Here is the final edition of my 2019 NHL Mock Draft.
1. New Jersey Devils- Jack Hughes, Center, USNDT: Hughes is somebody people have been talking about since last year in terms of young up and coming impact draft prospects. He's going to come in and have an immediate impact on a team that needs young assets to go with Taylor Hall and former number one overall pick Nico Hischier.
2. New York Rangers- Kaapo Kakko, Right Wing, Liija (TPS): The Rangers have to be thrilled for making this big of a jump in the lottery. Kakko is somebody that will jumpstart this rebuild as he broke a ton of scoring records in Liija. He will also make an immediate impact and would be yet another prospect to add to a suddenly loaded prospect group featuring Vitaly Kravstov and K'Andre Miller.
3. Chicago Blackhawks- Alex Turcotte, Center, USNDT: Turcotte is somebody that is very a dynamic two-way center that's stock is rising. He played in the Under-18 World Championship and absolutely thrived to the point where he's the consensus choice here to go third and he's drawn comparisons to Jonathan Toews.
4. Colorado Avalanche (from Ottawa Senators)- Kirby Dach, Center, Saskatoon (WHL): Dach is one of the fastest risers with a week to go before the draft since he is the most NHL-ready player in the draft other than Hughes and Kakko, so the Avalanche could be getting a great player here. He excels on offense with his instincts and his vision.
5. Los Angeles Kings- Bowen Bryam, Defenseman, Vancouver (WHL): The Kings have options with this pick as they could trade the pick, take a forward, or go defense like I have here. Bryam is the best defenseman in the draft and the Kings need more young defenseman as Drew Doughty is aging.
6. Detroit Red Wings- Vasili Podkolzin, Right Wing, St. Petersburg (KHL): Podkolzin is someone that was outstanding in the World Junior, but wasn't putting up stats offensively in Russia. I can see Podkolzin slipping further than this due to contract concerns with the KHL, but at the same time due to his upside, I can see him being picked in the top three.
7. Buffalo Sabres- Dylan Cozens, Center, Lethbridge (WHL): Cozens is somebody I'm very high on and I feel has a ton of potential. He's very dynamic and would give the Sabres a great number two center behind Jack Eichel down the road.
8. Edmonton Oilers- Trevor Zegras, Center/Wing, USNDT: Zegras is somebody who's stock is rising because of his versatility and has smart vision. He's a good two-way player too and he would be someone the Oilers would move around in their lineup because of his versatility.
9. Anaheim Ducks- Matthew Bodly, Right Wing, USNDT: Bodly is yet another USNDT player taken in the lottery. He has a ton of size and score the puck from both sides of the wing and is someone the Ducks would take a chance on.
10. Vancouver Canucks- Cole Caufield, Center/Wing, USNDT: The Canucks could go in a bunch of different directions here. Caufield is someone who's draft stock is rising due to his versatility he provides and he could pan out into a top six forward.
11. Philadelphia Flyers- Peyton Kerbs, Left Wing, Kootenay (WHL): Kerbs is somebody that is a dynamic offensive force like some of the other wingers in the top of the draft. He's fast and has a good hockey IQ which the Flyers would like.
12. Minnesota Wild- Alex Newhook, Center, Victoria (BCHL): Newhook is somebody that has been up and down draft boards of late and it wouldn't surprise me if he was a lottery pick or if he almost fell out of the first round. He is a big offensive force and he has blazing speed.
13. Florida Panthers- Spencer Knight, Goalie, USNDT: There hasn't been a goalie with the fire and intensity like Knight drafted this high in a long time. Roberto Luongo's future is uncertain and even if they do sign Sergei Brovovsky, Knight is someone that would be a good long term solution.
14. Arizona Coyotes- Arthur Kaliev, Left Wing, Hamilton (OHL): Kaliev is somebody that can flag out score. Some people have concerns with his skating ability and his two-way game, or else he would be in the conversation for a top ten or even a top five pick.
15. Montreal Canadiens- Philip Brodberg, Defenseman, AIK (SWE): The Canadiens could go a number of directions with this pick. Brodberg is someone that is a good offensive defenseman that has good vision as well as controls the game well in all zones.
16. Colorado Avalanche- Victor Sodestrom, Defenseman, Brynas (Superelite): The Avalanche go defense here as they take Sodestrom to add youth to a defense that already has talent. He's someone that is a smart player that could be great offensively and is reliable defensively.
17. Vegas Golden Knights- Moritz Seider, Defenseman, Adler (SEL): The Golden Knight have options with this pick and they take the defenseman knowing that they'll possibly trade one of their D-men. Seider is somebody that is a great-two way defenseman and is a force to be reckoned with.
18. Dallas Stars- Ryan Suzuki, Center, Barrie (OHL): The younger brother of former Knights first rounder Kurt, Ryan may end up being the better prospect. He's a great skater and has good vision for the game as well as great playmaking skills.
19. Ottawa Senators (from Columbus Blue Jackets)- Raphael Lavoie, Center/Wing, Halifax (OHL): Lavoie is someone who's draft stock is rising that could be a immediate contributor for the Senators. He is a physical player, but also someone with speed and can wire a heavy shot.
20. Winnipeg Jets- Thomas Hardley, Defenseman, Mississauga (OHL): Hardley is somebody that is an excellent two-way defenseman and is a steal with this pick. He is somebody the Senators can have on their top pair down the road.
21. Pittsburgh Penguins- Cam York, Defenseman, USNDT: The USNDT dominance continues as the Penguins take York. He's somebody that could be a top four D-man on someone's roster and he is someone that has lottery talent and if he pans out, the Pens found themselves a player.
22. Los Angeles Kings (from Toronto Maple Leafs)- Phil Thomasino, Center/Wing, Niagara (OHL): Thomasino is somebody that is versatile and has a knack of making plays with a ton of speed. That's something that a rebuilding team like the Kings could use.
23. New York Islanders- Matthew Robertson, Defenseman, Edmonton (OHL): Robertson is somebody that provided very good two-way play this past season. He seems like somebody Lou Lamoriello and the Islanders would take a chance on.
24. Nashville Predators- Samuel Poulin, Left Wing, Sherbrooke (QMJHL): Poulin is someone who's stock is falling to the point where he could drop into the second round. His size, combined with above average puck handling, shooting, and play-making skills makes him an attractive ‘power forward’ NHL prospect.
25. Washington Capitals- Egor Afanasyev, Left Wing, Meskegon (USHL): Afanasyev is a burgeoning power forward with a hard, heavy shot he's able to get off from anywhere in the offensive zone. He could add strength and skill to an already lethal power play.
26. Calgary Flames- Connor McMichael, Center, London (OHL): McMichael is somebody that is very crafty and a type of player that the Flames add to a team that had the top seed in the west this past season. He's also great at finishing and he stood out among a London Knights team that's loaded with scorers.
27. Tampa Bay Lightning- Ville Heinola, Defenseman, Lukko (SM-Liiga): Heinola is somebody that is very good at attacking and making odd-man situations. His moves make people remind him of Rasmus Dahlin.
28. Carolina Hurricanes- Tobias Bjornfot, Defenseman, Djurgarden (Superelit): Bjornfot is one of the faster risers with about a month to go until the draft. He's a fluid skater with escapability who can log big minutes. His quick release on his wrister helps create rebounds of seemingly harmless attempts.
29. Anaheim Ducks (from San Jose Sharks via Buffalo Sabres)- Lassi Thomson, Defenseman, Kelowna (WHL): The Ducks go defense with their second first rounder with Thomson. He's someone that has the upside of being a top four pairing and is a good skater, but needs help on his defensive game.
30. Boston Bruins- Brett Leason, Center/Wing, Prince Albert (WHL): Leason is somebody rare in the sense he was undrafted last season and now projected to be a late first or second round pick and that says a lot on how much he has improved as a player. He can flat out score and has good size and plays a power game.
31. Buffalo Sabres (from St. Louis Blues)- Jakob Pelletier, Center/Wing, Moncoton (QMJHL): The Sabres take a versatile forward here with their first rounder. Pelletier is somebody that has great tenacity and skill as well as generating chances off the forecheck.
Friday, June 21, 2019
Thursday, June 20, 2019
2019 NHL Mock Draft: Seventh Edition
Here is the seventh edition of my 2019 NHL Mock Draft.
1. New Jersey Devils- Jack Hughes, Center, USNDT: Hughes is somebody people have been talking about since last year in terms of young up and coming impact draft prospects. He's going to come in and have an immediate impact on a team that needs young assets to go with Taylor Hall and former number one overall pick Nico Hischier.
2. New York Rangers- Kaapo Kakko, Right Wing, Liija (TPS): The Rangers have to be thrilled for making this big of a jump in the lottery. Kakko is somebody that will jumpstart this rebuild as he broke a ton of scoring records in Liija. He will also make an immediate impact and would be yet another prospect to add to a suddenly loaded prospect group featuring Vitaly Kravstov and K'Andre Miller.
3. Chicago Blackhawks- Alex Turcotte, Center, USNDT: Turcotte is somebody that is very a dynamic two-way center that's stock is rising. He played in the Under-18 World Championship and absolutely thrived to the point where he's the consensus choice here to go third and he's drawn comparisons to Jonathan Toews.
4. Colorado Avalanche (from Ottawa Senators)- Kirby Dach, Center, Saskatoon (WHL): Dach is one of the fastest risers with a week to go before the draft since he is the most NHL-ready player in the draft other than Hughes and Kakko, so the Avalanche could be getting a great player here. He excels on offense with his instincts and his vision.
5. Los Angeles Kings- Bowen Bryam, Defenseman, Vancouver (WHL): The Kings have options with this pick as they could trade the pick, take a forward, or go defense like I have here. Bryam is the best defenseman in the draft and the Kings need more young defenseman as Drew Doughty is aging.
6. Detroit Red Wings- Vasili Podkolzin, Right Wing, St. Petersburg (KHL): Podkolzin is someone that was outstanding in the World Junior, but wasn't putting up stats offensively in Russia. I can see Podkolzin slipping further than this due to contract concerns with the KHL, but at the same time due to his upside, I can see him being picked in the top three.
7. Buffalo Sabres- Dylan Cozens, Center, Lethbridge (WHL): Cozens is somebody I'm very high on and I feel has a ton of potential. He's very dynamic and would give the Sabres a great number two center behind Jack Eichel down the road.
8. Edmonton Oilers- Cole Caufield, Center/Wing, USNDT: The Oilers could go in a bunch of different directions here. Caufield is someone who's draft stock is rising due to his versatility he provides and he could pan out into a top six forward.
9. Anaheim Ducks- Trevor Zegras, Center/Wing, USNDT: Zegras is somebody who's stock is rising because of his versatility and has smart vision. He's a good two-way player too and he would be someone the Ducks would move around in their lineup because of his versatility.
10. Vancouver Canucks- Matthew Bodly, Right Wing, USNDT: Bodly is yet another USNDT player taken in the lottery. He has a ton of size and score the puck from both sides of the wing and is someone the Canucks would take a chance on.
11. Philadelphia Flyers- Philip Brodberg, Defenseman, AIK (SWE): The Flyers could go a number of directions with this pick. Brodberg is someone that is a good offensive defenseman that has good vision as well as controls the game well in all zones.
12. Minnesota Wild- Peyton Kerbs, Left Wing, Kootenay (WHL): Kerbs is somebody that is a dynamic offensive force like some of the other wingers in the top of the draft. He's fast and has a good hockey IQ which the Wild would like.
13. Florida Panthers- Spencer Knight, Goalie, USNDT: There hasn't been a goalie with the fire and intensity like Knight drafted this high in a long time. Roberto Luongo's future is uncertain and even if they do sign Sergei Brovovsky, Knight is someone that would be a good long term solution.
14. Arizona Coyotes- Alex Newhook, Center, Victoria (BCHL): Newhook is somebody that has been up and down draft boards of late and it wouldn't surprise me if he was a lottery pick or if he almost fell out of the first round. He is a big offensive force and he has blazing speed.
15. Montreal Canadiens- Cam York, Defenseman, USNDT: The USNDT dominance continues as the Avalanche take York. He's somebody that could be a top four D-man on someone's roster and he is someone that has lottery talent and if he pans out, the Habs found themselves a player.
16. Colorado Avalanche- Arthur Kaliev, Left Wing, Hamilton (OHL): Kaliev is somebody that can flag out score. Some people have concerns with his skating ability and his two-way game, or else he would be in the conversation for a top ten or even a top five pick.
17. Vegas Golden Knights- Ryan Suzuki, Center, Barrie (OHL): The younger brother of former Knights first rounder Kurt, Ryan may end up being the better prospect. He's a great skater and has good vision for the game as well as great playmaking skills.
18. Dallas Stars- Raphael Lavoie, Center/Wing, Halifax (OHL): Lavoie is someone who's draft stock is rising that could be a immediate contributor for the Stars. He is a physical player, but also someone with speed and can wire a heavy shot.
19. Ottawa Senators (from Columbus Blue Jackets)- Thomas Hardley, Defenseman, Mississauga (OHL): Hardley is somebody that is an excellent two-way defenseman and is probably a steal with this pick. He is somebody the Senators can have on their top pair down the road with Thomas Chabot.
20. Winnipeg Jets- Victor Sodestrom, Defenseman, Brynas (Superelite): The Jets go defense here as they take Sodestrom to add youth to a defense that needs it after trading away Jacob Trouba. He's someone that is a smart player that could be great offensively and is reliable defensively.
21. Pittsburgh Penguins- Moritz Seider, Defenseman, Adler (SEL): The Penguins have options with this pick as they can either package it in a trade or stay put here at 21. Seider is somebody that is a great-two way defenseman and is a force to be reckoned with.
22. Los Angeles Kings (from Toronto Maple Leafs)- Bobby Brink, Right Wing, Sioux Falls (USHL): The Preds take the fast rising winger here, who can go higher than this. Brink isn't the fastest skater, but has good footwork and agility, allowing him to weave in and out of traffic and around defenders.
23. New York Islanders- Phil Thomasino, Center/Wing, Niagara (OHL): Thomasino is somebody that is versatile and has a knack of making plays with a ton of speed. That's something that a team like the Islanders would like.
24. Nashville Predators- Egor Afanasyev, Left Wing, Meskegon (USHL): Afanasyev is a burgeoning power forward with a hard, heavy shot he's able to get off from anywhere in the offensive zone. He could add strength and skill to a Nashville power play that was last in the League during the regular season and Stanley Cup Playoffs.
25. Washington Capitals- Samuel Poulin, Left Wing, Sherbrooke (QMJHL): Poulin is someone who's stock is falling to the point where he could drop into the second round. His size, combined with above average puck handling, shooting, and play-making skills makes him an attractive ‘power forward’ NHL prospect.
26. Calgary Flames- Brett Leason, Center/Wing, Prince Albert (WHL): Leason is somebody rare in the sense he was undrafted last season and now projected to be a late first or second round pick and that says a lot on how much he has improved as a player. He can flat out score and has good size and plays a power game.
27. Tampa Bay Lightning- Ville Heinola, Defenseman, Lukko (SM-Liiga): Heinola is somebody that is very good at attacking and making odd-man situations. His moves make people remind him of Rasmus Dahlin.
28. Carolina Hurricanes- Jakob Pelletier, Center/Wing, Moncoton (QMJHL): The Hurricanes take a versatile forward here with their first rounder. Pelletier is somebody that has great tenacity and skill as well as generating chances off the forecheck.
29. Anaheim Ducks (from San Jose Sharks via Buffalo Sabres)- Tobias Bjornfot, Defenseman, Djurgarden (Superelit): Bjornfot is one of the faster risers with about a month to go until the draft. He's a fluid skater with escapability who can log big minutes. His quick release on his wrister helps create rebounds of seemingly harmless attempts.
