The 2018 NCAA Tournament has officially concluded. How would the 2018 NBA Draft play out if it were held today? Moreover: What would the New York Knicks do?
The 2018 NCAA Tournament was one of the wildest in the vast history of college basketball. A slew of contenders and household names were eliminated before the Sweet 16 could even arrive, with some of the most unlikely success stories captivated the masses.
In the end, it was the Villanova Wildcats that ultimately defeated the Michigan Wolverines to emerge as the 2018 national champions.
With the 2018 NCAA Tournament behind us, the time for in-game evaluation for the 2018 NBA Draft has officially concluded. Thus, it’s only rational to look at what we already know and determine what it currently means.
For the New York Knicks, the 2018 NCAA Tournament may serve as validation for what’s become a widely speculated desire to target a specific championship-caliber wing.
For the other 29 teams in the NBA, however, the NCAA Tournament may or may not have influenced their thinking. It’s a riveting event, but utilizing it as the end-all, be-all would require one to ignore the months—and in some cases, years—of knowledge they’ve accumulated.
The question is: Who would the New York Knicks in the first round of the 2018 NBA Draft? Moreover: What’s transpiring around it?
Age: 19 (7/23/1998)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 7’0″, 250 pounds, 7’5″
Slash Line: .612/.343/.733
Season Averages: 33.5 MPG, 20.1 PPG, 11.6 RPG, 3.4 ORPG, 1.6 APG, 1.9 BPG, 0.6 SPG, 0.3 3PM
The Phoenix Suns have a rising star at shooting guard in former Kentucky Wildcats star Devin Booker. There are quality players at every other position on the floor, but no one who has truly solidified their status as a franchise cornerstone.
Some may exaggerate the decline of the big man, but the reality is that an elite high-low balance has won in every era of NBA basketball—and there’s no reason it can’t still work.
Ayton is a physically dominant center with a modern offensive game and explosive athleticism. He can play from the post and set the tone as a rebounder, and has the skill level to operate from midrange or step outside for a three-point shot.
That versatility is rare for a big man, which makes Ayton’s overwhelming leaping ability, powerful frame, and gargantuan 7’5″ wingspan even more compelling.
For Phoenix, having a star at both shooting guard and center would position it to make a serious run at a return to prominence. Booker is an elite shooter and a dynamic slasher who can play both with and without the ball, and Ayton has the same type of potential as a big.
If the New York Knicks fail to secure the No. 1 overall selection in the 2018 NBA Draft, it’s fair to assume that Ayton will be off the board before they have a chance to select him.
Age: 19 (3/14/1999)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’11”, 234 pounds, 7’0.5″
Slash Line: .614/.397/.627
Season Averages: 33.9 MPG, 21.0 PPG, 11.1 RPG, 4.0 ORPG, 1.5 APG, 0.9 BPG, 0.8 SPG, 0.7 3PM
The Memphis Grizzlies remain invested in criminally underrated point guard Mike Conley and All-NBA center Marc Gasol. It’s certainly a fair stance, as Conley and Gasol are responsible for the most rewarding era in franchise history.
If the Grizzlies are going to give Conley and Gasol a chance to pursue an elusive championship—and survive their potential departures—Marvin Bagley III should be the pick.
Memphis routinely finds quality role players, but what the organization has long lacked is a truly reliable scoring option. Conley and Gasol can score at solid levels, Tyreke Evans can do a bit of everything, and Zach Randolph was a nightly 20 and 10, but there was something missing.
When the time came for a player to attack a set defense and get a difficult bucket, the Grizzlies simply lacked a player who can do so from beyond the low block.
Bagley may be the best rebounder in this draft class, which is certainly a solid starting point for his appeal. What makes him special is the fact that he’s a versatile scorer who can go to the post, space the floor, or take his man off the bounce from 24 feet.
Bagley has a small forward’s offensive skill set and a power forward’s frame. If the New York Knicks have a chance to draft him, Scott Perry will make it happen.
Age: 19 (2/28/1999)
Height & Weight: 6’8″ & 218 pounds
Slash Line: .464/.306/.806
Season Averages: 24.6 MPG, 15.2 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 1.0 ORPG, 4.5 APG, 1.0 SPG, 1.5 3PM
The Atlanta Hawks have needed a reliable isolation scorer since Joe Johnson was traded to the Brooklyn Nets in 2012. That’s a long and extensive drought that has inevitably limited the Hawks’ ability to escape basketball limbo.
With an opportunity to put Dennis Schröder and John Collins around one of the most creative playmakers in recent NBA Draft history, the Hawks select Luka Doncic at No. 3 overall.
Doncic is a polarizing figure due to some combination of casual fans doubting European prospects and his admittedly underwhelming foot speed. His versatility is that of a rather polished NBA veteran, however, and he’s still just 19 years of age.
Doncic will need time to adjust to the pace and style of the NBA game, but if he figures it out, he should be one of best perimeter players in the Association.
Doncic can operate as a lead guard or an off guard due to his combination of elite court vision and fearless shooting ability. He’s also an excellent rebounder and an improved defender who needs polish in every phase, but has the natural talent to execute as he is.
