunder (from Miami)
Moses Moody
Arkansas
SG
Age: 18.9
Like every team, the Thunder could look to bolster their wing depth with as many floor-spacing, multipositional defenders as they can find. Moody is an ideal 3-and-D prospect who happens to be one of the youngest players in the draft, having yet to turn 19.
19. Atlanta Hawks
Tre Mann
Florida
PF
Age: 20.2
Finding a combo guard who can play on or off the ball and complement star point guard Trae Young could very well be a priority for the Hawks. Mann is a promising pick-and-roll ball handler whose size and 40% 3-point shooting will allow him to play in a variety of lineup configurations.
20. New York Knicks
James Bouknight
Connecticut
SG
Age: 20.6
One of the deeper teams in the NBA, the Knicks could look to bolster their backcourt with another explosive guard who can play on or off the ball. Bouknight's scoring instincts, ability to hit difficult shots off the dribble and long-term potential could be very attractive at this stage of the draft.
Note: Atlanta and New York finished with the same record in 2020-21. Their draft position will be determined by a coin flip to be held on Tuesday.
21. New York Knicks (from Dallas)
Ziaire Williams
Stanford
SG/SF
Age: 19.6
While it remains to be seen how much of an appetite the Knicks will have for adding two first-round picks to their already crowded rotation, a tall, shot-making small forward such as Williams could prove useful. He started the season projected much higher than this and still has plenty of upside to tap into, making him an interesting option to consider in the 20s.
22. Houston Rockets (from Portland)
Sharife Cooper
Auburn
PG
Age: 19.9
With little in the way of long-term options committed to their roster, the Rockets can afford to take a swing on whichever prospect they deem to have the highest long-term upside regardless of positional fit. There's a strong case to be made for Cooper as the most talented player available at No. 22. He's an elite ball handler and passer who is an absolute wizard operating out of pick-and-roll thanks to his terrific burst, creativity and feel for the game.
23. Los Angeles Lakers
Ayo Dosunmu
Illinois
SG
Age: 21.3
Dosunmu was one of the best players in the college game and looks like an easy fit in the NBA game as a versatile 3-and-D guard with strong competitive traits. With much of the Lakers' backcourt depth on the verge of entering free agency, it makes sense to look to an experienced player like Dosunmu who can defend multiple positions and has strong role-playing potential operating alongside stars.
Note: Dallas, Portland and the L.A. Lakers finished with the same record in 2020-21. Their draft position will be determined by a coin flip to be held on Tuesday.
24. Houston Rockets (from Milwaukee)
Jared Butler
Baylor
PG/SG
Age: 20.7
The Rockets have plenty of minutes available in the backcourt, where the team rotated through a cascade of characters in a dismal season. Adding a playmaking combo guard such as Butler makes plenty of sense. He is a capable ball handler, shooter and defender and showed he already knows how to play an efficient role alongside other good players en route to winning a national championship while earning most outstanding player honors in the NCAA tournament.
25. Denver Nuggets
Chris Duarte
Oregon
SG
Age: 23.9
Adding quality wing depth should be a priority for the Nuggets, who will likely be without Jamal Murray next season and will see several rotation players enter free agency. Duarte is one of the oldest players projected to be drafted and looks like a plug-and-play fit thanks to his strong perimeter shooting, passing and defensive playmaking instincts.
26. LA Clippers
Charles Bassey
Western Kentucky
C
Age: 20.5
The Clippers might look to add depth at center with a player they can develop into a long-term contributor. Bassey's versatility as a shot-blocking, pick-and-roll finishing, floor-spacing big man is intriguing, and he already has the strength and experience to help a team sooner rather than later.
Note: Denver and the LA Clippers finished with the same record in 2020-21. Their draft position will be determined by a coin flip to be held on Tuesday.
27. Brooklyn Nets
Marcus Bagley
Arizona State
SF/PF
Age: 19.5
Finding quality role players to surround the Nets' stars will always be a priority, and Bagley's fit as a 3-and-D forward who can space the floor, shoot off movement and display solid instincts as a team defender could make him an interesting long-term player to develop if the team decides to keep the pick.
