Draft Grades
Jun 28, 2017 0:16:23 GMT -5
Yacob (freelance idiot), Grizzlies GM (Royce), and 4 more like this
Post by Draft Express on Jun 28, 2017 0:16:23 GMT -5
As the first round starts to come to the close, here are a look at our 1st round draft grades. Let's get into them.
1. Cleveland Cavaliers (traded to Boston)
Markelle Fultz | PG | Washington
Grade: A+
What He Brings: We think Fultz is the best player in this draft. His scoring ability is unmatched, he's got a great jumper, great in between game, and gets to the hoop without fail. Besides these great skills, he's got great physical tools as well, with insane size and length paired with very good athleticism. On top of this he's got great vision and feel as a passer as well. There are some worries defensively, but again he's got the tools. Fultz was the safest pick in the draft and fits the youth movement in Boston perfectly.
2. Charlotte Hornets
Lonzo Ball | PG | UCLA
Grade: A-
What He Brings: Again were not as high on Lonzo as others, but we get the pick and we see why everyone is excited. Ball for one has great size and length for a point guard. Yes, he needs to get stronger but very few don't coming into the league. He may not be as adept scoring as Fultz, but he is one of the best passers we've seen and plays with an edge. He's a perfect fit in LA and should be able to get out and run with the young ins. With the Hornets not even having a point guard on the roster this was a big time pick for them as they get what should be their point guard of the future and potential franchise player.
3. New Orleans Pelicans (Traded to Miami)
DeA'aron Fox | PG | Kentucky
Grade: A
What He Brings: Fox is a dynamic athlete who looked like he could get to any spot on the floor this year. Heading into the draft i was convinced Fox was better than Ball and that there was no change he busts. I'm still very high on him but i could see a situation in which he doesn't work out. His intangibles aren't the greatest and while his shot mechanics aren't poor you do want your franchise point guard to be able to shoot. However Fox's toughness, speed, quickness, defense, and ability to lead are qualities that will lead to a successful NBA career. The Pelicans have since traded Fox to Miami in a spot where he will be given an opportunity to prove himself right away.
4. Dallas Mavericks (Traded to New Orleans)
Dennis Smith | PG | NC State
Grade: B+
What He Brings: Smith brings an unmatched combo of elite athleticism and pure scoring ability. He can get to the cup at will, and plays above to rim like few do at the NBA level at the point guard position. His jump shot still needs some work, but it's definitely better than say Fox's. There are some concerns, some question his maturity, he has some turnover issues, and some will point to his inability to even make the tournament. With that being said the skills are definitely worth taking a risk on, especially if the Mavs are committed to him long term (It looks like they are). Smith in a Mavs' system that is centered on maturity and selflessness could thrive, and we would have rated the pick higher if Josh Jackson still wasn't on the board. Either way, now the Pelicans have a dynamic point guard with a ton of upside.
5. New Orleans Pelicans (Traded to Boston)
Josh Jackson | SF | Kansas
Grade: A+
What he Brings: Wow, getting Jackson at 5 is an absolute steal. He's easily the best two way player in the draft. He's long, athletic, has a great motor, and smart on the defensive end, and those same physical tools paired with his skills on offense are tough to beat. He does have kinda a wacky jumper, and did get into small trouble during the year, but i really wouldn't worry about it. If Jackson can become even a decent jump shooter he is going to be very good. He also landed in a spot in Phoenix that is going to let him develop and get out and run. I may regret trading 4 and not taking Jackson the dude just screams superstar. Safe to say the Celtics have a fun little young core, highlighted by the dynamic rookie duo of Fultz and Jackson.
6. Orlando Magic
Jayson Tatum | SF | Duke
Grade: B+
What he Brings: I know we've seen a lot of high grades so far but we really do just love this draft. The key with this grade is where Magic got Tatum. Tatum at 6 is just very good value. The kid is a very polished scorer. He's got a good mid-ranger, post up, and can drill threes when open. He is kinda a tweener, and doesn't have great athleticism, but if he continues to work on his offensive craft, he'll have no problem being a productive player. He may not get a ton of minutes right off the bat, but Tatum is a good piece for a rebuilding Magic squad.