If the New York Knicks have an opportunity to select Doncic come the 2018 NBA Draft, fans shouldn’t allow the European stigma to dissuade them from supporting the pick.
Age: 19 (9/19/1998)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’2″, 180 pounds, 6’4″
Slash Line: .422/.360/.861
Season Averages: 35.4 MPG, 27.4 PPG, 8.7 APG, 3.9 RPG, 1.7 SPG, 3.7 3PM
Whether or not you believe Trae Young should be a top-five draft pick, the Orlando Magic need a point guard. One could argue that Orlando simply needs talent and should thus select the best player available, but in this era, subpar point guard play is a death sentence.
In order for the Magic to complete a rebuild that will still likely require time after the 2018-19 season, finding a franchise point guard will be a critical task.
Collin Sexton is an option here, but Young is the type of dynamic playmaker whom the Magic have been missing for far too long. As evidenced by his past moves, general manager John Hammond knows the importance of such a player.
Hammond is the individual who executed the selections of Brandon Jennings in the 2009 NBA Draft and Giannis Antetokounmpo in 2013.
While Sexton and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander possess star potential, Young is the dynamic playmaker who can immediately change the culture. He’s an elite three-point shooter, and while his shot selection could certainly improve, that can be said for a vast majority of 19-year-old players.
What separates Young from the pack as far as offensive NBA potential is concerned: In addition to being the best shooter at his position, he’s also the best facilitator.
The New York Knicks would have to at least consider Young if he falls to No. 9 overall.
Age: 19 (5/2/1998)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 7’0″, 225 pounds, 7’9″
Slash Line: .541/.275/.681
Season Averages: 30.2 MPG, 12.9 PPG, 10.5 RPG, 3.2 ORPG, 3.6 BPG, 0.8 SPG, 0.5 3PM
The Dallas Mavericks have needed an anchor in the paint since Tyson Chandler signed with the New York Knicks in 2011. Thus, while there may be other positions that are worth targeting, the best player available fits the most glaring need.
With the fifth overall selection in the 2018 NBA Draft, the Mavericks select a franchise center with franchise player potential: Texas Longhorns star Mohamed Bamba.
Bamba entered the collegiate ranks as the ultimate hype story: A 7’0″ center with an uncanny 7’9″ wingspan and a modern offensive skill set. For as lofty as they may be, the comparisons to Utah Jazz star Rudy Gobert were inevitable.
It’s still a rather high expectation, but Bamba went a long way towards justifying it during his freshman season with the Longhorns.
Bamba finished his freshman campaign with averages of 3.6 blocks per game and 4.8 blocks per 40 minutes. He ranked No. 5 in the country in block percentage, No. 15 in defensive rebound percentage, and a respectable No. 84 in offensive rebound percentage.
Coupled with a respectable jump shot, a better-than-advertised post game, and strong hands around the rim, Bamba could be the perfect understudy to Dirk Nowitzki.
Age: 18 (9/15/1999)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’11”, 242 pounds, 7’4″
Slash Line: .513/.396/.797
Season Averages: 21.8 MPG, 11.3 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 1.5 ORPG, 1.1 APG, 3.0 BPG, 1.1 3PM
The Sacramento Kings have at least one quality young player at all five positions. Bogdan Bogdanovic, De’Aaron Fox, Buddy Hield, and Frank Mason III are standouts in the backcourt, and Willie Cauley-Stein, Justin Jackson, and Skal Labissiere are turning heads in the frontcourt.
With Sacramento continuing to boast one of the worst defenses in the NBA, however, the best option here is to find a potential defensive anchor.
Jaren Jackson Jr. has garnered significant praise as one of the most promising young bigs in the 2018 NBA Draft. He has a massive 7’4″ wingspan and captivating athleticism, which is a combination that has inevitably appealed to scouts around the NBA.
Jackson is also an efficient and effective three-point shooter who can attack a closeout or shoot over incoming defenders on a consistent basis.
While it’s mostly upside at this point, Jackson has already validated the belief that he can be a legitimate rim protector in the NBA. He finished his freshman season with an average of 5.5 blocks per 40 minutes and a ranking of No. 4 in the country in block percentage.
For the Kings, adding a supreme athlete who can block shots, shoot the three-ball, and handle the rock with some efficiency should be a riveting possibility.
Age: 19 (6/29/1998)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’10”, 215 pounds, 7’0″
Slash Line: .333/.300/.778
Season Averages: 3 GP, 10.0 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 1.3 ORPG, 1.0 SPG, 1.0 3PM
The Cleveland Cavaliers have a laundry list of options here, but the top priority should be addressing the point guard position. Whether fortunately or unfortunately, that priority is offset by the presence of a player who could either replace or complement LeBron James.
Michael Porter Jr. certainly has question marks following an injury-plagued freshman season, but he’s a naturally gifted talent with franchise player potential.
