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

Age: 20
Height, Weight: 6-foot-8, 228 pounds
Slash Line: .522/.423/.663
Season Averages: 15.2 PPG, 7.6 RPG, 1.8 APG, 0.9 SPG, 1.2 BPG, 0.9 3PM

Usually lingering in the background to pluck less regarded prospects and turn them into perennial All-Stars, the San Antonio Spurs have two first-round picks in the 2019 NBA Draft. They are one of the main players here, with the potential to shake up the first 30 picks via creativity.

Most of the core, except Rudy Gay, is contracted to return. Trades can happen, but the Spurs have the chance to add more young talent to a group that went seven games in the first round and played above expectations yet again.

PJ Washington was Kentucky’s standout player as a sophomore. His length and NBA body worked the post in school, resulting in 15.2 points and 7.6 rebounds. Some ability was shown in shot blocking, as well, with 1.2 swats per contest en route to a solid run in the NCAA Tournament.

Questionable athleticism to keep up with NBA players of his size might keep Washington from long-term success. The Spurs know how to mask players’ limitations, though, so they could carve a specific role for their first draft pick or let him develop in the G League, like the past three first-round picks. That could benefit him if the roster stays intact.

If anything causes Washington to slide down the first round, and the New York Knicks trade up, maybe there is a match. That seems unlikely, but crazier events have happened.