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You’re reading Kevin O'Connor's Big Board, featuring the 2020 draft prospects he considers the real deal. These rankings are O'Connor's personal top 50, and incorporate factors such as physical traits, college production, and skills that seem translatable to the next level.
What a crazy week in the NBA. Chris Paul has already been traded to the Suns, James Harden and Russell Westbrook are angling to get out of Houston, and Jrue Holiday and Bogdan Bogdanovic were just sent to the Bucks to bolster Giannis Antetokounmpo’s odds of winning a title. And yet, there’s still so much more that could unfold. Will more stars be moved? Will there be a slew of trades on draft night? The 2020 draft is as unpredictable as they get. In Kevin O’Connor’s latest mock draft, we examine the latest buzz and intel around the league, including a fresh look at every team in the lottery, and a drop for Onyeka Okongwu.
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Minnesota Timberwolves
There’s still a possibility that the Timberwolves trade down with the Hornets, who would likely take James Wiseman with the first pick. If they did, the Wolves could still possibly select Edwards third. Regardless, Edwards is the top prospect who makes the most sense in Minnesota, as he’s the best positional fit next to D’Angelo Russell and Karl-Anthony Towns. Minnesota needs a defensive presence, and while Edwards is inconsistent, he has the massive frame and quickness to defend across positions if his fundamentals and focus improve. Offensively, his go-to scoring instincts complement Russell well in the backcourt; they’ll need a player who can attack the rim and draw fouls, which he should be able to do throughout his career. The question is what level Edwards reaches, and that will largely depend on how his perimeter shooting and decision-making evolve as he matures.
KILLIAN HAYES
Guard, Ulm / France
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Playmaking
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Perimeter Shooting
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Feel For The Game
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Off-Ball Defense
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PTS 11.6 16.8 per 36
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AST 5.4 7.8 per 36
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3PT% 29.4 102 3PA
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FT% 87.6 89 FTA
Dynamic left-handed shot maker who’s made rapid progress at age 18, though he’s raw in some technical areas.
Sacramento Kings
Vlade Divac screwed up by not selecting Luka Doncic to pair with De’Aaron Fox, but new Kings general manager Monte McNair saw how well having two lead guards could work during his years in Houston. Fox would bring the speed, Hayes would bring the size; they’d complement each other quite well and could make for one of the league’s best backcourts if Hayes improves his handle and his on-ball scoring flashes become a consistent reality.
PLUSES
- Playmaking is his best skill. He can whip passes off the dribble with accuracy and hit cutters or rollers with precision.
- Creative pick-and-roll facilitator. Despite his weak right hand, he gets where he wants and knows how to manipulate defenses to create passing angles and openings to score.
- Fluid ball handler with the size to outmuscle smaller guards.
- Excellent touch with his left hand finishing difficult floaters and runners, often after initiating contact.
- Displays major potential as an off-the-dribble 3-point shooter with Hardenesque moves. Added a stepback and sidestep 3 to his arsenal and uses hesitations to get into pull-ups.
- His catch-and-shoot shooting numbers are concerning, but he has smooth form, a soft touch inside, and a free throw percentage over 80—all of which suggest he’ll figure it out.
- Tall, with a strong frame and long arms, making him a projectably versatile defender against guards and wings.
- Active off-ball menace who could develop into a disruptive defensive helper.
MINUSES
- Left-hand dominant: He might as well tie his right hand behind his back considering how little he uses it—there are some passes he can’t make since he relies on his left hand so much.
- Limited athlete who lacks burst and bounce, which hinders his finishing ability, especially since he rarely uses his right hand.
- Lacks an advanced handle. Picks up his dribble too often, which gets him into trouble. He’s shifty but doesn’t create a ton of separation and doesn’t string together advanced moves to break down defenses.
- Experiences lapses on defense, missing rotations and falling out of his on-ball stance.
- He needs to be more vocal as a lead guard to take better command of the team.
scouting report
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Golden State Warriors
League sources say the Warriors are weighing whether to accept a trade offered by the Bulls that would send Chicago their no. 2 overall pick for Wendell Carter Jr. and the fourth pick. If the Bulls trade up, sources believe they’ll select Wiseman. If the Warriors drop, it’s unclear who their target is, but I’ve reported in the past that they’re high on a number of wings in the draft. Assuming Golden State keeps the second pick, Wiseman is the most likely choice. There isn’t a better place for Wiseman to address his weaknesses. During the early stages of Wiseman’s NBA career, he could fill the rim-running/protecting role that JaVale McGee played, but he’d hopefully evolve into much more once his shot-creation and floor awareness improve.
ANTHONY EDWARDS
Guard, Georgia, freshman
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Athleticism
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Ballhandling
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PTS 19.1 23.1 per 40
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REB 5.2 6.3 per 40
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AST 2.8 3.4 per 40
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EFG% 47.3 505 FGA
Bruising scorer who can create space with his dribble and make tough shots from all over the court, but his decision-making leaves much to be desired.
Minnesota Timberwolves
There’s still a possibility that the Timberwolves trade down with the Hornets, who would likely take James Wiseman with the first pick. If they did, the Wolves could still possibly select Edwards third. Regardless, Edwards is the top prospect who makes the most sense in Minnesota, as he’s the best positional fit next to D’Angelo Russell and Karl-Anthony Towns. Minnesota needs a defensive presence, and while Edwards is inconsistent, he has the massive frame and quickness to defend across positions if his fundamentals and focus improve. Offensively, his go-to scoring instincts complement Russell well in the backcourt; they’ll need a player who can attack the rim and draw fouls, which he should be able to do throughout his career. The question is what level Edwards reaches, and that will largely depend on how his perimeter shooting and decision-making evolve as he matures.
PLUSES
- Powerful driving to the rim; when he initiates contact, defenders bounce off him. Finishes with athleticism and displays soft touch with either hand.
- Dynamic shot-maker off the dribble; he fluidly transitions from complex dribbles, spins, and hesitations into pull-ups, stepbacks, and side steps.
- A freight train in transition; though his shot selection was iffy at Georgia, wide-open spacing in the NBA could lead to far more shots at the rim.
- Solid passer. Doesn’t possess elite court vision, and tends to react rather than create opportunities for teammates, but he can execute basic reads to shooters and cutters.
- Potentially a super-versatile defender thanks to his rare blend of size, strength, and agility.
MINUSES
- Not a pure shooter; he settles for jumpers even against mismatches, which is especially frustrating for a player with his size and strength.
- Best suited to be in a multiple-ball-handler system next to a pass-first player because of his underwhelming playmaking instincts.
- Inconsistent effort. At times he plays hard by cutting, running up the floor, and crashing the boards. But then he’ll disappear—teams will need to do extensive background to gauge his mentality.
- Despite his athleticism, he struggles as an off-ball defender, lacking focus and often losing track of his man.
- Fundamentals and effort must improve while defending on-ball; lockdown flashes are mired by far too many moments of apathy.
scouting report
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Charlotte Hornets
If the Hornets keep the third pick, league sources say Michael Jordan has given his stamp of approval for the front office to select LaMelo Ball. Ball would define the direction of the franchise as a passing wizard with untapped upside as a scorer and defender. However, there remains a possibility that Charlotte trades up to the no. 1 pick to select Wiseman. At this stage, it appears that Onyeka Okongwu, who had previously been connected to Charlotte, is no longer in serious consideration here.
LAMELO BALL
Guard, Illawarra Hawks
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Playmaking
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Feel For The Game
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Ballhandling
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PTS 17.0 19.6 per 36
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REB 7.6 8.7 per 36
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AST 6.8 7.9 per 36
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EFG% 42.5 199 FGA
Passes like he’s on the Harlem Globetrotters, and it somehow works; he needs to dramatically improve his scoring efficiency, but he has the upside to become one of the NBA’s best playmakers.
Charlotte Hornets
If the Hornets keep the third pick, league sources say Michael Jordan has given his stamp of approval for the front office to select LaMelo Ball. Ball would define the direction of the franchise as a passing wizard with untapped upside as a scorer and defender. However, there remains a possibility that Charlotte trades up to the no. 1 pick to select Wiseman. At this stage, it appears that Onyeka Okongwu, who had previously been connected to Charlotte, is no longer in serious consideration here.
PLUSES
- Ambidextrous passer with pinpoint accuracy and omnidirectional vision. He sees everything on the court, creating opportunities for teammates that most players simply don’t see or can’t pull off thanks to his innate ability to manipulate defenders.
- Excellent ball handler who uses hesitations to put defenders on skates. He uses advanced moves but always remains in control, dictating the pace like a drummer would a song’s tempo.
- Elite touch. Though he attempts too many floaters and shys away from contact, his ability to score creatively with either hand suggests he could develop into a finisher at the rim.
- Attentive off-ball player who cuts and adjusts to space well behind the arc.
- Great rebounder for his position like his older brother Lonzo. His instincts pop up here when tracking down boards.
- Versatile defender. He’s quick laterally and quite large for a point guard. He has the size to comfortably switch onto wings.
MINUSES
- Ball is a great passer, but he can’t be classified as a great playmaker yet because of his decision-making. He jacks up poor shots early in the clock and settles far too often rather than attacking the rim.
- Poor shooting mechanics: He has no consistency with his form, other than his low release. As a solid free throw shooter with good touch on floaters, he has obvious upside. But his form—much like his brother’s—must be overhauled.
- Rarely initiates contact and avoids it around the rim.
- He doesn’t stay in his defensive stance and often keeps his hands down when closing out—or as Mark Jackson would say: “Hand down, man down.”
- Defensive discipline: He defaults to switching instead of fighting over screens and he falls out of position off-ball when chasing steals.
scouting report
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Chicago Bulls
Unless the Bulls trade up to no. 2 and select Wiseman, league sources say they’re deciding between Avdija and Patrick Williams at no. 4. Avidja is an ideal fit for their roster with his size, playmaking, and versatility. Though his shooting still needs to improve, he’d immediately inject winning qualities into a Bulls franchise that has made the playoffs only once in the past five years.