Porter is a 6’10” forward with a 7’0″ wingspan and high-level athleticism. He wasn’t able to display the latter trait during the 2018 NCAA Tournament, but that’s due almost entirely to the fact that it was just his second game since suffering what should have been a season-ending back injury.
When healthy, Porter can take his man off the bounce, get out into the open court with relative ease, and finish above the rim without trouble.
Offensively, Porter has range on his jump shot, a tight handle, and the ability to finish in traffic. Defensively, he can pick up players at either forward position, rebound at a strong rate, and make plays in the passing lanes.
Porter has Paul George potential in the NBA, which is reason enough for the Cavaliers to make this selection—with or without James’ presence.
Age: 21 (8/30/1996)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’7″, 210 pounds, 7’2″
Slash Line: .512/.435/.848
Season Averages: 32.0 MPG, 17.6 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 1.9 APG, 1.5 SPG, 1.1 BPG, 2.6 3PM
Unfortunately for the New York Knicks, this would be the perfect move for the Chicago Bulls. Kris Dunn and Zach LaVine are potential cornerstones in the backcourt, and Lauri Markkanen may very well be the franchise player at power forward.
Dunn’s injury could create the temptation to select Collin Sexton or Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, but Mikal Bridges makes far too much sense here.
Bridges is the best on-ball defender in the 2018 NBA Draft, which may be all that needs to be said. With his size, length, and athleticism, Bridges can legitimately defend every position from 1 to 4 in terms of switches and occasional full-possession matchups.
That’s what makes Bridges the top player on my big board for the Knicks, but it’s also what makes him the perfect fit for the Bulls at No. 8 overall.
Offensively, Bridges ranks amongst the best three-point shooters in this draft class. He’s also a capable shot creator who can finish with both hands at the rim or pull up from midrange and make a defense pay for giving him space to drive.
Bridges has been compared to San Antonio Spurs star Kawhi Leonard. For as ambitious as that comparison may be, it’s not unrealistic.
Age: 19 (7/12/1998)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’6″, 180 pounds, 7’0″
Slash Line: .485/.404/.817
Season Averages: 33.7 MPG, 14.4 PPG, 5.1 APG, 4.1 RPG, 1.6 SPG, 0.6 3PM
There’s a growing possibility that Frank Ntilikina will be better off at the shooting guard position. It’d be an unexpected development, but Ntilikina has been at his best when he can blend on-ball responsibility with the off-ball freedom to roam.
Instead of turning Ntilikina into a full-time 2, the New York Knicks should build a system that incorporates another gigantic combo guard with limitless potential: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
With Gilgeous-Alexander and Ntilikina, the Knicks would have two guards who boast 7’0″ wingspans. That creates remarkable defensive potential, as both have the physical tools to pick up assignments at every position from 1 to 3—and, in Ntilikina’s proven case, the 4.
Both Gilgeous-Alexander and Ntilikina are in desperate need of increased muscle mass, but their length and the presence of Kristaps Porzingis could enable the Knicks to build an elite defense.
Offensively, Gilgeous-Alexander is a capable shooter who can drive the lane and either finish in the paint or make an accurate pass to the open man along the perimeter. With Ntilikina, he’d form a backcourt in which both starters could create for themselves and others—a proven formula.
You can complain that the Knicks already have point guard talent, but building a backcourt like this would give it a unique advantage in the modern NBA.
Age: 18 (6/24/1999)
Height & Weight: 6’5″ & 180 pounds
Slash Line: .556/.450/.717
Season Averages: 28.4 MPG, 11.3 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 1.8 APG, 1.1 BPG, 1.1 SPG, 0.5 3PM
Zhaire Smith is a project player with a superstar ceiling, which makes him absolutely perfect for the Philadelphia 76ers. The Sixers aren’t in a position to feature a top-10 draft pick on offense, let alone in the starting lineup, which makes a long-term process quite ideal.
Smith may be viewed as a reach by some, but he’s one of the top 10 prospects on my big board—and has the ceiling of a lockdown defender and gifted all-around offensive player.
Smith has a Gerald Green level of athleticism in the way he effortlessly runs the floor and plays above the rim. Defensively, he has the type of instincts that few possess at any age, which is the foundation for his Andre Roberson comparison on that end of the floor.
Those instincts translate to offense, as well, with Smith displaying the natural understanding of the game to be able to pass teammates open.
This is a project pick, but the 76ers don’t exactly have the flexibility to work with anything else. Markelle Fultz, Ben Simmons, Robert Covington, Dario Saric, and Joel Embiid are locked in as long-term starters, with Covington being the oldest of the group.
Thus, the 76ers can comfortably draft for raw potential here and acquire a player who has the tools to develop into a star on both ends of the floor.
Age: 18 (4/16/1999)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’10”, 258 pounds, 7’3″
Slash Line: .561/.413/.738
Season Averages: 26.9 MPG, 13.5 PPG, 9.1 RPG, 2.9 ORPG, 2.0 APG, 2.1 BPG, 0.8 APG, 0.5 3PM
The Charlotte Hornets have talent at all five positions, but there’s simply something missing from the current roster. Perhaps the development of Malik Monk will solve that issue, but there’s no way around the current predicament.
