If you told me in January that I’d be writing my first NBA mock for this year in October, I’d have laughed. That, however, is 2020 in a nutshell for a sports fan. We’re in the middle of October and yet still a month away from major events such as The Masters and the NBA Draft. These truly are remarkable times.
As this is my first mock with The U, I’ll explain how I typically run mine before getting too deep into it.
- I like to play the role of GM for each team, but I also try to stay rational. Consider these picks as a mix of what I would do and what I expect the actual team to do.
- I don’t include trades because there are so many moving parts that could overcomplicate this for everyone. I may, however, suggest some trades that might make sense instead of a pick.
- I’ll only mock the first round, but at the end I typically leave a list of about 10-15 players who I could easily see going at the end of the first or early in the second.
- This is not a big board. Having a player ahead of another player doesn’t necessarily mean I think that is the better player (Ex: I don’t think Anthony Edwards will be the best player in this draft.)
- This is meant for the reader, meaning that I hope everyone can take something out of it. If you’re an NBA junkie like me, then I hope you love the analysis. If you’re just here to see what I have for your favorite team, that’s great too! This is for the people who want to read it, not for me.
Sound good? Awesome.
*Draft Order As of 10/17 Per Tankathon
1. Minnesota Timberwolves: Anthony Edwards, SG- Georgia
It’s hard to kick off a no-trade mock when it’s highly likely that the #1 pick will be traded. Minnesota recently stated they are looking to trade out of this spot to pair another star with KAT in order to enter “win-now” mode. With that said, if they do hold on to this pick, I think Edwards makes the most sense. When you look at this draft class, there aren’t a ton of guys that jump off the page as potential superstars. Given that Minnesota already has Towns and D’Angelo Russell, I can’t see them looking too hard at LaMelo Ball or James Wiseman. Edwards has the most “boom” potential of anyone else on the board, and he fills a need as a scorer on the wing.
It’s hard to see many teams willing to bite and trade up in this year’s class, but a team in rebuild mode with aging stars, such as Detroit, could bite if the haul is significant enough.
2. Golden State Warriors: Deni Avdija, SF- Israel
While it’s tempting to take James Wiseman, I’ve realized the Warriors system thrives with depth on the wings. Many people might not be as familiar with Avdija, but he certainly belongs among the top 5 names in the 2020 class. His strengths cater perfectly to what Golden State does best, as he is a creative playmaker and excellent shooter. Will he be the next Luka? Probably not. Do the Warriors need a Luka? No.
3. Charlotte Hornets: James Wiseman, C- Memphis
If Wiseman is here, I feel like this is a no-brainer for Charlotte. They’ve found something at the guard spot with the combo of Terry Rozier and Devonte’ Graham and they have some promise at the wings with Miles Bridges and PJ Washington. No disrespect to Cody Zeller, but Charlotte needs more at the big man spot than just him, and Wiseman is brimming with potential on both ends. His Per-36 minute stats in his short span at Memphis were ridiculous, and he’s been at the top of nearly every list since he was in high school.
4. Chicago Bulls: LaMelo Ball, PG- Intl.
At this point, I couldn’t let Ball drop any further. I know Coby White was just drafted by Chicago last year, but I think Chicago would be foolish to not take this chance on one of the potential superstars in this class. This is not the same LaMelo from Chino Hills that cherry-picked his way to 92 points in a game. Melo has the potential to be one of the most creative young playmakers in the league. The jumper needs work, but there’s not a better guy to set up Zach Lavine and Lauri Markkenen for the future in Chicago.
5. Cleveland Cavaliers: Onyeka Okongwu, PF- USC
Here’s one of the most interesting prospects in the class. It’s fair to say Okongwu might be the most versatile player available this year. He has a great motor and his potential defensively is intriguing. Clevelands bigs are currently a rotation of Kevin Love, Tristan Thompson and Andre Drummond, who are all getting older. Those guys could be a great group for Okongwu to develop his skillset under as he matures. When I watched his film I saw a lot of Bam Adebayo and the college stats between the two are also very similar. It’s high praise, but I’m a big fan of Okongwu’s potential.