28. Philadelphia 76ers
Max Abmas
Oral Roberts
PG
Age: 20.1
The Sixers reshaped their roster by adding quite a bit of perimeter shooting to surround their All-Star core of Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid. Abmas would represent another step in that direction. He ranked as the most efficient half-court scorer in college basketball, largely thanks to his ability to make difficult shots from beyond the arc operating out of pick-and-roll. His range, savvy and speed should also allow him to see time playing off the ball.
29. Phoenix Suns
Jaden Springer
Tennessee
PG/SG
Age: 18.6
With much of the Suns' backcourt depth entering free agency, it could make sense for Phoenix to swing for the fences in selecting Springer. The Tennessee guard is both one of the youngest players in this draft class and one of its best perimeter defenders. He is a strong, instinctual scorer whose ability to get out in transition and into the lane with his powerful first step should help him carve out a role as his perimeter shooting and decision-making continue to evolve.
30. Utah Jazz
Greg Brown
Texas
PF
Age: 19.7
Coming off a phenomenal regular season, the Jazz can afford to swing for the fences in picking Brown, a raw prospect who was a top-10 recruit a year ago. The Jazz don't have much depth at power forward, and Brown's budding perimeter shooting and potential defensive versatility give him a solid foundation to build on as he continues to round out his skill level and decision-making.
Second round
31. Bucks (from Rockets)
Trey Murphy III | Virginia | SG/SF | Age: 20.9
32. Knicks (from Pistons)
Day'Ron Sharpe | North Carolina | C | Age: 19.5
33. Magic
Aaron Henry | Michigan State | SG | Age: 21.7
34. Thunder
Filip Petrusev | Mega Soccerbet | PF/C | Age: 21
35. Pelicans (from Cavaliers)
Terrence Shannon Jr. | Texas Tech | SG/SF | Age: 20.7
36. Thunder (from Timberwolves)
Brandon Boston Jr. | Kentucky | SG | Age: 19.4
37. Pistons (from Raptors)
Miles McBride | West Virginia | PG | Age: 20.4
38. Pelicans (from Bulls)
Roko Prkacin | Cibona Zagreb | PF | Age: 18.4
39. Kings
Josh Christopher | Arizona State | SG | Age: 19.4
40. Bulls (from Pelicans)
Joshua Primo | Alabama | SG | Age: 18.3
41. Spurs
Austin Reaves | Oklahoma | PG/SG | Age: 22.9
42. Pistons (from Hornets)
RaiQuan Gray | Florida State | PF | Age: 21.8
43. Pelicans (from Wizards)
Rokas Jokubaitis | Zalgiris | PG | Age: 20.4
44. Nets (from Pacers)
Ariel Hukporti | Nevezis | C | Age: 19
45. Celtics
Juhann Begarin | Paris | SG | Age: 18.7
46. Raptors (from Warriors)
Jeremiah Robinson-Earl | Villanova | PF | Age: 20.5
47. Raptors (from Grizzlies)
Kessler Edwards | Pepperdine | SF/PF | Age: 20.7
48. Hawks (from Heat)
Matthew Hurt | Duke | PF | Age: 21
49. Nets (from Hawks)
Johnny Juzang | UCLA | SF | Age: 20.1
50. 76ers (from Knicks)
Isaiah Todd | G League Ignite | PF | Age: 19.5
51. Pistons (from Lakers)
Isaiah Livers | Michigan | SF/PF | Age: 22.8
52. Grizzlies (from Trail Blazers)
David Johnson | Louisville | PG | Age: 20.2
53. Pelicans (from Mavericks)
Gabriele Procida | Cantu | SG | Age: 18.9
54. Pacers (from Bucks)
Matthew Mayer | Baylor | SF/PF | Age: 21.6
55. Thunder (from Nuggets)
Luka Garza | Iowa | C | Age: 22.3
56. Hornets (from Clippers)
Trendon Watford | LSU | PF | Age: 20.5
57. Hornets (from Nets)
Herbert Jones | Alabama | SF | Age: 22.6
58. Knicks (from 76ers)
Santi Aldama | Loyola Maryland | PF | Age: 20.3
59. Nets (from Suns)
Daishen Nix | G League Ignite | PG/SG | Age: 19.2
60. Pacers (from Jazz)
Sandro Mamukelashvili | Seton Hall | PF/C | Age: 21.9
2021 NBA mock draft: Updated picks and latest movement
Now that we know the 14 lottery teams, let's take a look at who they might pick.