Kemba Walker wants to return to the playoffs, which makes selecting the best player available the most appealing option: Duke Blue Devils center Wendell Carter Jr.
Yes, the Hornets’ roster is flush with centers, but a team that has too many players at one position tends to not have the right one at all. Thus, instead of hoping that one of the many big men on the roster can pan out, Charlotte should select a prospect who compares favorably to Al Horford.
Carter is essentially a stronger and better rebounding version of Cody Zeller in the sense that he can do a bit of everything, but is built to handle the grind down low.
Carter could help Steve Clifford do what he’s long attempted to do: Operate out of the high post via a skilled big man. In addition to being one of the best passing bigs in this class, Carter is an excellent rebounder, a capable post scorer, an improving shooter, and a respectable shot-blocker.
I understand the Hornets have a crowded situation at center, but you don’t pass on a potential All-Star just because you have quality role players.
Age: 19 (1/4/1999)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’2″, 190 pounds, 6’7″
Slash Line: .447/.336/.778
Season Averages: 29.9 MPG, 19.2 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 3.6 APG, 0.8 SPG, 1.3 3PM
The odds of Collin Sexton slipping to No. 12 are admittedly slim, as the phone lines will be ringing for teams that may be interested in trading back. In this scenario, however, the Los Angeles Clippers have an opportunity to find a legitimate franchise point guard.
Patrick Beverley and Milos Teodosic are high-quality point guard themselves, but Sexton has the elusive star potential that every general manager should at least consider tapping into.
Sexton is a gamer in every sense of the word. From the way he put Alabama on his back during the 2018 SEC Tournament to how hard he played in a literal 4-on-5 setting, he’s firmly established that he isn’t afraid of the moment.
Throw in the fact that he’s built with a strong frame, a long wingspan, and explosive athleticism, and Sexton has the tools to be a force in the NBA.
Some have compared Sexton to Eric Bledsoe due to his downhill style of play and athleticism. It’s certainly fair, as Sexton is a well-rounded player with defensive potential and the ability to create for others when his shot isn’t falling.
Los Angeles isn’t afraid to utilize multiple point guards at a time, and a Sexton plus whomever backcourt could work for it.
Age: 20 (10/17/1997)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’9″, 241 pounds, 7’5.5″
Slash Line: .632/.000/.471
Season Averages: 25.6 MPG, 10.4 PPG, 9.2 RPG, 2.4 ORPG, 1.4 APG, 2.6 BPG, 0.8 SPG
With DeAndre Jordan headed to free agency, the Los Angeles Clippers may need to find a new franchise center. It’s a task that Jerry West won’t take lightly, as he understands just how important establishing a high-low balance can be.
It’s fitting that the best center on the board just so happens to have an NBA comparison of Jordan—and, even more fittingly, a shared alma mater: Robert Williams.
Williams is an explosive athlete who can switch on the pick and roll, dominate the paint as a shot-blocker, and control the defensive glass. He finished the 2017-18 season ranked No. 23 in the country in block percentage and No. 26 in defensive rebound percentage
If nothing else, Williams can fill Jordan’s void as a shot-blocking menace who can rebound at a borderline elite level and thrive in the pick and roll.
With Sexton at point guard and Williams at center, the Clippers would have the foundation for that pick and roll game. They’d have a penetrating point guard who can score in a variety of ways and set the table for his bigs, and an athletic big man who has a legitimate midrange game.
Williams is also an option for the New York Knicks, but in this scenario, he ends up with a Clippers team that would know exactly how to use him.
Age: 18 (8/11/1999)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’9″, 215 pounds, 7’0″
Slash Line: .445/.341/.774
Season Averages: 32.4 MPG, 15.6 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 1.4 APG, 0.8 SPG, 1.5 3PM
The Denver Nuggets have a promising backcourt tandem in Jamal Murray and Gary Harris, and a pair of All-Star level players in Paul Millsap and Nikola Jokic. That leaves a void at small forward and a long-term responsibility of finding Millsap’s heir apparent.
Thankfully for the Nuggets, there’s a player who’s equipped to fill both roles for head coach Michael Malone: Kentucky Wildcats star Kevin Knox.
Knox has the build to be a power forward in the NBA, as well as the athleticism to play the 3. His skill set is that of a tweener, but he can shoot with reasonable efficiency and attack a closeout when an overzealous defender tries their hand at contesting his attempt.
Knox is also a capable finisher in the paint, with the power to score at the rim and the skill level to pull up for a floater or a short-range J.
Defensively, Knox displayed the ability to defend both forward positions at a solid level. There’s untapped potential, but the beauty of the system that the Nuggets have built is that it can enable any legitimate NBA player to find a role.
Knox has star potential that many New York Knicks fans would like to explore, but in this scenario, it’s the Nuggets that have a chance to explore his ceiling.
