2019 NBA Mock Draft: Full lottery impact on the first round

CHICAGO, IL - MAY 14: Deputy Commissioner of the NBA, Mark Tatum takes the stage at the 2019 NBA Draft Lottery on May 14, 2019 at the Chicago Hilton in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2019 NBAE (Photo by Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images) /

17 of 31

Stanford KZ Okpala (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) /

KZ Okpala. 17. player. 147. . SF. Stanford

Age: 19
Height, Weight: 6-foot-9, 215 pounds
Slash Line: .465/.375/.671
Season Averages: 16.9 PPG, 5.7 RPG, 2.0 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.5 BPG, 1.1 3PM

After a playoff series loss to the Philadelphia 76ers, the Brooklyn Nets must regroup in an important offseason. With outgoing players, some cap space and decisions to make, an underdog unit could have a different look and higher expectations.

Part of it revolves around D’Angelo Russell‘s stats. If the Nets re-sign him, it will constrict their cap space; but there is young talent in place, including Caris LeVert, Jarrett Allen and Spencer Dinwiddie.

Pieces are in place to build around, and Stanford’s KZ Okpala is an interesting fit in a group that could use wings to upgrade the middle of their lineup.

Okpala’s intrigue comes from his combination of height and wingspan, projecting him as a good defender at the next level. The outside shot is inconsistent, but with development he can become a 10 to 15-point scorer down the road.

Filling out that frame is something to watch with Okpala, as well. While Keldon Johnson can pass for that weight, he is three inches shorter. Standing 6-foot-9, Okpala will need the necessary muscle to battle stronger players on the wing and grab rebounds. Without it, he could struggle. That leaves the potential to fall down the draft boards, too.

Home/Knicks Draft