DENI AVDIJA
Wing, Maccabi Tel Aviv / Israel
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Playmaking
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Feel For The Game
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Interior Scoring
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Off-Ball Defense
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PTS 7.7 14.1 per 36
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REB 4.1 7.4 per 36
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3PT% 33.6 119 3PA
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FT% 52.0 75 FTA
Versatile forward with the playmaking ability of a guard, though the development of his jumper will be key to his success.
Chicago Bulls
Unless the Bulls trade up to no. 2 and select Wiseman, league sources say they’re deciding between Avdija and Patrick Williams at no. 4. Avidja is an ideal fit for their roster with his size, playmaking, and versatility. Though his shooting still needs to improve, he’d immediately inject winning qualities into a Bulls franchise that has made the playoffs only once in the past five years.
PLUSES
- Great playmaker for his position. He’s savvy in the pick-and-roll, rarely makes mistakes, and attentively locates cutters and shooters. He keeps the ball moving in the half court and pushes the ball ahead on the break.
- Solid ball handler. At 6-foot-9, he doesn’t have much shake, but he knows how to change speeds with enough aptitude to clear room for his passes.
- His best role could be as a playmaking hub from the post and on the short roll due to the combination of his height and passing ability.
- Strong finisher who can use either hand and scores through contact. Loves to pump-fake. He’ll fearlessly drive into the paint and challenge rim protectors.
- Excellent team defender who rotates well and typically finds himself in the right position. He’s not an athletic player, but can make an impact with his positioning as a reliable help defender.
- Good intangibles. He knows how to use his strength: He plays hard and constantly competes. He also takes analytics-friendly shots by mostly scoring on 3s and layups.
MINUSES
- Worrisome shooting: He has solid form but has posted poor percentages from the floor and the line. Off the catch, he tends to pause as he adjusts the ball in his hands. He’s streaky, but he also may just lack touch.
- Doesn’t have top-end burst or springs, so he’ll really need to master his ball handling to maximize his ability to create space and shots.
- He’s an active on-ball defender but lacks the lateral quickness to contain quicker players. He works hard, though, and NBA conditioning programs should help.
- Lacks the length to be an effective rim protector—both as a small-ball big and as a help defender in traditional lineups.
- He shot 56 percent on 363 free throw attempts since 2017, per RealGM data. There is little historical precedent for a player with such poor free throw numbers to ever become a reliable shooter.
scouting report
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Cleveland Cavaliers
Toppin is an explosive offensive presence who can play inside or outside, though his defensive shortcomings are worrisome. One person who’s seen Toppin work out told me they were impressed by his progress moving laterally since his season at Dayton ended; it’s hard to get a read on that until we see him in a real game, but it’s vital his defense improves to at least a passable level. The Cavaliers are also looking to trade down a few spots to scoop up additional assets and still select Toppin, league sources say. One candidate to trade up is the Pistons, to assure they draft Patrick Williams, a young, versatile forward with blossoming offensive talent.
JAMES WISEMAN
Big, Memphis, freshman
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Athleticism
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Shot Blocking
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Rebounding
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PTS 19.7 34.2 per 40
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REB 10.7 18.6 per 40
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BLK 3.0 5.2 per 40
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EFG% 76.9 26 FGA
Athletic marvel who flashes massive two-way potential, but in the short term will be best suited for a simple, rim-running role.
Golden State Warriors
League sources say the Warriors are weighing whether to accept a trade offered by the Bulls that would send Chicago their no. 2 overall pick for Wendell Carter Jr. and the fourth pick. If the Bulls trade up, sources believe they’ll select Wiseman. If the Warriors drop, it’s unclear who their target is, but I’ve reported in the past that they’re high on a number of wings in the draft. Assuming Golden State keeps the second pick, Wiseman is the most likely choice. There isn’t a better place for Wiseman to address his weaknesses. During the early stages of Wiseman’s NBA career, he could fill the rim-running/protecting role that JaVale McGee played, but he’d hopefully evolve into much more once his shot-creation and floor awareness improve.
PLUSES
- Elite measurables with long arms and a strong frame. He runs the floor like a gazelle, and he explodes vertically when he has space to launch.
- Active rebounder. He displays a high motor and great instincts tracking the trajectory of missed shots on the offensive glass.
- His best offensive role is as a screener who rolls hard to the rim since he can finish lobs or with touch. But he can also mix in pops to generate shots from the perimeter and keep defenses honest.
- Strong post-up potential. Displays a rare blend of power and finesse and does a nice job of sealing off his man. But he currently lacks advanced power moves, instead defaulting to fadeaways.
- Shooting upside: He has good mechanics and soft touch. But he lacks range and doesn’t have a track record of success shooting from midrange and 3.
- Athletic rim protector whose mere presence can deter opponents. He’s good at assessing what’s in front of him. If his positioning and court awareness improves, he has elite potential.
- High-character person who works hard on and off the court. He’s intelligent, too; These are positive personality traits that could aid his development.
MINUSES
- Poor shot selection in high school; he played like he thought he was the second coming of Dirk Nowitzki. In college, he played more to his strengths, which needs to continue at the NBA level; the context of his situation will be key to his success.
- He’s an all-world athlete in an open gym, but he slows down in games when he has to read the floor. Simplifying his role will be vital early on.
- He has a weak handle, which limits him off the dribble. And as a playmaker, he misses open cutters and delivers inaccurate passes. He’s best suited to finish rather than create.
- Chases too many blocks and ends up falling for pump fakes.
- Sluggish lateral movement on the perimeter due to a lack of quickness and shoddy footwork. Defenders blow by him too often. At this stage, he’s not switchable.
- Shaky team defender who tends to find himself in the wrong position or a beat late when rotating. He reads the floor slowly, so his pick-and-roll defense is particularly underwhelming.
scouting report
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Atlanta Hawks
The Hawks have had trade conversations with a wide number of teams for this pick, and there is speculation that any team moving up would leapfrog the Pistons for Williams. But if the Hawks keep the pick, Atlanta is said to have interest in a number of players, including wings Isaac Okoro and Devin Vassell, and Iowa State guard Tyrese Haliburton. Choosing Haliburton makes sense, as he can play with or without the ball alongside Trae Young. Haliburton’s size also gives him the ability to defend opposing point guards, which will be critical if the Hawks are fortunate enough to make the playoffs this season, or sometime in the future.
DEVIN VASSELL
Wing, Florida State, sophomore
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Off-Ball Defense
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Perimeter Shooting
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Hustle
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On-Ball Defense
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PTS 12.7 17.6 per 40
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STL 1.4 1.9 per 40
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EFG% 56.5 294 FGA
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3PT% 41.5 106 3PA
One of the best defenders in this year’s class, with a developing offensive game that could make him more than just a shooter.
Phoenix Suns
Vassell could go as high as no. 6 to Atlanta or as low as no. 13 to New Orleans. In Phoenix, he'd add another wing defender to support the new core of Devin Booker, Chris Paul, and Deandre Ayton. Though Vassell will draw comparisons to Mikal Bridges because he’s another long, lanky defender, he brings significantly higher on-ball scoring upside after the flashes he showed during his sophomore season at Florida State.
PLUSES
- Elite team defender who will immediately help any NBA rotation. He is hyper-alert on rotations, disrupts opponents’ actions with timely digs, and deters shooters from firing with fundamental closeouts.
- Never stops hustling. Even when a play seems over, he’ll fly out of nowhere for a chase-down block or last-second deflection.
- Impactful on-ball defender with the right blend of agility and length to defend guards and wings, though he must get stronger.
- Good spot-up shooter with a high release and displays awareness moving and cutting off the ball.
- Tightened his handle to become a potent shooter off the bounce; he hit a single dribble jumper as a freshman and then 39 as a sophomore, with many of them contested out of the pick-and-roll.
- Displays high-level passing vision for a wing, though he’s not a primary ball handler.
MINUSES
- Lacks burst to beat defenders off the dribble and get to the rim—and even if he gets to the paint, he struggles to finish against contact.
- Wiry frame may limit his versatility against larger, stronger opponents.
- Not a dynamic shooter off the catch, though considering his dramatic improvement off the dribble he may develop that ability.
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Detroit Pistons
Williams has been one of the beneficiaries of the extended predraft process, as teams have become infatuated with his blend of size and skill. Even if he never reaches stardom, he has foundational skills to have a long career because of his defensive versatility. Williams has long been connected to the Pistons; unless a team swoops in front of Detroit to take him, league sources say he’ll likely be the pick.
PATRICK WILLIAMS
Wing, Florida State, freshman
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Hustle
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Perimeter Shooting
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Shot Blocking
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Off-Ball Defense
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PTS 9.2 16.4 per 40
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AST 1.0 1.8 per 40
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3PT% 32.0 50 3PA
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FT% 83.8 74 FTA
Versatile offensive threat who can serve as a shot creator or as a screener; he can fill a range of roles.
Detroit Pistons
Williams has been one of the beneficiaries of the extended predraft process, as teams have become infatuated with his blend of size and skill. Even if he never reaches stardom, he has foundational skills to have a long career because of his defensive versatility. Williams has long been connected to the Pistons; unless a team swoops in front of Detroit to take him, league sources say he’ll likely be the pick.
PLUSES
- Efficient at-rim scorer who uses either hand on athletic extended finishes.
- Talented scorer off the dribble who can rise—and sometimes hang —before draining tough, contested jumpers.
- Sound decision-maker who plays within the system. He doesn’t pause possessions; he keeps the ball moving. Nor does he force bad shots; he looks for an open man.
- Good playmaker for his size due to his solid handle and excellent passing vision. He loves to use hesitations, especially in the pick-and-roll, and he can deliver accurate passes off the dribble.
- Does the little things like cutting, screening, and rebounding. With his size and skill, it’s projectable for a team to use him like a big as an on-ball screener who can pop for 3s or dive to the rim.
- Smart, athletic team defender who communicates and disrupts actions with timely help defense.
- Gritty player who hustles hard on defense. He’s had a handful of inspired chasedown blocks. As a rim protector, he’ll put in multiple efforts to get stops.
- Flashes versatility on-ball in a switch-heavy scheme at Florida State. With improvements to his athleticism, he could shine.