Age: 19 (3/21/1998)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’6″, 225 pounds, 6’9″
Slash Line: .463/.369/.883
Season Averages: 31.2 MPG, 16.9 PPG, 6.9 RPG, 2.8 APG, 0.8 BPG, 0.7 SPG, 2.0 3PM
The Phoenix Suns should package the No. 15 and No. 16 overall selections, and trade into the top-10. With Deandre Ayton and Devin Booker already on the roster, the Suns could find a legitimate third star in that scenario.
In the event that the Suns keep the No. 15 and No. 16 overall selections, however, there would be no excuse for not selecting the best player available.
I seriously considered Miles Bridges to the New York Knicks, but ultimately decided against it. Bridges was an option at every pick that followed, but he ultimately lands with a Suns team that simply needs talent—and can’t be especially picky beyond the 2 and 5-spots.
T.J. Warren has established himself as a high-quality scorer at small forward, but Bridges has the two-way potential that Phoenix needs.
While Warren is a penetrating scorer, Bridges is a more well-rounded contributor who can space the floor or attack in isolation. He’s also an athletic finisher and a versatile defender, which are two traits that Phoenix should be champing at the bit to acquire.
There may be other options here, but athleticism, defense, and shooting along the wings should be top priorities for the Suns at the 2018 NBA Draft.
Age: 21 (9/30/1996)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’1″, 185 pounds, 6’6″
Slash Line: .461/.429/.828
Season Averages: 37.7 MPG, 20.3 PPG, 5.8 APG, 3.7 RPG, 1.3 SPG, 2.7 3PM
If the Phoenix Suns end up with the No. 15 and No. 16 overall selections, there would be no excuse for not trading up for another top-10 draft pick. That package alone should at least bring a team in the top 10 of the 2018 NBA Draft to the table.
With trades excluded from this mock draft, however, the Suns acknowledge the need to create stability at a position of continued uncertainty.
Elfrid Payton may be playing well, but the Suns can’t base the future on what’s been a 19-game tenure. Even if Payton does excel, doing the necessary homework on Aaron Holiday and adding him to the roster would be a wise decision.
Holiday has legitimate two-way potential and an outstanding three-point shot, which creates the potential for value both on the court and in a potential trade if Payton wins the starter’s job.
Holiday shot at least 41.1 percent from beyond the arc in each of his three seasons at UCLA. He developed into a quality facilitator in 2017-18, as well as an improved finisher at the rim and an adequate defender who better utilized his 6’6″ wingspan as a junior.
With Dragan Bender and Marquese Chriss competing for minutes at the 4, the Suns’ third first-round draft pick should be focused on the position they don’t address at No. 15.
Age: 20 (4/1/1998)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’11”, 223 pounds, 7’4″
Slash Line: N/A
Season Averages: N/A
If the Washington Wizards are going to make the most of the 2018 NBA Draft, then the top priority must be finding a player with upside worth investing in. There are perimeter players who possess it, but John Wall, Bradley Beal, and Otto Porter Jr. are locked in as franchise cornerstones.
Mitchell Robinson is a mercurial figure due to the fact that he went all of 2017-18 without playing competitive basketball, but his upside is that of an All-Star center.
Had Robinson played in 2017-18, he’d likely be viewed as a lottery lock and a potential top-10 draft pick. He’s a physically overwhelming player with a massive 7’4″ wingspan and a more than adequate combination of mobility and explosiveness.
Robinson was one of the most dominant rebounders in the country as a high school basketball star, and should translate that ability to the NBA.
The rest of his game is certainly worth questioning, but Washington shouldn’t run away from a project here. Wall, Beal, and Porter need immediate help, but they’re also relatively young players signed to long-term contracts.
Robinson has the tools to be an elite rebounder, a true rim protector, and a force on the offensive end of the floor. He’s the perfect fit in Washington.
Age: 19 (6/11/1998)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’11”, 250 pounds, 7’1.5″
Slash Line: .545/.333/.725
Season Averages: 28.8 MPG, 16.9 PPG, 10.3 RPG, 3.1 ORPG, 1.8 BPG
The Chicago Bulls found an absolute steal of a selection at No. 8 overall with Villanova Wildcats star Mikal Bridges. It was a critical move for an organization that desperately needs to solidify its perimeter with a defensive-minded player.
While some might view this as a reach, the Bulls can address the second void on the roster by selecting a center with significant untapped potential: Brandon McCoy.
McCoy’s appeal at the NBA level is clear by simply watching him walk on to the court. He’s a massive individual with a powerful frame, plus athleticism, and adequate length to at least become a quality rim protector in the NBA.
Standing at just under 7’0″ with a near 7’2″ wingspan and a well-built 250-pound frame, McCoy has the tools to dominate a game down low.
In terms of his present-day abilities, McCoy isn’t ready to be the player that he’s capable of becoming. His ceiling is that of a low-post terror, however, as well as a dominant rebounder and an above-average shot-blocker who can even step out for the occasional jump shot.
There have been flashes of brilliance, but if the Bulls can help McCoy put it all together, he can become one of the better centers in the NBA.