30. Boston Bruins- Lassi Thomson, Defenseman, Kelowna (WHL): The Bruins go defense with their first rounder with Thomson. He's someone that has the upside of being a top four pairing and is a good skater, but needs help on his defensive game.
31. Buffalo Sabres (from St. Louis Blues)- Connor McMichael, Center, London (OHL): McMichael is somebody that is very crafty and a type of player that the Sabrss add to what could be a contender sooner rather than later. He's also great at finishing and he stood out among a London Knights team that's loaded with scorers.
1. New Jersey Devils- Jack Hughes, Center, USNDT: Hughes is somebody people have been talking about since last year in terms of young up and coming impact draft prospects. He's going to come in and have an immediate impact on a team that needs young assets to go with Taylor Hall and former number one overall pick Nico Hischier.
2. New York Rangers- Kaapo Kakko, Right Wing, Liija (TPS): The Rangers have to be thrilled for making this big of a jump in the lottery. Kakko is somebody that will jumpstart this rebuild as he broke a ton of scoring records in Liija. He will also make an immediate impact and would be yet another prospect to add to a suddenly loaded prospect group featuring Vitaly Kravstov and K'Andre Miller.
3. Chicago Blackhawks- Alex Turcotte, Center, USNDT: Turcotte is somebody that is very a dynamic two-way center that's stock is rising. He played in the Under-18 World Championship and absolutely thrived to the point where he's the consensus choice here to go third and he's drawn comparisons to Jonathan Toews.
4. Colorado Avalanche (from Ottawa Senators)- Kirby Dach, Center, Saskatoon (WHL): Dach is one of the fastest risers with a week to go before the draft since he is the most NHL-ready player in the draft other than Hughes and Kakko, so the Avalanche could be getting a great player here. He excels on offense with his instincts and his vision.
5. Los Angeles Kings- Bowen Bryam, Defenseman, Vancouver (WHL): The Kings have options with this pick as they could trade the pick, take a forward, or go defense like I have here. Bryam is the best defenseman in the draft and the Kings need more young defenseman as Drew Doughty is aging.
6. Detroit Red Wings- Vasili Podkolzin, Right Wing, St. Petersburg (KHL): Podkolzin is someone that was outstanding in the World Junior, but wasn't putting up stats offensively in Russia. I can see Podkolzin slipping further than this due to contract concerns with the KHL, but at the same time due to his upside, I can see him being picked in the top three.
7. Buffalo Sabres- Dylan Cozens, Center, Lethbridge (WHL): Cozens is somebody I'm very high on and I feel has a ton of potential. He's very dynamic and would give the Sabres a great number two center behind Jack Eichel down the road.
8. Edmonton Oilers- Cole Caufield, Center/Wing, USNDT: The Oilers could go in a bunch of different directions here. Caufield is someone who's draft stock is rising due to his versatility he provides and he could pan out into a top six forward.
9. Anaheim Ducks- Trevor Zegras, Center/Wing, USNDT: Zegras is somebody who's stock is rising because of his versatility and has smart vision. He's a good two-way player too and he would be someone the Ducks would move around in their lineup because of his versatility.
10. Vancouver Canucks- Matthew Bodly, Right Wing, USNDT: Bodly is yet another USNDT player taken in the lottery. He has a ton of size and score the puck from both sides of the wing and is someone the Canucks would take a chance on.
11. Philadelphia Flyers- Philip Brodberg, Defenseman, AIK (SWE): The Flyers could go a number of directions with this pick. Brodberg is someone that is a good offensive defenseman that has good vision as well as controls the game well in all zones.
12. Minnesota Wild- Peyton Kerbs, Left Wing, Kootenay (WHL): Kerbs is somebody that is a dynamic offensive force like some of the other wingers in the top of the draft. He's fast and has a good hockey IQ which the Wild would like.
13. Florida Panthers- Spencer Knight, Goalie, USNDT: There hasn't been a goalie with the fire and intensity like Knight drafted this high in a long time. Roberto Luongo's future is uncertain and even if they do sign Sergei Brovovsky, Knight is someone that would be a good long term solution.
14. Arizona Coyotes- Alex Newhook, Center, Victoria (BCHL): Newhook is somebody that has been up and down draft boards of late and it wouldn't surprise me if he was a lottery pick or if he almost fell out of the first round. He is a big offensive force and he has blazing speed.
15. Montreal Canadiens- Cam York, Defenseman, USNDT: The USNDT dominance continues as the Avalanche take York. He's somebody that could be a top four D-man on someone's roster and he is someone that has lottery talent and if he pans out, the Habs found themselves a player.
16. Colorado Avalanche- Arthur Kaliev, Left Wing, Hamilton (OHL): Kaliev is somebody that can flag out score. Some people have concerns with his skating ability and his two-way game, or else he would be in the conversation for a top ten or even a top five pick.
17. Vegas Golden Knights- Ryan Suzuki, Center, Barrie (OHL): The younger brother of former Knights first rounder Kurt, Ryan may end up being the better prospect. He's a great skater and has good vision for the game as well as great playmaking skills.
18. Dallas Stars- Raphael Lavoie, Center/Wing, Halifax (OHL): Lavoie is someone who's draft stock is rising that could be a immediate contributor for the Stars. He is a physical player, but also someone with speed and can wire a heavy shot.
19. Ottawa Senators (from Columbus Blue Jackets)- Thomas Hardley, Defenseman, Mississauga (OHL): Hardley is somebody that is an excellent two-way defenseman and is probably a steal with this pick. He is somebody the Senators can have on their top pair down the road with Thomas Chabot.
20. Winnipeg Jets- Victor Sodestrom, Defenseman, Brynas (Superelite): The Jets go defense here as they take Sodestrom to add youth to a defense that needs it after trading away Jacob Trouba. He's someone that is a smart player that could be great offensively and is reliable defensively.
21. Pittsburgh Penguins- Moritz Seider, Defenseman, Adler (SEL): The Penguins have options with this pick as they can either package it in a trade or stay put here at 21. Seider is somebody that is a great-two way defenseman and is a force to be reckoned with.
22. Los Angeles Kings (from Toronto Maple Leafs)- Bobby Brink, Right Wing, Sioux Falls (USHL): The Preds take the fast rising winger here, who can go higher than this. Brink isn't the fastest skater, but has good footwork and agility, allowing him to weave in and out of traffic and around defenders.
23. New York Islanders- Phil Thomasino, Center/Wing, Niagara (OHL): Thomasino is somebody that is versatile and has a knack of making plays with a ton of speed. That's something that a team like the Islanders would like.
24. Nashville Predators- Egor Afanasyev, Left Wing, Meskegon (USHL): Afanasyev is a burgeoning power forward with a hard, heavy shot he's able to get off from anywhere in the offensive zone. He could add strength and skill to a Nashville power play that was last in the League during the regular season and Stanley Cup Playoffs.
25. Washington Capitals- Samuel Poulin, Left Wing, Sherbrooke (QMJHL): Poulin is someone who's stock is falling to the point where he could drop into the second round. His size, combined with above average puck handling, shooting, and play-making skills makes him an attractive ‘power forward’ NHL prospect.
26. Calgary Flames- Brett Leason, Center/Wing, Prince Albert (WHL): Leason is somebody rare in the sense he was undrafted last season and now projected to be a late first or second round pick and that says a lot on how much he has improved as a player. He can flat out score and has good size and plays a power game.
27. Tampa Bay Lightning- Ville Heinola, Defenseman, Lukko (SM-Liiga): Heinola is somebody that is very good at attacking and making odd-man situations. His moves make people remind him of Rasmus Dahlin.
28. Carolina Hurricanes- Jakob Pelletier, Center/Wing, Moncoton (QMJHL): The Hurricanes take a versatile forward here with their first rounder. Pelletier is somebody that has great tenacity and skill as well as generating chances off the forecheck.
29. Anaheim Ducks (from San Jose Sharks via Buffalo Sabres)- Tobias Bjornfot, Defenseman, Djurgarden (Superelit): Bjornfot is one of the faster risers with about a month to go until the draft. He's a fluid skater with escapability who can log big minutes. His quick release on his wrister helps create rebounds of seemingly harmless attempts.
30. Boston Bruins- Lassi Thomson, Defenseman, Kelowna (WHL): The Bruins go defense with their first rounder with Thomson. He's someone that has the upside of being a top four pairing and is a good skater, but needs help on his defensive game.
31. Buffalo Sabres (from St. Louis Blues)- Connor McMichael, Center, London (OHL): McMichael is somebody that is very crafty and a type of player that the Sabrss add to what could be a contender sooner rather than later. He's also great at finishing and he stood out among a London Knights team that's loaded with scorers.
2019 NBA Mock Draft: Final Edition
Here is my final edition of my 2019 NBA Mock Draft.
1. New Orleans Pelicans- Zion Williamson, Power Forward/Center, Duke: The Pelicans are massive winners here for landing the best prospect since LeBron James. Anthony Davis is now in Los Angeles and the Pelicans can now start fresh with Williamson on board and all the other assets they received from the Lakers.
2. Memphis Grizzlies- Ja Morant, Point Guard, Murray State: The Grizzlies are big winners here as they jump to two. Morant is someone that people are down on due to weaker competition, but he really showed that he can be the real deal. Assuming he is the selection, he'd be the perfect replacement for Mike Conley, who they can trade this offseason for more assets to build around.
3. New York Knicks- RJ Barrett, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, Duke: Barrett was the preseason top prospect before Zion broke onto the scenes and wowed everyone. He was overshadowed due to Zion's presence on the team, but he had his moments. There are hot rumors about the Pelicans jumping up to the second spot to pick Barrett ahead of the Knicks, but I don't see it.
4. New Orleans Pelicans (from Los Angeles Lakers)- De'Andre Hunter, Small Forward/Power Forward, Virginia: This pick is being heavily shopped to the point I think it is moved. Hunter is somebody that was excellent in Virginia's run to the title last season and his stock rose in light of it. I like Hunter and I believe he could surprise some folks as a rookie because of his fine two-way play.
5. Cleveland Cavaliers- Darius Garland, Point Guard, Vanderbilt: This would be an interesting selection in terms of the fact the Cavaliers really don't need a point guard. Garland is someone that barely played last season due to the fact he suffered a knee injury. A backcourt with him and Collin Sexton would be interesting.
6. Phoenix Suns- Jarrett Culver, Shooting Guard, Texas Tech: The Suns were one of the lottery losers as they drop from three to six. Culver is somebody that had a sensational sophomore season to become a projected top lottery pick. The Suns really need a point guard, but maybe they experiment Devin Booker and Culver as a prolific shooting backcourt.
7. Chicago Bulls- Coby White, Point Guard/Shooting Guard: North Carolina: The Bulls drop from four to seven which isn't ideal for them. This would be an interesting selection considering they already have Kris Dunn on their roster. White is someone who was great in his lone collegiate season and that's what got him to this position. He and Zach LaVine would be an interesting backcourt pairing.
8. Atlanta Hawks- Cam Reddish, Small Forward, Duke: Reddish, like RJ Barrett, is someone that was overshadowed on the Blue Devils squad because of Zion's presence. Reddish did not shoot the ball well at times throughout the season and he needs to develop that consistent shot in the pro's. If he does that, than the Hawks got themselves another building block to go with the rest of their young core.
9. Washington Wizards- Sekou Doumbouya, Small Forward/Shooting Guard, France: Doumbouya is somebody that showed a good jump shot and qualify defensive play too. The defensive side needs to be more proven once he is in the league full time. He's someone that will probably be a bench player for the Wizards that could see G-league time if he needs more development time.
10. Atlanta Hawks (from Dallas Mavericks)- Jaxson Hayes, Center, Texas: Hayes is someone who developed later on in his high school days and carried it over to college. He shot from a high percentage this past season and showed an ability to protect the rim. He would be an interesting fit next to John Collins in their front court.
11. Minnesota Timberwolves- Rui Hachimua, Small Forward, Gonzaga: Hachimura is someone that is super talented and really took his game a notch this past season. The buzz at the combine was that there is very little chance Hachimura slips out of the lottery, with Minnesota generally thought to be a soft landing spot for him.
12. Charlotte Hornets- Nassir Little, Small Forward, North Carolina: Little is somebody who had an uneven season with North Carolina to the point Coby White became the best freshman on the team. He showed flashes of good shooting and always has been a great athlete. He has lottery talent and if he lives up to capability, the Hornets got themselves a player.
13. Miami Heat- PJ Washington, Power Forward, Kentucky: The Heat have options, but the hot rumor right now is that they really like the talented big man. Washington is someone that has the talent of a lottery pick with his ability to stretch the floor.
14. Boston Celtics (from Sacramento Kings via Philadelphia 76ers)- Tyler Herro, Shooting Guard, Kentucky: Herro is somebody that is a very fast riser of late. He's someone that can flat out shoot the ball and the Celtics are a team that could use outside perimeter shooting. If they take Herro, it would not shock me if he ends up being a big contributor immediately.
15. Detroit Pistons- Goga Bitadze, Center, Serbia: There is a lot of buzz linking the international big and the Pistons. Bitadze, although there is skepticism because he played overseas, is a creative big man who is terrific in the midrange, crafty with the ball in his hands, and a strong force in the post.
16. Orlando Magic- Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Shooting Guard, Virginia Tech: Alexander-Walker had a great sophomore season for improve his draft stock. What makes him a hot commodity is that he can guard multiple positions and play on and off the ball. The Magic are a team that needs wing depth and Alexander-Walker can provide that.
17. Atlanta Hawks (from Brooklyn Nets)- Brandon Clarke, Power Forward, Gonzaga: The second Gonzaga player comes off the board with Clarke, who would fill a long term need position for the Timberwolves. He provides energy and great two way play and he is someone analytic nerds will love with his high PER this past college season.
18. Indiana Pacers- Kevin Porter Jr, Shooting Guard, USC: Porter is somebody that's a lottery talent that could very well drop into the twenties due to the injuries and suspension he had in college. If Porter lived up to the expectations he was given before college, the Pacers could be getting themselves a steal.
19. San Antonio Spurs- Nicolas Claxton, Power Forward/Center, Georgia: Claxton is one of the fastest risers as we sit here on draft day. He has great size and mobility and his versatility will be why he's picked possibly higher than this.
20. Boston Celtics (from Los Angeles Clippers)- Romeo Langford, Shooting Guard, Indiana: Langford is someone that dealt with a torn labrum this past season which probably held him back in college. He didn't shoot the ball well last season, but if that improves the Celtics or whomever found themselves a player.
21. Oklahoma City Thunder- Cameron Johnson, Small Forward, North Carolina: Johnson is someone that was a very steady player in college for the Tar Heels. He's someone that can defend pretty well and shoot the 3-ball well. I wouldn't be surprised if he goes higher than this or he goes in the second round.
22. Boston Celtics- Bol Bol, Center, Oregon: The Celtics take someone that is perhaps the biggest high ceiling/low floor prospect in the draft in Bol. He is somebody with lottery talents that has shown good rim protection and a solid three point shot for a seven-footer.
23. Memphis Grizzlies (from Utah Jazz)- Keldon Johnson, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, Kentucky: The Grizzlies are a team that can use some youth on the wing. Johnson is somebody that can come in and develop with a team that is notoriously known for developing well. He can shoot the three-ball well, but he needs to develop more defensively.
24. Philadelphia 76ers- Eric Paschall, Power Forward, Villanova: The Sixers settle on their city's talented big man in Paschall. His game is rugged and unflashy, and there’s some skepticism about his shooting translating to the NBA line, but he could be a good fit here.