MINUSES
- Still developing as a spot-up shooter. He had to improve his form in high school to become a good free throw shooter (84 percent), but still struggles off the catch with a low, slow release.
- He totaled nearly double the number of turnovers (50) as he did assists (29). Despite a knack for playmaking, he got called for countless travels due to raw footwork and forced drives into traffic.
- Stiff man-to-man defender without the versatility to reliably switch onto guards and wings. He’s clunky moving laterally and changing directions, so he gets burned regularly.
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New York Knicks
One team executive told me Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau has a “crush” on Okoro, which should come as no surprise considering their shared passion for defense. Okoro is arguably the best defender in the class, with strength and multi-positional versatility. Okoro does, however, need to improve his jump shot to realize his offensive potential. It’s unlikely that Toppin will still be on the board at this point, but if he is, he’ll be also in consideration.
TYRELL TERRY
Guard, Stanford, freshman
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Perimeter Shooting
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Feel For The Game
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Hustle
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PTS 14.6 18.0 per 40
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AST 3.2 3.9 per 40
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3PT% 40.8 152 3PA
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FT% 89.1 110 FTA
Potentially a game-changing shooter with limitless range, but players his size historically have had limited potential.
Minnesota Timberwolves
League sources say Minnesota is in discussions to package this pick with Jarrett Culver (the no. 6 pick in 2019) to acquire a second lottery choice (likely to select Haliburton). But if the Timberwolves stay put, Terry makes sense as a target. Terry, who attended DeLaSalle High School in Minneapolis, brings elite shooting and feel for the game; he’s ranked eighth on my board and is getting looks as high as the late lottery, though his range is more likely in the mid-to-late first.
PLUSES
- Elite shooter with a quick, high release. He can run off screens and find his balance midair (48 percent on catch-and-shoot 3s), or unload off-the-dribble jumpers from deep behind the arc (32 percent).
- Advanced off-ball movement: He manipulates defenders with pivots and fakes to get himself open. The Curry family would be proud of his tendency to relocate for corner 3s after giving up the ball.
- Crafty interior finisher with an expansive layup package. He has a keen sense for how to contort his body on layup attempts, and the soft touch to score from awkward angles or against contact.
- Makes an impact in the pick-and-roll. He has the burst to turn the corner and generally makes smart decisions when deciding whether to shoot or pass.
- Solid passer who can make fundamental plays, plus the more advanced ones like whips to 3-point shooters and wrap-arounds to rolling bigs.
- Competitive defender who will take a charge and dive for loose balls. On switches, he’ll try to battle against bigger players.
MINUSES
- Developing a stepback and side-dribble 3 is the next step for him. At this stage, the far majority of his dribble-jumper 3s are pull-ups.
- When he takes wild shots—which were often necessary at Stanford—his mechanics often fall apart; he kicks his legs out and lands wide instead of releasing with sound fundamentals.
- He needs to improve his off-hand to score better around the rim against length and contact.
- Picks up his dribble too often on drives to the rim. He should keep it alive and learn how to circle through the lane or look for the open man.
- Goes through the motions at times as a playmaker. He needs to put zip on the ball.
- Undersized point guards get targeted on defense no matter how hard they compete, and at 160 pounds he’ll have a huge target on his relatively small back.
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Washington Wizards
Wizards general manager Tommy Sheppard told me in July that he views this draft as an opportunity to either swing for the fences or find a big man. It’s possible Okongwu checks both boxes as a versatile big who’s comfortable defending perimeter players. He’s also a highly efficient scorer who’d make for a go-to target in the pick-and-roll for Bradley Beal or John Wall (or maybe Russell Westbrook, if the Wizards swap point guards with the Rockets). League sources also say the Wizards are high on Precious Achiuwa, who’s more of a project than Okongwu but brings enormous upside as a versatile two-way player.
TYRESE HALIBURTON
Guard, Iowa State, sophomore
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Playmaking
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Off-Ball Defense
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Feel For The Game
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PTS 15.2 16.6 per 40
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REB 5.9 6.4 per 40
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AST 6.5 7.0 per 40
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EFG% 61.1 244 FGA
Genius playmaker who can be a major building block of a contending team.
Atlanta Hawks
The Hawks have had trade conversations with a wide number of teams for this pick, and there is speculation that any team moving up would leapfrog the Pistons for Williams. But if the Hawks keep the pick, Atlanta is said to have interest in a number of players, including wings Isaac Okoro and Devin Vassell, and Iowa State guard Tyrese Haliburton. Choosing Haliburton makes sense, as he can play with or without the ball alongside Trae Young. Haliburton’s size also gives him the ability to defend opposing point guards, which will be critical if the Hawks are fortunate enough to make the playoffs this season, or sometime in the future.
PLUSES
- Always in control; he lacks lightning speed or explosiveness, but he uses subtle gear changes to throw defenders off balance, create room, and then strike.
- Takes long strides on drives to the rim and displays good timing when gathering his dribble before using his length to score at the rim.
- Creative playmaker with extraordinary vision and ambidextrous handles to deliver passes at all angles; he manipulates defenders with his eyes and dribble in the pick-and-roll, and has pinpoint accuracy on passes to rollers and shooters.
- Good spot-up shooter with deep NBA range, despite his odd form.
- A coach’s dream: He does all the little things on the court, from smart, timely defensive rotations to making rapid decisions to keep the offense flowing.
MINUSES
- Lack of athleticism and burst limits his upside as a primary shot creator.
- Generally avoids contact at the rim, which forces him to settle for tough layups or low-percentage floaters.
- Made progress off the dribble as a sophomore, but still didn’t shoot well, and his stiff form raises concern.
- Man-to-man defense: He stands in too much of an upright stance and moves laterally on his heels. Also takes poor angles fighting around screens.
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Phoenix Suns
Vassell could go as high as no. 6 to Atlanta or as low as no. 13 to New Orleans. In Phoenix, he'd add another wing defender to support the new core of Devin Booker, Chris Paul, and Deandre Ayton. Though Vassell will draw comparisons to Mikal Bridges because he’s another long, lanky defender, he brings significantly higher on-ball scoring upside after the flashes he showed during his sophomore season at Florida State.
ONYEKA OKONGWU
Big, USC, freshman
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Hustle
-
Shot Blocking
-
Interior Scoring
-
On-Ball Defense
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PTS 16.2 21.2 per 40
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REB 8.6 11.3 per 40
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BLK 2.7 3.5 per 40
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EFG% 61.8 284 FGA
Do-it-all big with rare versatility as a defender. Always competes and has a knack for making big plays.
Washington Wizards
Wizards general manager Tommy Sheppard told me in July that he views this draft as an opportunity to either swing for the fences or find a big man. It’s possible Okongwu checks both boxes as a versatile big who’s comfortable defending perimeter players. He’s also a highly efficient scorer who’d make for a go-to target in the pick-and-roll for Bradley Beal or John Wall (or maybe Russell Westbrook, if the Wizards swap point guards with the Rockets). League sources also say the Wizards are high on Precious Achiuwa, who’s more of a project than Okongwu but brings enormous upside as a versatile two-way player.
PLUSES
- Excellent finisher with soft hands that catch tough passes, a pillowy touch around the rim, and the quick-leaping ability to score with power.
- Good post scorer. He does a nice job of getting into position by sealing off defenders. Once he gets the ball, he displays flashes of advanced ability with spins, drop steps, and fakes.
- Handles the ball like a wing. He has a quick first step with an arsenal of moves, including crossovers and rip-throughs, that he uses to get to the rim. But he doesn’t overdo it; he makes good decisions and plays within himself.
- He makes slick passes, loves to throw outlets, and passes well out of the post. He needs to make quicker reads off rolls to the rim and from the perimeter, but he’s in a good place at his age.
- Does the little things: He hustles, screens well, rebounds all over the floor, and makes clutch plays.
- Excellent pick-and-roll defender. He’s mobile and versatile, able to drop, switch, or hedge. When he’s protecting the rim in either pick-and-roll or help situations, his positioning, timing, and instincts lead to effective shot alterations. He’s usually in the right spot, which is rare for a player his age.
MINUSES
- Inconsistent shooting mechanics from the field and the line. He’ll have some bad misses, though his inside touch offers optimism for improvement.
- He’s quiet and doesn’t communicate much on defense either. As a rim protector, he needs to be more talkative to help the defense stay connected.
- Chases blocks. Bites on too many fakes inside.
- He’s slightly undersized for a center at 6-foot-9 with a 7-foot-1 wingspan. He also needs to get significantly stronger to contain elite post-up bigs like Joel Embiid.
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San Antonio Spurs
The Spurs love Bey, who has a floor as a 3-and-D style wing but provides upside as a scorer off the dribble. Washington forward Jaden McDaniels and Kentucky guard Tyrese Maxey have also been mentioned as targets for the Spurs. However, they’re one of the many teams looking to move up and select Williams or Okongwu. If Okongwu is on the board, front office executives believe he’d be the pick.
ISAAC OKORO
Wing, Auburn, freshman
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Off-Ball Defense
-
Playmaking
-
Interior Scoring
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On-Ball Defense
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PTS 12.8 16.3 per 40
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AST 2.0 2.6 per 40
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3PT% 28.6 70 3PA
-
FT% 67.4 132 FTA
Superb defender with a perfect skill set for the modern positionless game, but needs to improve his jumper to have more value on offense.
New York Knicks
One team executive told me Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau has a “crush” on Okoro, which should come as no surprise considering their shared passion for defense. Okoro is arguably the best defender in the class, with strength and multi-positional versatility. Okoro does, however, need to improve his jump shot to realize his offensive potential. It’s unlikely that Toppin will still be on the board at this point, but if he is, he’ll be also in consideration.
PLUSES
- Great finisher who delivers through contact, draws fouls, and displays a pillowy touch with either hand.
- Smart decision-maker who moves the ball, can run some pick-and-roll, and doesn’t force bad shots—instead of taking a contested runner, he’ll almost always kick it out to an open shooter.