Age: 19 (12/14/1998)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’4″, 192 pounds, 6’10.5″
Slash Line: .415/.346/.750
Season Averages: 27.4 MPG, 11.5 PPG, 2.6 RPG, 2.0 APG, 1.0 SPG, 1.7 3PM
In theory, the Atlanta Hawks could move forward with a starting perimeter of Dennis Schröder, Luka Doncic, and Taurean Prince. That trio should complement one another well as capable creators and shooters who at least have the tools for quality defense.
If the Hawks are going to make it out of the position they’re currently in, however, they must add talent to the roster—even if it means overlapping positions in the process.
Lonnie Walker IV has the rare combination of athleticism and skill that teams are hungry to find along the perimeter. He’s one of my top 15 players in this class due to those very traits, as he can both erupt from beyond the arc and take his man to the hole.
Once Walker gets into the paint, he can finish with explosiveness above the rim or launch a floater over the outstretched arms of a seven-footer.
For Atlanta, adding Walker to the backcourt would mean bringing in a vital element of explosiveness. He’d start out as a sixth man, but if it’s discovered that Doncic is a better option at point guard than another position, then Walker could become a starter at the 2.
Regardless of what transpires, one thought prevails: The Hawks need talent, and Walker has the tools to be a genuine star at the next level.
Age: 18 (5/8/1999)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’9″, 197 pounds, 6’8.5″
Slash Line (EuroCup): .475/.364/.756
Season Averages (EuroCup): 20.2 MPG, 10.5 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 0.9 APG, 0.7 SPG, 1.3 3PM
If Dzanan Musa were an American player, he’d likely be a lock to be one of the first 14 picks in the 2018 NBA Draft. He’s a 6’9″ wing with impressive athleticism, a quality outside shot, and potential versatility on the defensive end of the floor.
For the Utah Jazz, adding that type of player to the small forward position would be the type of move that could transform the team into a more viable contender.
Musa’s value in the modern NBA can be accurately displayed by the per 36 averages he accumulated at EuroCup—a rarity, but a truth. Those marks come out to 18.7 points, 5.7 rebounds, 1.6 assists, 1.2 steals, and 2.2 three-point field goals made per game.
Musa is a fearless three-point shooter, a quality rebounder for a wing, and productive all-around scorer who can bring the missing pieces to Utah’s offense.
Musa will require time to develop, but there may not be a better situation for him to enter than Utah. He can play off of two dynamic shot creators in facilitator Ricky Rubio and scorer Donovan Mitchell, and take chances defensively with Rudy Gobert behind him.
Musa may not be as polished as Joe Ingles, but he has a high ceiling and the type of shooting-plus-athleticism combination that teams love to see from a wing.
Age: 22 (1/23/1996)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’7″, 235 pounds, 7’2″
Slash Line: .480/.359/.794
Season Averages: 33.1 MPG, 19.8 PPG, 8.7 RPG, 1.5 ORPG, 1.6 APG, 1.6 BPG, 0.9 SPG, 1.8 3PM
The Minnesota Timberwolves are in a position where any selection made would be focused on the need for depth. The starting lineup is set in stone from both structural and financial perspectives, which makes the improvement of the second unit the top priority.
There are other options at this point of the 2018 NBA Draft, but Keita Bates-Diop could fill every role the Timberwolves need to be filled along the second unit.
Bates-Diop is a capable three-point shooter who can play without the ball in either a motion or ISO-based offense. He’s also a capable shot creator who can get past the first defender or play from the interior with a solid post game.
What’s most likely to define Bates-Diop’s NBA career on offense, however, is his combination of three-point shooting and passing ability.
Defensively, Bates-Diop has a massive 7’2″ wingspan and adequate athleticism that enables him to defend every position from 2 to 4. He’s also a productive rebounder who ranked a more than respectable No. 53 in the country in defensive rebound percentage—as a hybrid forward, no less.
Bates-Diop can play and defend every position from shooting guard to power forward, which should make him an appealing prospect to Tom Thibodeau.
Age: 21 (4/26/1996)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’7″, 196 pounds, 7’0″
Slash Line: .475/.359/.728
Season Averages: 31.0 MPG, 20.0 PPG, 7.7 RPG, 3.5 APG, 1.5 SPG, 1.5 3PM
The San Antonio Spurs appear to have found the point guard of the future in Dejounte Murray. That may be a bold claim, but based on individual performance and the advanced metrics, he’s already developed into one of the best defensive players in the NBA.
Thus, with the No. 22 overall selection in the 2018 NBA Draft, the Spurs should look to pair Murray with a shot creator who can hold his own on defense, as well.
Chandler Hutchison may not be coming from a major program, but he has all of the tools to be the Spurs’ next great success story. He’s a quality shooter who can work without the ball and get his shots off in tight coverage due to his 6’7″ size, 7’0″ wingspan, and high release.
Hutchison is far more than just a shooter, however, as he looks the part of one of the best all-around scorers in the 2018 NBA Draft.
Hutchison has a tight handle that enables him to drive the lane and get to the rim, where he can finish acrobatically or simply take it strong to the iron. He also has a lethal midrange game and the ability to post up smaller defenders.
