With the new season right around the corner, this is a good time for me to unveil my first 2015 NBA Mock Draft. Enjoy!
The draft order was based on my 2014-2015 NBA Preview and Predictions, which you can view here.2014-2015 NBA Preview and Predictions.
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1. Philadelphia 76ers
C Jahlil Okafor, Fr, Duke
6'11, 270 lbs
Hometown: Chicago, IL
With the uncertainty revolving around Emmanuel Muiday, Jahlil Okafor is the favorite to be the first overall draft choice 8 months before the 2015 NBA Draft. If he can adjust to the college game quickly, he should be close to unstoppable at Duke, as few big men in college will be able to contain his 7 foot, 270 pound frame. Okafor has struggled with conditioning issues in the past but NBA trainers should whip him into shape. The 76ers are still collecting talent, and what an embarrassment of riches they could possibly have with Okafor, Joel Embiid, Nerlens Noel and Dario Saric on the front court.
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2. Utah Jazz
PF/C Karl Towns, Fr, Kentucky
7'0, 245 lbs
Hometown: Metuchen, NJ
The Jazz swung for the fences with Dante Exum in 2014. I loved the pick but he is unlikely to help Utah win many games in 2014-2015. There are several prospects in play for this pick. Karl Towns is very talented, he is more of a finesse big man than a banger. Think LaMarcus Aldridge offensively. The problem for Towns is that he will have to fight for minutes with Dakari Johnson, Willie Cauley-Stein, Marcus Lee and Trey Lyles along Kentucky's front line. That was not a problem for Julius Randle, however, who was able to differentiate himself from the rest of the pack. Towns has solid offensive ability and could be a nice fit alongside Derrick Favors.
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3. Orlando Magic
PG Emmanuel Mudiay, Fr, Guangdong Southern Tigers, China
6'5, 190 lbs
Hometown: Dallas, TX
Emmanuel Mudiay recently shocked the college basketball world by stating he will not attend SMU and will instead play a year in China. I doubt this will effect his draft stock all that much. He is still a very talented guard who should be a top five pick. Mudiay is in the mold of a Derrick Rose or John Wall, two physically dominating point guards who entered the draft after their freshman year. Like those two as freshmen, Mudiay is still turnover prone and not a great shooter. Those are areas that will hope to be fixed once NBA coaching staffs get their hands on him. All the talent is there for Mudiay to be the next great NBA point guard. The Magic just drafted Elfrid Payton early, but I doubt that would stop them from going with Mudiay here, especially since the talent level drops off a bit after these top three prospects.
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4. Los Angeles Lakers
SF Kelly Oubre, Fr, Kansas
6'7, 204 lbs
Hometown: Richmond, TX
The Lakers lose this pick to the Suns if it is not in the top four. Kelly Oubre is a good wing scorer, who can slash to the basket or knock down jump shots. He has some attitude problems and is not much of a defender, but hopefully playing for Bill Self can help him correct some of those issues. Paul George had some of the same strengths and weaknesses coming out of college, and he has been quite a find. Oubre has similar ability, and the Lakers simply do not have any wing players to take the pressure off Kobe Bryant.
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5. Milwaukee Bucks
PF Kristaps Porzingis, Latvia
7'0, 220 lbs
Hometown: Ventspils, Latvia
2013-2014 Stats: 6.9 ppg, 2.8 rpg, 0.9 bpg
I believe Kristaps Porzingis would have been a top 15 pick had he kept his name in the 2014 draft, so it is only obvious to expect improvement from the talented 18 year old. Porzingis is a good shooter and ball handler, and could take some pressure offensively off Brandon Knight and Jabari Parker, who are expected to be Milwaukee's major scoring threats. On the other hand, his stock could fall if he fails to improve his strength and rebounding.
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6. Sacramento Kings
SF Stanley Johnson, Fr, Arizona
6'7, 237 lbs
Hometown: Fullerton, CA
The Kings have talent, but I hate the makeup of their roster and think they will struggle to keep up in the ultra competitive Western Conference. Sacramento needs some glue guys, guys who can impact the game without looking for their own jump shot. Stanley Johnson draws Ron Artest comparisons thanks to his strong frame and bulldozing game. Johnson simply overpowers poor high school defenders. He will have to develop more of an overall offensive game to succeed in the NBA. He is also a very good rebounder and defender. Johnson has great leadership qualities and won very big in high school. He could be a Michael Kidd-Gilchrist type at the next level if he doesn't develop a jump shot, but his defense will be a welcome addition to the Kings.