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Is Kyree Walker an NBA player? Came across my feed, he's 20 never went to college but he looks interesting. Solid size at 6'6
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Keon Johnson and Davion Mitchell are super high on these boards. Do y'all agree?
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I've seen Keon Johnson anywhere from 6-9 in multiple mocks. I'm honestly surprised
I'm swinging for Z. Williams in the top 10
I'm swinging for Z. Williams in the top 10
HOU$TON
formerly convertibleburt
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Another mock with the rockets taking sharife cooper with the blazers pick. I’m with it
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Kuminga is young Af
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I've been seeing Isaiah Jackson mocked in the lottery which is nuts. He was in the 2nd round on every mock during the season
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He was actually like the first player to commit to a college at age 16 in his recruiting class
Then he de-committed from Arizona St for academic reasons I believe but I hope he makes it to the league he got a dog mentality
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Kyree Walker is another of long line "advanced" prospects that were two years older than the rest of his class, stopped growing, and then everyone else caught up to him. He's far from an NBA player at the moment.
Mister Meaner
formerly super producer j
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Saw this on IG.
Its gonna start trending in the summer
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3 directions right there. All 3 trade partner franchises should be amenable to taking on projects with their markets and expectations.
Its gonna start trending in the summer
. 10. Sacramento Kings
Scottie Barnes
Florida State
SF/PF
Age: 19.7
The worst defensive team in the NBA could be attracted to the versatility, intensity and instincts offered by Barnes, who has been a winner everywhere he has played. He'd bring the type of length and playmaking ability the Kings really lacked at the forward spots, giving them plenty of lineup flexibility around their core of De'Aaron Fox and Tyrese Haliburton.
. I’m going to watch them & Memphis A LOT next season.
Knicks projected at 20 & 21 with the Dallas pick. This seems to be a deep draft. Sacktown might like the idea of having three 1st round picks. Could even play more chess with the picks & make a play for top 5. Of course, the Knicks have zero interest in lottery picks with how things have progressed this season.
Add in Mitch, Obi, Frank, & Knox. They getting some top picks with potential & a rotation piece with even more potential already. Frank sounds like someone they could use badly. Would love to pull of a fleece & not include Mitch, but he might have to go.
The numbers gotta work between keeping Mitch & Noel. I hate to see that potential slip away, but Noel is going to command a nice payday a well. Most of these players you’d like to keep are on expirings too.
Frank needs to show out so his stock can be on the up & up again. He should welcome the opportunity for more minutes next to a player like Haliburton. He can take time to really mature over there.
And in this new NBA where the Knicks are a destination spot, anything can happen. Speaking of OKC, if SGA doesn’t want to stay with the team he got traded to, offer the same deal. Both those teams have a gang of budding talent & security at the 1.
Cavs end up with the 5th pick & not OKC? Suggs is projected 5. Do you make a call? They got their backcourt settled & Suggs ain’t a bench player. I don’t think.
If the last scenario is at play, I’m comfy going after Melo Ball’s brother on a 4 year contract in FA. I’m a little curious to see if he can put it together as his game matures. He’s an instant upgrade for where the Knicks are right now at starting point guard. Zion thinks highly of his game & he is a playmaker.