Throw in Hutchison’s ability to create for his teammates and defend multiple positions, and he’s the type of prospect who could become an All-Star in San Antonio.
Age: 18 (7/28/1999)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’7″, 215 pounds, 6’8″
Slash Line: .444/.291/.743
Season Averages: 31.2 MPG, 11.3 PPG, 6.2 RPG, 3.2 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.9 3PM
Troy Brown has garnered comparisons to a number of NBA players, including Andre Iguodala and Evan Turner. He’s nowhere near as athletic as Iguodala, but he may also be a better defender and three-point shooter than Turner.
Regardless of which comparison you believe is more fair, what’s clear about Brown is that he has the skill level and versatility to make his mark in the NBA.
On the offensive end of the floor, Brown can create for his teammates as a legitimate point forward. He has excellent court vision for a wing and the passing ability to hit open players from angles that few are capable of seeing.
Brown is still a subpar shooter, but he’s made a concerted effort to improve in that regard—a promising sign that he can be a more modern version of Turner.
Defensively, Brown’s length is an asset that he utilizes to defend players at multiple positions. His effort is a plus, as well, which makes it possible for the Indiana Pacers to justify selecting Brown at No. 23 overall and starting him as soon as 2018-19.
Brown could also be in play for the New York Knicks if they fall further than their current placement in the 2018 NBA Draft, but he goes to a rival here.
Age: 18 (11/15/1999)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’10”, 240 pounds, 7’0″
Slash Line: .437/.364/.750
Season Averages: 24.5 MPG, 9.9 PPG, 6.8 RPG, 2.2 APG, 1.7 BPG, 0.8 SPG, 1.2 3PM
The Philadelphia 76ers have overloaded the roster with young talent. That isn’t necessarily a bad thing from a team-building perspective, but personnel development becomes an unenviable task when players aren’t provided with a platform to develop in in-game settings.
For the 76ers, that means utilizing the second of two first-round draft picks on a player who actually fits a need: Missouri Tigers center Jontay Porter.
Porter is a slight reach here, but he’s a shot-blocking big who can shoot the three-ball at a respectable level and pass from the high post. It’s a growing combination of skills, but it remains rare amongst established NBA players—namely those who work the second unit.
With Joel Embiid in need of a quality backup who can fill in on the off chance that he misses time, Porter could be an ideal fit in Philadelphia,
Porter ranked in the top 100 in both block percentage and defensive rebound percentage in 2017-18. He also converted an average of 1.2 three-point field goals per game while shooting an efficient 36.4 percent from distance.
If the 76ers are going to legitimize the defense, then adding a developable young talent on a cost-controlled contract would be a wise decision.
Age: 21 (5/8/1996)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’3″, 210 pounds, 6’10”
Slash Line: .538/.411/.788
Season Averages: 31.7 MPG, 15.1 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 2.8 APG, 1.7 SPG, 1.9 3PM
The Los Angeles Lakers have a number of quality players to develop for the next decade-plus. That young core is built around point guard Lonzo Ball, small forward Brandon Ingram, and big men Kyle Kuzma and Julius Randle.
Josh Hart has significant upside at shooting guard, but it can’t hurt the Lakers to add depth to the position in the form of Creighton Bluejays star Khyri Thomas.
Thomas is somewhat undersized at 6’3″, but with a 6’10” wingspan and a strong frame, he can defend multiple positions. He can play the passing lanes, but what makes him truly intriguing is the manner in which he hounds ball-handlers.
When Thomas is locked in on defense, he has the rare combination of length, athleticism, hand activity, and instincts to lock opponents down.
Offensively, Thomas is an efficient three-point shooter who can comfortably work without the ball. When he has the ball in his hands, Thomas is capable of thriving as a distributor or finishing at the rim with some measure of efficiency.
Thomas has an upside comparison of Houston Rockets standout Eric Gordon. That should say quite a bit about what he can bring to the Lakers.
Age: 21 (8/30/1996)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’6″, 200 pounds, 7’2″
Slash Line: .556/.385/.712
Season Averages: 34.4 MPG, 15.9 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 2.9 APG, 2.1 SPG, 0.7 BPG, 1.2 3PM
The Portland Trail Blazers are one of the best non-contenders in the NBA. In order to shed the qualifying label, then the Trail Blazers will need to legitimize the perimeter with a versatile defender who can work without the ball.
The player who’s best suited to fill that role for the Trail Blazers is Tulane Green Wave small forward and rapidly rising NBA Draft prospect Melvin Frazier.
Frazier is widely regarded as one of the best on-ball defenders in the 2018 NBA Draft. He has a combination of length, strength, and athleticism that every scout looks for, as well as the knowledge of how to play the angles.
Playing alongside Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum, Frazier could thrive in that defensive role and provide Terry Stotts with the elusive presence he needs.
Offensively, Frazier is capable of handling the ball as a point forward or working without it as a three-point shooter. He’s also one of the best ball-hawks in the country, which makes it possible for him to get out and make plays in transition.