25. Portland Trail Blazers- KZ Okpala, Small Forward, Stanford: Okpala is somebody who's stock is rising at the moment due to his length and wingspan. The Blazers could use some depth on the wing and Okpala could be a bench guy for them and provide valuable minutes.
26. Cleveland Cavaliers (from Houston Rockets)- Bruno Fernando, Center, Maryland: Fernando is somebody that has tantalizing upside that averaged a double-double this past season. He has an NBA ready body and could be a possible contributor for the Cavaliers.
27. Brooklyn Nets (from Denver Nuggets)- Mfiondu Kabengele, Power Forward/Center, Florida State: Kabengele is somebody who's stock has risen of late. The Nets are team that has a need for a versatile big and Kabengele is somebody that provides versatility and defends very well.
28. Golden State Warriors- Matisse Thybulle, Small Forward, Washington: Thybulle is somebody who was curiously left off the NBA combine list, but has the talent to be a first round pick. He's somebody that showed fine two-way play with solid three-point shooting and great defensive instincts.
29. San Antonio Spurs (from Toronto Raptors)- Luka Samanic, Power Forward, Olimpija: Samanic had a great showing at the combine and likely played his way into first-round territory, showcasing his offensive versatility and an improved physique that bodes well for the growth of his game. He’s ideal as a stretch-four with his skill level and size, and didn’t look bad moving his feet defensively, either.
30. Detroit Pistons (from Milwaukee Bucks)- Dylan Windler, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, Belmont: Windler is somebody that is very underrated coming into the draft. He's someone that can flat out score, shoot it from three, and space the floor well.
1. New Orleans Pelicans- Zion Williamson, Power Forward/Center, Duke: The Pelicans are massive winners here for landing the best prospect since LeBron James. Anthony Davis is now in Los Angeles and the Pelicans can now start fresh with Williamson on board and all the other assets they received from the Lakers.
2. Memphis Grizzlies- Ja Morant, Point Guard, Murray State: The Grizzlies are big winners here as they jump to two. Morant is someone that people are down on due to weaker competition, but he really showed that he can be the real deal. Assuming he is the selection, he'd be the perfect replacement for Mike Conley, who they can trade this offseason for more assets to build around.
3. New York Knicks- RJ Barrett, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, Duke: Barrett was the preseason top prospect before Zion broke onto the scenes and wowed everyone. He was overshadowed due to Zion's presence on the team, but he had his moments. There are hot rumors about the Pelicans jumping up to the second spot to pick Barrett ahead of the Knicks, but I don't see it.
4. New Orleans Pelicans (from Los Angeles Lakers)- De'Andre Hunter, Small Forward/Power Forward, Virginia: This pick is being heavily shopped to the point I think it is moved. Hunter is somebody that was excellent in Virginia's run to the title last season and his stock rose in light of it. I like Hunter and I believe he could surprise some folks as a rookie because of his fine two-way play.
5. Cleveland Cavaliers- Darius Garland, Point Guard, Vanderbilt: This would be an interesting selection in terms of the fact the Cavaliers really don't need a point guard. Garland is someone that barely played last season due to the fact he suffered a knee injury. A backcourt with him and Collin Sexton would be interesting.
6. Phoenix Suns- Jarrett Culver, Shooting Guard, Texas Tech: The Suns were one of the lottery losers as they drop from three to six. Culver is somebody that had a sensational sophomore season to become a projected top lottery pick. The Suns really need a point guard, but maybe they experiment Devin Booker and Culver as a prolific shooting backcourt.
7. Chicago Bulls- Coby White, Point Guard/Shooting Guard: North Carolina: The Bulls drop from four to seven which isn't ideal for them. This would be an interesting selection considering they already have Kris Dunn on their roster. White is someone who was great in his lone collegiate season and that's what got him to this position. He and Zach LaVine would be an interesting backcourt pairing.
8. Atlanta Hawks- Cam Reddish, Small Forward, Duke: Reddish, like RJ Barrett, is someone that was overshadowed on the Blue Devils squad because of Zion's presence. Reddish did not shoot the ball well at times throughout the season and he needs to develop that consistent shot in the pro's. If he does that, than the Hawks got themselves another building block to go with the rest of their young core.
9. Washington Wizards- Sekou Doumbouya, Small Forward/Shooting Guard, France: Doumbouya is somebody that showed a good jump shot and qualify defensive play too. The defensive side needs to be more proven once he is in the league full time. He's someone that will probably be a bench player for the Wizards that could see G-league time if he needs more development time.
10. Atlanta Hawks (from Dallas Mavericks)- Jaxson Hayes, Center, Texas: Hayes is someone who developed later on in his high school days and carried it over to college. He shot from a high percentage this past season and showed an ability to protect the rim. He would be an interesting fit next to John Collins in their front court.
11. Minnesota Timberwolves- Rui Hachimua, Small Forward, Gonzaga: Hachimura is someone that is super talented and really took his game a notch this past season. The buzz at the combine was that there is very little chance Hachimura slips out of the lottery, with Minnesota generally thought to be a soft landing spot for him.
12. Charlotte Hornets- Nassir Little, Small Forward, North Carolina: Little is somebody who had an uneven season with North Carolina to the point Coby White became the best freshman on the team. He showed flashes of good shooting and always has been a great athlete. He has lottery talent and if he lives up to capability, the Hornets got themselves a player.
13. Miami Heat- PJ Washington, Power Forward, Kentucky: The Heat have options, but the hot rumor right now is that they really like the talented big man. Washington is someone that has the talent of a lottery pick with his ability to stretch the floor.
14. Boston Celtics (from Sacramento Kings via Philadelphia 76ers)- Tyler Herro, Shooting Guard, Kentucky: Herro is somebody that is a very fast riser of late. He's someone that can flat out shoot the ball and the Celtics are a team that could use outside perimeter shooting. If they take Herro, it would not shock me if he ends up being a big contributor immediately.
15. Detroit Pistons- Goga Bitadze, Center, Serbia: There is a lot of buzz linking the international big and the Pistons. Bitadze, although there is skepticism because he played overseas, is a creative big man who is terrific in the midrange, crafty with the ball in his hands, and a strong force in the post.
16. Orlando Magic- Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Shooting Guard, Virginia Tech: Alexander-Walker had a great sophomore season for improve his draft stock. What makes him a hot commodity is that he can guard multiple positions and play on and off the ball. The Magic are a team that needs wing depth and Alexander-Walker can provide that.
17. Atlanta Hawks (from Brooklyn Nets)- Brandon Clarke, Power Forward, Gonzaga: The second Gonzaga player comes off the board with Clarke, who would fill a long term need position for the Timberwolves. He provides energy and great two way play and he is someone analytic nerds will love with his high PER this past college season.
18. Indiana Pacers- Kevin Porter Jr, Shooting Guard, USC: Porter is somebody that's a lottery talent that could very well drop into the twenties due to the injuries and suspension he had in college. If Porter lived up to the expectations he was given before college, the Pacers could be getting themselves a steal.
19. San Antonio Spurs- Nicolas Claxton, Power Forward/Center, Georgia: Claxton is one of the fastest risers as we sit here on draft day. He has great size and mobility and his versatility will be why he's picked possibly higher than this.
20. Boston Celtics (from Los Angeles Clippers)- Romeo Langford, Shooting Guard, Indiana: Langford is someone that dealt with a torn labrum this past season which probably held him back in college. He didn't shoot the ball well last season, but if that improves the Celtics or whomever found themselves a player.
21. Oklahoma City Thunder- Cameron Johnson, Small Forward, North Carolina: Johnson is someone that was a very steady player in college for the Tar Heels. He's someone that can defend pretty well and shoot the 3-ball well. I wouldn't be surprised if he goes higher than this or he goes in the second round.
22. Boston Celtics- Bol Bol, Center, Oregon: The Celtics take someone that is perhaps the biggest high ceiling/low floor prospect in the draft in Bol. He is somebody with lottery talents that has shown good rim protection and a solid three point shot for a seven-footer.
23. Memphis Grizzlies (from Utah Jazz)- Keldon Johnson, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, Kentucky: The Grizzlies are a team that can use some youth on the wing. Johnson is somebody that can come in and develop with a team that is notoriously known for developing well. He can shoot the three-ball well, but he needs to develop more defensively.
24. Philadelphia 76ers- Eric Paschall, Power Forward, Villanova: The Sixers settle on their city's talented big man in Paschall. His game is rugged and unflashy, and there’s some skepticism about his shooting translating to the NBA line, but he could be a good fit here.
25. Portland Trail Blazers- KZ Okpala, Small Forward, Stanford: Okpala is somebody who's stock is rising at the moment due to his length and wingspan. The Blazers could use some depth on the wing and Okpala could be a bench guy for them and provide valuable minutes.
26. Cleveland Cavaliers (from Houston Rockets)- Bruno Fernando, Center, Maryland: Fernando is somebody that has tantalizing upside that averaged a double-double this past season. He has an NBA ready body and could be a possible contributor for the Cavaliers.
27. Brooklyn Nets (from Denver Nuggets)- Mfiondu Kabengele, Power Forward/Center, Florida State: Kabengele is somebody who's stock has risen of late. The Nets are team that has a need for a versatile big and Kabengele is somebody that provides versatility and defends very well.
28. Golden State Warriors- Matisse Thybulle, Small Forward, Washington: Thybulle is somebody who was curiously left off the NBA combine list, but has the talent to be a first round pick. He's somebody that showed fine two-way play with solid three-point shooting and great defensive instincts.
29. San Antonio Spurs (from Toronto Raptors)- Luka Samanic, Power Forward, Olimpija: Samanic had a great showing at the combine and likely played his way into first-round territory, showcasing his offensive versatility and an improved physique that bodes well for the growth of his game. He’s ideal as a stretch-four with his skill level and size, and didn’t look bad moving his feet defensively, either.
30. Detroit Pistons (from Milwaukee Bucks)- Dylan Windler, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, Belmont: Windler is somebody that is very underrated coming into the draft. He's someone that can flat out score, shoot it from three, and space the floor well.
Wednesday, June 19, 2019
2019 NBA Mock Draft: Ninth Edition
Here is my ninth edition of my 2019 NBA Mock Draft.
1. New Orleans Pelicans- Zion Williamson, Power Forward/Center, Duke: The Pelicans are massive winners here for landing the best prospect since LeBron James. Anthony Davis is now in Los Angeles and the Pelicans can now start fresh with Williamson on board and all the other assets they received from the Lakers.
2. Memphis Grizzlies- Ja Morant, Point Guard, Murray State: The Grizzlies are big winners here as they jump to two. Morant is someone that people are down on due to weaker competition, but he really showed that he can be the real deal. Assuming he is the selection, he'd be the perfect replacement for Mike Conley, who they can trade this offseason for more assets to build around.
3. New York Knicks- RJ Barrett, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, Duke: Barrett was the preseason top prospect before Zion broke onto the scenes and wowed everyone. He was overshadowed due to Zion's presence on the team, but he had his moments. Now with Kevin Durant tearing his achilles and regardless if they sign him or not, I think it's more realistic they keep this pick rather than trade it for another star.
4. New Orleans Pelicans (from Los Angeles Lakers)- Darius Garland, Point Guard, Vanderbilt: There are hot rumors regarding what the Pelicans will do with this pick they got in the Davis deal and there's a chance they take Garland here and trade either Lonzo Ball or Jrue Holliday. He did only play in five games this past season due to the knee injury he suffered.
5. Cleveland Cavaliers- Jarrett Culver, Shooting Guard, Texas Tech: The Cavaliers are one of the lottery losers as they drop from two to five. Culver is somebody that had a sensational sophomore season to become a projected top lottery pick. He's somebody that can shoot the ball and rebound well for his position. He and Collin Sexton would make an interesting backcourt.
6. Phoenix Suns- Coby White, Point Guard/Shooting Guard: North Carolina: The Suns were another lottery loser as they dropped from three to six. They're biggest need coming into the offseason was a point guard and they land one here with White. White is someone who was great in his lone collegiate season and that's what got him to this position. He and Devin Booker would be an interesting backcourt pairing.
7. Chicago Bulls- Cam Reddish, Small Forward, Duke: Reddish, like RJ Barrett, is someone that was overshadowed on the Blue Devils squad because of Zion's presence. Reddish did not shoot the ball well at times throughout the season and he needs to develop that consistent shot in the pro's. If he does that, than the Bulls got themselves another building block to go with the rest of their young core.
8. Atlanta Hawks- De'Andre Hunter, Small Forward/Power Forward, Virginia: Hunter is somebody that was excellent in Virginia's run to the title last season and his stock rose in light of it. I like Hunter and I believe he could surprise some folks as a rookie because of his fine two-way play. He'd be another piece the Hawks could add to their core with Trae Young and John Collins.
9. Washington Wizards- Sekou Doumbouya, Small Forward/Shooting Guard, France: Doumbouya is somebody that showed a good jump shot and qualify defensive play too. The defensive side needs to be more proven once he is in the league full time. He's someone that will probably be a bench player for the Wizards that could see G-league time if he needs more development time.
10. Atlanta Hawks (from Dallas Mavericks)- Jaxson Hayes, Center, Texas: Hayes is someone who developed later on in his high school days and carried it over to college. He shot from a high percentage this past season and showed an ability to protect the rim. He would be an interesting fit next to John Collins in their front court.
11. Minnesota Timberwolves- Brandon Clarke, Power Forward, Gonzaga: The first Gonzaga player comes off the board with Clarke, who would fill a long term need position for the Timberwolves. He provides energy and great two way play and he is someone analytic nerds will love with his high PER this past college season.
12. Charlotte Hornets- Rui Hachimua, Small Forward, Gonzaga: Hachimura is someone that is super talented and really took his game a notch this past season. The buzz at the combine was that there is very little chance Hachimura slips out of the lottery, with Charlotte thought to be an interesting landing spot for him.
13. Miami Heat- Nassir Little, Small Forward, North Carolina: Little is somebody who had an uneven season with North Carolina to the point Coby White became the best freshman on the team. He showed flashes of good shooting and always has been a great athlete. He has lottery talent and if he lives up to capability, the Heat got themselves a player.
14. Boston Celtics (from Sacramento Kings via Philadelphia 76ers)- Goga Bitadze, Center, Serbia: The Celtics are a team that wants a lot more size. Bitadze, although there is skepticism because he played overseas, is a creative big man who is terrific in the midrange, crafty with the ball in his hands, and a strong force in the post.
15. Detroit Pistons- Romeo Langford, Shooting Guard, Indiana: Langford is someone that dealt with a torn labrum this past season which probably held him back in college. He didn't shoot the ball well last season, but if that improves the Pistons found themselves a player.
16. Orlando Magic- Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Shooting Guard, Virginia Tech: Alexander-Walker had a great sophomore season for improve his draft stock. What makes him a hot commodity is that he can guard multiple positions and play on and off the ball. The Magic are a team that needs wing depth and Alexander-Walker can provide that.
17. Atlanta Hawks (from Brooklyn Nets)- PJ Washington, Power Forward, Kentucky: After finally owning their first round pick for the first time in a long time, what do the Nets do? Trade it away with a bad contract to clear cap space to entice a star player to join the team! Meanwhile, Washington is someone that has the talent of a lottery pick with his ability to stretch the floor.
18. Indiana Pacers- Tyler Herro, Shooting Guard, Kentucky: Herro is somebody that is a very fast riser of late. He's someone that can flat out shoot the ball and the Pacers are a team that needs outside perimeter shooting. If they take Herro, it would not shock me if he ends up being a big contributor immediately.
