2021 NBA Draft: Mock 1.0, Knicks bolster the backcourt
By Toby Jaffe
NBA Draft Mock 1.0: Jared Butler falls to LA
25. Los Angeles Lakers, Jared Butler, G, Baylor
LeBron has been known to lobby his front offices for National Champion stars before. In this case, the Lakers would land a very solid, sharp shooting role player in Butler on day one. This is a guy who will be ready to contribute for a championship contender immediately and, much like during this year’s NCAA tournament, will not be afraid of the playoff or finals spotlight.
26. Los Angeles Clippers, Alperen Sengun, C, Turkey
Sengun put up impressive stats in the Turkish Super League this season, averaging 19 points and 9.4 rebounds a game on 63 percent shooting from the floor and 81 percent from the line. Sengun moves well for his size and can make baskets in the post or off the dribble. His offensive game is a bit like prime Serge Ibaka’s, but Sengun will need to learn to stretch out and hit three pointers, an aspect of his game which is currently missing.
27. Brooklyn Nets, Joel Ayayi, SG, Gonzaga
Joel Ayayi is the ideal prospect to add to the Nets super-team mix. In fact, his role on a team like the Nets would be similar to that of what he did for Gonzaga this year: knock down open jumpers, run some secondary point, and defend the permitter. Ayayi is also a good rebounder willing to get his hands dirty, a trait he shares with former teammate Jalen Suggs.