For a Portland team that ranks dead last in the NBA in points off of turnovers per game, Frazier could go a long way towards changing the team’s identity for the better.
Age: 19 (6/19/1998)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’11.75″, 248 pounds, 7’1″
Slash Line: .576/.512/.613
Season Averages: 24.1 MPG, 13.8 PPG, 6.9 RPG, 2.8 ORPG, 1.9 BPG, 0.7 3PM
The Boston Celtics have a surplus of quality players who can play and defend multiple positions. That includes an overwhelming number of forwards who will be fighting for playing time as soon as the 2018-19 NBA regular season.
The area in which the Celtics could potentially struggle, however, is at center—a position at which Omer Yurtseven could be the answer.
Yurtseven is a 7’0″ center with an effective outside shot, a presence on the offensive glass, and value on defense. He’s still raw, but the progress that he made between his freshman and sophomore seasons should intrigue head coach Brad Stevens.
Boston prefers to have skilled players instead of pure defensive value, and Yurtseven has the potential to bridge the gap between the two.
Yurtseven can play from the post and finish over either shoulder, which should be an early advantage. He’s also a skilled and highly efficient three-point shooter, as well as a potential shot-blocking intimidator along the interior.
Yurtseven is still something of a project, but the Celtics are certainly in a position to take on that type of player at a position of need.
Age: 19 (7/31/1998)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’5″, 198 pounds, 7’0″
Slash Line: .428/.338/.616
Season Averages: 24.8 MPG, 10.0 PPG, 3.6 RPG, 1.2 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.7 3PM
The Brooklyn Nets may have talent at multiple positions, but there’s nothing that the organization needs more than talent. Thus, while some might question if it would be worth selecting a shooting guard at No. 29 overall, Hamidou Diallo has legitimate star potential.
Brooklyn has a number of quality players to develop, but adding competition is the only way for it to escape the predicament it’s found itself in.
Diallo is a supreme athlete with prototypical size for a shooting guard at 6’5″ and a massive 7’0″ wingspan. That should enable him to become a high-quality defender at the next level, which head coach Kenny Atkinson will push him to become.
Offensively, Diallo is fundamentally raw, but has the type of natural talent that should make him a lottery pick by the end of the NBA Draft process.
In the event that his current draft stock remains what it currently is, however, Brooklyn shouldn’t hesitate to select Diallo. He has the raw potential to become one of the best scorers to emerge from this draft class, as well as an off-ball threat once his shooting range is legitimized.
There’s more untapped potential than anything else, but the Nets have no better option than to explore what type of player Diallo could become.
Age: 18 (6/8/1999)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’4″, 181 pounds, 6’7″
Slash Line: N/A
Season Averages: N/A
The Golden State Warriors are more of a community of basketball minds than a team. The players are forward thinkers, the coaches qualify as the same, and the front office always seems to be a step ahead of the rest of the NBA.
Thus, if any team would be willing to take on the challenge of exploring Anfernee Simons’ untapped potential, it would be the Warriors.
Simons is attempting to make the direct transition from high school to the NBA. It’s a daunting task for a perimeter player, especially when they’re both undersized and lacking the ideal measure of length for a shooting guard.
If any team and system can help Simons become the high-quality combo guard that he’s flashed the potential of being, however, it’s the Warriors and Steve Kerr‘s beautiful offense.
With Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson as mentors, Simons will learn to buy in on the defensive end of the floor. Offensively, his range as a shooter and athletic finishing ability will be best utilized in a role that doesn’t task him with consistently creating in isolation.
Simons is believed to have All-Star potential, and it’s the Warriors that can help him develop into a potential long-term answer at one of the two guard spots.
Age: 20 (4/26/1997)
Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’11”, 245 pounds, 7’0″
Slash Line: .528/.394/.694
Season Averages: 27.6 MPG, 14.6 PPG, 7.1 RPG, 1.0 SPG, 1.6 3PM
The Atlanta Hawks selected perimeter players with each of their first two selections in the 2018 NBA Draft. With Luka Doncic thriving as a playmaker and Lonnie Walker IV flashing potential as an explosive scoring threat, the Hawks must now look to the interior.
Moritz Wagner may not be the perfect player for Atlanta, but he’s a skilled big man with a strong work ethic and a motor that should at least make him a high-quality backup.
Wagner is a workhorse who has garnered comparisons to New York Knicks center Enes Kanter in that capacity. Wagner isn’t quite as productive of a rebounder as Kanter, but it’s worth noting that he ranked No. 46 in the country in defensive rebound percentage.
That could be appealing to the Hawks, but what makes him a truly enticing player is the versatile nature in which he can score.
Wagner is an efficient three-point shooter who shoots at a high volume and has no trouble converting with a hand in his face. That alone will appeal to Mike Budenholzer, who appreciates the versatility of a big man who can shoot and go to the post.
One could argue that there are prospects with higher ceilings than Wagner, but he has the skill level and toughness to be a legitimate NBA player.
Must Read: The foundation has already been laid
If the 2018 NBA Draft plays out in this manner, then the New York Knicks would walk away as one of the true winners of the event.