19. San Antonio Spurs- Keldon Johnson, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, Kentucky: The Spurs are a team that is very guard heavy and pretty big man heavy. Where they lack is forward depth and Johnson is somebody that can come in and develop with a team that is notoriously known for developing well. He can shoot the three-ball well, but he needs to develop more defensively, which the Spurs can help him with.
20. Boston Celtics (from Los Angeles Clippers)- Kevin Porter Jr, Shooting Guard, USC: Porter is somebody that's a lottery talent that could very well drop into the twenties due to the injuries and suspension he had in college. If Porter lived up to the expectations he was given before college, the Pacers could be getting themselves a steal.
21. Oklahoma City Thunder- Bol Bol, Center, Oregon: The Thunder take someone that is perhaps the biggest high ceiling/low floor prospect in the draft in Bol. He is somebody with lottery talents that has shown good rim protection and a solid three point shot for a seven-footer.
22. Boston Celtics- Ty Jerome, Point Guard/Shooting Guard, Virginia: Jerome is somebody that was very good in Virginia's Championship run. He's someone that is versatile and can defend multiple positions very well. The Celtics might lose Kyrie Irving this summer so they can use more depth and versatility at the position.
23. Utah Jazz- Cameron Johnson, Small Forward, North Carolina: Johnson is someone that was a very steady player in college for the Tar Heels. He's someone that can defend pretty well and shoot the 3-ball well. I wouldn't be surprised if he goes higher than this or he goes in the second round.
24. Philadelphia 76ers- Nicolas Claxton, Power Forward/Center, Georgia: Claxton is one of the fastest risers as we are less than a week away from the draft. He has great size and mobility and his versatility will be why he's picked possibly higher than this.
25. Portland Trail Blazers- Mfiondu Kabengele, Power Forward/Center, Florida State: Kabengele is somebody who's stock has risen of late. The Blazers are team that actually has some depth up front, but will probably lose Enes Kanter in free agency and Kabengele is somebody that provides versatility and defends very well.
26. Cleveland Cavaliers (from Houston Rockets)- KZ Okpala, Small Forward, Stanford: Okpala is somebody who's stock is rising at the moment due to his length and wingspan. The Cavaliers could use some youth on the wing and Okpala could be a bench guy for them and provide valuable minutes.
27. Brooklyn Nets (from Denver Nuggets)- Luka Samanic, Power Forward, Olimpija: Samanic had a great showing at the combine and likely played his way into first-round territory, showcasing his offensive versatility and an improved physique that bodes well for the growth of his game. He’s ideal as a stretch-four with his skill level and size, and didn’t look bad moving his feet defensively, either.
28. Golden State Warriors- Matisse Thybulle, Small Forward, Washington: Thybulle is somebody who was curiously left off the NBA combine list, but has the talent to be a first round pick. He's somebody that showed fine two-way play with solid three-point shooting and great defensive instincts.
29. San Antonio Spurs (from Toronto Raptors)- Dylan Windler, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, Belmont: Windler is somebody that is very underrated coming into the draft. He's someone that can flat out score, shoot it from three, and space the floor well.
30. Milwaukee Bucks- Talen Horton-Tucker, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, Iowa State: Horton-Tucker is somebody that had a very good year with the Cyclones this past season as a freshman which got him to this position. The Bucks would be an interesting landing spot considering they might need wing depth if Khris Middleton walks this summer.
1. New Orleans Pelicans- Zion Williamson, Power Forward/Center, Duke: The Pelicans are massive winners here for landing the best prospect since LeBron James. Anthony Davis is now in Los Angeles and the Pelicans can now start fresh with Williamson on board and all the other assets they received from the Lakers.
2. Memphis Grizzlies- Ja Morant, Point Guard, Murray State: The Grizzlies are big winners here as they jump to two. Morant is someone that people are down on due to weaker competition, but he really showed that he can be the real deal. Assuming he is the selection, he'd be the perfect replacement for Mike Conley, who they can trade this offseason for more assets to build around.
3. New York Knicks- RJ Barrett, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, Duke: Barrett was the preseason top prospect before Zion broke onto the scenes and wowed everyone. He was overshadowed due to Zion's presence on the team, but he had his moments. Now with Kevin Durant tearing his achilles and regardless if they sign him or not, I think it's more realistic they keep this pick rather than trade it for another star.
4. New Orleans Pelicans (from Los Angeles Lakers)- Darius Garland, Point Guard, Vanderbilt: There are hot rumors regarding what the Pelicans will do with this pick they got in the Davis deal and there's a chance they take Garland here and trade either Lonzo Ball or Jrue Holliday. He did only play in five games this past season due to the knee injury he suffered.
5. Cleveland Cavaliers- Jarrett Culver, Shooting Guard, Texas Tech: The Cavaliers are one of the lottery losers as they drop from two to five. Culver is somebody that had a sensational sophomore season to become a projected top lottery pick. He's somebody that can shoot the ball and rebound well for his position. He and Collin Sexton would make an interesting backcourt.
6. Phoenix Suns- Coby White, Point Guard/Shooting Guard: North Carolina: The Suns were another lottery loser as they dropped from three to six. They're biggest need coming into the offseason was a point guard and they land one here with White. White is someone who was great in his lone collegiate season and that's what got him to this position. He and Devin Booker would be an interesting backcourt pairing.
7. Chicago Bulls- Cam Reddish, Small Forward, Duke: Reddish, like RJ Barrett, is someone that was overshadowed on the Blue Devils squad because of Zion's presence. Reddish did not shoot the ball well at times throughout the season and he needs to develop that consistent shot in the pro's. If he does that, than the Bulls got themselves another building block to go with the rest of their young core.
8. Atlanta Hawks- De'Andre Hunter, Small Forward/Power Forward, Virginia: Hunter is somebody that was excellent in Virginia's run to the title last season and his stock rose in light of it. I like Hunter and I believe he could surprise some folks as a rookie because of his fine two-way play. He'd be another piece the Hawks could add to their core with Trae Young and John Collins.
9. Washington Wizards- Sekou Doumbouya, Small Forward/Shooting Guard, France: Doumbouya is somebody that showed a good jump shot and qualify defensive play too. The defensive side needs to be more proven once he is in the league full time. He's someone that will probably be a bench player for the Wizards that could see G-league time if he needs more development time.
10. Atlanta Hawks (from Dallas Mavericks)- Jaxson Hayes, Center, Texas: Hayes is someone who developed later on in his high school days and carried it over to college. He shot from a high percentage this past season and showed an ability to protect the rim. He would be an interesting fit next to John Collins in their front court.
11. Minnesota Timberwolves- Brandon Clarke, Power Forward, Gonzaga: The first Gonzaga player comes off the board with Clarke, who would fill a long term need position for the Timberwolves. He provides energy and great two way play and he is someone analytic nerds will love with his high PER this past college season.
12. Charlotte Hornets- Rui Hachimua, Small Forward, Gonzaga: Hachimura is someone that is super talented and really took his game a notch this past season. The buzz at the combine was that there is very little chance Hachimura slips out of the lottery, with Charlotte thought to be an interesting landing spot for him.
13. Miami Heat- Nassir Little, Small Forward, North Carolina: Little is somebody who had an uneven season with North Carolina to the point Coby White became the best freshman on the team. He showed flashes of good shooting and always has been a great athlete. He has lottery talent and if he lives up to capability, the Heat got themselves a player.
14. Boston Celtics (from Sacramento Kings via Philadelphia 76ers)- Goga Bitadze, Center, Serbia: The Celtics are a team that wants a lot more size. Bitadze, although there is skepticism because he played overseas, is a creative big man who is terrific in the midrange, crafty with the ball in his hands, and a strong force in the post.
15. Detroit Pistons- Romeo Langford, Shooting Guard, Indiana: Langford is someone that dealt with a torn labrum this past season which probably held him back in college. He didn't shoot the ball well last season, but if that improves the Pistons found themselves a player.
16. Orlando Magic- Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Shooting Guard, Virginia Tech: Alexander-Walker had a great sophomore season for improve his draft stock. What makes him a hot commodity is that he can guard multiple positions and play on and off the ball. The Magic are a team that needs wing depth and Alexander-Walker can provide that.
17. Atlanta Hawks (from Brooklyn Nets)- PJ Washington, Power Forward, Kentucky: After finally owning their first round pick for the first time in a long time, what do the Nets do? Trade it away with a bad contract to clear cap space to entice a star player to join the team! Meanwhile, Washington is someone that has the talent of a lottery pick with his ability to stretch the floor.
18. Indiana Pacers- Tyler Herro, Shooting Guard, Kentucky: Herro is somebody that is a very fast riser of late. He's someone that can flat out shoot the ball and the Pacers are a team that needs outside perimeter shooting. If they take Herro, it would not shock me if he ends up being a big contributor immediately.
19. San Antonio Spurs- Keldon Johnson, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, Kentucky: The Spurs are a team that is very guard heavy and pretty big man heavy. Where they lack is forward depth and Johnson is somebody that can come in and develop with a team that is notoriously known for developing well. He can shoot the three-ball well, but he needs to develop more defensively, which the Spurs can help him with.
20. Boston Celtics (from Los Angeles Clippers)- Kevin Porter Jr, Shooting Guard, USC: Porter is somebody that's a lottery talent that could very well drop into the twenties due to the injuries and suspension he had in college. If Porter lived up to the expectations he was given before college, the Pacers could be getting themselves a steal.
21. Oklahoma City Thunder- Bol Bol, Center, Oregon: The Thunder take someone that is perhaps the biggest high ceiling/low floor prospect in the draft in Bol. He is somebody with lottery talents that has shown good rim protection and a solid three point shot for a seven-footer.
22. Boston Celtics- Ty Jerome, Point Guard/Shooting Guard, Virginia: Jerome is somebody that was very good in Virginia's Championship run. He's someone that is versatile and can defend multiple positions very well. The Celtics might lose Kyrie Irving this summer so they can use more depth and versatility at the position.
23. Utah Jazz- Cameron Johnson, Small Forward, North Carolina: Johnson is someone that was a very steady player in college for the Tar Heels. He's someone that can defend pretty well and shoot the 3-ball well. I wouldn't be surprised if he goes higher than this or he goes in the second round.
24. Philadelphia 76ers- Nicolas Claxton, Power Forward/Center, Georgia: Claxton is one of the fastest risers as we are less than a week away from the draft. He has great size and mobility and his versatility will be why he's picked possibly higher than this.
25. Portland Trail Blazers- Mfiondu Kabengele, Power Forward/Center, Florida State: Kabengele is somebody who's stock has risen of late. The Blazers are team that actually has some depth up front, but will probably lose Enes Kanter in free agency and Kabengele is somebody that provides versatility and defends very well.
26. Cleveland Cavaliers (from Houston Rockets)- KZ Okpala, Small Forward, Stanford: Okpala is somebody who's stock is rising at the moment due to his length and wingspan. The Cavaliers could use some youth on the wing and Okpala could be a bench guy for them and provide valuable minutes.
27. Brooklyn Nets (from Denver Nuggets)- Luka Samanic, Power Forward, Olimpija: Samanic had a great showing at the combine and likely played his way into first-round territory, showcasing his offensive versatility and an improved physique that bodes well for the growth of his game. He’s ideal as a stretch-four with his skill level and size, and didn’t look bad moving his feet defensively, either.
28. Golden State Warriors- Matisse Thybulle, Small Forward, Washington: Thybulle is somebody who was curiously left off the NBA combine list, but has the talent to be a first round pick. He's somebody that showed fine two-way play with solid three-point shooting and great defensive instincts.
29. San Antonio Spurs (from Toronto Raptors)- Dylan Windler, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, Belmont: Windler is somebody that is very underrated coming into the draft. He's someone that can flat out score, shoot it from three, and space the floor well.
30. Milwaukee Bucks- Talen Horton-Tucker, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, Iowa State: Horton-Tucker is somebody that had a very good year with the Cyclones this past season as a freshman which got him to this position. The Bucks would be an interesting landing spot considering they might need wing depth if Khris Middleton walks this summer.
Tuesday, June 18, 2019
2019 NHL Mock Draft: Sixth Edition
Here is the sixth edition of my 2019 NHL Mock Draft.
1. New Jersey Devils- Jack Hughes, Center, USNDT: Hughes is somebody people have been talking about since last year in terms of young up and coming impact draft prospects. He's going to come in and have an immediate impact on a team that needs young assets to go with Taylor Hall and former number one overall pick Nico Hischier.
2. New York Rangers- Kaapo Kakko, Right Wing, Liija (TPS): The Rangers have to be thrilled for making this big of a jump in the lottery. Kakko is somebody that will jumpstart this rebuild as he broke a ton of scoring records in Liija. He will also make an immediate impact and would be yet another prospect to add to a suddenly loaded prospect group featuring Vitaly Kravstov and K'Andre Miller.
3. Chicago Blackhawks- Alex Turcotte, Center, USNDT: Turcotte is somebody that is very a dynamic two-way center that's stock is rising. He played in the Under-18 World Championship and absolutely thrived to the point where he's the consensus choice here to go third and he's drawn comparisons to Jonathan Toews.
4. Colorado Avalanche (from Ottawa Senators)- Kirby Dach, Center, Saskatoon (WHL): Dach is one of the fastest risers with a week to go before the draft since he is the most NHL-ready player in the draft other than Hughes and Kakko, so the Avalanche could be getting a great player here. He excels on offense with his instincts and his vision.
5. Los Angeles Kings- Bowen Bryam, Defenseman, Vancouver (WHL): The Kings have options with this pick as they could trade the pick, take a forward, or go defense like I have here. Bryam is the best defenseman in the draft and the Kings need more young defenseman as Drew Doughty is aging.
6. Detroit Red Wings- Trevor Zegras, Center/Wing, USNDT: Zegras is somebody who's stock is rising because of his versatility and has smart vision. He's a good two-way player too and he would be someone the Red Wings would move around in their lineup because of his versatility.
7. Buffalo Sabres- Dylan Cozens, Center, Lethbridge (WHL): Cozens is somebody I'm very high on and I feel has a ton of potential. He's very dynamic and would give the Sabres a great number two center behind Jack Eichel down the road.
8. Edmonton Oilers- Cole Caufield, Center/Wing, USNDT: The Oilers could go in a bunch of different directions here. Caufield is someone who's draft stock is rising due to his versatility he provides and he could pan out into a top six forward.
9. Anaheim Ducks- Vasili Podkolzin, Right Wing, St. Petersburg (KHL): Podkolzin is someone that was outstanding in the World Junior, but wasn't putting up stats offensively in Russia. I can see Podkolzin slipping further than this due to contract concerns with the KHL, but at the same time due to his upside, I can see him being picked in the top three.
10. Vancouver Canucks- Matthew Bodly, Right Wing, USNDT: Bodly is yet another USNDT player taken in the lottery. He has a ton of size and score the puck from both sides of the wing and is someone the Canucks would take a chance on.
11. Philadelphia Flyers- Peyton Kerbs, Left Wing, Kootenay (WHL): Kerbs is somebody that is a dynamic offensive force like some of the other wingers in the top of the draft. He's fast and has a good hockey IQ which the Flyers would like.
12. Minnesota Wild- Alex Newhook, Center, Victoria (BCHL): Newhook is somebody that has been up and down draft boards of late and it wouldn't surprise me if he was a lottery pick or if he fell out of the first round. He is a big offensive force and he has blazing speed.
13. Florida Panthers- Philip Brodberg, Defenseman, AIK (SWE): The Panthers could go a number of directions with this pick. Brodberg is someone that is a good offensive defenseman that has good vision as well as controls the game well in all zones.
14. Arizona Coyotes- Arthur Kaliev, Left Wing, Hamilton (OHL): Kaliev is somebody that can flag out score. Some people have concerns with his skating ability and his two-way game, or else he would be in the conversation for a top ten or even a top five pick.