7. Orlando Magic
Jonathon Isaac | SF/PF | FSU
Grade: B+
What he brings: I've flip flopped on Isaac a lot and i'll be honest i can't give you a 100% sure prediction either way. What i do know is this young dog has some tools. He's very long athletic and skilled. He's got a good fundamental jumper, but also showed he can score in the paint. Really 7 footers with length and skill are very rare, and worth taking the chance on. He showed he could be soft and inconsistent at times, but at that change and size it's hard to be consistent. If he figures everything out, he may have the most upside in the draft and that's saying a lot. Isaac will be a very fun prospect to keep an eye on and is another good value pick for the Magic moving forward.
8. Phoenix Suns
Malik Monk | SG | Kentucky
Grade: C+
What he Brings: Might seem like a harsh grade and i honestly do really like Malik, so let's get into the positives first. He's a great shooter, not just spot up, but off the dribble, from three, from mid range, off picks, you name it. He gets great raise on his jumper and it's just such a pretty jumper. On top of that he's very athletic and almost plays somewhat above the rim even at his size. He also plays hard and just strikes me as a winner. I do think he carves out a very nice NBA role, somewhere along the lines of Lou Williams or an electric scorer off the bench. IF he were just a couple inches taller i think he becomes a much more interesting prospect. Anyways, the game he plays just isn't conducive for this league, guys like KCP, Demar and Klay Thompson are all better in real life than they translate to in here. The shots are gonna be tougher in the NBA and i just don't see Monk ever averaging 30 FPs a game. With guys on the table who i think could i give the pick a C, although Monk is the best shooting guard prospect in this draft.
9. LA Lakers
Frank Nitlikina | PG | France
Grade: B+
What He Brings: Frank was a very solid pick by new GM Griffin Lay. With really no point guard on the roster Frank should be committed to by the Knicks front office. He's going to take some time, but the Lakers are in no rush to compete as of now. He has a great feel for the game and plays like a pure point guard even with excellent size for the position. His jumper and handle both need work, but the kid is 18. Give him time in the right system and he could be special down the line. With no real point guard on the roster this was a very solid pick by the Lakers.
10. Oklahoma City Thunder
Zach Collins | PF/C | Gonzaga
Grade: A-
What he Brings: This honestly is probably Loren's best move as a GM, as he traded up to get the Gonzaga prospect. I love Collins, he's a 7 footer with a jumper and touch, who also defends well and protects the rim. I mean c'mon what more did you need to see from him at Gonzaga to know he's going to be a player in this league. The Blazers also traded up in real life to get him, so expect him to at least get some minutes soon. The Blazers have tried and failed with many different players at the 4. I think Collins and Nurk can co-exist. Really solid pick from the Thunder.
11. Orlando Magic
Justin Patton | C | Creighton
Grade: B-
What he Brings: This Patton pick is a weird one grade. First off i really like him as a prospect as was surprised he didn't go earlier. He's got good size and length, and was a great scorer in the pick and roll, along with a good jumper. I mean isn't that every Gms dream now? He isn't the greatest defender as of now, but he as all the tools. Now as for the fit both in real life and here, that's where it gets iffy. Thibs is going to be pushing that Minnesota team to make the playoffs, and will be riding Dieng and Towns hard and i just don't see Patton really getting the best chance to develop early on. In here the Magic already have 3 quality centers under roster i think there were some better organizational fits still on the board. That being said, you can't really fault a GM for taking what he feels is the best available talent. Patton is still a valuable asset moving forward.
12. Portland Trailblazers
Lauri Markkanen | PF | Arizona
Grade: A-
What he Brings: Wow, the Blazers have to be just thrilled to get Lauri at 12. Yes, i get why some don't want him but at 12 it's just incredible value. Lauri might honestly be the best shooter in this draft, and at seven feet tall, he's what every GM is looking for in this new age of basketball. He still needs to add strength, expand his offensive game, and become a better defender but it's all possible. If he can add a lower post game, he's going to be big at stretching the floor for Chicago with Mirotic maybe on his way out as a RFA. MArkkanen also fit a need perfectly with the Hornets being pretty shallow down low. Great pick by the Blazers.
13. Houston Rockets
Luke Kennard | SG | Duke
Grade: C+
What he Brings: Everyone really knows what Kennard brings. He's a great shooter, and honestly a very good scorer too. But like Monk his game just isn't built for in here. I think he has a very high floor, because once he gets comfortable there really is that perfect niche for him to just be a scorer/shooter who pr ovoids energy. A small part of me does think if everything works out in the best way possible Kennard could become a sneaky almost star who is unstoppable offensively, but isn't in that tier 1 or two of NBA stars. So again, high floor, i think his best skills will translate, but i don't think he does enough outside of that to ever be a super big contributor in here. Still, he's a solid piece moving forward for a Rockets team that has little to nothing.