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7. Indiana Pacers
PF Cliff Alexander, Fr, Kansas
6'9, 250 lbs
Hometown: Chicago, IL
Chicago has produced some amazing prospects the past few years. Jabari Parker, Jahlil Okafor and now Cliff Alexander. Alexander is alredy an NBA caliber rebounder and shot blocker. He is big and strong, but will have to keep his weight in check to reach his full potential. Alexander is more defense and rebounding than offense right now, but has range out to 10 feet or so. He has the potential to develop into a bulldozer of a power forward, and with David West nearing the end of a solid career, he would make a good replacement in Indiana.
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8. Boston Celtics
SG Caris LeVert, Jr, Michigan
6'6, 185 lbs
Hometown: Pickerington, OH
2013-2014 Stats: 12.9 ppg, 4.3 rpg, 2.9 apg
Shooting is at a premium in the NBA right now. We have seen guys shoot up into the top ten (Terrence Ross, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Nik Stauskas) off the strength of their ability to stroke it from deep. Stauskas really came on as a sophomore once Tim Hardaway Jr. was out of the way, and Caris LeVert could do the same without Stauskas in Ann Arbor. LeVert looks like former Pistons great Richard Hamilton, with his long lanky frame and ability to knock down three point shots. Boston drafted Marcus Smart as their point guard of the future, but he is a bad shooter. Pairing him with a guy like LeVert would bring out the best in both players.
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9. Atlanta Hawks
C Willie Cauley-Stein, Jr, Kentucky
7'0, 245 lbs
Hometown: Spearville, KS
2013-2014 Stats: 6.8 ppg, 6.1 rpg, 2.9 bpg
If Willie Cauley-Stein was with another program, I think he would be able to showcase his talents much better. But minutes will always be hard to come by on loaded Kentucky teams. Cauley-Stein reminds me of Samuel Dalembert. He may never be a double digit scorer but is athletic and blocks some shots and should carve out a role as a solid starting center. The Hawks have been looking for a big man to move Al Horford to his natural power forward position for years, and Cauley-Stein could be that guy.
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10. Brooklyn Nets
PF Montrezl Harrell, Jr, Louisville
6'8, 235 lbs
Hometown: Tarboro, NC
2013-2014 Stats: 14.0 ppg, 8.4 rpg, 1.3 bpg
If Montrezl Harrell was 6'10, 240 he might be a top five pick. But his size will probably keep his draft stock in the teens. Which is just fine for a team on the cusp of the playoffs like Brooklyn. Harrell has drawn some Kenneth Faried comparisons for his energy and rebounding. Harrell is a better traditional post scorer, and is very strong and plays bigger than his 6'8 frame. Another impressive year in Louisville will cement his status as a lottery pick.
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11. Minnesota Timberwolves
PF/C Myles Turner, Fr, Texas
7'0, 240 lbs
Hometown: Bedford, TX
Myles Turner is an intriguing prospect. He is a lanky, awkward 7 footer who is still getting comfortable with his size. He is more of a perimeter player at this point in his development, but is a good shot blocker. He could turn out like Chris Bosh or Isaiah Austin, depending on how his game grows. He would be the ultimate project for a young, exciting Timberwolves team. If Turner shows improvement as a freshman at Texas, he could be a top five pick.
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12. Phoenix Suns
SF/PF Chris Walker, So, Florida
6'9, 205 lbs
Hometown: Bonifay, FL
2013-2014 Stats: 2.1 ppg, 1.5 rpg, 0.4 bpg
Chris Walker is a wild card in this draft. He has the talent of a top ten pick but his Freshman year was mostly a waste. He should have a bigger role with the Gators this year, and if he can successfully showcase his great length and athleticism, he should be drafted in the first round, even if it is as a developmental project. The Suns have a young, deep, talented roster and with the possibility of having three first round picks, could do worse than draft a player with Walker's upside.
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13. Denver Nuggets
SF Justise Winslow, Fr, Duke
6'6, 221 lbs
Hometown: Houston, TX
Justise Winslow has earned some Michael Kidd-Gilchrist comparisons. He is very competitive, and is already a good wing defender. His offense needs some major work, including fixing a broken jump shot, but the Nuggets are loaded with scorers and need to add some athletes who could carve out roles on the defensive side of the basketball.
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14. Houston Rockets
(from New Orleans Pelicans)
SF Sam Dekker, Jr, Wisconsin
6'8, 220 lbs
Hometown: Sheboygan, WI
2013-2014 Stats: 12.4 ppg, 6.1 rpg, 1.4 apg
The Rockets are a big believer in analytics, and Sam Dekker is Mr. Analytics in this draft. Dekker shares some common traits with ex Rocket Chandler Parsons. He uses his 6'9 frame to see over the defender, and is a good shooter out to the three. He looked very confident and aggressive during the Las Vegas summer workouts, and with the Badgers expecting to be one of the best teams in the country, has a chance to really catch the eyes of scouts.