That means the Knicks are trading with the Cavs for a guard who’s got JKidd with a jumper comparisons floated around. See ya Immanuel. Suggs gonna have to come of the bench 1st yr & Zo starts. Where are those minutes gonna come from? Feelings aside, do it without hesitation. Take Mitch of the table then if you can. Or Obi.
Sacktown & OKC can take next year’s pick if they want
Scottie Barnes
Florida State
SF/PF
Age: 19.7
The worst defensive team in the NBA could be attracted to the versatility, intensity and instincts offered by Barnes, who has been a winner everywhere he has played. He'd bring the type of length and playmaking ability the Kings really lacked at the forward spots, giving them plenty of lineup flexibility around their core of De'Aaron Fox and Tyrese Haliburton.
OKC don’t deserve all these blessings after not wanting to pay Harden all those years ago. They can’t keep all that talent for long but they gonna be loaded. If they get Suggs2021 NBA mock draft: Who will end up with the teams that missed the playoffs?
With the NBA's play-in tournament complete, we now know which teams will be in next month's NBA draft lottery, which will determine who has the top four picks in the 2021 NBA draft. For now, however, we can line the teams up based on their pre-lottery draft order to get a sense of whom these teams could be targeting when the draft rolls around in July. This draft class is loaded at the top, with a quintet of players who all have star potential, meaning it won't just be about who lands the top pick.
In addition to the lottery, a handful of draft-order ties will be broken by random draw next week, and we've noted those below.
Things could change a lot in the two months until the 2021 NBA draft, and things could change a lot between now and then, particularly as the 14 non-playoff teams shift fully into draft mode with their seasons now officially over. Using our latest intel and scouting, here's how we currently have things projected for all 60 picks.
1. Houston Rockets
Cade Cunningham
Oklahoma State
PG
Age: 19.6
Coming off a dismal season, the Rockets will be hoping this pick lands in the top four, which will ensure it does not get conveyed to Oklahoma City as part of the Russell Westbrook-Chris Paul swap. Should they hold on to it, the Rockets would surely be thrilled to add Cunningham, who is viewed by most teams as the consensus top prospect in the draft thanks to his outstanding combination of size, shooting prowess, court vision and two-way versatility.
2. Detroit Pistons
Evan Mobley
USC
C
Age: 19.9
The Pistons are still early in their rebuilding process and will likely look to target the most talented prospect regardless of fit. Mobley's mobility, perimeter skill and defensive versatility give him All-Star potential, and his selfless style of play will make him easy to integrate into many different lineup configurations -- including those with promising rookie big man Isaiah Stewart -- as his lanky frame fills out.
3. Orlando Magic
Jalen Green
G League Ignite
SG
Age: 19.2
Having recently decided to pivot to full-fledged rebuilding mode, the Magic will likely look to pick the player with the highest long-term upside left on the board. Enter Green, arguably the most explosive player in the draft who also possesses elite scoring instincts. He'd fit in nicely in lineup configurations including incumbent guards Markelle Fultz, Cole Anthony and R.J. Hampton, all multipositional players.
4. Cleveland Cavaliers
Jonathan Kuminga
G League Ignite
SF/PF
Age: 18.6
Although the two-way versatility and competitive instincts offered by Jalen Suggs will likely be attractive here, the Cavs are fairly well stocked in the backcourt and will surely be looking to add a bigger wing who can defend multiple positions and offer explosive ability and shot creation from the forward positions. Kuminga has one of the highest upsides of any prospect in the draft and is a strong positional fit here.
5. Oklahoma City Thunder
Jalen Suggs
Gonzaga
PG/SG
Age: 19.9
The Thunder would surely be thrilled to see Suggs, a strong candidate for many teams picking in the top three, fall to them. His defensive versatility, competitiveness and transition-scoring prowess would fit in very well with what the team already has in place on the court as well as with the culture Sam Presti is attempting to build in Oklahoma City.
Note: Cleveland and Oklahoma City finished with the same record in 2020-21. Their pre-lottery draft position will be determined by a coin flip to be held on Tuesday.