14. New Orleans Pelicans
Jarrett Allen | C | Texas
Grade: B
What he Brings: Allen fell a little bit in the draft, but that didn't stop the savy Pelicans from taking him with the last pick in the lottery. Allen has a lot to like, he's super long, he's athletic, and rebounds well. But he also isn't very strong, has a questionable motor/ passion for the game at times, and has zero offensive game outside of the paint. That being said, Brooklyn is probably the best place he could go. He's going to compete with a retarded Timofey Mozgov and the Nets really have nothing to lose with playing Allen. Allen should get looks over the season and that alone makes him worth this pick. Will he become a starting caliber player in this league? Who knows, but he will definitely have ample opportunities to prove it.
15. Charlotte Hornets:
Justin Jackson | SF | Sacramento Kings
Grade: C
What he Brings: Justin Jackson does some things well. He's able to guard multiple positions is pretty long, and showed he could put the ball in the hoop. Unfortunately I'm not a big Jackson guy and don't think his game translates very well. OVerall he shot well last year, but started to sort of regress to the mean towards the end of the year. If he isn't an above average shooter, he just isn't going to work out in the NBA. He isn't fast, isn't super quick, isn't strong, and i just don't know if he does enough in certain areas outside of scoring to be a viable option in the NBA. The good thing is he is headed to Sacramento where it should be a young player party. He'll get minutes this year, i just don't know if he'll be able to make the most of them. I would have went with a non wing at this pick.
16. Miami Heat
Harry Giles | PF | Duke
Grade: B+
What he Brings: Giles as a talent is as talented as they come. But he's had a lot of injury issues in the past couple years. I mean two ACL tears is just really tough to come back from even for the most freakish of athletes. The tough part is we saw first hand how limited he looked. He looked tentative and just uncomfortable out on the court. The good thing is, he's going to just be able to commit to playing basketball. I'm sure the Kings will have a plan for him to be as healthy as possible, and the Kings have all the motivation in the world to develop him. With the sheer amount of upside Giles is worth this pick at 16, because if he is able to get back to the highest school Harry Giles, this is a disgusting talent.
17. Brooklyn Nets
Donavon Mitchell | SG | Lousiville
Grade: B
What he Brings: Really solid pick by Josh, and a very well-run Nets organization. Just a ton of value here with this pick. Yes, i've talked about how shooting guards don't translate here, but at 17 there's too much value to pass up on. Mitchell is also a type that i could still see contributing even as a SG because of his length and defensive ability. The guy is a streaky shooter, but can get going, he's super long, very athletic, and has decent vision. He just fits that Jazz mold of a player. He may not get minutes right away, but he's a valuable stash moving into the season.
18. Charlotte Hornets
John Collins | PF | Wake Forrest
Grade: A-
What He Brings: Love this pick for Hornets. One i love his game, he comes from a millitary family and knows all about hard work. He may not be the most talented but he will leave it all on the floor. He also is a pretty good scorer around the basket, he's got good touch, and while he's not a great shooter he's got tools. He's a good re-bounder and can block some shots as well. The big thing here is the Hawks have entered a full rebuild and should have full incentive to play Collins as much as possible. Great get by the Hornets here at 18.
19. Cleveland Cavs
TJ Leaf | PF | UCLA
Grade: C+
What He Brings: I struggled with this grade. Leaf looked solid in summer league so far, and was UCLA's best offensive weapon on a very good UCLA team. He's tough and really is a just a solid scorer. I just have trouble seeing him fully succeed at this level without very good size/length or athleticism. I can see him turning into a solid rotational big, who can be a pick and pop threat, but nothing really more than that. Who knows though, i've been wrong before.
20. Charlotte Hornets
Derrick White | PG | Colorado
Grade: C+
What He Brings: Seems like the Hornets had 15 picks this first round. Anyways, I get taking the guy the Spurs took but this was a bit of a reach for me. White is polished and had a really good year at Bolder, but he's behind Murray, Mills, and presumably Parker too. Bryn Forbes has been playing some good ball as well. Either way, the Spurs drafted him, so there's a chance he could work out as a scoring combo guard moving forward, i just think it'll be some time before White makes an impact.