- Displays a good handle with either hand on crossovers, spins, and hesitations. He could have untapped, long-term upside as a shot creator.
- Versatile on-ball defender with the strength to battle bigger players, and the ideal blend of fundamentals, quickness, and intelligence to play on the perimeter.
- A high-IQ, competitive defender who excels within the team concept by rotating well and disrupting opponents’ actions.
MINUSES
- Stiff shooter with clunky mechanics—defenses already sag off him. He brings the ball to his shot pocket too soon, ruining the timing of his release.
- Nonfactor off the dribble.
- Subpar free throw shooter, which doesn’t provide much optimism for the development of his jumper.
- Lacks burst and quickness on drives to the rim, so his flashes of shot-creating ability may never translate to the NBA.
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Sacramento Kings
Vlade Divac screwed up by not selecting Luka Doncic to pair with De’Aaron Fox, but new Kings general manager Monte McNair saw how well having two lead guards could work during his years in Houston. Fox would bring the speed, Hayes would bring the size; they’d complement each other quite well and could make for one of the league’s best backcourts if Hayes improves his handle and his on-ball scoring flashes become a consistent reality.
OBI TOPPIN
Big, Dayton, redshirt sophomore
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Athleticism
-
Interior Scoring
-
Shot Blocking
-
PTS 20.0 25.3 per 40
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REB 7.5 9.5 per 40
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EFG% 67.4 387 FGA
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3PT% 39.0 82 3PA
Pure athlete who runs the floor with grace and jumps with explosive power.
Cleveland Cavaliers
Toppin is an explosive offensive presence who can play inside or outside, though his defensive shortcomings are worrisome. One person who’s seen Toppin work out told me they were impressed by his progress moving laterally since his season at Dayton ended; it’s hard to get a read on that until we see him in a real game, but it’s vital his defense improves to at least a passable level. The Cavaliers are also looking to trade down a few spots to scoop up additional assets and still select Toppin, league sources say. One candidate to trade up is the Pistons, to assure they draft Patrick Williams, a young, versatile forward with blossoming offensive talent.
PLUSES
- Glides through the air for ferocious dunks; he’s a major threat in the pick-and-roll, cutting, and running the break. He also possesses a soft touch with either hand around the rim.
- Nimble ball handler who can attack from the perimeter; he’ll be a weapon in fake dribble handoffs since he can facilitate, shoot, or get to the basket.
- Good shooter from NBA 3-point range, but he hasn’t fallen in love with his shot like many modern bigs.
- Strong playmaker. He makes quick decisions out of the short roll and could develop into a playmaking hub from the post.
- Has the leaping ability and quickness to theoretically be an effective shot blocker.
MINUSES
- Brutal pick-and-roll defender who displays little recognition or feel for reading a screen; he’s almost always out of position.
- High center of gravity limits his defensive ability in the post. He’ll often get pushed around for low-post positioning—Zion would bury him under the rim.
- Doesn’t change directions well laterally; he has tight hips, which means NBA offenses will attack him relentlessly one-on-one.
- Poor help defender and rebounder who doesn’t play with great awareness or effort.
- Lacks an arsenal of low-post scoring moves and is raw shooting off the dribble.
Currently Playing:
The Lottery Show With Bill Simmons, Ryen Russillo, Kevin O'Connor, and Raja BellNotice: Array to string conversion in C:\Sites\ringer\ringernbadraft2020new\vendor\twig\twig\src\Environment.php(418) : eval()'d code on line 91
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New Orleans Pelicans
Goodbye Jrue Holiday; hello Kira Lewis? Perhaps. The Pelicans could definitely use a pick-and-roll ball handler to maximize Zion Williamson’s half-court scoring potential, and Lewis brings his own version of athletic gifts as the fastest player in the class. Lewis is underdeveloped in key areas, but the Pelicans don’t necessarily need to be thinking about making the playoffs right now.
ALEKSEJ POKUSEVSKI
Big, Olympiacos B / Serbia
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Ballhandling
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Playmaking
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Perimeter Shooting
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PTS 9.9 16.7 per 36
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REB 7.3 12.2 per 36
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EFG% 48.1 105 FGA
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BLK 1.7 2.8 per 36
A lanky 7-footer who moves like a wing and passes like a guard, but needs to grow into his thin frame to thrive in the NBA.
Dallas Mavericks
Everyone around the league believes Oklahoma City will trade up to select “Poku” due to his agent’s connections with Thunder general manager Sam Presti, and the Mavs’ pick has been involved in countless trade discussions, so he’s getting placed here. Pokusevski is young, raw, and lanky but his talent is undeniable. Few players his size bring as much perimeter skill to the court; with the league going in the direction that it is, he could end up being the steal of the draft. Dallas might find good reason to keep Poku, though from a roster standpoint, it probably makes more sense to find serviceable wings.
PLUSES
- Versatile shooting potential: He has good footwork and body control, with a compact release coming off screens and off the dribble; he can rise and fire even with a hand in his face.
- Nifty passer who can deliver a variety of precise dimes. At 7 feet, he can make passes over the top of the defense in the pick-and-roll that most players can’t.
- He has good handles for his size, using hesitations, crossovers, and long strides to create separation. His movements are also decisive; there are very few record scratches when he possesses the ball.
- It’s easy to envision an offensive role for him as a floor spacer and secondary handler in the half court, and as a transition playmaker who rips down rebounds and jump-starts possessions.
- Potentially a versatile defender if he gets stronger. He has agility and fluidity, and he can swarm smaller opponents with his 7-foot-3 wingspan.
- Attentive off-ball defender who communicates and jumps passing lanes to deflect passes.
MINUSES
- He’s so skinny; few players with his frame find success in the NBA. He may never be a good one-on-one defender because of physical limitations. It is vital that he finds an excellent strength-and-conditioning program.
- Inconsistent defensive effort. He plays like he’s 6 feet sometimes, not even bothering to contest shots with his long wingspan.
- Tries to do too much on offense. He forces tough shots and tries ill-advised moves rather than making the sensible play.
- Doesn’t hold his follow-through on jumpers, which is one of the reasons for his streakiness; better fundamentals will lead to better results.
- Potentially a skilled interior finisher since he can use either hand, but he struggles against size and length. He also hasn’t shown any moves in the post.
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Boston Celtics
The Celtics have offered up their three first-round picks (nos. 14, 26, and 30) in trades to try and move into the lottery, but if they keep the 14th pick, Hampton makes sense because he could immediately serve as a spark-plug scorer off the bench while providing long-term upside.
PRECIOUS ACHIUWA
Big, Memphis, freshman
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Interior Scoring
-
Hustle
-
Rebounding
-
PTS 15.8 20.7 per 40
-
REB 10.8 14.2 per 40
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BLK 1.9 2.5 per 40
-
FT% 59.9 187 FTA
Energetic big with potential to be a multipositional defender and versatile scorer, though he’s still in the early stages of his development.
Detroit Pistons
Achiuwa is considered a top-10 prospect by many scouts around the league because of his athleticism as a rim runner and defender. He makes a ton of sense from a positional sense for the Pistons as a switchable big who could potentially defend multiple positions. Offensively, he can rip down rebounds and go coast-to-coast. Achiuwa is raw from a technical standpoint, but there’s no denying his upside.
PLUSES
- Pick-and-roll upside: He can roll and finish with athleticism or put the ball on the floor and get to the rim.
- Active rim runner in transition. He can also pull down rebounds and sprint ahead with the ball himself.
- Good rebounder, and he’s especially active on the offensive glass.
- Athletic defender who makes plays in the passing lanes as a mobile helper. With his length and strength, he could develop into a rim protector in smaller lineups.
- High defensive potential thanks to his physical measurements and quickness, but his fundamentals and discipline must improve.
MINUSES
- Turnover prone: He doesn’t read defenses well and often forces shots or drives into a sea of defenders. In the pick-and-roll, he needs to master the short roll pass.
- Poor shooting touch: He shot 60 percent from the line, 26 percent on floaters, and 30 percent on jumpers. With shaky lower-body mechanics, there’s a lot of work to be done to make him passable at the pro level.
- Struggles with inconsistency as a defender. His footwork hinders his ability to slide and stay in front of quicker players, but it’s fixable.
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Orlando Magic
League sources say the Magic are attempting to move up into the lottery by packaging this pick with Aaron Gordon. If they stay put, Maxey would potentially provide lottery value and immediately inject life as an energetic presence and a hard-nosed defender. Though Markelle Fultz’s resurgence makes for a nice story, he’s still yet to prove he can reliably shoot the ball. Maxey is further along as a scorer off the dribble, which could push Fultz into his ideal role as a supercharged Shaun Livingston.
TYRESE MAXEY
Guard, Kentucky, freshman
-
Hustle
-
Off-Ball Defense
-
On-Ball Defense
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PTS 14.0 16.2 per 40
-
AST 3.2 3.7 per 40
-
EFG% 47.4 351 FGA
-
FT% 83.3 120 FTA
Shot maker with a knack for making clutch plays on offense and defense; he’s a winner.
Orlando Magic
League sources say the Magic are attempting to move up into the lottery by packaging this pick with Aaron Gordon. If they stay put, Maxey would potentially provide lottery value and immediately inject life as an energetic presence and a hard-nosed defender. Though Markelle Fultz’s resurgence makes for a nice story, he’s still yet to prove he can reliably shoot the ball. Maxey is further along as a scorer off the dribble, which could push Fultz into his ideal role as a supercharged Shaun Livingston.
PLUSES
- Clever finisher at the rim who can score from awkward angles using the glass and absorb contact to find an angle using either hand.
- Shot only 32 percent on jumpers, but his compact form, soft touch, and high percentage from the line bodes well for his future as a shooter.
- Comfortable shooting off the dribble in either direction. He lacks elite burst but he makes rapid movements stopping and transitioning into his shot.
- Good pick-and-roll scorer who can get to the rim or pull up and shoot.
- Excellent on-ball defender with a strong frame and long arms. He plays hard, shifts his feet, and flips his hips to move well laterally and defend pick-and-rolls. He’s strong enough to power through screens or defend larger wings.