15. Montreal Canadiens- Raphael Lavoie, Center/Wing, Halifax (OHL): Lavoie is someone who's draft stock is rising that could be a immediate contributor for the Canadiens. He is a physical player, but also someone with speed and can wire a heavy shot.
16. Colorado Avalanche- Cam York, Defenseman, USNDT: The USNDT dominance continues as the Avalanche take York. He's somebody that could be a top four D-man on someone's roster and he is someone was thought out to be a lottery pick a few weeks ago, but his stock has dropped.
17. Vegas Golden Knights- Victor Sodestrom, Defenseman, Brynas (Superelite): The Golden Knights go defense here as they take Sodestrom to add youth to a defense that needs it. He's someone that is a smart player that could be great offensively and is reliable defensively.
18. Dallas Stars- Ryan Suzuki, Center, Barrie (OHL): The younger brother of former Knights first rounder Kurt, Ryan may end up being the better prospect. He's a great skater and has good vision for the game as well as great playmaking skills.
19. Ottawa Senators (from Columbus Blue Jackets)- Thomas Hardley, Defenseman, Mississauga (OHL): Hardley is somebody that is an excellent two-way defenseman and is probably a steal with this pick. He is somebody the Senators can have on their top pair down the road with Thomas Chabot.
20. Winnipeg Jets- Moritz Seider, Defenseman, Adler (SEL): The Jets go defense here with their as they get their pick from the Rangers in the Jacob Trouba deal. Seider is somebody that is a great-two way defenseman and is a force to be reckoned with.
21. Pittsburgh Penguins- Samuel Poulin, Left Wing, Sherbrooke (QMJHL): Poulin is someone who's stock is falling to the point where he could drop into the second round. His size, combined with above average puck handling, shooting, and play-making skills makes him an attractive ‘power forward’ NHL prospect.
22. Los Angeles Kings (from Toronto Maple Leafs)- Phil Thomasino, Center/Wing, Niagara (OHL): Thomasino is somebody that is versatile and has a knack of making plays with a ton of speed. That's something that a rebuilding team like the Kings would like.
23. New York Islanders- Matthew Robertson, Defenseman, Edmonton (OHL): Robertson is somebody that provided very good two-way play this past season. He seems like somebody Lou Lamoriello and the Islanders would take a chance on.
24. Nashville Predators- Bobby Brink, Right Wing, Sioux Falls (USHL): The Preds take the fast rising winger here, who can go higher than this. Brink isn't the fastest skater, but has good footwork and agility, allowing him to weave in and out of traffic and around defenders.
25. Washington Capitals- Tobias Bjornfot, Defenseman, Djurgarden (Superelit): Bjornfot is one of the faster risers with about a month to go until the draft. He's a fluid skater with escapability who can log big minutes. His quick release on his wrister helps create rebounds of seemingly harmless attempts.
26. Calgary Flames- Spencer Knight, Goalie, USNDT: There hasn't been a goalie with the fire and intensity like Knight drafted this high in a long time. Mike Smith is not the long term answer in goal for the Flames and taking a chance on Knight would be wise.
27. Tampa Bay Lighting- Ville Heinola, Defenseman, Lukko (SM-Liiga): Heinola is somebody that is very good at attacking and making odd-man situations. His moves make people remind him of Rasmus Dahlin.
28. Carolina Hurricanes- Brett Leason, Center/Wing, Prince Albert (WHL): Leason is somebody rare in the sense he was undrafted last season and now projected to be a late first or second round pick and that says a lot on how much he has improved as a player. He can flat out score and has good size and plays a power game.
29. Anaheim Ducks (from San Jose Sharks via Buffalo Sabres)- Lassi Thomson, Defenseman, Kelowna (WHL): The Ducks go defense with their second first rounder with Thomson. He's someone that has the upside of being a top four pairing and is a good skater, but needs help on his defensive game.
30. Boston Bruins- Jakob Pelletier, Center/Wing, Moncoton (QMJHL): The Bruins take a versatile forward here with their first rounder. Pelletier is somebody that has great tenacity and skill as well as generating chances off the forecheck.
31. Buffalo Sabres (from St. Louis Blues)- Connor McMichael, Center, London (OHL): McMichael is somebody that is very crafty and a type of player that the Sabrss add to what could be a contender sooner rather than later. He's also great at finishing and he stood out among a London Knights team that's loaded with scorers.
1. New Jersey Devils- Jack Hughes, Center, USNDT: Hughes is somebody people have been talking about since last year in terms of young up and coming impact draft prospects. He's going to come in and have an immediate impact on a team that needs young assets to go with Taylor Hall and former number one overall pick Nico Hischier.
2. New York Rangers- Kaapo Kakko, Right Wing, Liija (TPS): The Rangers have to be thrilled for making this big of a jump in the lottery. Kakko is somebody that will jumpstart this rebuild as he broke a ton of scoring records in Liija. He will also make an immediate impact and would be yet another prospect to add to a suddenly loaded prospect group featuring Vitaly Kravstov and K'Andre Miller.
3. Chicago Blackhawks- Alex Turcotte, Center, USNDT: Turcotte is somebody that is very a dynamic two-way center that's stock is rising. He played in the Under-18 World Championship and absolutely thrived to the point where he's the consensus choice here to go third and he's drawn comparisons to Jonathan Toews.
4. Colorado Avalanche (from Ottawa Senators)- Kirby Dach, Center, Saskatoon (WHL): Dach is one of the fastest risers with a week to go before the draft since he is the most NHL-ready player in the draft other than Hughes and Kakko, so the Avalanche could be getting a great player here. He excels on offense with his instincts and his vision.
5. Los Angeles Kings- Bowen Bryam, Defenseman, Vancouver (WHL): The Kings have options with this pick as they could trade the pick, take a forward, or go defense like I have here. Bryam is the best defenseman in the draft and the Kings need more young defenseman as Drew Doughty is aging.
6. Detroit Red Wings- Trevor Zegras, Center/Wing, USNDT: Zegras is somebody who's stock is rising because of his versatility and has smart vision. He's a good two-way player too and he would be someone the Red Wings would move around in their lineup because of his versatility.
7. Buffalo Sabres- Dylan Cozens, Center, Lethbridge (WHL): Cozens is somebody I'm very high on and I feel has a ton of potential. He's very dynamic and would give the Sabres a great number two center behind Jack Eichel down the road.
8. Edmonton Oilers- Cole Caufield, Center/Wing, USNDT: The Oilers could go in a bunch of different directions here. Caufield is someone who's draft stock is rising due to his versatility he provides and he could pan out into a top six forward.
9. Anaheim Ducks- Vasili Podkolzin, Right Wing, St. Petersburg (KHL): Podkolzin is someone that was outstanding in the World Junior, but wasn't putting up stats offensively in Russia. I can see Podkolzin slipping further than this due to contract concerns with the KHL, but at the same time due to his upside, I can see him being picked in the top three.
10. Vancouver Canucks- Matthew Bodly, Right Wing, USNDT: Bodly is yet another USNDT player taken in the lottery. He has a ton of size and score the puck from both sides of the wing and is someone the Canucks would take a chance on.
11. Philadelphia Flyers- Peyton Kerbs, Left Wing, Kootenay (WHL): Kerbs is somebody that is a dynamic offensive force like some of the other wingers in the top of the draft. He's fast and has a good hockey IQ which the Flyers would like.
12. Minnesota Wild- Alex Newhook, Center, Victoria (BCHL): Newhook is somebody that has been up and down draft boards of late and it wouldn't surprise me if he was a lottery pick or if he fell out of the first round. He is a big offensive force and he has blazing speed.
13. Florida Panthers- Philip Brodberg, Defenseman, AIK (SWE): The Panthers could go a number of directions with this pick. Brodberg is someone that is a good offensive defenseman that has good vision as well as controls the game well in all zones.
14. Arizona Coyotes- Arthur Kaliev, Left Wing, Hamilton (OHL): Kaliev is somebody that can flag out score. Some people have concerns with his skating ability and his two-way game, or else he would be in the conversation for a top ten or even a top five pick.
15. Montreal Canadiens- Raphael Lavoie, Center/Wing, Halifax (OHL): Lavoie is someone who's draft stock is rising that could be a immediate contributor for the Canadiens. He is a physical player, but also someone with speed and can wire a heavy shot.
16. Colorado Avalanche- Cam York, Defenseman, USNDT: The USNDT dominance continues as the Avalanche take York. He's somebody that could be a top four D-man on someone's roster and he is someone was thought out to be a lottery pick a few weeks ago, but his stock has dropped.
17. Vegas Golden Knights- Victor Sodestrom, Defenseman, Brynas (Superelite): The Golden Knights go defense here as they take Sodestrom to add youth to a defense that needs it. He's someone that is a smart player that could be great offensively and is reliable defensively.
18. Dallas Stars- Ryan Suzuki, Center, Barrie (OHL): The younger brother of former Knights first rounder Kurt, Ryan may end up being the better prospect. He's a great skater and has good vision for the game as well as great playmaking skills.
19. Ottawa Senators (from Columbus Blue Jackets)- Thomas Hardley, Defenseman, Mississauga (OHL): Hardley is somebody that is an excellent two-way defenseman and is probably a steal with this pick. He is somebody the Senators can have on their top pair down the road with Thomas Chabot.
20. Winnipeg Jets- Moritz Seider, Defenseman, Adler (SEL): The Jets go defense here with their as they get their pick from the Rangers in the Jacob Trouba deal. Seider is somebody that is a great-two way defenseman and is a force to be reckoned with.
21. Pittsburgh Penguins- Samuel Poulin, Left Wing, Sherbrooke (QMJHL): Poulin is someone who's stock is falling to the point where he could drop into the second round. His size, combined with above average puck handling, shooting, and play-making skills makes him an attractive ‘power forward’ NHL prospect.
22. Los Angeles Kings (from Toronto Maple Leafs)- Phil Thomasino, Center/Wing, Niagara (OHL): Thomasino is somebody that is versatile and has a knack of making plays with a ton of speed. That's something that a rebuilding team like the Kings would like.
23. New York Islanders- Matthew Robertson, Defenseman, Edmonton (OHL): Robertson is somebody that provided very good two-way play this past season. He seems like somebody Lou Lamoriello and the Islanders would take a chance on.
24. Nashville Predators- Bobby Brink, Right Wing, Sioux Falls (USHL): The Preds take the fast rising winger here, who can go higher than this. Brink isn't the fastest skater, but has good footwork and agility, allowing him to weave in and out of traffic and around defenders.
25. Washington Capitals- Tobias Bjornfot, Defenseman, Djurgarden (Superelit): Bjornfot is one of the faster risers with about a month to go until the draft. He's a fluid skater with escapability who can log big minutes. His quick release on his wrister helps create rebounds of seemingly harmless attempts.
26. Calgary Flames- Spencer Knight, Goalie, USNDT: There hasn't been a goalie with the fire and intensity like Knight drafted this high in a long time. Mike Smith is not the long term answer in goal for the Flames and taking a chance on Knight would be wise.
27. Tampa Bay Lighting- Ville Heinola, Defenseman, Lukko (SM-Liiga): Heinola is somebody that is very good at attacking and making odd-man situations. His moves make people remind him of Rasmus Dahlin.
28. Carolina Hurricanes- Brett Leason, Center/Wing, Prince Albert (WHL): Leason is somebody rare in the sense he was undrafted last season and now projected to be a late first or second round pick and that says a lot on how much he has improved as a player. He can flat out score and has good size and plays a power game.
29. Anaheim Ducks (from San Jose Sharks via Buffalo Sabres)- Lassi Thomson, Defenseman, Kelowna (WHL): The Ducks go defense with their second first rounder with Thomson. He's someone that has the upside of being a top four pairing and is a good skater, but needs help on his defensive game.
30. Boston Bruins- Jakob Pelletier, Center/Wing, Moncoton (QMJHL): The Bruins take a versatile forward here with their first rounder. Pelletier is somebody that has great tenacity and skill as well as generating chances off the forecheck.
31. Buffalo Sabres (from St. Louis Blues)- Connor McMichael, Center, London (OHL): McMichael is somebody that is very crafty and a type of player that the Sabrss add to what could be a contender sooner rather than later. He's also great at finishing and he stood out among a London Knights team that's loaded with scorers.
Monday, June 17, 2019
2019 NBA Mock Draft: Eighth Edition
Here is my eighth edition of my 2019 NBA Mock Draft.
1. New Orleans Pelicans- Zion Williamson, Power Forward/Center, Duke: The Pelicans are massive winners here for landing the best prospect since LeBron James. Anthony Davis is now in Los Angeles and the Pelicans can now start fresh with Williamson on board and all the other assets they received from the Lakers.
2. Memphis Grizzlies- Ja Morant, Point Guard, Murray State: The Grizzlies are big winners here as they jump to two. Morant is someone that people are down on due to weaker competition, but he really showed that he can be the real deal. Assuming he is the selection, he'd be the perfect replacement for Mike Conley, who they can trade this offseason for more assets to build around.
3. New York Knicks- RJ Barrett, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, Duke: Barrett was the preseason top prospect before Zion broke onto the scenes and wowed everyone. He was overshadowed due to Zion's presence on the team, but he had his moments. Now with Kevin Durant tearing his achilles and regardless if they sign him or not, I think it's more realistic they keep this pick rather than trade it for Anthony Davis.
4. New Orleans Pelicans (from Los Angeles Lakers)- Jarrett Culver, Shooting Guard, Texas Tech: The Pelicans get this pick in the monster package they got from the Lakers in the Anthony Davis deal. Culver is somebody that had a sensational sophomore season to become a projected top lottery pick. He's somebody that can shoot the ball and rebound well for his position. He would be a really good third guard off the bench as Jrue Holliday and Lonzo Ball start.
5. Cleveland Cavaliers- De'Andre Hunter, Small Forward/Power Forward, Virginia: The Cavaliers are definitely bummed they didn't land in the top three, but they shouldn't be upset with Hunter. He is somebody that was excellent in Virginia's run to the title last season and his stock rose in light of it. I like Hunter and I believe he could surprise some folks as a rookie because of his fine two-way play.
6. Phoenix Suns- Darius Garland, Point Guard, Vanderbilt: The Suns were another lottery loser as they dropped from three to six. They're biggest need coming into the offseason was a point guard and they land one here with Garland. He did only play in five games this past season due to the knee injury he suffered. A backcourt with him and Devin Booker would be interesting.
7. Chicago Bulls- Coby White, Point Guard/Shooting Guard: North Carolina: The Bulls drop from four to seven which isn't ideal for them. This would be an interesting selection considering they already have Kris Dunn on their roster. White is someone who was great in his lone collegiate season and that's what got him to this position. He and Zach LaVine would be an interesting backcourt pairing.
8. Atlanta Hawks- Cam Reddish, Small Forward, Duke: Reddish, like RJ Barrett, is someone that was overshadowed on the Blue Devils squad because of Zion's presence. Reddish did not shoot the ball well at times throughout the season and he needs to develop that consistent shot in the pro's. If he does that, than the Hawks got themselves another building block to go with the rest of their young core.
9. Washington Wizards- Sekou Doumbouya, Small Forward/Shooting Guard, France: Doumbouya is somebody that showed a good jump shot and qualify defensive play too. The defensive side needs to be more proven once he is in the league full time. He's someone that will probably be a bench player for the Wizards that could see G-league time if he needs more development time.
10. Atlanta Hawks (from Dallas Mavericks)- Jaxson Hayes, Center, Texas: Hayes is someone who developed later on in his high school days and carried it over to college. He shot from a high percentage this past season and showed an ability to protect the rim. He would be an interesting fit next to John Collins in their front court.