21. Washington Wizards
Bam Adebayo | C | Kentucky
Grade: A-
What He Brings: Great value for Wizards here. He gets Bam who went 14 to a organization known for bringing along their picks well. Bam already has an NBA body paired with NBA athletiscm. He's also just recently shown ability to hit a mid range jumper, and has looked decently comfortable with the ball in his hands. His summer league performance no doubt increased the grade. He may not contribute this year, but Bam looks like an eventual player in this league. Good get by Wizards.
22. Miami Heat
Caleb Swanigan | PF | Purdue
Grade: B
What he Brings: Swannigan is pretty polished for his age. He can hit the outside jumper, and has also shown a very solid low post game. He was a great re-bounder in college and really dominated the college level. The question at this level is whether he can defend well, and continue to work his body to compete with the quickness and athleticism of the NBA level. He's landed in a good spot in Portland, which has struggled with bigs for quite awhile. Swanny has played well in Summer league, but again, the league is a different story. Still a nice pick for Heat.
23. Charlotte Hornets
Terrence Ferguson | SG | INTL
Grade: C+
What he Brings: Terrence is a freak athlete who can also stroke it from outside. With that being said, he's still pretty raw at the moment, and will probably need a couple years before he can make a big difference. I'm not gonna pretend i've seen a ton of Ferguson, but really this grade was based off the fact that there were some prospects i would have taken over Ferguson, because of his game. He's a three an D guy who would need to shoot very efficiently to be a a big piece in this league. Either way, at 23 he's definitely worth the flier because of his talent.
24. Orlando Magic
Frank Mason | PG | Duke
Grade: C+
What he Brings: I honestly think Frank should have stayed another year. Either way, he's a tremendous talent, who is still very raw. The Rajon Rondo signing hurts a little, but really he wasn't going to contribute this year. Jackson reminds a little bit of Oladipo, he has great athleticism, and while he's a little streaky when he's going he can shoot the lights out. Again it was little bit of a reach for me, but Magic wanted his guy. The tools are definitely there, it's just about putting it all together.
25. Miami Heat
DJ Wilson | PF | Michigan
Grade: B
What he Brings: Good value pick here for Bryan. Wilson, who fell a couple spots, has all the tools you look for in an NBA four. He's long, athletic,can protect the rim, and shoot the three ball. There are some concerns about his rebounding and just overall toughness, but really time will tell. One thing DJ has going for him is the Bucks commitment to player development. DJ's a nice young piece for a rebuilding Heat team, he may not produce much his first couple seasons, but with some seasoning DJ's got what you need to be a starting caliber player.
26. Milwaukee Bucks
OG Anunoby | SF | Indiana
Grade: B
What he Brings: OG was another good pick right here. If not for his ACL injury he probably ends up in the lottery. Anunoby is a freak athlete that can guard multiple positions as well as his the three. At his peak, he can be an upper echelon three and D player. He may miss his rookie season, but there's still plenty to be excited about in the future. Anunoby landed in a nice spot in Milwaukee where he can develop for a couple years before needing to be called on.
27. Miami Heat
Jordan Bell | PF | Oregon
Grade: B+
What he Brings: Huge Jordan Bell fan. Watched every Oregon game this year, he was an elite college rim protector with a good motor, and the ability to run the floor smoothly. I wasn't sure he'd translate to the next level because of his size and lack of offensive ability, but the Warriors taking him sold me. He has elite timing and athletiscm which i think will give him the unique ability to block shots at the NBA level despite his size. Plus what better of a mentor than Draymond Green? My friend who is a manager on the team has said that Dray has already taken Jordan under his wing. In fact Bell has even lived with Dray since being drafted. Good pick by Bryan.
28. LA Clippers
Josh Hart | PG/SG | Villanova
Grade: B-
What he Brings: Hart may not be the most exciting player, but he does a lot of things well. He proved to be a winner during college, and has good length and a pretty polished offensive game. He's in an interesting situation in LA. Lonzo, Clarkson, and KCP should all get minutes, but there should be some minutes there for Hart, especially if the Lakers are again towards the bottom of the standings at the end of the year. Again, don't think Hart is particularly talented, but the pick makes sense.
29. New Orleans Pelicans
Anžejs Pasečņiks | Center | Herbalife Gran Canaria (Spain)
Grade: C
What he Brings: Not gonna pretend like i really know this guy is, so grade is really more indicative of me than the player lol. He seems pretty big and athletic which is always good though, should be a cheeky stash for Pelicans. Wooo!