6. Golden State Warriors (from Minnesota)
Keon Johnson
Tennessee
SG
Age: 19.1
The Warriors elected to select James Wiseman over LaMelo Ball last year with the short-term goal of maximizing their championship window. Taking more of a long-term view might be more prudent now, considering the limitations of the team's roster. That approach could lead them in the direction of Johnson, who might very well have the highest upside of any player left on the board. Johnson is a tenacious defender who showed enough promising glimpses of playmaking and shot-making to suggest outstanding things to come for a team that is willing to be patient with his development.
7. Toronto Raptors
Davion Mitchell
Baylor
PG
Age: 22.6
With Kyle Lowry entering free agency, it makes sense for the Raptors to consider Mitchell, who shares some similarities in terms of dimensions and approach. Mitchell is one of the best in the draft on defense, an area in which the Raptors fell off markedly this past season, while also possessing strong playmaking and shot-making instincts that should allow him to operate in a variety of lineup configurations alongside Toronto's strong existing core.
8. New Orleans Pelicans
Franz Wagner
Michigan
SF
Age: 19.7
New Orleans had a disappointing season defensively and hasn't been able to surround Zion Williamson with enough shooting to adequately space the floor. Enter Wagner, one of the best off-ball defenders in the draft, who also brings promising passing and shooting indicators that suggest a very high floor as the type of two-way, role-playing combo forward every team covets.
9. Orlando Magic (from Chicago)
Jalen Johnson
Duke
SF/PF
Age: 19.4
The Magic struggled with wing depth all season long and can afford to take a home run swing on a high-upside prospect like Johnson, who brings the type of playmaking and defensive versatility that is very hard to find from a 6-foot-9 forward with guard skills. He'd be a strong fit alongside the likes of Jonathan Isaac and Chuma Okeke, while also having the potential to see time as a small-ball center, like he did at Duke.
10. Sacramento Kings
Scottie Barnes
Florida State
SF/PF
Age: 19.7
The worst defensive team in the NBA could be attracted to the versatility, intensity and instincts offered by Barnes, who has been a winner everywhere he has played. He'd bring the type of length and playmaking ability the Kings really lacked at the forward spots, giving them plenty of lineup flexibility around their core of De'Aaron Fox and Tyrese Haliburton.
Note: New Orleans, Chicago and Sacramento finished with the same record in 2020-21. Their pre-lottery draft position will be determined by a coin flip to be held on Tuesday. Chicago will send its first-round pick to Orlando unless it moves up into the top four via the lottery.
11. San Antonio Spurs
Isaiah Jackson
Kentucky
PF/C
Age: 19.3
The Spurs will likely be in the market for a starting-caliber center to build around long term, and Jackson could very well pique their interest. One of the most explosive players in the draft, Jackson is an elite shot-blocker who dropped strong glimpses of offensive potential, which gives him significant upside.
12. Charlotte Hornets
Corey Kispert
Gonzaga
SF
Age: 22.2
Charlotte's lack of wing depth was exposed by injuries to Gordon Hayward and others. Enter Kispert, one of the best shooters in the draft, who looks ready to make an immediate impact with his size, skill and experience.
Note: San Antonio and Charlotte finished with the same record in 2020-21. Their pre-lottery draft position will be determined by a coin flip to be held on Tuesday.
13. Indiana Pacers
Josh Giddey
Adelaide
PG
Age: 18.6
A big, multipositional backcourt player who can play both with and behind starting guards Malcolm Brogdon and Caris LeVert would likely go a long way in shoring up Indiana's depth chart. Giddey is one of the best passers in the draft and offers outstanding versatility as a 6-foot-9 guard who can operate on or off the ball.
14. Golden State Warriors
Alperen Sengun
Besiktas
PF/C
Age: 18.8
After adding a promising wing earlier in the draft, the Warriors could look to improve in the frontcourt, where the team is thin in terms of depth and has little in the way of scoring prowess. Sengun is one of the most productive players in the draft, and his old-school style of play could be a strong fit alongside the likes of Draymond Green and James Wiseman.