11. Minnesota Timberwolves- Rui Hachimua, Small Forward, Gonzaga: Hachimura is someone that is super talented and really took his game a notch this past season. The buzz at the combine was that there is very little chance Hachimura slips out of the lottery, with Minnesota generally thought to be a soft landing spot for him.
12. Charlotte Hornets- Kevin Porter Jr, Shooting Guard, USC: Porter is somebody that's a lottery talent that could very well drop into the twenties due to the injuries and suspension he had in college. If Porter lived up to the expectations he was given before college, the Hornets could be getting themselves a player.
13. Miami Heat- Nassir Little, Small Forward, North Carolina: Little is somebody who had an uneven season with North Carolina to the point Coby White became the best freshman on the team. He showed flashes of good shooting and always has been a great athlete. He has lottery talent and if he lives up to capability, the Heat got themselves a player.
14. Boston Celtics (from Sacramento Kings via Philadelphia 76ers)- Goga Bitadze, Center, Serbia: The Celtics are a team that wants a lot more size. Bitadze, although there is skepticism because he played overseas, is a creative big man who is terrific in the midrange, crafty with the ball in his hands, and a strong force in the post.
15. Detroit Pistons- Romeo Langford, Shooting Guard, Indiana: Langford is someone that dealt with a torn labrum this past season which probably held him back in college. He didn't shoot the ball well last season, but if that improves the Pistons found themselves a player.
16. Orlando Magic- Tyler Herro, Shooting Guard, Kentucky: Herro is somebody that is a very fast riser of late. He's someone that can flat out shoot the ball and the Magic are a team that needs outside perimeter shooting badly. If they take Herro, it would not shock me if he ends up being a big contributor immediately.
17. Atlanta Hawks (from Brooklyn Nets)- PJ Washington, Power Forward, Kentucky: After finally owning their first round pick for the first time in a long time, what do the Nets do? Trade it away with a bad contract to clear cap space to entice a star player to join the team! Meanwhile, Washington is someone that has the talent of a lottery pick with his ability to stretch the floor.
18. Indiana Pacers- Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Shooting Guard, Virginia Tech: Alexander-Walker had a great sophomore season for improve his draft stock. What makes him a hot commodity is that he can guard multiple positions and play on and off the ball. The Pacers are a team that needs wing depth and Alexander-Walker can provide that.
19. San Antonio Spurs- Nicolas Claxton, Power Forward/Center, Georgia: Claxton is one of the fastest risers as we are less than a week away from the draft. He has great size and mobility and his versatility will be why he's picked possibly higher than this.
20. Boston Celtics (from Los Angeles Clippers)- Keldon Johnson, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, Kentucky: The Celtics go with the talented winger in Johnson, who has good size and can shoot the ball well. He needs some work done on the defensive side though.
21. Oklahoma City Thunder- Cameron Johnson, Small Forward, North Carolina: Johnson is someone that was a very steady player in college for the Tar Heels. He's someone that can defend pretty well and shoot the 3-ball well. I wouldn't be surprised if he goes higher than this or he goes in the second round.
22. Boston Celtics- Brandon Clarke, Power Forward, Gonzaga: The second Gonzaga player comes off the board with Clarke. He provides energy and great two way play and he is someone analytic nerds will love with his high PER this past college season.
23. Utah Jazz- Bol Bol, Center, Oregon: The Jazz take someone that is perhaps the biggest high ceiling/low floor prospect in the draft in Bol. He is somebody with lottery talents that has shown good rim protection and a solid three point shot for a seven-footer.
24. Matisse Thybulle, Small Forward, Washington: Thybulle is somebody who was curiously left off the NBA combine list, but has the talent to be a first round pick. He's somebody that showed fine two-way play with solid three-point shooting and great defensive instincts.
25. Portland Trail Blazers- Mfiondu Kabengele, Power Forward/Center, Florida State: Kabengele is somebody who's stock has risen of late. The Blazers are team that actually has some depth up front, but will probably lose Enes Kanter in free agency and Kabengele is somebody that provides versatility and defends very well.
26. Cleveland Cavaliers (from Houston Rockets)- Ty Jerome, Point Guard/Shooting Guard, Virginia: Jerome is somebody that was very good in Virginia's Championship run. He's someone that is versatile and can defend multiple positions very well. A rebuilding team like the Cavaliers could use a player like Jerome that should provide good leadership skills and is a great teammate.
27. Brooklyn Nets (from Denver Nuggets)- Bruno Fernando, Center, Maryland: Fernando is somebody that has tantalizing upside that averaged a double-double this past season. He has an NBA ready body and could be a possible contributor for the Nets off the bench.
28. Golden State Warriors- Dylan Windler, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, Belmont: Windler is somebody that is very underrated coming into the draft. He's someone that can flat out score, shoot it from three, and space the floor well.
29. San Antonio Spurs (from Toronto Raptors)- Luka Samanic, Power Forward, Olimpija: Samanic had a great showing at the combine and likely played his way into first-round territory, showcasing his offensive versatility and an improved physique that bodes well for the growth of his game. He’s ideal as a stretch-four with his skill level and size, and didn’t look bad moving his feet defensively, either.
30. Milwaukee Bucks- KZ Okpala, Small Forward, Stanford: Okpala is somebody who's stock is rising at the moment due to his length and wingspan. The Bucks could use some wing depth, especially if Khris Middleton leaves in free agency and Okpala could be a bench guy for them and provide valuable minutes.
1. New Orleans Pelicans- Zion Williamson, Power Forward/Center, Duke: The Pelicans are massive winners here for landing the best prospect since LeBron James. Anthony Davis is now in Los Angeles and the Pelicans can now start fresh with Williamson on board and all the other assets they received from the Lakers.
2. Memphis Grizzlies- Ja Morant, Point Guard, Murray State: The Grizzlies are big winners here as they jump to two. Morant is someone that people are down on due to weaker competition, but he really showed that he can be the real deal. Assuming he is the selection, he'd be the perfect replacement for Mike Conley, who they can trade this offseason for more assets to build around.
3. New York Knicks- RJ Barrett, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, Duke: Barrett was the preseason top prospect before Zion broke onto the scenes and wowed everyone. He was overshadowed due to Zion's presence on the team, but he had his moments. Now with Kevin Durant tearing his achilles and regardless if they sign him or not, I think it's more realistic they keep this pick rather than trade it for Anthony Davis.
4. New Orleans Pelicans (from Los Angeles Lakers)- Jarrett Culver, Shooting Guard, Texas Tech: The Pelicans get this pick in the monster package they got from the Lakers in the Anthony Davis deal. Culver is somebody that had a sensational sophomore season to become a projected top lottery pick. He's somebody that can shoot the ball and rebound well for his position. He would be a really good third guard off the bench as Jrue Holliday and Lonzo Ball start.
5. Cleveland Cavaliers- De'Andre Hunter, Small Forward/Power Forward, Virginia: The Cavaliers are definitely bummed they didn't land in the top three, but they shouldn't be upset with Hunter. He is somebody that was excellent in Virginia's run to the title last season and his stock rose in light of it. I like Hunter and I believe he could surprise some folks as a rookie because of his fine two-way play.
6. Phoenix Suns- Darius Garland, Point Guard, Vanderbilt: The Suns were another lottery loser as they dropped from three to six. They're biggest need coming into the offseason was a point guard and they land one here with Garland. He did only play in five games this past season due to the knee injury he suffered. A backcourt with him and Devin Booker would be interesting.
7. Chicago Bulls- Coby White, Point Guard/Shooting Guard: North Carolina: The Bulls drop from four to seven which isn't ideal for them. This would be an interesting selection considering they already have Kris Dunn on their roster. White is someone who was great in his lone collegiate season and that's what got him to this position. He and Zach LaVine would be an interesting backcourt pairing.
8. Atlanta Hawks- Cam Reddish, Small Forward, Duke: Reddish, like RJ Barrett, is someone that was overshadowed on the Blue Devils squad because of Zion's presence. Reddish did not shoot the ball well at times throughout the season and he needs to develop that consistent shot in the pro's. If he does that, than the Hawks got themselves another building block to go with the rest of their young core.
9. Washington Wizards- Sekou Doumbouya, Small Forward/Shooting Guard, France: Doumbouya is somebody that showed a good jump shot and qualify defensive play too. The defensive side needs to be more proven once he is in the league full time. He's someone that will probably be a bench player for the Wizards that could see G-league time if he needs more development time.
10. Atlanta Hawks (from Dallas Mavericks)- Jaxson Hayes, Center, Texas: Hayes is someone who developed later on in his high school days and carried it over to college. He shot from a high percentage this past season and showed an ability to protect the rim. He would be an interesting fit next to John Collins in their front court.
11. Minnesota Timberwolves- Rui Hachimua, Small Forward, Gonzaga: Hachimura is someone that is super talented and really took his game a notch this past season. The buzz at the combine was that there is very little chance Hachimura slips out of the lottery, with Minnesota generally thought to be a soft landing spot for him.
12. Charlotte Hornets- Kevin Porter Jr, Shooting Guard, USC: Porter is somebody that's a lottery talent that could very well drop into the twenties due to the injuries and suspension he had in college. If Porter lived up to the expectations he was given before college, the Hornets could be getting themselves a player.
13. Miami Heat- Nassir Little, Small Forward, North Carolina: Little is somebody who had an uneven season with North Carolina to the point Coby White became the best freshman on the team. He showed flashes of good shooting and always has been a great athlete. He has lottery talent and if he lives up to capability, the Heat got themselves a player.
14. Boston Celtics (from Sacramento Kings via Philadelphia 76ers)- Goga Bitadze, Center, Serbia: The Celtics are a team that wants a lot more size. Bitadze, although there is skepticism because he played overseas, is a creative big man who is terrific in the midrange, crafty with the ball in his hands, and a strong force in the post.
15. Detroit Pistons- Romeo Langford, Shooting Guard, Indiana: Langford is someone that dealt with a torn labrum this past season which probably held him back in college. He didn't shoot the ball well last season, but if that improves the Pistons found themselves a player.
16. Orlando Magic- Tyler Herro, Shooting Guard, Kentucky: Herro is somebody that is a very fast riser of late. He's someone that can flat out shoot the ball and the Magic are a team that needs outside perimeter shooting badly. If they take Herro, it would not shock me if he ends up being a big contributor immediately.
17. Atlanta Hawks (from Brooklyn Nets)- PJ Washington, Power Forward, Kentucky: After finally owning their first round pick for the first time in a long time, what do the Nets do? Trade it away with a bad contract to clear cap space to entice a star player to join the team! Meanwhile, Washington is someone that has the talent of a lottery pick with his ability to stretch the floor.
18. Indiana Pacers- Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Shooting Guard, Virginia Tech: Alexander-Walker had a great sophomore season for improve his draft stock. What makes him a hot commodity is that he can guard multiple positions and play on and off the ball. The Pacers are a team that needs wing depth and Alexander-Walker can provide that.
19. San Antonio Spurs- Nicolas Claxton, Power Forward/Center, Georgia: Claxton is one of the fastest risers as we are less than a week away from the draft. He has great size and mobility and his versatility will be why he's picked possibly higher than this.
20. Boston Celtics (from Los Angeles Clippers)- Keldon Johnson, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, Kentucky: The Celtics go with the talented winger in Johnson, who has good size and can shoot the ball well. He needs some work done on the defensive side though.
21. Oklahoma City Thunder- Cameron Johnson, Small Forward, North Carolina: Johnson is someone that was a very steady player in college for the Tar Heels. He's someone that can defend pretty well and shoot the 3-ball well. I wouldn't be surprised if he goes higher than this or he goes in the second round.
22. Boston Celtics- Brandon Clarke, Power Forward, Gonzaga: The second Gonzaga player comes off the board with Clarke. He provides energy and great two way play and he is someone analytic nerds will love with his high PER this past college season.
23. Utah Jazz- Bol Bol, Center, Oregon: The Jazz take someone that is perhaps the biggest high ceiling/low floor prospect in the draft in Bol. He is somebody with lottery talents that has shown good rim protection and a solid three point shot for a seven-footer.
24. Matisse Thybulle, Small Forward, Washington: Thybulle is somebody who was curiously left off the NBA combine list, but has the talent to be a first round pick. He's somebody that showed fine two-way play with solid three-point shooting and great defensive instincts.
25. Portland Trail Blazers- Mfiondu Kabengele, Power Forward/Center, Florida State: Kabengele is somebody who's stock has risen of late. The Blazers are team that actually has some depth up front, but will probably lose Enes Kanter in free agency and Kabengele is somebody that provides versatility and defends very well.
26. Cleveland Cavaliers (from Houston Rockets)- Ty Jerome, Point Guard/Shooting Guard, Virginia: Jerome is somebody that was very good in Virginia's Championship run. He's someone that is versatile and can defend multiple positions very well. A rebuilding team like the Cavaliers could use a player like Jerome that should provide good leadership skills and is a great teammate.
27. Brooklyn Nets (from Denver Nuggets)- Bruno Fernando, Center, Maryland: Fernando is somebody that has tantalizing upside that averaged a double-double this past season. He has an NBA ready body and could be a possible contributor for the Nets off the bench.
28. Golden State Warriors- Dylan Windler, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, Belmont: Windler is somebody that is very underrated coming into the draft. He's someone that can flat out score, shoot it from three, and space the floor well.
29. San Antonio Spurs (from Toronto Raptors)- Luka Samanic, Power Forward, Olimpija: Samanic had a great showing at the combine and likely played his way into first-round territory, showcasing his offensive versatility and an improved physique that bodes well for the growth of his game. He’s ideal as a stretch-four with his skill level and size, and didn’t look bad moving his feet defensively, either.
30. Milwaukee Bucks- KZ Okpala, Small Forward, Stanford: Okpala is somebody who's stock is rising at the moment due to his length and wingspan. The Bucks could use some wing depth, especially if Khris Middleton leaves in free agency and Okpala could be a bench guy for them and provide valuable minutes.
Friday, June 14, 2019
2019 NHL Mock Draft: Fifth Edition
Here is the fifth edition of my 2019 NHL Mock Draft.
1. New Jersey Devils- Jack Hughes, Center, USNDT: Hughes is somebody people have been talking about since last year in terms of young up and coming impact draft prospects. He's going to come in and have an immediate impact on a team that needs young assets to go with Taylor Hall and former number one overall pick Nico Hischier.
2. New York Rangers- Kaapo Kakko, Right Wing, Liija (TPS): The Rangers have to be thrilled for making this big of a jump in the lottery. Kakko is somebody that will jumpstart this rebuild as he broke a ton of scoring records in Liija. He will also make an immediate impact and would be yet another prospect to add to a suddenly loaded prospect group featuring Vitaly Kravstov and K'Andre Miller.
3. Chicago Blackhawks- Alex Turcotte, Center, USNDT: Turcotte is somebody that is very a dynamic two-way center that's stock is rising. He's playing in the Under-18 World Championship and is thriving in the tournament, which is making people think he could be the third guy off the board on draft night.
4. Colorado Avalanche (from Ottawa Senators)- Kirby Dach, Center, Saskatoon (WHL): Dach is one of the fastest risers with a week to go before the draft since he is the most NHL-ready player in the draft other than Hughes and Kakko, so the Avalanche could be getting a great player here. He excels on offense with his instincts and his vision.
5. Los Angeles Kings- Bowen Bryam, Defenseman, Vancouver (WHL): The Kings have options with this pick as they could trade the pick, take a forward, or go defense like I have here. Bryam is the best defenseman in the draft and the Kings need more young defenseman as Drew Doughty is aging.