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15. Detroit Pistons
PG Terry Rozier, So, Louisville
6'2, 190 lbs
Hometown: Shaker Heights, OH
2013-2014 Stats: 7.0 ppg, 3.1 rpg, 1.8 apg, 1.0 spg
Terry Rozier was a highly recruited point guard who was stuck behind Russ Smith and Chris Jones as a freshman. Even so, he still managed to average 7 points and a steal per game. Rozier is not a great shooter, but he is tough, can find the open man and play defense. Brandon Jennings is an overpaid volume scorer, and it will be hard for the Pistons to consistently win with a guy like that at point guard.
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16. Charlotte Hornets
SG/SF Mario Hezonja, Croatia
6'7, 200 lbs
Hometown: Dubrovnik, Croatia
2013-2014 Stats: 5.4 ppg, 2.4 rpg, 1.2 apg
Mario Hezonja is a talented scorer who has drawn Rudy Fernandez comparisons, for good and bad reasons. He is flashy, flamboyant and cocky, to the point where he rubs teammates the wrong way. Also, he is not playing a lot for his Euro team right now. However, the talent is there to make a real impact in the NBA as a dynamic scorer and play maker. He is a great gamble at this spot for the Hornets, who have never really had a wing player who can keep defenses honest.
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17. New York Knicks
PF Bobby Portis, So, Arkansas
6'10, 231 lbs
Hometown: Little Rock, AR
2013-2014 Stats: 12.3 ppg, 6.8 rpg, 1.6 bpg
It has been a while since we have seen an Arkansas Razorback in the first round. Bobby Portis was a high recruit who had a solid freshman season. He is a talented scorer, who can score from inside or knock down jump shots all the way out to the college three point line. He has room to improve as a shot blocker and rebounder, but could work his way into a starting power forward role with continued strength development. The Knicks will part with Andrea Bargnani and Amare Stoudemire after the season, and will need front court bodies.
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18. Philadelphia 76ers
(from Miami Heat)
SG/SF Wayne Selden, So, Kansas
6'5, 230 lbs
Hometown: Roxbury, MA
2013-2014 Stats: 9.7 ppg, 2.6 rpg, 2.5 apg
Wayne Selden was lost in the shuffle behind Joel Embiid, Andrew Wiggins and Perry Jones during his freshman season. I am still a fan of his game, however. Selden has a chance to double his scoring output, even with several impressive freshmen coming to Kansas. He is a strong, aggressive scorer with an improving jump shot. The 76ers are simply acquiring talent at this point, so scheme fit is not really an issue.
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19. Washington Wizards
PG Tyus Jones, Fr, Duke
6'1, 170 lbs
Hometown: Apple Valley, MN
Tyus Jones possesses some of the same qualities that made Tyler Ennis so successful at the college level, but caused his stock to slip in the eyes of NBA scouts. Jones is what everyone calls a "true point guard". He is in control of his offense and takes good care of the ball. He is not overly athletic, and pretty undersized, but should, at the least make a very fine backup in the NBA. Andre Miller is nearing the end of his career (eventually), so the Wizards might want to develop a long term backup for John Wall.
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20. Los Angeles Lakers
(from Houston Rockets)
PF/C Ilimane Diop, Senegal
6'11, 230 lbs
Hometown: Medina Gouna, Senegal
Ilimane Diop is the latest tall, lanky, raw prospect to emerge from Senegal. The track record on these projects is not good, but size will continue to be drafted in the first round. Like young men before him, he is blessed with an enormous wing span, solid shot blocking skills and athleticism. If he shows some improvement for his foreign team this year, the first round seems like a certainty. The Lakers, blessed with two first round picks in this mock, could take him and stash him in Europe as he continues to gain strength and develop the rest of his game.
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21. Portland Trail Blazers
SF Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, So, Arizona
6'7, 205 lbs
Hometown: Chester, PA
2013-2014 Stats: 9.1 ppg, 5.7 rpg, 1.1 bpg
Portland has perhaps the best starting lineup in the NBA, but could use some glue guys, guys who can impact the game without looking for their own jump shot. Rondae Hollis-Jefferson really stepped up in the NCAA tournament as a very efficient go to scorer, making 18 out of 26 shots during Arizona's four tourney games. With Nick Johnson and Aaron Gordon gone, more of the load should fall Hollis-Jefferson's way. Hollis-Jefferson is not a three point threat, but he has some Andre Iguodala in his game, with his ability to be a lock down defender.
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22. Memphis Grizzlies
SG RJ Hunter, Jr, Georgia State
6'5, 185 lbs
Hometown: Indianapolis, IN
2013-2014 Stats: 18.2 ppg, 4.5 rpg, 2.0 spg
Along with size, shooting will always be drafted high. RJ Hunter is a bit undersized, and not a great defender or athlete, but he might be the best shooter in this class. At the worst, he could make a career as a gunner off the bench. The Grizzlies are a deep veteran laden team that is trying to become better offensively, and having a guy who can stretch the defense would be a solid addition.