15. Washington Wizards
Usman Garuba
Real Madrid
PF
Age: 19.1
The fastest-paced team in the NBA, the Wizards made significant progress defensively this season but still could stand to improve on that end of the floor. Enter Garuba, one of the most intense and versatile defenders in this draft class. He is capable of playing either big man spot, making him a strong fit with the Wizards' existing frontcourt pieces.
16. Boston Celtics
Cameron Thomas
LSU
SG
Age: 19.5
The Celtics cycled through a host of wing options all season and will likely continue to look to fortify this position to complement Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown and Marcus Smart. Thomas is one of the best scorers in the draft and will likely need very little time to acclimate himself offensively thanks to the instincts he brings on that end of the floor.
17. Memphis Grizzlies
Kai Jones
Texas
PF
Age: 20.3
One of the deepest teams in the NBA, the Grizzlies could stand to add some explosiveness and versatility in the frontcourt to shore up their depth in an attempt to establish themselves as contenders in the Western Conference. Jones is a versatile defender who showed some promise as a floor spacer to complement his rim-running, offensive rebounding and finishing prowess, giving him plenty of upside to grow into long term.
18. Oklahoma City Thunder (from Miami)
Moses Moody
Arkansas
SG
Age: 18.9
Like every team, the Thunder could look to bolster their wing depth with as many floor-spacing, multipositional defenders as they can find. Moody is an ideal 3-and-D prospect who happens to be one of the youngest players in the draft, having yet to turn 19.
19. Atlanta Hawks
Tre Mann
Florida
PF
Age: 20.2
Finding a combo guard who can play on or off the ball and complement star point guard Trae Young could very well be a priority for the Hawks. Mann is a promising pick-and-roll ball handler whose size and 40% 3-point shooting will allow him to play in a variety of lineup configurations.
20. New York Knicks
James Bouknight
Connecticut
SG
Age: 20.6
One of the deeper teams in the NBA, the Knicks could look to bolster their backcourt with another explosive guard who can play on or off the ball. Bouknight's scoring instincts, ability to hit difficult shots off the dribble and long-term potential could be very attractive at this stage of the draft.
Note: Atlanta and New York finished with the same record in 2020-21. Their draft position will be determined by a coin flip to be held on Tuesday.
21. New York Knicks (from Dallas)
Ziaire Williams
Stanford
SG/SF
Age: 19.6
While it remains to be seen how much of an appetite the Knicks will have for adding two first-round picks to their already crowded rotation, a tall, shot-making small forward such as Williams could prove useful. He started the season projected much higher than this and still has plenty of upside to tap into, making him an interesting option to consider in the 20s.
22. Houston Rockets (from Portland)
Sharife Cooper
Auburn
PG
Age: 19.9
With little in the way of long-term options committed to their roster, the Rockets can afford to take a swing on whichever prospect they deem to have the highest long-term upside regardless of positional fit. There's a strong case to be made for Cooper as the most talented player available at No. 22. He's an elite ball handler and passer who is an absolute wizard operating out of pick-and-roll thanks to his terrific burst, creativity and feel for the game.
23. Los Angeles Lakers
Ayo Dosunmu
Illinois
SG
Age: 21.3
Dosunmu was one of the best players in the college game and looks like an easy fit in the NBA game as a versatile 3-and-D guard with strong competitive traits. With much of the Lakers' backcourt depth on the verge of entering free agency, it makes sense to look to an experienced player like Dosunmu who can defend multiple positions and has strong role-playing potential operating alongside stars.
Note: Dallas, Portland and the L.A. Lakers finished with the same record in 2020-21. Their draft position will be determined by a coin flip to be held on Tuesday.