6. Detroit Red Wings- Cole Caufield, Center/Wing, USNDT: The Red Wings could go in a bunch of different directions here. Caufield is someone who's draft stock is rising due to his versatility he provides and he could pan out into a top six forward.
7. Buffalo Sabres- Dylan Cozens, Center, Lethbridge (WHL): Cozens is somebody I'm very high on and I feel has a ton of potential. He's very dynamic and would give the Sabres a great number two center behind Jack Eichel down the road.
8. Edmonton Oilers- Trevor Zegras, Center/Wing, USNDT: Zegras is somebody who's stock is rising because of his versatility and has smart vision. He's a good two-way player too and he would be someone the Oilers would move around in their lineup because of his versatility.
9. Anaheim Ducks- Vasili Podkolzin, Right Wing, St. Petersburg (KHL): Podkolzin is someone that was outstanding in the World Junior, but wasn't putting up stats offensively in Russia. I can see Podkolzin slipping further than this due to contract concerns with the KHL, but at the same time due to his upside, I can see him being picked in the top three.
10. Vancouver Canucks- Matthew Bodly, Right Wing, USNDT: Bodly is yet another USNDT player taken in the lottery. He has a ton of size and score the puck from both sides of the wing and is someone the Canucks would take a chance on.
11. Philadelphia Flyers- Peyton Kerbs, Left Wing, Kootenay (WHL): Kerbs is somebody that is a dynamic offensive force like some of the other wingers in the top of the draft. He's fast and has a good hockey IQ which the Flyers would like.
12. Minnesota Wild- Victor Sodestrom, Defenseman, Brynas (Superelite): The Wild go defense here as they take Sodestrom to add youth to a defense that needs it. He's someone that is a smart player that could be great offensively and is reliable defensively.
13. Florida Panthers- Philip Brodberg, Defenseman, AIK (SWE): The Panthers could go a number of directions with this pick. Brodberg is someone that is a good offensive defenseman that has good vision as well as controls the game well in all zones.
14. Arizona Coyotes- Arthur Kaliev, Left Wing, Hamilton (OHL): Kaliev is somebody that can flag out score. Some people have concerns with his skating ability and his two-way game, or else he would be in the conversation for a top ten or even a top five pick.
15. Montreal Canadiens- Thomas Hardley, Defenseman, Mississauga (OHL): Hardley is somebody that is an excellent two-way defenseman and is probably a steal with this pick. He is somebody the Habs can have on their top pair down the road.
16. Colorado Avalanche- Bobby Brink, Right Wing, Sioux Falls (USHL): The Avalanche take the fast rising winger here. Brink isn't the fastest skater, but has good footwork and agility, allowing him to weave in and out of traffic and around defenders.
17. Vegas Golden Knights- Ryan Suzuki, Center, Barrie (OHL): The younger brother of former Knights first rounder Kurt, Ryan may end up being the better prospect. He's a great skater and has good vision for the game as well as great playmaking skills.
18. Dallas Stars- Cam York, Defenseman, USNDT: The USNDT dominance continues as the Stars take York. He's somebody that could be a top four D-man on someone's roster and he is someone was thought out to be a lottery pick a few weeks ago, but his stock has dropped.
19. Ottawa Senators (from Columbus Blue Jackets)- Raphael Lavoie, Center/Wing, Halifax (OHL): Lavoie is someone who's draft stock is rising that could be a immediate contributor for the Senators. He is a physical player, but also someone with speed and can wire a heavy shot.
20. New York Rangers (from Winnipeg Jets)- Moritz Seider, Defenseman, Adler (SEL): The Rangers go defense here with their second first rounder to continue building their defense depth. Seider is somebody that is a great-two way defenseman and is a force to be reckoned with.
21. Pittsburgh Penguins- Nils Hoglander, Right Wing, Rogle (SHL): The Penguins take the forward with their first rounder. Hoglander is a small player that is very fineness with and without the puck and a team like the Pens could use a player like this.
22. Los Angeles Kings (from Toronto Maple Leafs)- Matthew Robertson, Defenseman, Edmonton (OHL): Robertson is somebody that provided very good two-way play this past season. He seems like somebody a rebuilding team like the Kings would take a chance on.
23. New York Islanders- Phil Thomasino, Center/Wing, Niagara (OHL): Thomasino is somebody that is versatile and has a knack of making plays with a ton of speed. That's something that the Islanders like in players.
24. Nashville Predators- Samuel Poulin, Left Wing, Sherbrooke (QMJHL): Poulin is someone who's stock is falling to the point where he could drop into the second round. His size, combined with above average puck handling, shooting, and play-making skills makes him an attractive ‘power forward’ NHL prospect.
25. Washington Capitals- Patrik Puistola, Left Wing, Tappara-U20 (SM-Liiga): Puistola is one of the fastest risers as the draft is nearing us. He is someone that is fast and has excellent offensive skills and instincts, but his defensive game is a work in progress.
26. Calgary Flames- Tobias Bjornfot, Defenseman, Djurgarden (Superelit): Bjornfot is one of the faster risers with about a month to go until the draft. He's a fluid skater with escapability who can log big minutes. His quick release on his wrister helps create rebounds of seemingly harmless attempts.
27. Tampa Bay Lighting- Ville Heinola, Defenseman, Lukko (SM-Liiga): Heinola is somebody that is very good at attacking and making odd-man situations. His moves make people remind him of Rasmus Dahlin.
28. Carolina Hurricanes- Spencer Knight, Goalie, USNDT: There hasn't been a goalie with the fire and intensity like Knight drafted this high in a long time. The Hurricanes really don't have a long term solution in goal with Petr Mrazek's future uncertain and Knight certainly is capable of being that guy.
29. Anaheim Ducks (from San Jose Sharks via Buffalo Sabres)- Jakob Pelletier, Center/Wing, Moncoton (QMJHL): The Ducks take a versatile forward here with their first rounder. Pelletier is somebody that has great tenacity and skill as well as generating chances off the forecheck.
30. Boston Bruins- Brett Leason, Center/Wing, Prince Albert (WHL): Leason is somebody rare in the sense he was undrafted last season and now projected to be a late first or second round pick and that says a lot on how much he has improved as a player. He can flat out score and has good size and plays a power game.
31. Buffalo Sabres (from St. Louis Blues)- Connor McMichael, Center, London (OHL): McMichael is somebody that is very crafty and a type of player that the Sabrss add to what could be a contender sooner rather than later. He's also great at finishing and he stood out among a London Knights team that's loaded with scorers.
1. New Jersey Devils- Jack Hughes, Center, USNDT: Hughes is somebody people have been talking about since last year in terms of young up and coming impact draft prospects. He's going to come in and have an immediate impact on a team that needs young assets to go with Taylor Hall and former number one overall pick Nico Hischier.
2. New York Rangers- Kaapo Kakko, Right Wing, Liija (TPS): The Rangers have to be thrilled for making this big of a jump in the lottery. Kakko is somebody that will jumpstart this rebuild as he broke a ton of scoring records in Liija. He will also make an immediate impact and would be yet another prospect to add to a suddenly loaded prospect group featuring Vitaly Kravstov and K'Andre Miller.
3. Chicago Blackhawks- Alex Turcotte, Center, USNDT: Turcotte is somebody that is very a dynamic two-way center that's stock is rising. He's playing in the Under-18 World Championship and is thriving in the tournament, which is making people think he could be the third guy off the board on draft night.
4. Colorado Avalanche (from Ottawa Senators)- Kirby Dach, Center, Saskatoon (WHL): Dach is one of the fastest risers with a week to go before the draft since he is the most NHL-ready player in the draft other than Hughes and Kakko, so the Avalanche could be getting a great player here. He excels on offense with his instincts and his vision.
5. Los Angeles Kings- Bowen Bryam, Defenseman, Vancouver (WHL): The Kings have options with this pick as they could trade the pick, take a forward, or go defense like I have here. Bryam is the best defenseman in the draft and the Kings need more young defenseman as Drew Doughty is aging.
6. Detroit Red Wings- Cole Caufield, Center/Wing, USNDT: The Red Wings could go in a bunch of different directions here. Caufield is someone who's draft stock is rising due to his versatility he provides and he could pan out into a top six forward.
7. Buffalo Sabres- Dylan Cozens, Center, Lethbridge (WHL): Cozens is somebody I'm very high on and I feel has a ton of potential. He's very dynamic and would give the Sabres a great number two center behind Jack Eichel down the road.
8. Edmonton Oilers- Trevor Zegras, Center/Wing, USNDT: Zegras is somebody who's stock is rising because of his versatility and has smart vision. He's a good two-way player too and he would be someone the Oilers would move around in their lineup because of his versatility.
9. Anaheim Ducks- Vasili Podkolzin, Right Wing, St. Petersburg (KHL): Podkolzin is someone that was outstanding in the World Junior, but wasn't putting up stats offensively in Russia. I can see Podkolzin slipping further than this due to contract concerns with the KHL, but at the same time due to his upside, I can see him being picked in the top three.
10. Vancouver Canucks- Matthew Bodly, Right Wing, USNDT: Bodly is yet another USNDT player taken in the lottery. He has a ton of size and score the puck from both sides of the wing and is someone the Canucks would take a chance on.
11. Philadelphia Flyers- Peyton Kerbs, Left Wing, Kootenay (WHL): Kerbs is somebody that is a dynamic offensive force like some of the other wingers in the top of the draft. He's fast and has a good hockey IQ which the Flyers would like.
12. Minnesota Wild- Victor Sodestrom, Defenseman, Brynas (Superelite): The Wild go defense here as they take Sodestrom to add youth to a defense that needs it. He's someone that is a smart player that could be great offensively and is reliable defensively.
13. Florida Panthers- Philip Brodberg, Defenseman, AIK (SWE): The Panthers could go a number of directions with this pick. Brodberg is someone that is a good offensive defenseman that has good vision as well as controls the game well in all zones.
14. Arizona Coyotes- Arthur Kaliev, Left Wing, Hamilton (OHL): Kaliev is somebody that can flag out score. Some people have concerns with his skating ability and his two-way game, or else he would be in the conversation for a top ten or even a top five pick.
15. Montreal Canadiens- Thomas Hardley, Defenseman, Mississauga (OHL): Hardley is somebody that is an excellent two-way defenseman and is probably a steal with this pick. He is somebody the Habs can have on their top pair down the road.
16. Colorado Avalanche- Bobby Brink, Right Wing, Sioux Falls (USHL): The Avalanche take the fast rising winger here. Brink isn't the fastest skater, but has good footwork and agility, allowing him to weave in and out of traffic and around defenders.
17. Vegas Golden Knights- Ryan Suzuki, Center, Barrie (OHL): The younger brother of former Knights first rounder Kurt, Ryan may end up being the better prospect. He's a great skater and has good vision for the game as well as great playmaking skills.
18. Dallas Stars- Cam York, Defenseman, USNDT: The USNDT dominance continues as the Stars take York. He's somebody that could be a top four D-man on someone's roster and he is someone was thought out to be a lottery pick a few weeks ago, but his stock has dropped.
19. Ottawa Senators (from Columbus Blue Jackets)- Raphael Lavoie, Center/Wing, Halifax (OHL): Lavoie is someone who's draft stock is rising that could be a immediate contributor for the Senators. He is a physical player, but also someone with speed and can wire a heavy shot.
20. New York Rangers (from Winnipeg Jets)- Moritz Seider, Defenseman, Adler (SEL): The Rangers go defense here with their second first rounder to continue building their defense depth. Seider is somebody that is a great-two way defenseman and is a force to be reckoned with.
21. Pittsburgh Penguins- Nils Hoglander, Right Wing, Rogle (SHL): The Penguins take the forward with their first rounder. Hoglander is a small player that is very fineness with and without the puck and a team like the Pens could use a player like this.
22. Los Angeles Kings (from Toronto Maple Leafs)- Matthew Robertson, Defenseman, Edmonton (OHL): Robertson is somebody that provided very good two-way play this past season. He seems like somebody a rebuilding team like the Kings would take a chance on.
23. New York Islanders- Phil Thomasino, Center/Wing, Niagara (OHL): Thomasino is somebody that is versatile and has a knack of making plays with a ton of speed. That's something that the Islanders like in players.
24. Nashville Predators- Samuel Poulin, Left Wing, Sherbrooke (QMJHL): Poulin is someone who's stock is falling to the point where he could drop into the second round. His size, combined with above average puck handling, shooting, and play-making skills makes him an attractive ‘power forward’ NHL prospect.
25. Washington Capitals- Patrik Puistola, Left Wing, Tappara-U20 (SM-Liiga): Puistola is one of the fastest risers as the draft is nearing us. He is someone that is fast and has excellent offensive skills and instincts, but his defensive game is a work in progress.
26. Calgary Flames- Tobias Bjornfot, Defenseman, Djurgarden (Superelit): Bjornfot is one of the faster risers with about a month to go until the draft. He's a fluid skater with escapability who can log big minutes. His quick release on his wrister helps create rebounds of seemingly harmless attempts.
27. Tampa Bay Lighting- Ville Heinola, Defenseman, Lukko (SM-Liiga): Heinola is somebody that is very good at attacking and making odd-man situations. His moves make people remind him of Rasmus Dahlin.
28. Carolina Hurricanes- Spencer Knight, Goalie, USNDT: There hasn't been a goalie with the fire and intensity like Knight drafted this high in a long time. The Hurricanes really don't have a long term solution in goal with Petr Mrazek's future uncertain and Knight certainly is capable of being that guy.
29. Anaheim Ducks (from San Jose Sharks via Buffalo Sabres)- Jakob Pelletier, Center/Wing, Moncoton (QMJHL): The Ducks take a versatile forward here with their first rounder. Pelletier is somebody that has great tenacity and skill as well as generating chances off the forecheck.
30. Boston Bruins- Brett Leason, Center/Wing, Prince Albert (WHL): Leason is somebody rare in the sense he was undrafted last season and now projected to be a late first or second round pick and that says a lot on how much he has improved as a player. He can flat out score and has good size and plays a power game.
31. Buffalo Sabres (from St. Louis Blues)- Connor McMichael, Center, London (OHL): McMichael is somebody that is very crafty and a type of player that the Sabrss add to what could be a contender sooner rather than later. He's also great at finishing and he stood out among a London Knights team that's loaded with scorers.
2019 NBA Mock Draft: Seventh Edition
Here is my seventh edition of my 2019 NBA Mock Draft.
1. New Orleans Pelicans- Zion Williamson, Power Forward/Center, Duke: The Pelicans are massive winners here for landing the best prospect since LeBron James. Unfortunately, Anthony Davis still wants out of New Orleans and maybe they ship him to New York or Los Angeles for a bunch of young assets and either the third or fourth pick of the draft. That said, assuming they move on from Davis, they can start fresh with Williamson on board.
2. Memphis Grizzlies- Ja Morant, Point Guard, Murray State: The Grizzlies are big winners here as they jump to two. Morant is someone that people are down on due to weaker competition, but he really showed that he can be the real deal. Assuming he is the selection, he'd be the perfect replacement for Mike Conley, who they can trade this offseason for more assets to build around.
3. New York Knicks- RJ Barrett, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, Duke: Barrett was the preseason top prospect before Zion broke onto the scenes and wowed everyone. He was overshadowed due to Zion's presence on the team, but he had his moments. Now with Kevin Durant tearing his achilles and regardless if they sign him or not, I think it's more realistic they keep this pick rather than trade it for Anthony Davis.
4. Los Angeles Lakers- De'Andre Hunter, Small Forward/Power Forward, Virginia: Hunter is somebody that was excellent in Virginia's run to the title last season and his stock rose in light of it. I like Hunter and I believe he could surprise some folks as a rookie because of his fine two-way play. There is a distinct possibility that this pick is shopped though as they find another star to pair with LeBron James.