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23. Toronto Raptors
SF/PF Alex Poythress, Jr, Kentucky
6'7, 215 lbs
Hometown: Clarksville, TN
2013-2014 Stats: 5.9 ppg, 4.5 rpg, 0.7 bpg
It has been an up and down two seasons in Lexington for Alex Poythress. A very high recruit, he has found himself in and out of the lineup and John Calipari's dog house. At his best, he is adept at slashing and scoring down low, and playing very good defense. He lacks a jump shot and a real NBA position, but could find his way into the first round if he continues to play like he did during Kentucky's recent Bahamas exhibition trip. The Raptors have developed a strong defensive philosophy and Poythress would be a good fit.
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24. Chicago Bulls
(from Cleveland Cavaliers)
PG/SG Ron Baker, Jr, Wichita State
6'3, 213 lbs
Hometown: Scott City, KS
2013-2014 Stats: 13.0 ppg, 3.8 rpg, 3.0 apg
Scouts have had their eye on Ron Baker since his freshman season. He is a bit of a combo guard (in a bad way) in that he is not a true point guard nor has the size to hold down the two spot full time. But what he is is a confident scorer with great range on his jump shot. The Bulls were so desperate for someone like that they traded for Jimmer Fredette last year. Baker could work his way into a solid role player for Chicago.
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25. Dallas Mavericks
C Dakari Johnson, So, Kentucky
6'10, 250 lbs
Hometown: Brooklyn, NY
2013-2014 Stats: 5.2 ppg, 3.9 rpg, 0.6 bpg
Similar to several other Kentucky players, if Dakari Johnson played at another school, he might be mentioned more often. He is big, strong and a load down low. His game reminds me of Kendrick Perkins. He lacks the pure athleticism and talent to become a high caliber center, but could find his way into starting lineups during his prime. Of course, without proper college development, he could wash out like Daniel Orton. A deep team like Dallas may take a chance on him and hope he pans out.
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26. Golden State Warriors
SG Norman Powell, Sr, UCLA
6'4, 215 lbs
Hometown: San Diego, CA
2013-2014 Stats: 11.4 ppg, 2.8 rpg, 1.4 spg
Norman Powell has developed slowly during his three years at UCLA, but with Jordan Adams gone to the NBA, this should be his team. Powell is already elite athletically and an NBA caliber defender, and during the summer at the Adidas Nations, he really showed off his offensive game. Powell is the first senior in the first round of my mock, and he should be able to help the Warriors right away.
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27. Oklahoma City Thunder
SG Aaron Harrison, So, Kentucky
6'6, 215 lbs
Hometown: Fort Bend, TX
2013-2014 Stats: 13.8 ppg, 3.1 rpg, 2.1 apg
Like his twin brother, Aaron Harrison caught some scrutiny for his freshman season. He was not a very efficient scorer, and does not bring a whole lot else to the table. However, he has good size for the position and the ability to be a very good knock down shooter. He is a fringe first round prospect, and the Thunder are in need of wing players who can shoot.
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28. Cleveland Cavaliers
(from Chicago Bulls)
PF/C Mouhammadou Jaiteh, France
6'11, 240 lbs
Hometown: Pantin, France
Mouhammadou Jaiteh has an NBA body, but is still a major work in progress. He has the potential to be a good scorer and rebounder if he can improve his focus and intensity. At times he looks like he simply does not want to play basketball. Still, he is nearing 7 foot and a veteran team like the Cavaliers will definitely snatch him up and see if he can develop overseas.
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29. San Antonio Spurs
PF/C Frank Kaminsky, Sr, Wisconsin
7'0, 234 lbs
Hometown: Lisle, IL
2013-2014 Stats: 13.9 ppg, 6.3 rpg, 1.7 bpg
Frank Kaminsky had a coming out party during the NCAA Tournament. Scouts like his size and ability to stretch the floor. His lack of strength and rebounding will keep him from being an NBA starter, but he could contribute as an offensive minded backup. If Matt Bonner can stay in the NBA for a decade plus, Kaminsky has a spot in the pros for the Spurs.
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30. Boston Celtics
(from Los Angeles Clippers)
PF/C Shawn Long, Jr, Louisiana Lafayette
6'10, 256 lbs
Hometown: Morgan City, LA
2013-2014 Stats: 18.7 ppg, 10.5 rpg, 2.7 bpg
Elfrid Payton was not the only Ragin' Cajun to catch the eye of NBA scouts. Shawn Long is quite a load at 6'10, 260 and averaged a double double with nearly 3 blocks per game. He will not be able to manhandle opposing big men at the NBA level, and is not overly talented, but could carve out a role on an NBA team. The Celtics do not have many players with his size on the roster.