24. Houston Rockets (from Milwaukee)
Jared Butler
Baylor
PG/SG
Age: 20.7
The Rockets have plenty of minutes available in the backcourt, where the team rotated through a cascade of characters in a dismal season. Adding a playmaking combo guard such as Butler makes plenty of sense. He is a capable ball handler, shooter and defender and showed he already knows how to play an efficient role alongside other good players en route to winning a national championship while earning most outstanding player honors in the NCAA tournament.
25. Denver Nuggets
Chris Duarte
Oregon
SG
Age: 23.9
Adding quality wing depth should be a priority for the Nuggets, who will likely be without Jamal Murray next season and will see several rotation players enter free agency. Duarte is one of the oldest players projected to be drafted and looks like a plug-and-play fit thanks to his strong perimeter shooting, passing and defensive playmaking instincts.
26. LA Clippers
Charles Bassey
Western Kentucky
C
Age: 20.5
The Clippers might look to add depth at center with a player they can develop into a long-term contributor. Bassey's versatility as a shot-blocking, pick-and-roll finishing, floor-spacing big man is intriguing, and he already has the strength and experience to help a team sooner rather than later.
Note: Denver and the LA Clippers finished with the same record in 2020-21. Their draft position will be determined by a coin flip to be held on Tuesday.
27. Brooklyn Nets
Marcus Bagley
Arizona State
SF/PF
Age: 19.5
Finding quality role players to surround the Nets' stars will always be a priority, and Bagley's fit as a 3-and-D forward who can space the floor, shoot off movement and display solid instincts as a team defender could make him an interesting long-term player to develop if the team decides to keep the pick.
28. Philadelphia 76ers
Max Abmas
Oral Roberts
PG
Age: 20.1
The Sixers reshaped their roster by adding quite a bit of perimeter shooting to surround their All-Star core of Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid. Abmas would represent another step in that direction. He ranked as the most efficient half-court scorer in college basketball, largely thanks to his ability to make difficult shots from beyond the arc operating out of pick-and-roll. His range, savvy and speed should also allow him to see time playing off the ball.
29. Phoenix Suns
Jaden Springer
Tennessee
PG/SG
Age: 18.6
With much of the Suns' backcourt depth entering free agency, it could make sense for Phoenix to swing for the fences in selecting Springer. The Tennessee guard is both one of the youngest players in this draft class and one of its best perimeter defenders. He is a strong, instinctual scorer whose ability to get out in transition and into the lane with his powerful first step should help him carve out a role as his perimeter shooting and decision-making continue to evolve.
30. Utah Jazz
Greg Brown
Texas
PF
Age: 19.7
Coming off a phenomenal regular season, the Jazz can afford to swing for the fences in picking Brown, a raw prospect who was a top-10 recruit a year ago. The Jazz don't have much depth at power forward, and Brown's budding perimeter shooting and potential defensive versatility give him a solid foundation to build on as he continues to round out his skill level and decision-making.
Second round
31. Bucks (from Rockets)
Trey Murphy III | Virginia | SG/SF | Age: 20.9
32. Knicks (from Pistons)
Day'Ron Sharpe | North Carolina | C | Age: 19.5
33. Magic
Aaron Henry | Michigan State | SG | Age: 21.7
34. Thunder
Filip Petrusev | Mega Soccerbet | PF/C | Age: 21
35. Pelicans (from Cavaliers)
Terrence Shannon Jr. | Texas Tech | SG/SF | Age: 20.7
36. Thunder (from Timberwolves)
Brandon Boston Jr. | Kentucky | SG | Age: 19.4
37. Pistons (from Raptors)
Miles McBride | West Virginia | PG | Age: 20.4
38. Pelicans (from Bulls)
Roko Prkacin | Cibona Zagreb | PF | Age: 18.4
39. Kings
