NBA Mock Draft leading up to the Knicks selecting 8th overall

Killian Hayes, 2020 NBA Draft prospect. (Photo by Harry Langer/DeFodi Images via Getty Images)
Killian Hayes, 2020 NBA Draft prospect. (Photo by Harry Langer/DeFodi Images via Getty Images)
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ATHENS, GA – FEBRUARY 19: Anthony Edwards #5 of the Georgia Bulldogs looks on during a game against the Auburn Tigers at Stegeman Coliseum on February 19, 2020 in Athens, Georgia. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)

1. Minnesota Timberwolves: Anthony Edwards, G, Georgia

With D’Angelo Russell already taking the reigns as the lead guard of the future in Minnesota, off-ball guard Anthony Edwards makes the most sense as the number one pick for the T-Wolves.

Edwards doesn’t only fit a positional need, he is also considered one of the best prospects in a relatively weak draft class. Putting Edwards alongside Russell and Karl-Anthony Towns gives the Wolves a dynamic trio who can score the basketball in a variety of ways.

Perhaps no young player in the draft can put the ball in the hoop as consistently as Edwards. The Georgia product averaged 19.1 points per game in his freshman season, while still trying to find his three-point shot (29.4% on 7.7 attempts/game).

The key with Edwards is that he can score from all levels of the court. His size (6-foot-5) and strength, buoyed by a 225-pound frame, at only 18-years-of-age allows him to attack the rim using his athleticism, while also showing off a soft touch on pull-up jumpers.

Eventually, he will need to improve his perimeter shot, but there is enough there to convince Minnesota that he his the best fit for their young roster.