The draft order was based on my 2014-2015 NBA Preview and Predictions, which you can view here.2014-2015 NBA Preview and Predictions.
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1. Philadelphia 76ersC Jahlil Okafor, Fr, Duke
6'11, 270 lbs
Hometown: Chicago, IL
With the uncertainty revolving around Emmanuel Muiday, Jahlil Okafor is the favorite to be the first overall draft choice 8 months before the 2015 NBA Draft. If he can adjust to the college game quickly, he should be close to unstoppable at Duke, as few big men in college will be able to contain his 7 foot, 270 pound frame. Okafor has struggled with conditioning issues in the past but NBA trainers should whip him into shape. The 76ers are still collecting talent, and what an embarrassment of riches they could possibly have with Okafor, Joel Embiid, Nerlens Noel and Dario Saric on the front court.
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2. Utah JazzPF/C Karl Towns, Fr, Kentucky
7'0, 245 lbs
Hometown: Metuchen, NJ
The Jazz swung for the fences with Dante Exum in 2014. I loved the pick but he is unlikely to help Utah win many games in 2014-2015. There are several prospects in play for this pick. Karl Towns is very talented, he is more of a finesse big man than a banger. Think LaMarcus Aldridge offensively. The problem for Towns is that he will have to fight for minutes with Dakari Johnson, Willie Cauley-Stein, Marcus Lee and Trey Lyles along Kentucky's front line. That was not a problem for Julius Randle, however, who was able to differentiate himself from the rest of the pack. Towns has solid offensive ability and could be a nice fit alongside Derrick Favors.
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3. Orlando MagicPG Emmanuel Mudiay, Fr, Guangdong Southern Tigers, China
6'5, 190 lbs
Hometown: Dallas, TX
Emmanuel Mudiay recently shocked the college basketball world by stating he will not attend SMU and will instead play a year in China. I doubt this will effect his draft stock all that much. He is still a very talented guard who should be a top five pick. Mudiay is in the mold of a Derrick Rose or John Wall, two physically dominating point guards who entered the draft after their freshman year. Like those two as freshmen, Mudiay is still turnover prone and not a great shooter. Those are areas that will hope to be fixed once NBA coaching staffs get their hands on him. All the talent is there for Mudiay to be the next great NBA point guard. The Magic just drafted Elfrid Payton early, but I doubt that would stop them from going with Mudiay here, especially since the talent level drops off a bit after these top three prospects.
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4. Los Angeles LakersSF Kelly Oubre, Fr, Kansas
6'7, 204 lbs
Hometown: Richmond, TX
The Lakers lose this pick to the Suns if it is not in the top four. Kelly Oubre is a good wing scorer, who can slash to the basket or knock down jump shots. He has some attitude problems and is not much of a defender, but hopefully playing for Bill Self can help him correct some of those issues. Paul George had some of the same strengths and weaknesses coming out of college, and he has been quite a find. Oubre has similar ability, and the Lakers simply do not have any wing players to take the pressure off Kobe Bryant.
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5. Milwaukee BucksPF Kristaps Porzingis, Latvia
7'0, 220 lbs
Hometown: Ventspils, Latvia
2013-2014 Stats: 6.9 ppg, 2.8 rpg, 0.9 bpg
I believe Kristaps Porzingis would have been a top 15 pick had he kept his name in the 2014 draft, so it is only obvious to expect improvement from the talented 18 year old. Porzingis is a good shooter and ball handler, and could take some pressure offensively off Brandon Knight and Jabari Parker, who are expected to be Milwaukee's major scoring threats. On the other hand, his stock could fall if he fails to improve his strength and rebounding.
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6. Sacramento KingsSF Stanley Johnson, Fr, Arizona
6'7, 237 lbs
Hometown: Fullerton, CA
The Kings have talent, but I hate the makeup of their roster and think they will struggle to keep up in the ultra competitive Western Conference. Sacramento needs some glue guys, guys who can impact the game without looking for their own jump shot. Stanley Johnson draws Ron Artest comparisons thanks to his strong frame and bulldozing game. Johnson simply overpowers poor high school defenders. He will have to develop more of an overall offensive game to succeed in the NBA. He is also a very good rebounder and defender. Johnson has great leadership qualities and won very big in high school. He could be a Michael Kidd-Gilchrist type at the next level if he doesn't develop a jump shot, but his defense will be a welcome addition to the Kings.
