One of the 2019 NBA Draft’s most fascinating players, Rui Hachimura projects to go third in this mock. He’s a forward from Gonzaga that does not fit a specific position, but in the modern-day League, that’s not a concern anymore.
Hachimura has ascended in a much-anticipated leading role for the Bulldogs. This is their top scorer who’s still developing as a 6-foot-8 force. His outside game is a work in progress, but the junior shoots 60.1 percent.
As Hachimura grows, this may become the ultimate wing prospect, if his development trends towards that than an under-the-rim player. He already owns a 7-foot-2 wingspan, but that could make him a versatile athlete all over the court.
The Cleveland Cavaliers need almost everything. They have Collin Sexton at point guard, but few future faces beyond him that don’t make eight figures per season.
Hachimura can plug into the middle of this lineup. It’s an interesting counter to Larry Nance and Tristan Thompson who profile below the rim, but the Japanese sensation’s game also lies inside the arc. Could one of those players move out for him?
If not, Cameron Reddish makes sense as a wing to enter the fray, but Hachimura’s current play and upside offers more intrigue here.