30. Minnesota Timberwolves
Wesley Inwundu | SF | Kansas State
Grade:C
What he Brings: Can stretch the floor, and has good length. Feel like there were a couple better options here, but who knows. Magic are in a rebuild so i could see him getting minutes towards the end of the year.
1. Cleveland Cavaliers (traded to Boston)
Markelle Fultz | PG | Washington
Grade: A+
What He Brings: We think Fultz is the best player in this draft. His scoring ability is unmatched, he's got a great jumper, great in between game, and gets to the hoop without fail. Besides these great skills, he's got great physical tools as well, with insane size and length paired with very good athleticism. On top of this he's got great vision and feel as a passer as well. There are some worries defensively, but again he's got the tools. Fultz was the safest pick in the draft and fits the youth movement in Boston perfectly.
2. Charlotte Hornets
Lonzo Ball | PG | UCLA
Grade: A-
What He Brings: Again were not as high on Lonzo as others, but we get the pick and we see why everyone is excited. Ball for one has great size and length for a point guard. Yes, he needs to get stronger but very few don't coming into the league. He may not be as adept scoring as Fultz, but he is one of the best passers we've seen and plays with an edge. He's a perfect fit in LA and should be able to get out and run with the young ins. With the Hornets not even having a point guard on the roster this was a big time pick for them as they get what should be their point guard of the future and potential franchise player.
3. New Orleans Pelicans (Traded to Miami)
DeA'aron Fox | PG | Kentucky
Grade: A
What He Brings: Fox is a dynamic athlete who looked like he could get to any spot on the floor this year. Heading into the draft i was convinced Fox was better than Ball and that there was no change he busts. I'm still very high on him but i could see a situation in which he doesn't work out. His intangibles aren't the greatest and while his shot mechanics aren't poor you do want your franchise point guard to be able to shoot. However Fox's toughness, speed, quickness, defense, and ability to lead are qualities that will lead to a successful NBA career. The Pelicans have since traded Fox to Miami in a spot where he will be given an opportunity to prove himself right away.
4. Dallas Mavericks (Traded to New Orleans)
Dennis Smith | PG | NC State
Grade: B+
What He Brings: Smith brings an unmatched combo of elite athleticism and pure scoring ability. He can get to the cup at will, and plays above to rim like few do at the NBA level at the point guard position. His jump shot still needs some work, but it's definitely better than say Fox's. There are some concerns, some question his maturity, he has some turnover issues, and some will point to his inability to even make the tournament. With that being said the skills are definitely worth taking a risk on, especially if the Mavs are committed to him long term (It looks like they are). Smith in a Mavs' system that is centered on maturity and selflessness could thrive, and we would have rated the pick higher if Josh Jackson still wasn't on the board. Either way, now the Pelicans have a dynamic point guard with a ton of upside.
5. New Orleans Pelicans (Traded to Boston)
Josh Jackson | SF | Kansas
Grade: A+
What he Brings: Wow, getting Jackson at 5 is an absolute steal. He's easily the best two way player in the draft. He's long, athletic, has a great motor, and smart on the defensive end, and those same physical tools paired with his skills on offense are tough to beat. He does have kinda a wacky jumper, and did get into small trouble during the year, but i really wouldn't worry about it. If Jackson can become even a decent jump shooter he is going to be very good. He also landed in a spot in Phoenix that is going to let him develop and get out and run. I may regret trading 4 and not taking Jackson the dude just screams superstar. Safe to say the Celtics have a fun little young core, highlighted by the dynamic rookie duo of Fultz and Jackson.
6. Orlando Magic
Jayson Tatum | SF | Duke
Grade: B+
What he Brings: I know we've seen a lot of high grades so far but we really do just love this draft. The key with this grade is where Magic got Tatum. Tatum at 6 is just very good value. The kid is a very polished scorer. He's got a good mid-ranger, post up, and can drill threes when open. He is kinda a tweener, and doesn't have great athleticism, but if he continues to work on his offensive craft, he'll have no problem being a productive player. He may not get a ton of minutes right off the bat, but Tatum is a good piece for a rebuilding Magic squad.
7. Orlando Magic
Jonathon Isaac | SF/PF | FSU
Grade: B+
What he brings: I've flip flopped on Isaac a lot and i'll be honest i can't give you a 100% sure prediction either way. What i do know is this young dog has some tools. He's very long athletic and skilled. He's got a good fundamental jumper, but also showed he can score in the paint. Really 7 footers with length and skill are very rare, and worth taking the chance on. He showed he could be soft and inconsistent at times, but at that change and size it's hard to be consistent. If he figures everything out, he may have the most upside in the draft and that's saying a lot. Isaac will be a very fun prospect to keep an eye on and is another good value pick for the Magic moving forward.