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7. Indiana PacersPF Cliff Alexander, Fr, Kansas
6'9, 250 lbs
Hometown: Chicago, IL
Chicago has produced some amazing prospects the past few years. Jabari Parker, Jahlil Okafor and now Cliff Alexander. Alexander is alredy an NBA caliber rebounder and shot blocker. He is big and strong, but will have to keep his weight in check to reach his full potential. Alexander is more defense and rebounding than offense right now, but has range out to 10 feet or so. He has the potential to develop into a bulldozer of a power forward, and with David West nearing the end of a solid career, he would make a good replacement in Indiana.
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8. Boston CelticsSG Caris LeVert, Jr, Michigan
6'6, 185 lbs
Hometown: Pickerington, OH
2013-2014 Stats: 12.9 ppg, 4.3 rpg, 2.9 apg
Shooting is at a premium in the NBA right now. We have seen guys shoot up into the top ten (Terrence Ross, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Nik Stauskas) off the strength of their ability to stroke it from deep. Stauskas really came on as a sophomore once Tim Hardaway Jr. was out of the way, and Caris LeVert could do the same without Stauskas in Ann Arbor. LeVert looks like former Pistons great Richard Hamilton, with his long lanky frame and ability to knock down three point shots. Boston drafted Marcus Smart as their point guard of the future, but he is a bad shooter. Pairing him with a guy like LeVert would bring out the best in both players.
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9. Atlanta HawksC Willie Cauley-Stein, Jr, Kentucky
7'0, 245 lbs
Hometown: Spearville, KS
2013-2014 Stats: 6.8 ppg, 6.1 rpg, 2.9 bpg
If Willie Cauley-Stein was with another program, I think he would be able to showcase his talents much better. But minutes will always be hard to come by on loaded Kentucky teams. Cauley-Stein reminds me of Samuel Dalembert. He may never be a double digit scorer but is athletic and blocks some shots and should carve out a role as a solid starting center. The Hawks have been looking for a big man to move Al Horford to his natural power forward position for years, and Cauley-Stein could be that guy.
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10. Brooklyn NetsPF Montrezl Harrell, Jr, Louisville
6'8, 235 lbs
Hometown: Tarboro, NC
2013-2014 Stats: 14.0 ppg, 8.4 rpg, 1.3 bpg
If Montrezl Harrell was 6'10, 240 he might be a top five pick. But his size will probably keep his draft stock in the teens. Which is just fine for a team on the cusp of the playoffs like Brooklyn. Harrell has drawn some Kenneth Faried comparisons for his energy and rebounding. Harrell is a better traditional post scorer, and is very strong and plays bigger than his 6'8 frame. Another impressive year in Louisville will cement his status as a lottery pick.
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11. Minnesota TimberwolvesPF/C Myles Turner, Fr, Texas
7'0, 240 lbs
Hometown: Bedford, TX
Myles Turner is an intriguing prospect. He is a lanky, awkward 7 footer who is still getting comfortable with his size. He is more of a perimeter player at this point in his development, but is a good shot blocker. He could turn out like Chris Bosh or Isaiah Austin, depending on how his game grows. He would be the ultimate project for a young, exciting Timberwolves team. If Turner shows improvement as a freshman at Texas, he could be a top five pick.
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12. Phoenix SunsSF/PF Chris Walker, So, Florida
6'9, 205 lbs
Hometown: Bonifay, FL
2013-2014 Stats: 2.1 ppg, 1.5 rpg, 0.4 bpg
Chris Walker is a wild card in this draft. He has the talent of a top ten pick but his Freshman year was mostly a waste. He should have a bigger role with the Gators this year, and if he can successfully showcase his great length and athleticism, he should be drafted in the first round, even if it is as a developmental project. The Suns have a young, deep, talented roster and with the possibility of having three first round picks, could do worse than draft a player with Walker's upside.
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13. Denver NuggetsSF Justise Winslow, Fr, Duke
6'6, 221 lbs
Hometown: Houston, TX
Justise Winslow has earned some Michael Kidd-Gilchrist comparisons. He is very competitive, and is already a good wing defender. His offense needs some major work, including fixing a broken jump shot, but the Nuggets are loaded with scorers and need to add some athletes who could carve out roles on the defensive side of the basketball.
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14. Houston Rockets(from New Orleans Pelicans)
SF Sam Dekker, Jr, Wisconsin
6'8, 220 lbs
Hometown: Sheboygan, WI
2013-2014 Stats: 12.4 ppg, 6.1 rpg, 1.4 apg
The Rockets are a big believer in analytics, and Sam Dekker is Mr. Analytics in this draft. Dekker shares some common traits with ex Rocket Chandler Parsons. He uses his 6'9 frame to see over the defender, and is a good shooter out to the three. He looked very confident and aggressive during the Las Vegas summer workouts, and with the Badgers expecting to be one of the best teams in the country, has a chance to really catch the eyes of scouts.