Josh Christopher | Arizona State | SG | Age: 19.4
40. Bulls (from Pelicans)
Joshua Primo | Alabama | SG | Age: 18.3
41. Spurs
Austin Reaves | Oklahoma | PG/SG | Age: 22.9
42. Pistons (from Hornets)
RaiQuan Gray | Florida State | PF | Age: 21.8
43. Pelicans (from Wizards)
Rokas Jokubaitis | Zalgiris | PG | Age: 20.4
44. Nets (from Pacers)
Ariel Hukporti | Nevezis | C | Age: 19
45. Celtics
Juhann Begarin | Paris | SG | Age: 18.7
46. Raptors (from Warriors)
Jeremiah Robinson-Earl | Villanova | PF | Age: 20.5
47. Raptors (from Grizzlies)
Kessler Edwards | Pepperdine | SF/PF | Age: 20.7
48. Hawks (from Heat)
Matthew Hurt | Duke | PF | Age: 21
49. Nets (from Hawks)
Johnny Juzang | UCLA | SF | Age: 20.1
50. 76ers (from Knicks)
Isaiah Todd | G League Ignite | PF | Age: 19.5
51. Pistons (from Lakers)
Isaiah Livers | Michigan | SF/PF | Age: 22.8
52. Grizzlies (from Trail Blazers)
David Johnson | Louisville | PG | Age: 20.2
53. Pelicans (from Mavericks)
Gabriele Procida | Cantu | SG | Age: 18.9
54. Pacers (from Bucks)
Matthew Mayer | Baylor | SF/PF | Age: 21.6
55. Thunder (from Nuggets)
Luka Garza | Iowa | C | Age: 22.3
56. Hornets (from Clippers)
Trendon Watford | LSU | PF | Age: 20.5
57. Hornets (from Nets)
Herbert Jones | Alabama | SF | Age: 22.6
58. Knicks (from 76ers)
Santi Aldama | Loyola Maryland | PF | Age: 20.3
59. Nets (from Suns)
Daishen Nix | G League Ignite | PG/SG | Age: 19.2
60. Pacers (from Jazz)
Sandro Mamukelashvili | Seton Hall | PF/C | Age: 21.92021 NBA mock draft: Updated picks and latest movement
Now that we know the 14 lottery teams, let's take a look at who they might pick.
. I’m going to watch them & Memphis A LOT next season. Knicks projected at 20 & 21 with the Dallas pick. This seems to be a deep draft. Sacktown might like the idea of having three 1st round picks. Could even play more chess with the picks & make a play for top 5. Of course, the Knicks have zero interest in lottery picks with how things have progressed this season.
Add in Mitch, Obi, Frank, & Knox. They getting some top picks with potential & a rotation piece with even more potential already. Frank sounds like someone they could use badly. Would love to pull of a fleece & not include Mitch, but he might have to go.
The numbers gotta work between keeping Mitch & Noel. I hate to see that potential slip away, but Noel is going to command a nice payday a well. Most of these players you’d like to keep are on expirings too.
Frank needs to show out so his stock can be on the up & up again. He should welcome the opportunity for more minutes next to a player like Haliburton. He can take time to really mature over there.
And in this new NBA where the Knicks are a destination spot, anything can happen. Speaking of OKC, if SGA doesn’t want to stay with the team he got traded to, offer the same deal. Both those teams have a gang of budding talent & security at the 1.
Cavs end up with the 5th pick & not OKC? Suggs is projected 5. Do you make a call? They got their backcourt settled & Suggs ain’t a bench player. I don’t think.
If the last scenario is at play, I’m comfy going after Melo Ball’s brother on a 4 year contract in FA. I’m a little curious to see if he can put it together as his game matures. He’s an instant upgrade for where the Knicks are right now at starting point guard. Zion thinks highly of his game & he is a playmaker.
That means the Knicks are trading with the Cavs for a guard who’s got JKidd with a jumper comparisons floated around. See ya Immanuel. Suggs gonna have to come of the bench 1st yr & Zo starts. Where are those minutes gonna come from? Feelings aside, do it without hesitation. Take Mitch of the table then if you can. Or Obi.
Sacktown & OKC can take next year’s pick if they want
3 directions right there. All 3 trade partner franchises should be amenable to taking on projects with their markets and expectations.
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