8. Phoenix Suns
Malik Monk | SG | Kentucky
Grade: C+
What he Brings: Might seem like a harsh grade and i honestly do really like Malik, so let's get into the positives first. He's a great shooter, not just spot up, but off the dribble, from three, from mid range, off picks, you name it. He gets great raise on his jumper and it's just such a pretty jumper. On top of that he's very athletic and almost plays somewhat above the rim even at his size. He also plays hard and just strikes me as a winner. I do think he carves out a very nice NBA role, somewhere along the lines of Lou Williams or an electric scorer off the bench. IF he were just a couple inches taller i think he becomes a much more interesting prospect. Anyways, the game he plays just isn't conducive for this league, guys like KCP, Demar and Klay Thompson are all better in real life than they translate to in here. The shots are gonna be tougher in the NBA and i just don't see Monk ever averaging 30 FPs a game. With guys on the table who i think could i give the pick a C, although Monk is the best shooting guard prospect in this draft.
9. LA Lakers
Frank Nitlikina | PG | France
Grade: B+
What He Brings: Frank was a very solid pick by new GM Griffin Lay. With really no point guard on the roster Frank should be committed to by the Knicks front office. He's going to take some time, but the Lakers are in no rush to compete as of now. He has a great feel for the game and plays like a pure point guard even with excellent size for the position. His jumper and handle both need work, but the kid is 18. Give him time in the right system and he could be special down the line. With no real point guard on the roster this was a very solid pick by the Lakers.
10. Oklahoma City Thunder
Zach Collins | PF/C | Gonzaga
Grade: A-
What he Brings: This honestly is probably Loren's best move as a GM, as he traded up to get the Gonzaga prospect. I love Collins, he's a 7 footer with a jumper and touch, who also defends well and protects the rim. I mean c'mon what more did you need to see from him at Gonzaga to know he's going to be a player in this league. The Blazers also traded up in real life to get him, so expect him to at least get some minutes soon. The Blazers have tried and failed with many different players at the 4. I think Collins and Nurk can co-exist. Really solid pick from the Thunder.
11. Orlando Magic
Justin Patton | C | Creighton
Grade: B-
What he Brings: This Patton pick is a weird one grade. First off i really like him as a prospect as was surprised he didn't go earlier. He's got good size and length, and was a great scorer in the pick and roll, along with a good jumper. I mean isn't that every Gms dream now? He isn't the greatest defender as of now, but he as all the tools. Now as for the fit both in real life and here, that's where it gets iffy. Thibs is going to be pushing that Minnesota team to make the playoffs, and will be riding Dieng and Towns hard and i just don't see Patton really getting the best chance to develop early on. In here the Magic already have 3 quality centers under roster i think there were some better organizational fits still on the board. That being said, you can't really fault a GM for taking what he feels is the best available talent. Patton is still a valuable asset moving forward.
12. Portland Trailblazers
Lauri Markkanen | PF | Arizona
Grade: A-
What he Brings: Wow, the Blazers have to be just thrilled to get Lauri at 12. Yes, i get why some don't want him but at 12 it's just incredible value. Lauri might honestly be the best shooter in this draft, and at seven feet tall, he's what every GM is looking for in this new age of basketball. He still needs to add strength, expand his offensive game, and become a better defender but it's all possible. If he can add a lower post game, he's going to be big at stretching the floor for Chicago with Mirotic maybe on his way out as a RFA. MArkkanen also fit a need perfectly with the Hornets being pretty shallow down low. Great pick by the Blazers.
13. Houston Rockets
Luke Kennard | SG | Duke
Grade: C+
What he Brings: Everyone really knows what Kennard brings. He's a great shooter, and honestly a very good scorer too. But like Monk his game just isn't built for in here. I think he has a very high floor, because once he gets comfortable there really is that perfect niche for him to just be a scorer/shooter who pr ovoids energy. A small part of me does think if everything works out in the best way possible Kennard could become a sneaky almost star who is unstoppable offensively, but isn't in that tier 1 or two of NBA stars. So again, high floor, i think his best skills will translate, but i don't think he does enough outside of that to ever be a super big contributor in here. Still, he's a solid piece moving forward for a Rockets team that has little to nothing.