- Off-ball defense: Stays engaged, rotates well, and anticipates where the ball will be to beat opponents to their spots.
MINUSES
- Lacks top-end quickness and acceleration. He’s at his best playing off others, but he’ll need to improve his handle to be a reliable scorer.
- Attempts a lot of tough, contested shots due to his inability to generate space off the dribble.
- Low release may contribute to his streakiness as a shooter. He has good overall form but has some really inaccurate misses that occasionally clank off the glass.
- Average pick-and-roll playmaker who makes simple passes but doesn’t show advanced vision.
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Detroit Pistons
Achiuwa is considered a top-10 prospect by many scouts around the league because of his athleticism as a rim runner and defender. He makes a ton of sense from a positional sense for the Pistons as a switchable big who could potentially defend multiple positions. Offensively, he can rip down rebounds and go coast-to-coast. Achiuwa is raw from a technical standpoint, but there’s no denying his upside.
SADDIQ BEY
Wing, Villanova, sophomore
-
Perimeter Shooting
-
Hustle
-
On-Ball Defense
-
Off-Ball Defense
-
PTS 16.1 19.0 per 40
-
REB 4.7 5.6 per 40
-
AST 2.4 2.8 per 40
-
EFG% 58.4 367 FGA
Ideal 3-and-D wing with versatility on both ends, plus he makes an impact even if he’s not scoring.
San Antonio Spurs
The Spurs love Bey, who has a floor as a 3-and-D style wing but provides upside as a scorer off the dribble. Washington forward Jaden McDaniels and Kentucky guard Tyrese Maxey have also been mentioned as targets for the Spurs. However, they’re one of the many teams looking to move up and select Williams or Okongwu. If Okongwu is on the board, front office executives believe he’d be the pick.
PLUSES
- Good spot-up shooter with a lightning-quick release, and a comfortable scorer off the dribble and off movement; he can take a pull-up or run off a simple screen.
- Flashes secondary playmaking skills in running pick-and-rolls, attacking in straight-line drives, and while facing up in the post.
- Smart decision-maker who attacks closeouts and delivers accurate passers to cutters and shooters.
- Versatile defender capable of matching up across positions due to his blend of size and agility; he also sets the tone with his intensity.
- Aware off-ball defender who rotates well and communicates with teammates.
MINUSES
- Not an explosive player; he lacks a quick first step, and shows little burst on the drive or hops around the rim.
- Clunky off-hand dribbler with limited shot-creation ability against pro defenders.
- Screening must improve so teams can use him in set actions, taking advantage of his deft post abilities against smaller players.
- Releases the ball in front of his body, and his shooting success has come within a small sample.
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Minnesota Timberwolves
League sources say Minnesota is in discussions to package this pick with Jarrett Culver (the no. 6 pick in 2019) to acquire a second lottery choice (likely to select Haliburton). But if the Timberwolves stay put, Terry makes sense as a target. Terry, who attended DeLaSalle High School in Minneapolis, brings elite shooting and feel for the game; he’s ranked eighth on my board and is getting looks as high as the late lottery, though his range is more likely in the mid-to-late first.
JALEN SMITH
Big, Maryland, sophomore
-
Perimeter Shooting
-
Shot Blocking
-
Rebounding
-
PTS 15.5 19.8 per 40
-
REB 10.5 13.4 per 40
-
BLK 2.4 3.0 per 40
-
3PT% 36.8 87 3PA
Coordinated big man who can shoot and handle the ball, though he’ll need to make strides on defense to become a full-time starter.
Miami Heat
The Heat want to pursue Giannis Antetokounmpo in 2021, but they need to consider a world in which they don’t acquire the two-time MVP, especially after Milwaukee bolstered its championship odds by adding Jrue Holiday and Bogdan Bogdanovic. With Meyers Leonard entering unrestricted free agency (and possibly Kelly Olynyk, who has a player option), the Heat could use another big. Smith brings a perimeter skill set that makes him an ideal fit next to Bam Adebayo.
PLUSES
- Talented shooter with sound mechanics. He excels off screens and handoffs. His size and position make him even more valuable.
- Dynamic screening threat: He sets strong, fundamental picks, and forces defenses to respect his ability to dive to the rim or pop out for a 3.
- Good interior finisher with either hand. He has touch, and he can finish with power, especially on putbacks when crashing the boards.
- Runs the floor hard. He’ll beat defenses for dunks and layups, but he can also trail and drain 3s.
- High-motor, high-IQ defender. Solid shot blocker with a savvy sense of timing. Boxes out on the boards and rebounds well.
MINUSES
- A bit slow to elevate around the rim. He excelled in college but will need to become quicker in the pros.
- Doesn’t establish deep seals to get ideal post positioning due to his weak lower-body strength.
- Subpar passer. He panics when pressured, especially on the post. Even when he has space, he telegraphs passes like a quarterback staring down his receiver.
- Lacks agility changing directions, which especially hurts him on defense. Even if he recognizes a play, he can be a beat late.
- Stiff lateral movements hurt his pick-and-roll and perimeter defense. Guards blow by him too often. He needs to put in significant work on his body, especially his hips, to improve quickness.
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Dallas Mavericks
Everyone around the league believes Oklahoma City will trade up to select “Poku” due to his agent’s connections with Thunder general manager Sam Presti, and the Mavs’ pick has been involved in countless trade discussions, so he’s getting placed here. Pokusevski is young, raw, and lanky but his talent is undeniable. Few players his size bring as much perimeter skill to the court; with the league going in the direction that it is, he could end up being the steal of the draft. Dallas might find good reason to keep Poku, though from a roster standpoint, it probably makes more sense to find serviceable wings.
KIRA LEWIS JR.
Guard, Alabama, sophomore
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Athleticism
-
Hustle
-
Off-Ball Defense
-
PTS 18.5 19.6 per 40
-
AST 5.2 5.6 per 40
-
EFG% 52.1 449 FGA
-
STL 1.8 1.9 per 40
Speedster point guard who pressures the rim and generates shots for himself around the perimeter.
New Orleans Pelicans
Goodbye Jrue Holiday; hello Kira Lewis? Perhaps. The Pelicans could definitely use a pick-and-roll ball handler to maximize Zion Williamson’s half-court scoring potential, and Lewis brings his own version of athletic gifts as the fastest player in the class. Lewis is underdeveloped in key areas, but the Pelicans don’t necessarily need to be thinking about making the playoffs right now.
PLUSES
- Dynamic shot creator who blends speed, acceleration, and body control with quality crossovers and hesitations to find high-percentage shots.
- Pick-and-roll playmaking habits bode well for his potential. He does a great job getting into the paint and then whipping the ball to perimeter shooters.
- Smooth stroke with bouts of streakiness, but his form, free throw percentage, and shot selection are all positive long-term indicators.
- Agile on-ball defender who moves well laterally and fights through screens; but he needs to get a lot stronger to contain bigger guards.
- Active off-ball defender who does a good job helping, digging, and getting in passing lanes without taking too many risks.
MINUSES
- Drives recklessly since he’s still learning how to slow down and play with pace; doing so may also improve his vision and ability to finish.
- A good-but-not-great playmaker. He doesn’t have the tightest handles or the most advanced moves. The ball often gets poked away and his inaccurate passes can cause shooters to fall off balance.
- Needs to improve shooting off the dribble, especially when going right. He also lacks a reliable floater.
- Shows a willingness to draw contact, but needs to improve at finishing off-balance shots with touch.
- Not a switchable defender due to his size: He’s incredibly light, and lacks a frame to support much more weight.
- Fundamentals must improve on defense: He stands too upright on-ball instead of staying low, and gets crossed up on closeouts.
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An ace pick-and-roll playmaker who can also score at a high level is a ticket to a fruitful offense in the NBA. Unfortunately, it does not appear that type of player is available in the 2020 NBA draft.
You could be optimistic when looking at this class and predict that Killian Hayes could grow into that. Many do. You could get intoxicated by LaMelo Ball's immense talent, but his audacious offense (shooting, specifically) can be so erratic that it makes you wonder whether he's capable of being more than a complementary option on a good team.
Let’s be careful not to oversimplify the places where playmaking can come from, though.
Without game-changers available, teams will likely target strong decision-makers who can shore up their secondary pick-and-roll sequences and spot-up games. Players who can stretch the defense, disrupt it, and make the right plays.
Tyrese Haliburton is one of the best examples. The league should be praying that he's kept away from the Warriors. I’m praying for the opposite. The Iowa State guard would be an incredible fit within Golden State’s scheme because of the added jolt and intelligence he could bring to their healing offense, whether he's the primary initiator or not. In some ways he seems like Shaun Livingston reincarnated.
It's possible that teams could struggle to find starter-level playmaking talent that can also carry their weight as shooters and defenders. Nico Mannion did a solid job balancing his own offense with distributing for Arizona's young roster this season. He posted one of the better assist-to-usage marks (1.286) among the guards being considered in the first round. While his defense remains a question, his pedigree and personality offer confidence that he’ll find a place to contribute.
Among the wings, there are trade-offs. Isaac Okoro could be an elite defender, and his playmaking would make him an asset if he ever gains consistency as a shooter from deep. Deni Avdija and Leandro Bolmaro both have an ease with the ball and the size to function as secondary playmakers, but again—shooting. Desmond Bane has moments when he looks tailor-made for Daryl Morey, but will his athleticism translate in the NBA?
The sure thing or semi-sure thing isn’t really there this year, but depending on what you’re willing to be unsure about, value can be found.
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Brooklyn Nets
Nesmith might end up being a lottery pick, but his range extends to the early 20s. He’d be a smart choice for the Nets, allowing them to add another shooter alongside Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving. Having Nesmith plus Joe Harris, whom league sources say the Nets will likely re-sign, would make them quite a tough cover.
DESMOND BANE
Wing, TCU, senior
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Perimeter Shooting
-
Hustle
-
Off-Ball Defense
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PTS 16.6 18.4 per 40
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REB 6.3 7.0 per 40
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AST 3.9 4.3 per 40
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3PT% 44.2 208 3PA
High-IQ guard who plays hard. He already has a veteran skill set and projects favorably as a rotation player.