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15. Detroit PistonsPG Terry Rozier, So, Louisville
6'2, 190 lbs
Hometown: Shaker Heights, OH
2013-2014 Stats: 7.0 ppg, 3.1 rpg, 1.8 apg, 1.0 spg
Terry Rozier was a highly recruited point guard who was stuck behind Russ Smith and Chris Jones as a freshman. Even so, he still managed to average 7 points and a steal per game. Rozier is not a great shooter, but he is tough, can find the open man and play defense. Brandon Jennings is an overpaid volume scorer, and it will be hard for the Pistons to consistently win with a guy like that at point guard.
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16. Charlotte HornetsSG/SF Mario Hezonja, Croatia
6'7, 200 lbs
Hometown: Dubrovnik, Croatia
2013-2014 Stats: 5.4 ppg, 2.4 rpg, 1.2 apg
Mario Hezonja is a talented scorer who has drawn Rudy Fernandez comparisons, for good and bad reasons. He is flashy, flamboyant and cocky, to the point where he rubs teammates the wrong way. Also, he is not playing a lot for his Euro team right now. However, the talent is there to make a real impact in the NBA as a dynamic scorer and play maker. He is a great gamble at this spot for the Hornets, who have never really had a wing player who can keep defenses honest.
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17. New York KnicksPF Bobby Portis, So, Arkansas
6'10, 231 lbs
Hometown: Little Rock, AR
2013-2014 Stats: 12.3 ppg, 6.8 rpg, 1.6 bpg
It has been a while since we have seen an Arkansas Razorback in the first round. Bobby Portis was a high recruit who had a solid freshman season. He is a talented scorer, who can score from inside or knock down jump shots all the way out to the college three point line. He has room to improve as a shot blocker and rebounder, but could work his way into a starting power forward role with continued strength development. The Knicks will part with Andrea Bargnani and Amare Stoudemire after the season, and will need front court bodies.
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18. Philadelphia 76ers(from Miami Heat)
SG/SF Wayne Selden, So, Kansas
6'5, 230 lbs
Hometown: Roxbury, MA
2013-2014 Stats: 9.7 ppg, 2.6 rpg, 2.5 apg
Wayne Selden was lost in the shuffle behind Joel Embiid, Andrew Wiggins and Perry Jones during his freshman season. I am still a fan of his game, however. Selden has a chance to double his scoring output, even with several impressive freshmen coming to Kansas. He is a strong, aggressive scorer with an improving jump shot. The 76ers are simply acquiring talent at this point, so scheme fit is not really an issue.
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19. Washington WizardsPG Tyus Jones, Fr, Duke
6'1, 170 lbs
Hometown: Apple Valley, MN
Tyus Jones possesses some of the same qualities that made Tyler Ennis so successful at the college level, but caused his stock to slip in the eyes of NBA scouts. Jones is what everyone calls a "true point guard". He is in control of his offense and takes good care of the ball. He is not overly athletic, and pretty undersized, but should, at the least make a very fine backup in the NBA. Andre Miller is nearing the end of his career (eventually), so the Wizards might want to develop a long term backup for John Wall.
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20. Los Angeles Lakers(from Houston Rockets)
PF/C Ilimane Diop, Senegal
6'11, 230 lbs
Hometown: Medina Gouna, Senegal
Ilimane Diop is the latest tall, lanky, raw prospect to emerge from Senegal. The track record on these projects is not good, but size will continue to be drafted in the first round. Like young men before him, he is blessed with an enormous wing span, solid shot blocking skills and athleticism. If he shows some improvement for his foreign team this year, the first round seems like a certainty. The Lakers, blessed with two first round picks in this mock, could take him and stash him in Europe as he continues to gain strength and develop the rest of his game.
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21. Portland Trail BlazersSF Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, So, Arizona
6'7, 205 lbs
Hometown: Chester, PA
2013-2014 Stats: 9.1 ppg, 5.7 rpg, 1.1 bpg
Portland has perhaps the best starting lineup in the NBA, but could use some glue guys, guys who can impact the game without looking for their own jump shot. Rondae Hollis-Jefferson really stepped up in the NCAA tournament as a very efficient go to scorer, making 18 out of 26 shots during Arizona's four tourney games. With Nick Johnson and Aaron Gordon gone, more of the load should fall Hollis-Jefferson's way. Hollis-Jefferson is not a three point threat, but he has some Andre Iguodala in his game, with his ability to be a lock down defender.
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22. Memphis GrizzliesSG RJ Hunter, Jr, Georgia State
6'5, 185 lbs
Hometown: Indianapolis, IN
2013-2014 Stats: 18.2 ppg, 4.5 rpg, 2.0 spg
Along with size, shooting will always be drafted high. RJ Hunter is a bit undersized, and not a great defender or athlete, but he might be the best shooter in this class. At the worst, he could make a career as a gunner off the bench. The Grizzlies are a deep veteran laden team that is trying to become better offensively, and having a guy who can stretch the defense would be a solid addition.