14. New Orleans Pelicans
Jarrett Allen | C | Texas
Grade: B
What he Brings: Allen fell a little bit in the draft, but that didn't stop the savy Pelicans from taking him with the last pick in the lottery. Allen has a lot to like, he's super long, he's athletic, and rebounds well. But he also isn't very strong, has a questionable motor/ passion for the game at times, and has zero offensive game outside of the paint. That being said, Brooklyn is probably the best place he could go. He's going to compete with a retarded Timofey Mozgov and the Nets really have nothing to lose with playing Allen. Allen should get looks over the season and that alone makes him worth this pick. Will he become a starting caliber player in this league? Who knows, but he will definitely have ample opportunities to prove it.
15. Charlotte Hornets:
Justin Jackson | SF | Sacramento Kings
Grade: C
What he Brings: Justin Jackson does some things well. He's able to guard multiple positions is pretty long, and showed he could put the ball in the hoop. Unfortunately I'm not a big Jackson guy and don't think his game translates very well. OVerall he shot well last year, but started to sort of regress to the mean towards the end of the year. If he isn't an above average shooter, he just isn't going to work out in the NBA. He isn't fast, isn't super quick, isn't strong, and i just don't know if he does enough in certain areas outside of scoring to be a viable option in the NBA. The good thing is he is headed to Sacramento where it should be a young player party. He'll get minutes this year, i just don't know if he'll be able to make the most of them. I would have went with a non wing at this pick.
16. Miami Heat
Harry Giles | PF | Duke
Grade: B+
What he Brings: Giles as a talent is as talented as they come. But he's had a lot of injury issues in the past couple years. I mean two ACL tears is just really tough to come back from even for the most freakish of athletes. The tough part is we saw first hand how limited he looked. He looked tentative and just uncomfortable out on the court. The good thing is, he's going to just be able to commit to playing basketball. I'm sure the Kings will have a plan for him to be as healthy as possible, and the Kings have all the motivation in the world to develop him. With the sheer amount of upside Giles is worth this pick at 16, because if he is able to get back to the highest school Harry Giles, this is a disgusting talent.
17. Brooklyn Nets
Donavon Mitchell | SG | Lousiville
Grade: B
What he Brings: Really solid pick by Josh, and a very well-run Nets organization. Just a ton of value here with this pick. Yes, i've talked about how shooting guards don't translate here, but at 17 there's too much value to pass up on. Mitchell is also a type that i could still see contributing even as a SG because of his length and defensive ability. The guy is a streaky shooter, but can get going, he's super long, very athletic, and has decent vision. He just fits that Jazz mold of a player. He may not get minutes right away, but he's a valuable stash moving into the season.
18. Charlotte Hornets
John Collins | PF | Wake Forrest
Grade: A-
What He Brings: Love this pick for Hornets. One i love his game, he comes from a millitary family and knows all about hard work. He may not be the most talented but he will leave it all on the floor. He also is a pretty good scorer around the basket, he's got good touch, and while he's not a great shooter he's got tools. He's a good re-bounder and can block some shots as well. The big thing here is the Hawks have entered a full rebuild and should have full incentive to play Collins as much as possible. Great get by the Hornets here at 18.
19. Cleveland Cavs
TJ Leaf | PF | UCLA
Grade: C+
What He Brings: I struggled with this grade. Leaf looked solid in summer league so far, and was UCLA's best offensive weapon on a very good UCLA team. He's tough and really is a just a solid scorer. I just have trouble seeing him fully succeed at this level without very good size/length or athleticism. I can see him turning into a solid rotational big, who can be a pick and pop threat, but nothing really more than that. Who knows though, i've been wrong before.
20. Charlotte Hornets
Derrick White | PG | Colorado
Grade: C+
What He Brings: Seems like the Hornets had 15 picks this first round. Anyways, I get taking the guy the Spurs took but this was a bit of a reach for me. White is polished and had a really good year at Bolder, but he's behind Murray, Mills, and presumably Parker too. Bryn Forbes has been playing some good ball as well. Either way, the Spurs drafted him, so there's a chance he could work out as a scoring combo guard moving forward, i just think it'll be some time before White makes an impact.
21. Washington Wizards
Bam Adebayo | C | Kentucky
Grade: A-
What He Brings: Great value for Wizards here. He gets Bam who went 14 to a organization known for bringing along their picks well. Bam already has an NBA body paired with NBA athletiscm. He's also just recently shown ability to hit a mid range jumper, and has looked decently comfortable with the ball in his hands. His summer league performance no doubt increased the grade. He may not contribute this year, but Bam looks like an eventual player in this league. Good get by Wizards.