Oklahoma City Thunder
Bane brings gritty defense, intelligent passing, and knockdown shooting; he could have the most value for a team ready to win now, but for a team in a rebuild, he could also serve as a young piece who brings a veteran style to help facilitate development.
PLUSES
- Knockdown shooter who thrives running off screens and using manipulative moves to shake loose from defenders. Despite unorthodox mechanics, he shot 43 percent from 3 and 80 percent from the line in four years at TCU.
- Comfortable shooting off the dribble. He won’t be an iso threat in the pros, but can attack a mismatch or pull-up to punish a scrambling defense.
- Excels at pick-and-roll decision-making, playing with pace and delivering accurate passes all over the court.
- Solid finisher who can use either hand around the rim. He has touch, which is vital since he lacks hops.
- Decisive player who reads the floor at a high level. He cuts and relocates well and facilitates effectively and intentionally.
- Excellent defensive fundamentals: He sits in his stance and rapidly reacts to cut off drives. With a strong frame and quick hands, he has versatility.
MINUSES
- He needs to tighten his handle to create space against athletic defenders. Though he improved in that area at TCU, he still has room to grow.
- Lack of burst or a quick first step, plus his short arms, could limit both his at-rim finishing ability and his defensive impact.
- Defensive versatility is questionable on paper because of his physical and athletic profile.
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Miami Heat
The Heat want to pursue Giannis Antetokounmpo in 2021, but they need to consider a world in which they don’t acquire the two-time MVP, especially after Milwaukee bolstered its championship odds by adding Jrue Holiday and Bogdan Bogdanovic. With Meyers Leonard entering unrestricted free agency (and possibly Kelly Olynyk, who has a player option), the Heat could use another big. Smith brings a perimeter skill set that makes him an ideal fit next to Bam Adebayo.
ROBERT WOODARD II
Wing, Mississippi State, sophomore
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Hustle
-
Rebounding
-
Off-Ball Defense
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PTS 11.4 13.7 per 40
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REB 6.5 7.9 per 40
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EFG% 54.9 275 FGA
-
3PT% 42.9 70 3PA
Winning player who puts in constant effort, and his improved jumper promotes confidence in his ability to be a successful pro.
Trade: The Timberwolves send no. 17 to the Celtics for no. 26 and no. 30.
If the Wolves want to be a playoff team, they’ll need guys who can get stops against opposing wing scorers. Woodard would help in that regard as a rock-solid defender who grinds and makes winning plays.
PLUSES
- Smart team player who cuts and moves well off-ball. With his size and fluidity, he could have value as an on-ball screener in smaller lineups.
- Skilled finisher at the rim who can pull off acrobatic layups.
- Good passer; he makes quick decisions with the ball and tends to deliver with accuracy.
- Improved as a shooter from his freshman to sophomore seasons (27 percent to 43 percent from 3 and 58 percent to 64 percent from the line).
- Flashes the ability to pull up from midrange—his shot actually looks more fluid here than it does on catch-and-shoot attempts.
- Active rebounder and terrific team defender. He’s sound inside, helping bigs and then closing back out on shooters. With a long wingspan, he can disrupt passing lanes.
MINUSES
- Loose handle, which leads to the majority of his turnovers.
- Lacks quickness to comfortably defend guards on switches.
- Stiff-looking shooter. Despite his improved numbers, he needs to prove a lot from NBA range against high-level defenders.
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Philadelphia 76ers
The Sixers could really use more wings, and Green stands out as an option because of his versatile defense and complementary offense.
RJ HAMPTON
Guard, New Zealand Breakers
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Athleticism
-
Hustle
-
PTS 8.8 15.4 per 36
-
AST 2.4 4.2 per 36
-
EFG% 45.9 123 FGA
-
FT% 67.9 28 FTA
Shifty athlete with a speedy first step, but activating his talent will require developing his jumper.
Boston Celtics
The Celtics have offered up their three first-round picks (nos. 14, 26, and 30) in trades to try and move into the lottery, but if they keep the 14th pick, Hampton makes sense because he could immediately serve as a spark-plug scorer off the bench while providing long-term upside.
PLUSES
- He can hit turbo on drives to the rim, and has explosiveness when elevating for layups. He stays low on crossovers, and displays advanced moves with herky-jerky hesitations.
- Displays the fundamentals, craft, and body control to become a good interior finisher.
- Playmaking potential. Loves one-handed whip passes off the dribble, and throws them with precision. Doesn’t make advanced reads but flashes the ability to develop in pick-and-roll.
- Good off-ball player: He’s an aware cutter, relocates well around the perimeter, and runs like Forrest Gump in transition. Gotta love the hustle.
- Long-term defensive upside because of his athleticism.
MINUSES
- Inconsistent footwork hurts his jump shot. His feet always seem to be lined up differently, though they’re generally too close for him to cleanly release his shot. His upper body looks good, though.
- Without a reliable jumper, his strengths will be diminished. Selecting him is a big bet on the development of his shooting ability.
- Though his at-rim finishing is an overall positive, he must get stronger so he can absorb contact better and not overly rely on crafty finishes.
- He’s a raw playmaker still figuring out how to make his teammates better. He makes some bad reads and occasionally forces passes.
- Inexperienced defender with poor habits and fundamentals. Doesn’t stay in his stance and has yet to unlock his raw potential.
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Denver Nuggets
Stewart is a bruiser who could complement Nikola Jokic and possibly force opponents to adjust to a two-big lineup. League sources say the Nuggets are targeting a frontcourt player, either Stewart or Zeke Nnaji.
JOSH GREEN
Wing, Arizona, freshman
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Feel For The Game
-
Off-Ball Defense
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PTS 12.0 15.5 per 40
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REB 4.6 5.9 per 40
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AST 2.6 3.4 per 40
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EFG% 47.6 288 FGA
Fits into any roster as a 3-and-D wing who understands his role as a shooter, slasher, and cutter.
Philadelphia 76ers
The Sixers could really use more wings, and Green stands out as an option because of his versatile defense and complementary offense.
PLUSES
- Good spot-up 3-point shooter who boasts the touch to hit easy pull-ups.
- Nifty player with a natural feel for making behind-the-back passes or spinning into a shot, though he needs to settle for fewer floaters.
- Energetic on-ball defender with good footwork and anticipatory skills, mirroring movements of his opponent.
- Versatility to switch on screens with the combination of lateral quickness against guards and strength against larger wings.
- Energetic off-ball defender who stays engaged and rotates well; he’s a smart helper who will disrupt plays and rack up deflections and steals.
MINUSES
- Displays some semblance of body control at the rim, but needs to improve against contact and with his left hand to become an effective finisher.
- Loose handle; he shows flashes but currently lacks control. With a slow first step, he’s limited as an isolation and pick-and-roll scorer.
- Though he is a smart decision-maker, he occasionally throws inaccurate passes that could otherwise have resulted in easy shot attempts.
- Underwent surgery to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder in 2019.
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New York Knicks
Before last season, Knicks fans likely loved seeing Anthony mocked to them in the lottery. But the New York native had a disastrous freshman season at North Carolina, and his stock has plummeted. It’s hard to see him falling much farther than this though, considering he has shot-creation skills that could someday turn him into a pick-and-roll machine.
AARON NESMITH
Wing, Vanderbilt, sophomore
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Perimeter Shooting
-
Hustle
-
PTS 23.0 25.8 per 40
-
REB 4.9 5.4 per 40
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STL 1.4 1.6 per 40
-
3PT% 52.2 115 3PA
Possesses a flamethrower jump shot; he projects easily as a high-end role player, though he flashes raw ability off the dribble.
Brooklyn Nets
Nesmith might end up being a lottery pick, but his range extends to the early 20s. He’d be a smart choice for the Nets, allowing them to add another shooter alongside Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving. Having Nesmith plus Joe Harris, whom league sources say the Nets will likely re-sign, would make them quite a tough cover.
PLUSES
- Unlimited range; spaces the floor by demanding a defense’s attention. Skilled shooter off screens who takes tight routes, makes smart reads, and has elite fundamentals from catch to release.
- Comfortable shooting 3s off the dribble. He has a nice side step and stepback 3 with clean footwork.
- Straight-line driver who is decisive attacking closeouts. With his size and strength, he could develop into a good finisher.
- Understands his role and excels within it. He’s a great screener, executes plays, takes smart shots, and keeps the ball moving.
- Competitive on-ball defender; with some improved fundamentals and athleticism, he could become far more versatile.
- Intelligent defender. Though he’s not a great athlete, his positioning makes him a deterrent at the nail and around the rim.
MINUSES
- Struggles finishing at the rim against length and contact. He’s not much of a leaper and is prone to getting his shot blocked or heavily altered.
- Shot-creation ability: He lacks shake as a ball handler, burst on drives, and explosiveness in the paint.
- Passing vision: He can make basic reads, but he isn’t going to make any advanced plays or deliver the ball with precision.
- Man-to-man defense needs work. He’s slow laterally and would struggle against speedy guards. Improving his pliability would help him.
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New Orleans Pelicans
After the Pelicans traded Jrue Holiday to the Bucks and acquired this pick, Maledon stands out as a smart target. He was considered a potential top-10 pick by many teams before the season, but he was underwhelming and his stock has dropped accordingly. However, he still brings a seasoned feel for the game with the upside to be a steadying presence for his team.
JADEN MCDANIELS
Wing, Washington, freshman
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Perimeter Shooting
-
Ballhandling
-
Athleticism
-
PTS 13.0 16.7 per 40
-
REB 5.8 7.5 per 40
-
AST 2.1 2.7 per 40
-
EFG% 46.9 336 FGA
Hyped-up prospect who underwhelmed as a freshman but retains appeal with his size, shooting ability, and defensive versatility.
Oklahoma City Thunder
The Thunder have long been connected to Pokusevski, but as one executive recently noted to me: When does anything ever leak from Oklahoma City? Sam Presti keeps a tight lid on his plans. McDaniels may not even make it this far; he’s a classic boom-or-bust pick.