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23. Toronto RaptorsSF/PF Alex Poythress, Jr, Kentucky
6'7, 215 lbs
Hometown: Clarksville, TN
2013-2014 Stats: 5.9 ppg, 4.5 rpg, 0.7 bpg
It has been an up and down two seasons in Lexington for Alex Poythress. A very high recruit, he has found himself in and out of the lineup and John Calipari's dog house. At his best, he is adept at slashing and scoring down low, and playing very good defense. He lacks a jump shot and a real NBA position, but could find his way into the first round if he continues to play like he did during Kentucky's recent Bahamas exhibition trip. The Raptors have developed a strong defensive philosophy and Poythress would be a good fit.
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24. Chicago Bulls(from Cleveland Cavaliers)
PG/SG Ron Baker, Jr, Wichita State
6'3, 213 lbs
Hometown: Scott City, KS
2013-2014 Stats: 13.0 ppg, 3.8 rpg, 3.0 apg
Scouts have had their eye on Ron Baker since his freshman season. He is a bit of a combo guard (in a bad way) in that he is not a true point guard nor has the size to hold down the two spot full time. But what he is is a confident scorer with great range on his jump shot. The Bulls were so desperate for someone like that they traded for Jimmer Fredette last year. Baker could work his way into a solid role player for Chicago.
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25. Dallas MavericksC Dakari Johnson, So, Kentucky
6'10, 250 lbs
Hometown: Brooklyn, NY
2013-2014 Stats: 5.2 ppg, 3.9 rpg, 0.6 bpg
Similar to several other Kentucky players, if Dakari Johnson played at another school, he might be mentioned more often. He is big, strong and a load down low. His game reminds me of Kendrick Perkins. He lacks the pure athleticism and talent to become a high caliber center, but could find his way into starting lineups during his prime. Of course, without proper college development, he could wash out like Daniel Orton. A deep team like Dallas may take a chance on him and hope he pans out.
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26. Golden State WarriorsSG Norman Powell, Sr, UCLA
6'4, 215 lbs
Hometown: San Diego, CA
2013-2014 Stats: 11.4 ppg, 2.8 rpg, 1.4 spg
Norman Powell has developed slowly during his three years at UCLA, but with Jordan Adams gone to the NBA, this should be his team. Powell is already elite athletically and an NBA caliber defender, and during the summer at the Adidas Nations, he really showed off his offensive game. Powell is the first senior in the first round of my mock, and he should be able to help the Warriors right away.
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27. Oklahoma City ThunderSG Aaron Harrison, So, Kentucky
6'6, 215 lbs
Hometown: Fort Bend, TX
2013-2014 Stats: 13.8 ppg, 3.1 rpg, 2.1 apg
Like his twin brother, Aaron Harrison caught some scrutiny for his freshman season. He was not a very efficient scorer, and does not bring a whole lot else to the table. However, he has good size for the position and the ability to be a very good knock down shooter. He is a fringe first round prospect, and the Thunder are in need of wing players who can shoot.
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28. Cleveland Cavaliers(from Chicago Bulls)
PF/C Mouhammadou Jaiteh, France
6'11, 240 lbs
Hometown: Pantin, France
Mouhammadou Jaiteh has an NBA body, but is still a major work in progress. He has the potential to be a good scorer and rebounder if he can improve his focus and intensity. At times he looks like he simply does not want to play basketball. Still, he is nearing 7 foot and a veteran team like the Cavaliers will definitely snatch him up and see if he can develop overseas.
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29. San Antonio SpursPF/C Frank Kaminsky, Sr, Wisconsin
7'0, 234 lbs
Hometown: Lisle, IL
2013-2014 Stats: 13.9 ppg, 6.3 rpg, 1.7 bpg
Frank Kaminsky had a coming out party during the NCAA Tournament. Scouts like his size and ability to stretch the floor. His lack of strength and rebounding will keep him from being an NBA starter, but he could contribute as an offensive minded backup. If Matt Bonner can stay in the NBA for a decade plus, Kaminsky has a spot in the pros for the Spurs.
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30. Boston Celtics(from Los Angeles Clippers)
PF/C Shawn Long, Jr, Louisiana Lafayette
6'10, 256 lbs
Hometown: Morgan City, LA
2013-2014 Stats: 18.7 ppg, 10.5 rpg, 2.7 bpg
Elfrid Payton was not the only Ragin' Cajun to catch the eye of NBA scouts. Shawn Long is quite a load at 6'10, 260 and averaged a double double with nearly 3 blocks per game. He will not be able to manhandle opposing big men at the NBA level, and is not overly talented, but could carve out a role on an NBA team. The Celtics do not have many players with his size on the roster.
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