5. Cleveland Cavaliers- Jarrett Culver, Shooting Guard, Texas Tech: The Cavaliers are one of the lottery losers as they drop from two to five. Culver is somebody that had a sensational sophomore season to become a projected top lottery pick. He's somebody that can shoot the ball and rebound well for his position. He and Collin Sexton would make an interesting backcourt.
6. Phoenix Suns- Darius Garland, Point Guard, Vanderbilt: The Suns were another lottery loser as they dropped from three to six. They're biggest need coming into the offseason was a point guard and they land one here with Garland. He did only play in five games this past season due to the knee injury he suffered. A backcourt with him and Devin Booker would be interesting.
7. Chicago Bulls- Coby White, Point Guard/Shooting Guard: North Carolina: The Bulls drop from four to seven which isn't ideal for them. This would be an interesting selection considering they already have Kris Dunn on their roster. White is someone who was great in his lone collegiate season and that's what got him to this position. He and Zach LaVine would be an interesting backcourt pairing.
8. Atlanta Hawks- Cam Reddish, Small Forward, Duke: Reddish, like RJ Barrett, is someone that was overshadowed on the Blue Devils squad because of Zion's presence. Reddish did not shoot the ball well at times throughout the season and he needs to develop that consistent shot in the pro's. If he does that, than the Hawks got themselves another building block to go with the rest of their young core.
9. Washington Wizards- Sekou Doumbouya, Small Forward/Shooting Guard, France: Doumbouya is somebody that showed a good jump shot and qualify defensive play too. The defensive side needs to be more proven once he is in the league full time. He's someone that will probably be a bench player for the Wizards that could see G-league time if he needs more development time.
10. Atlanta Hawks (from Dallas Mavericks)- Jaxson Hayes, Center, Texas: Hayes is someone who developed later on in his high school days and carried it over to college. He shot from a high percentage this past season and showed an ability to protect the rim. He would be an interesting fit next to John Collins in their front court.
11. Minnesota Timberwolves- Rui Hachimua, Small Forward, Gonzaga: Hachimura is someone that is super talented and really took his game a notch this past season. The buzz at the combine was that there is very little chance Hachimura slips out of the lottery, with Minnesota generally thought to be a soft landing spot for him.
12. Charlotte Hornets- Nassir Little, Small Forward, North Carolina: Little is somebody who had an uneven season with North Carolina to the point Coby White became the best freshman on the team. He showed flashes of good shooting and always has been a great athlete. He has lottery talent and if he lives up to capability, the Hornets got themselves a player.
13. Miami Heat- Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Shooting Guard, Virginia Tech: Alexander-Walker had a great sophomore season for improve his draft stock. What makes him a hot commodity is that he can guard multiple positions and play on and off the ball.
14. Boston Celtics (from Sacramento Kings via Philadelphia 76ers)- Brandon Clarke, Power Forward, Gonzaga: The second Gonzaga player comes off the board with Clarke. He provides energy and great two way play and he is someone analytic nerds will love with his high PER this past college season.
15. Detroit Pistons- Romeo Langford, Shooting Guard, Indiana: Langford is someone that dealt with a torn labrum this past season which probably held him back in college. He didn't shoot the ball well last season, but if that improves the Pistons found themselves a player.
16. Orlando Magic- Tyler Herro, Shooting Guard, Kentucky: Herro is somebody that is a very fast riser of late. He's someone that can flat out shoot the ball and the Magic are a team that needs outside perimeter shooting badly. If they take Herro, it would not shock me if he ends up being a big contributor immediately.
17. Atlanta Hawks (from Brooklyn Nets)- PJ Washington, Power Forward, Kentucky: After finally owning their first round pick for the first time in a long time, what do the Nets do? Trade it away with a bad contract to clear cap space to entice a star player to join the team! Meanwhile, Washington is someone that has the talent of a lottery pick with his ability to stretch the floor.
18. Indiana Pacers- Kevin Porter Jr, Shooting Guard, USC: Porter is somebody that's a lottery talent that could very well drop into the twenties due to the injuries and suspension he had in college. If Porter lived up to the expectations he was given before college, the Pacers could be getting themselves a steal.
19. San Antonio Spurs- Goga Bitadze, Center, Serbia: This feels like a classic Spurs pick. Bitadze, although there is skepticism because he played overseas, is a creative big man who is terrific in the midrange, crafty with the ball in his hands, and a strong force in the post.
20. Boston Celtics (from Los Angeles Clippers)- Ty Jerome, Point Guard/Shooting Guard, Virginia: Jerome is somebody that was very good in Virginia's Championship run. He's someone that is versatile and can defend multiple positions very well. The Celtics might lose Kyrie Irving this summer so they can use more depth and versatility at the position.
21. Oklahoma City Thunder- Bol Bol, Center, Oregon: The Thunder take someone that is perhaps the biggest high ceiling/low floor prospect in the draft in Bol. He is somebody with lottery talents that has shown good rim protection and a solid three point shot for a seven-footer.
22. Boston Celtics- Keldon Johnson, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, Kentucky: The Celtics go with the talented winger in Johnson, who has good size and can shoot the ball well. He needs some work done on the defensive side though.
23. Utah Jazz- Matisse Thybulle, Small Forward, Washington: Thybulle is somebody who was curiously left off the NBA combine list, but has the talent to be a first round pick. He's somebody that showed fine two-way play with solid three-point shooting and great defensive instincts.
24. Philadelphia 76ers- Cameron Johnson, Small Forward, North Carolina: Johnson is someone that was a very steady player in college for the Tar Heels. He's someone that can defend pretty well and shoot the 3-ball well. I wouldn't be surprised if he goes higher than this or he goes in the second round.
25. Portland Trail Blazers- KZ Okpala, Small Forward, Stanford: Okpala is somebody who's stock is rising at the moment due to his length and wingspan. The Pacers could use some wing depth and Okpala could be a bench guy for them and provide valuable minutes.
26. Cleveland Cavaliers (from Houston Rockets)- Nicolas Claxton, Power Forward/Center, Georgia: Claxton is one of the fastest risers as we are less than a week away from the draft. He has great size and mobility and his versatility will be why he's picked possibly higher than this.
27. Brooklyn Nets (from Denver Nuggets)- Carsen Edwards, Point Guard, Purdue: After a fantastic tournament, Edwards's stock has risen dramatically. He's someone that can score and could shoot it well from three. Edwards is probably more suited for a bench role although the Nets probably need more point guard depth if D'Angelo Russell bolts this summer.
28. Golden State Warriors- Dylan Windler, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, Belmont: Windler is somebody that is very underrated coming into the draft. He's someone that can flat out score, shoot it from three, and space the floor well.
29. San Antonio Spurs (from Toronto Raptors)- Zach Norvell, Shooting Guard, Gonzaga: This wouldn't be a bad selection as the Spurs take a wing that has been in big games in college and has a nice all around game. The Spurs are a team that needs wing depth so this pick would makes sense.
30. Milwaukee Bucks- Bruno Fernando, Center, Maryland: Fernando is somebody that has tantalizing upside that averaged a double-double this past season. He has an NBA ready body and could be a contributor for the Bucks and could start for them if Brook Lopez bolts this summer.
1. New Orleans Pelicans- Zion Williamson, Power Forward/Center, Duke: The Pelicans are massive winners here for landing the best prospect since LeBron James. Unfortunately, Anthony Davis still wants out of New Orleans and maybe they ship him to New York or Los Angeles for a bunch of young assets and either the third or fourth pick of the draft. That said, assuming they move on from Davis, they can start fresh with Williamson on board.
2. Memphis Grizzlies- Ja Morant, Point Guard, Murray State: The Grizzlies are big winners here as they jump to two. Morant is someone that people are down on due to weaker competition, but he really showed that he can be the real deal. Assuming he is the selection, he'd be the perfect replacement for Mike Conley, who they can trade this offseason for more assets to build around.
3. New York Knicks- RJ Barrett, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, Duke: Barrett was the preseason top prospect before Zion broke onto the scenes and wowed everyone. He was overshadowed due to Zion's presence on the team, but he had his moments. Now with Kevin Durant tearing his achilles and regardless if they sign him or not, I think it's more realistic they keep this pick rather than trade it for Anthony Davis.
4. Los Angeles Lakers- De'Andre Hunter, Small Forward/Power Forward, Virginia: Hunter is somebody that was excellent in Virginia's run to the title last season and his stock rose in light of it. I like Hunter and I believe he could surprise some folks as a rookie because of his fine two-way play. There is a distinct possibility that this pick is shopped though as they find another star to pair with LeBron James.
5. Cleveland Cavaliers- Jarrett Culver, Shooting Guard, Texas Tech: The Cavaliers are one of the lottery losers as they drop from two to five. Culver is somebody that had a sensational sophomore season to become a projected top lottery pick. He's somebody that can shoot the ball and rebound well for his position. He and Collin Sexton would make an interesting backcourt.
6. Phoenix Suns- Darius Garland, Point Guard, Vanderbilt: The Suns were another lottery loser as they dropped from three to six. They're biggest need coming into the offseason was a point guard and they land one here with Garland. He did only play in five games this past season due to the knee injury he suffered. A backcourt with him and Devin Booker would be interesting.
7. Chicago Bulls- Coby White, Point Guard/Shooting Guard: North Carolina: The Bulls drop from four to seven which isn't ideal for them. This would be an interesting selection considering they already have Kris Dunn on their roster. White is someone who was great in his lone collegiate season and that's what got him to this position. He and Zach LaVine would be an interesting backcourt pairing.
8. Atlanta Hawks- Cam Reddish, Small Forward, Duke: Reddish, like RJ Barrett, is someone that was overshadowed on the Blue Devils squad because of Zion's presence. Reddish did not shoot the ball well at times throughout the season and he needs to develop that consistent shot in the pro's. If he does that, than the Hawks got themselves another building block to go with the rest of their young core.
9. Washington Wizards- Sekou Doumbouya, Small Forward/Shooting Guard, France: Doumbouya is somebody that showed a good jump shot and qualify defensive play too. The defensive side needs to be more proven once he is in the league full time. He's someone that will probably be a bench player for the Wizards that could see G-league time if he needs more development time.
10. Atlanta Hawks (from Dallas Mavericks)- Jaxson Hayes, Center, Texas: Hayes is someone who developed later on in his high school days and carried it over to college. He shot from a high percentage this past season and showed an ability to protect the rim. He would be an interesting fit next to John Collins in their front court.
11. Minnesota Timberwolves- Rui Hachimua, Small Forward, Gonzaga: Hachimura is someone that is super talented and really took his game a notch this past season. The buzz at the combine was that there is very little chance Hachimura slips out of the lottery, with Minnesota generally thought to be a soft landing spot for him.
12. Charlotte Hornets- Nassir Little, Small Forward, North Carolina: Little is somebody who had an uneven season with North Carolina to the point Coby White became the best freshman on the team. He showed flashes of good shooting and always has been a great athlete. He has lottery talent and if he lives up to capability, the Hornets got themselves a player.
13. Miami Heat- Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Shooting Guard, Virginia Tech: Alexander-Walker had a great sophomore season for improve his draft stock. What makes him a hot commodity is that he can guard multiple positions and play on and off the ball.
14. Boston Celtics (from Sacramento Kings via Philadelphia 76ers)- Brandon Clarke, Power Forward, Gonzaga: The second Gonzaga player comes off the board with Clarke. He provides energy and great two way play and he is someone analytic nerds will love with his high PER this past college season.
15. Detroit Pistons- Romeo Langford, Shooting Guard, Indiana: Langford is someone that dealt with a torn labrum this past season which probably held him back in college. He didn't shoot the ball well last season, but if that improves the Pistons found themselves a player.
16. Orlando Magic- Tyler Herro, Shooting Guard, Kentucky: Herro is somebody that is a very fast riser of late. He's someone that can flat out shoot the ball and the Magic are a team that needs outside perimeter shooting badly. If they take Herro, it would not shock me if he ends up being a big contributor immediately.
17. Atlanta Hawks (from Brooklyn Nets)- PJ Washington, Power Forward, Kentucky: After finally owning their first round pick for the first time in a long time, what do the Nets do? Trade it away with a bad contract to clear cap space to entice a star player to join the team! Meanwhile, Washington is someone that has the talent of a lottery pick with his ability to stretch the floor.
18. Indiana Pacers- Kevin Porter Jr, Shooting Guard, USC: Porter is somebody that's a lottery talent that could very well drop into the twenties due to the injuries and suspension he had in college. If Porter lived up to the expectations he was given before college, the Pacers could be getting themselves a steal.
19. San Antonio Spurs- Goga Bitadze, Center, Serbia: This feels like a classic Spurs pick. Bitadze, although there is skepticism because he played overseas, is a creative big man who is terrific in the midrange, crafty with the ball in his hands, and a strong force in the post.
20. Boston Celtics (from Los Angeles Clippers)- Ty Jerome, Point Guard/Shooting Guard, Virginia: Jerome is somebody that was very good in Virginia's Championship run. He's someone that is versatile and can defend multiple positions very well. The Celtics might lose Kyrie Irving this summer so they can use more depth and versatility at the position.
21. Oklahoma City Thunder- Bol Bol, Center, Oregon: The Thunder take someone that is perhaps the biggest high ceiling/low floor prospect in the draft in Bol. He is somebody with lottery talents that has shown good rim protection and a solid three point shot for a seven-footer.
22. Boston Celtics- Keldon Johnson, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, Kentucky: The Celtics go with the talented winger in Johnson, who has good size and can shoot the ball well. He needs some work done on the defensive side though.
23. Utah Jazz- Matisse Thybulle, Small Forward, Washington: Thybulle is somebody who was curiously left off the NBA combine list, but has the talent to be a first round pick. He's somebody that showed fine two-way play with solid three-point shooting and great defensive instincts.
24. Philadelphia 76ers- Cameron Johnson, Small Forward, North Carolina: Johnson is someone that was a very steady player in college for the Tar Heels. He's someone that can defend pretty well and shoot the 3-ball well. I wouldn't be surprised if he goes higher than this or he goes in the second round.
25. Portland Trail Blazers- KZ Okpala, Small Forward, Stanford: Okpala is somebody who's stock is rising at the moment due to his length and wingspan. The Pacers could use some wing depth and Okpala could be a bench guy for them and provide valuable minutes.
26. Cleveland Cavaliers (from Houston Rockets)- Nicolas Claxton, Power Forward/Center, Georgia: Claxton is one of the fastest risers as we are less than a week away from the draft. He has great size and mobility and his versatility will be why he's picked possibly higher than this.
27. Brooklyn Nets (from Denver Nuggets)- Carsen Edwards, Point Guard, Purdue: After a fantastic tournament, Edwards's stock has risen dramatically. He's someone that can score and could shoot it well from three. Edwards is probably more suited for a bench role although the Nets probably need more point guard depth if D'Angelo Russell bolts this summer.
28. Golden State Warriors- Dylan Windler, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, Belmont: Windler is somebody that is very underrated coming into the draft. He's someone that can flat out score, shoot it from three, and space the floor well.
29. San Antonio Spurs (from Toronto Raptors)- Zach Norvell, Shooting Guard, Gonzaga: This wouldn't be a bad selection as the Spurs take a wing that has been in big games in college and has a nice all around game. The Spurs are a team that needs wing depth so this pick would makes sense.
30. Milwaukee Bucks- Bruno Fernando, Center, Maryland: Fernando is somebody that has tantalizing upside that averaged a double-double this past season. He has an NBA ready body and could be a contributor for the Bucks and could start for them if Brook Lopez bolts this summer.
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