22. Miami Heat
Caleb Swanigan | PF | Purdue
Grade: B
What he Brings: Swannigan is pretty polished for his age. He can hit the outside jumper, and has also shown a very solid low post game. He was a great re-bounder in college and really dominated the college level. The question at this level is whether he can defend well, and continue to work his body to compete with the quickness and athleticism of the NBA level. He's landed in a good spot in Portland, which has struggled with bigs for quite awhile. Swanny has played well in Summer league, but again, the league is a different story. Still a nice pick for Heat.
23. Charlotte Hornets
Terrence Ferguson | SG | INTL
Grade: C+
What he Brings: Terrence is a freak athlete who can also stroke it from outside. With that being said, he's still pretty raw at the moment, and will probably need a couple years before he can make a big difference. I'm not gonna pretend i've seen a ton of Ferguson, but really this grade was based off the fact that there were some prospects i would have taken over Ferguson, because of his game. He's a three an D guy who would need to shoot very efficiently to be a a big piece in this league. Either way, at 23 he's definitely worth the flier because of his talent.
24. Orlando Magic
Frank Mason | PG | Duke
Grade: C+
What he Brings: I honestly think Frank should have stayed another year. Either way, he's a tremendous talent, who is still very raw. The Rajon Rondo signing hurts a little, but really he wasn't going to contribute this year. Jackson reminds a little bit of Oladipo, he has great athleticism, and while he's a little streaky when he's going he can shoot the lights out. Again it was little bit of a reach for me, but Magic wanted his guy. The tools are definitely there, it's just about putting it all together.
25. Miami Heat
DJ Wilson | PF | Michigan
Grade: B
What he Brings: Good value pick here for Bryan. Wilson, who fell a couple spots, has all the tools you look for in an NBA four. He's long, athletic,can protect the rim, and shoot the three ball. There are some concerns about his rebounding and just overall toughness, but really time will tell. One thing DJ has going for him is the Bucks commitment to player development. DJ's a nice young piece for a rebuilding Heat team, he may not produce much his first couple seasons, but with some seasoning DJ's got what you need to be a starting caliber player.
26. Milwaukee Bucks
OG Anunoby | SF | Indiana
Grade: B
What he Brings: OG was another good pick right here. If not for his ACL injury he probably ends up in the lottery. Anunoby is a freak athlete that can guard multiple positions as well as his the three. At his peak, he can be an upper echelon three and D player. He may miss his rookie season, but there's still plenty to be excited about in the future. Anunoby landed in a nice spot in Milwaukee where he can develop for a couple years before needing to be called on.
27. Miami Heat
Jordan Bell | PF | Oregon
Grade: B+
What he Brings: Huge Jordan Bell fan. Watched every Oregon game this year, he was an elite college rim protector with a good motor, and the ability to run the floor smoothly. I wasn't sure he'd translate to the next level because of his size and lack of offensive ability, but the Warriors taking him sold me. He has elite timing and athletiscm which i think will give him the unique ability to block shots at the NBA level despite his size. Plus what better of a mentor than Draymond Green? My friend who is a manager on the team has said that Dray has already taken Jordan under his wing. In fact Bell has even lived with Dray since being drafted. Good pick by Bryan.
28. LA Clippers
Josh Hart | PG/SG | Villanova
Grade: B-
What he Brings: Hart may not be the most exciting player, but he does a lot of things well. He proved to be a winner during college, and has good length and a pretty polished offensive game. He's in an interesting situation in LA. Lonzo, Clarkson, and KCP should all get minutes, but there should be some minutes there for Hart, especially if the Lakers are again towards the bottom of the standings at the end of the year. Again, don't think Hart is particularly talented, but the pick makes sense.
29. New Orleans Pelicans
Anžejs Pasečņiks | Center | Herbalife Gran Canaria (Spain)
Grade: C
What he Brings: Not gonna pretend like i really know this guy is, so grade is really more indicative of me than the player lol. He seems pretty big and athletic which is always good though, should be a cheeky stash for Pelicans. Wooo!
30. Minnesota Timberwolves
Wesley Inwundu | SF | Kansas State
Grade:C
What he Brings: Can stretch the floor, and has good length. Feel like there were a couple better options here, but who knows. Magic are in a rebuild so i could see him getting minutes towards the end of the year.
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