PLUSES
- Excellent ball handler for his size with nifty side-to-side moves that help him get into pull-up jumpers out of the pick-and-roll. He has deep range, and is also comfortable launching from midrange.
- Good spot-up shooter with smooth mechanics. He’s shown the ability to hit 3s off handoffs, though that might not be part of his NBA role.
- Potentially a versatile defender thanks to his blend of length and quickness. He’s proved to be an effective weak-side shot blocker, and fared well in college on switches against speedy guards.
MINUSES
- Poor finisher who struggles at dislodging defenders on his drives and at handling contact in the paint. With such a thin frame, he may never be able to pack on weight to be more effective.
- Defenses can comfortably switch smaller players on him; he isn’t strong enough to exploit them with drives or post-ups.
- Lacks playmaking skills. Coaches will be frustrated by his bad decisions; it seems like every quarter he hurls his body into a crowd rather than looks for a simple kick-out pass.
- So skinny that beefier opponents will overpower him on defense. He’s incredibly foul-prone.
Currently Playing:
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Oklahoma City Thunder
The Thunder have long been connected to Pokusevski, but as one executive recently noted to me: When does anything ever leak from Oklahoma City? Sam Presti keeps a tight lid on his plans. McDaniels may not even make it this far; he’s a classic boom-or-bust pick.
LEANDRO BOLMARO
Guard, Barcelona / Argentina
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Ballhandling
-
Playmaking
-
Feel For The Game
-
PTS 8.0 16.4 per 36
-
AST 2.5 5.2 per 36
-
STL 1.3 2.6 per 36
-
3PT% 27.9 68 3PA
Impeccable playmaking skills and instincts give him a foundation for success, but his jumper will determine his upside.
Boston Celtics
The Celtics need to package their late-first-round picks, otherwise they’ll have to start thinking about finding draft-and-stashes. Bolmaro is worth investing in as a large playmaker who only needs to improve his jumper to become a longtime NBA pro.
PLUSES
- He can make every pass in the book using either hand. He sees passing lanes that few others can, and makes the reads so quickly that it’s as if he’s two steps ahead.
- Slick ball handler who gets where he wants on the floor with his change-of-pace moves and tempo despite a lack of elite athleticism.
- Good touch on floaters, runners, and layups, which bodes well long term for his subpar jump shot.
- Intelligent off-ball player who cuts and relocates like a veteran.
- High-effort defender who beats opponents to spots and does a great job of fighting over screens.
- Alert team defender who rotates well, digs down in the post, and provides overall cohesion.
MINUSES
- He needs to improve his off-hand to compensate for the fact that he’s a below-the-rim finisher who struggles against length.
- Without a reliable jumper, most of his strengths are moot. He shot 28 percent from 3 and 66 percent from the line in three professional seasons overseas. There are some quirks in his jumper, especially in his wrist, that need to be ironed out.
- Less effective as a shot creator when defended by smaller players who get underneath him; he’ll need to make advancements to survive.
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Boston Celtics
The Celtics need to package their late-first-round picks, otherwise they’ll have to start thinking about finding draft-and-stashes. Bolmaro is worth investing in as a large playmaker who only needs to improve his jumper to become a longtime NBA pro.
ISAIAH JOE
Guard, Arkansas, sophomore
-
Perimeter Shooting
-
Off-Ball Defense
-
PTS 16.9 18.7 per 40
-
AST 1.7 1.9 per 40
-
3PT% 34.2 275 3PA
-
EFG% 49.7 360 FGA
A dynamic and prolific 3-point threat, though he needs to round out the rest of his game.
PLUSES
- Versatile shooter with deep range off a full sprint and off screens; he also knows how to cut and relocate.
- Effective marksman off the dribble; he loves to cross over from his right to his left hand into a stepback shot.
- Displays great touch around the rim, though he rarely attacks the paint.
- Solid passer within the flow of the offense, swinging the ball or delivering entry passes; if he starts attacking the basket more often, he could unlock some playmaking potential.
- Possesses great fundamentals and lateral quickness on the defensive end, which makes him an effective on-ball defender despite a lack of strength.
- Energetic off-ball defender who chases opponents through screens and makes smart rotations.
MINUSES
- Inconsistent shooter. He hit 41 percent of his 3s as a freshman but only 34 percent as a sophomore. He also took a lot of difficult shots due to his demanding role in the offense, with over 10 3-point attempts per game.
- Takes a lot of unwarranted shots, which is possibly attributable to his role, but also due to his tendency to jack jumpers rather than attack the rim or make an available pass.
- Thin frame hinders his versatility defensively; he was often overpowered in college.
- Underwent arthroscopic debridement surgery on his right knee, ending his sophomore season early.
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Utah Jazz
Nnaji is receiving interest from teams in the late teens and 20s, according to multiple league sources. Rudy Gobert’s future with Utah is up in the air, so it makes logical sense to target a rookie big man with upside such as Nnaji, who league sources say is drilling 3-pointers in predraft workouts.
COLE ANTHONY
Guard, North Carolina, freshman
-
Perimeter Shooting
-
Athleticism
-
Hustle
-
PTS 18.5 21.2 per 40
-
REB 5.7 6.5 per 40
-
AST 4.0 4.6 per 40
-
EFG% 45.1 345 FGA
Energetic score-first point guard who at worst projects as a microwave scorer off the bench and at best can lead an offense.
New York Knicks
Before last season, Knicks fans likely loved seeing Anthony mocked to them in the lottery. But the New York native had a disastrous freshman season at North Carolina, and his stock has plummeted. It’s hard to see him falling much farther than this though, considering he has shot-creation skills that could someday turn him into a pick-and-roll machine.
PLUSES
- Talented shooter. He knows how to relocate off-ball, balance himself midair, and drain off-the-catch 3s. Constant threat to score thanks to his ability to hit stepbacks and pull-ups from all over the floor.
- Ambidextrous finisher with hops, body control, strength, and touch; he’s much better than his numbers indicate because of North Carolina’s horrific spacing in the half court, often with two nonshooting bigs on the floor.
- Dynamic ball handler who could thrive with more room as a pick-and-roll threat. He strings together combo moves, showing off a mix of change-of-pace dribbles with crosses using either hand. He looks to score first, but can make basic passes.
- Dangerous transition threat. He’s an excellent defensive rebounder, and he can provide a jolt by sprinting down the floor on the break.
- Feisty on-ball defender who has a sturdy frame and excellent lateral movement.
- Impactful off-ball defender who keeps his head on a swivel and makes timely, fundamental rotations and occasionally flies in for weak-side blocks.
MINUSES
- Shot selection: He forces too many contested looks instead of looking to pass, which causes bouts with streakiness.
- Not a pure playmaker, nor does he naturally make his teammates better. He needs to work on making advanced reads, but even on the simple passes his accuracy is underwhelming.
- Defensive versatility: He plays hard and smart, but he’s still undersized and likely to be targeted by opponents on switches or against elite guards.
- Underwent surgery in 2019 for a partially torn meniscus in his right knee.
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Oklahoma City Thunder
Bane brings gritty defense, intelligent passing, and knockdown shooting; he could have the most value for a team ready to win now, but for a team in a rebuild, he could also serve as a young piece who brings a veteran style to help facilitate development.
THEO MALEDON
Guard, ASVEL / France
-
Feel For The Game
-
Interior Scoring
-
PTS 7.3 15.1 per 36
-
AST 2.7 5.6 per 36
-
EFG% 49.6 261 FGA
-
FT% 77.6 98 FTA
Strong floor general who’s become a potent shooter, though his lack of burst may limit his upside.
New Orleans Pelicans
After the Pelicans traded Jrue Holiday to the Bucks and acquired this pick, Maledon stands out as a smart target. He was considered a potential top-10 pick by many teams before the season, but he was underwhelming and his stock has dropped accordingly. However, he still brings a seasoned feel for the game with the upside to be a steadying presence for his team.
PLUSES
- Plays with a controlled pace in the pick-and-roll. He loves to use hesitations to compensate for his lack of athleticism. He’s a dual threat, dangerous as both a passer and shooter off the dribble.
- Shoots well off the catch and off the dribble. He’s not dynamic, but has nice form and can score when called upon.
- Crafty finisher who is comfortable scoring off the wrong foot or with his off-hand. He has a nice touch on off-balance layups, finger rolls, and floaters.
- Sturdy frame with long arms; he projects as a reliable man-to-man defender if his fundamentals improve.
- He has made steady progress each season and possesses a high work ethic. He’s also mentored by Spurs legend Tony Parker.
MINUSES
- Struggles to create space despite his change of pace and use of in-out dribbles and crossovers. He gets enveloped by quality defenders who beat him to his spot, and currently lacks the ability to counterattack.
- Doesn’t put a lot of pressure on the rim as a ball handler, which may limit his value as a playmaker if he’s not creating angles for kickout 3s. The flashes are there, but he must master his handle.
- Despite his size, he hasn’t had success on switches against larger players, offering little resistance.
- He defends on his heels, which slows down his lateral slides. And he bites on too many shot fakes.
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Toronto Raptors
With Kyle Lowry turning 35 next season and Fred VanVleet entering free agency, it would make sense for the Raptors to target a point guard. Flynn is a reliable playmaker who makes smart decisions and sets the tone with hard-nosed defense.
MALACHI FLYNN
Guard, San Diego State, junior
-
Playmaking
-
Feel For The Game
-
PTS 17.6 21.1 per 40
-
AST 5.1 6.1 per 40
-
STL 1.8 2.1 per 40
-
3PT% 37.3 204 3PA
Dynamic pick-and-roll playmaker with a polished offensive game ready-made for the pros.
Toronto Raptors
With Kyle Lowry turning 35 next season and Fred VanVleet entering free agency, it would make sense for the Raptors to target a point guard. Flynn is a reliable playmaker who makes smart decisions and sets the tone with hard-nosed defense.
PLUSES
- Delivers accurate passes in the pick-and-roll using either hand to rolling bigs or spot-up shooters. He isn’t a great athlete, but compensates with savvy hesitation moves.
- Good perimeter scorer who is most comfortable pulling up for jumpers. His skills also translate off the catch, as he displays a feel for relocating then firing in rhythm.
- Takes pride in his on-ball defense. He fights over screens and slides laterally quickly, and though he’s not a defender suited for all switches, you can bet that he'll give his all during the play.
- His hard-nosed defensive mind-set also applies to the boards as he forcefully crashes to help secure the ball.
- Aware off-ball defender despite his heavy offensive workload in college; he makes smart decisions and takes calculated risks when going for steals or deflections.
MINUSES
- Lacks elite athleticism and handles, which limits his ability to get to the rim; to improve his driving, he must enhance his ball handling.
- Below-the-rim finisher whose shots are easily altered by bigger opponents. It’s important that he add more crafty finishes so he isn’t overly reliant on his floater, which is a lower-percentage shot.
- Doesn’t have great strength or length, so he’ll get overpowered by stronger guards; he also doesn’t have much versatility on switches.
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Boston Celtics
The Celtics would love to consolidate their first-round picks, but if they stay here, word is swirling around the league that Tillman will be their pick at no. 30. There is some concern over his medical, but he has skills tailor-made for a big in the modern NBA.
ISAIAH STEWART
Big, Washington, freshman
-
Hustle
-
Rebounding
-
Shot Blocking
-
PTS 17.0 21.1 per 40
-
REB 8.8 10.9 per 40
-
BLK 2.1 2.6 per 40
-
EFG% 57.7 337 FGA
Muscular big man who plays his tail off and possesses a vintage, interior game.
Denver Nuggets
Stewart is a bruiser who could complement Nikola Jokic and possibly force opponents to adjust to a two-big lineup. League sources say the Nuggets are targeting a frontcourt player, either Stewart or Zeke Nnaji.
PLUSES
- High-motor big who runs hard on the break. He frequently beats defenses up the floor, and displays great coordination on finishes.
- Savvy post scorer who displays a wide range of moves, including drop steps, face-ups, and up-and-unders from either side of the block.
- Battles hard in the paint, using his broad shoulders to seal off defenders and seize close positioning.
- Flashes occasional shooting ability. He hit only 32 percent of his jump shots in college, but converted 77 percent of his free throws. He has the soft touch and confidence to improve.
- Bully on the boards; he could be a weapon on the offensive glass because of his instincts for tracking the ball.
- Aggressive defender with a knack for blocking shots; he did well playing in zone as the anchor of the defense.
MINUSES
- Lacks explosiveness, which hinders his ability to finish inside on rolls or second-chance opportunities. He’ll need to master touch finishes.
- Poor passer who looks to shoot too often with the ball in his hands. When he does pass, it’s often inaccurate or forced through traffic.
- His shooting mechanics are inconsistent—his feet often flare wildly—but the long-term potential is there.
- Needs to improve his lateral quickness to survive defending on the perimeter.
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From 1977 to 2016, a team with a top-five pick in the draft traded down only 13 times. Those types of deals used to be an anomaly, but they’ve happened in three straight drafts since—with Markelle Fultz for Jayson Tatum in 2017, Luka Doncic for Trae Young in 2018, and De’Andre Hunter for multiple firsts in 2019. Are trade-downs becoming a trend? The 2020 draft is ripe to keep the streak alive.
The 2020 class lacks the type of top-tier prospects we’ve been spoiled by in recent years, like Luka or Zion. The likely top-three picks (LaMelo Ball, Anthony Edwards, and James Wiseman) have obvious promise, but they’re complicated by severe flaws. Wiseman could go as high as no. 1, but he ranks seventh on my board and some team executives rank him even lower because of struggles in making quick decisions. My top-ranked prospect, Killian Hayes, doesn’t even crack the top 10 on some big boards, while some executives say he’s the draft’s most underrated player because of his playmaking ability. There is no such thing as a “consensus” ranking when fit and opportunity play such a central role in the success or failure of each player, but this year’s draft class is especially tough to project.
Prospects like Hayes could come to define this draft. While the class may be light on stars, it’s heavy on steals. A deep crop of potential high-end role players with foundational skills (like Devin Vassell, a ready-made 3-and-D wing from Florida State, or Tyrell Terry, a 3-point sharpshooter from Stanford) are lurking outside the top five. Many of them could naturally exceed expectations for their draft slot, and they don’t necessarily need to be taken early. If a team with a top pick has an evaluation of those players that is similar to mine, they could simply select that player up high and not sweat the details. But it’d be better to move down and add other assets from a team looking to move up—if anyone is willing to bite.
Thanks to the NBA’s rookie-scale contract structure, the no. 1 pick will earn $12 million annually for the next four seasons. Top picks will be wealthier than ever, but the league’s salary cap could drop next season due to the loss in revenue caused by the pandemic. If the first pick is Wiseman, that’s a lot to spend when many starting centers on playoff teams earn less than $12 million and many centers who earn more are considered liabilities in the postseason. Unless a center is a bona fide star like Joel Embiid or Nikola Jokic, a team is best served searching for a bargain and spending elsewhere. With such a premium being put on 3-point shooting in the modern game, is it worth gambling a top-three pick on LaMelo or Edwards when better shooters with higher floors (and arguably higher ceilings) like Terry and Tyrese Haliburton can be found later for less money and risk? Teams will ask themselves these tough questions between now and the draft, whenever it happens. Though the 2020 draft is dim on star power, stars aren’t the only piece of the championship puzzle—and this year’s best pieces might be hiding in plain sight.
ZEKE NNAJI
Big, Arizona, freshman
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Interior Scoring
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Rebounding
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PTS 16.1 21.0 per 40
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REB 8.6 11.3 per 40
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AST 0.8 1.1 per 40
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BLK 0.9 1.1 per 40
Fluid athlete who has all the tools to be an effective two-way big, though his defense needs to develop.
Utah Jazz
Nnaji is receiving interest from teams in the late teens and 20s, according to multiple league sources. Rudy Gobert’s future with Utah is up in the air, so it makes logical sense to target a rookie big man with upside such as Nnaji, who league sources say is drilling 3-pointers in predraft workouts.
PLUSES
- Fantastic interior finisher with good hands who can explode at the rim. He can finish with power, though he’s equally effective scoring with finesse by using pump fakes to create space.
- Good shooting potential: He hit 44 percent of his jump shots outside of 17 feet and 76 percent of his free throws as a freshman. He does need to extend his range to 3, though.
- Runs the floor hard on the break; he does a great job of sealing defenders underneath the rim, catching the ball then quickly turning for a layup.
- Active rebounder who boxes out and battles for the ball.
- There are concerns defensively, but he does display the athleticism and hustle required to become a reliable defender; he also has a high work ethic.
MINUSES
- Slow to read the floor as a passer; he looks uncomfortable with the ball in his hands. He'll miss passing lanes or struggle to execute simple plays like pick-and-rolls and handoffs.
- Perimeter defense: Gets roasted too often. He's flat-footed and is slow to react.
- Rim protection: Sometimes he doesn't contest shots at all, and when he does, his impact is inconsistent.
XAVIER TILLMAN SR.
Big, Michigan State, junior
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Feel For The Game
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Playmaking
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Interior Scoring
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Off-Ball Defense
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PTS 13.7 17.1 per 40
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REB 10.3 12.9 per 40
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AST 3.0 3.7 per 40
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TS% 59.3 300 FGA
Winning player who can easily pair with star shot creators because of his playmaking and versatility.
Boston Celtics
The Celtics would love to consolidate their first-round picks, but if they stay here, word is swirling around the league that Tillman will be their pick at no. 30. There is some concern over his medical, but he has skills tailor-made for a big in the modern NBA.
PLUSES
- Good finisher in the paint; he knows how to use his thick frame to carve out space and has soft touch with either hand, which is necessary since he lacks explosiveness.
- Decisive passer who makes rapid reads accurately all over the floor. He would fit best alongside an elite point guard, which would activate his secondary playmaking to pick apart defenses.
- Pick-and-roll threat: He sets excellent screens and rolls with a veteran’s feel for the game. If his shooting improves, he’ll also be a weapon on the pick-and-pop. He’s a good ball handler who can attack closeouts and make smart decisions.
- Solid rebounder who uses his strong body to box out; also an aware outlet passer.
- Smart defensive player who communicates well and is usually in the perfect position to disrupt a play.
- Stout interior defender; he’s strong defending the post, and though he’s not an explosive shot blocker, his high-level awareness and technique allow him to effectively alter shots.
- Defensive mobility: He’s not a lockdown defender, but a coach can be comfortable with him switching on the perimeter.
MINUSES
- Shot only 27 percent from 3 and 70 percent from the line in college; his form isn’t bad, so there may be room for improvement.
- Undersized for a big man at only 6-foot-8, though in today’s NBA that’s less of an issue in small-ball lineups.
- Lack of explosiveness around the rim could become problematic against NBA athletes; his shots tend to get altered by lengthier defenders.
- He dramatically cut down on his fouls as a junior, but still bites on too many pump fakes, making him foul prone.
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James Wiseman Could Prolong the Warriors’ Dynasty
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One way to find sleepers in any draft is to look for prospects with the right NBA tools who were stuck in smaller roles in college. No one gets excited about an NCAA player averaging 10 points per game. But that may say more about the way he was used than his ability. Devin Booker is the most famous recent example. He went from a shooting specialist coming off the bench at Kentucky to an All-Star in the NBA. There are plenty of other similar success stories in recent years. Zach LaVine was a reserve in his one season at UCLA. Kelly Oubre Jr. averaged 9.3 points per game at Kansas.
Two prospects in the 2020 draft fit that mold: Josh Green (Arizona) and Cassius Stanley (Duke). They both have the combination of size, speed, and shooting ability that every NBA team needs on the wing. Both are elite high school recruits who served complementary roles during their lone college seasons. Green played with a pair of potential first-round picks in point guard Nico Mannion and center Zeke Nnaji. Stanley did the same with Tre Jones and Vernon Carey Jr.
If you caught them on the wrong night, you might’ve barely noticed them. They spent most of their time on offense waiting for the chance to shoot. But they both have the potential to be so much more.