6. Atlanta Hawks: Obi Toppin, SF- Dayton
Not getting to see Toppin in March Madness was one of the most disappointing parts of the year for me. I thought Dayton was legit, and the Wooden Award winner made it all go for the Flyers. Atlanta has their star of the future in Trae Young. They’ve got solid bigs in John Collins and Clint Capela. I think the Hawks should focus on finding versatile wing players that can contribute on defense and won’t interrupt the flow of their offense. Toppin has one of the highest floors in the class, making him a safe bet for Atlanta.
7. Detroit Pistons: Killian Hayes, PG- France
I’d describe Hayes’ game as silky. He has tremendous size for the point guard spot and has a great feel for the game. Spending a year or two behind Derrick Rose could be perfect for him to eventually take over as the Pistons’ guard of the future. I’m also here for the lefty backcourt of him and Luke Kennard. If the Knicks decide they really want him, or any point guard, this could be a potential trade-up situation.
8. New York Knicks: Tyrese Haliburton, PG- Iowa State
What are we gonna do with the poor Knicks. Nothing ever goes their way, does it? They got jumped in the lottery by both Charlotte and Chicago, landing them at 8. While point guard has been the position of death for the Knicks in recent times, Haliburton might be the guy. He is one of the most complete players in the 2020 class and his game compliments almost every style of player. He has good length to run point and is an above-average shooter. Watch some tape and it’s hard not to see shades of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
9. Washington Wizards: Isaac Okoro, SF- Auburn
I’m a believer in Okoro if he lands in the right spot, and I feel Washington fits that criteria. With John Wall rejoining Bradley Beal in the backcourt, scoring production will not be an immediate need for Washington from a rookie. Okoro can be an elite level defender in the NBA, and the weaknesses in his game are aspects that can develop. He won’t have to rush his offensive skillset with Wall and Beal likely getting somewhere from 50 to 55 points a game on their own.
10. Phoenix Suns: Devin Vassell, SF- Florida State
After going 8-0 in the bubble, the Suns will enter next year with the highest expectations they’ve had in years. The pieces are starting to come together for this group, and I really like the idea of adding Vassell to their mix of wings. There are a few wing guys that project as 3 and D guys coming up in this list, and I like Vassell’s potential to develop beyond that role in Phoenix. The Suns are quietly rounding out a solid lineup out South.
11. San Antonio Spurs: Saddiq Bey, SF- Villanova
I like to think of Villanova as the Spurs of the NCAA, so this is a nice fit. Bey is another guy who really does everything on a basketball court and could be groomed into a high-impact player in the league. With Demar DeRozan, Rudy Gay and Lamarcus Aldridge all getting older it’s time for the Spurs to start looking for younger options at the wing. I think the thought process here for San Antonio is that one of either Bey, Dejounte Murray, Derrick White or Lonnie Walker can develop into a #2 option and some star will be lured to the Spurs in free agency in a few years to play with Pop’s new core.
12. Sacramento Kings: Aaron Nesmith, SG- Vanderbilt
The rumors of a Buddy Hield trade continue to swirl in Sacramento. If the sniper gets his way and leaves town, Nesmith could be a nice replacement. He is the first true SHOOTER to come off of the board in this mock and he is practically automatic when he gets a clean look. He’s a little limited as a guard but with De’Aaron Fox and Bogdan Bogdanovic, the Kings don’t need him to be a dynamic playmaker.
13. New Orleans Pelicans: Precious Achiuwa, PF- Memphis
Achiuwa would be great in spot minutes when Zion needs a breather next year. The best parts of his skillset mimic those of Zion’s in that he is a gifted athlete and has a high motor. Achiuwa is a tenacious rebounder on both sides of the ball. He’s also showcased a pretty solid handle for a big, which leads to exciting potential in the open court. The way the Pelicans are building their team makes me believe Achiuwa would be a great addition.
14. Boston Celtics (From Memphis): Jalen Smith, C- Maryland
Stretch 5 has been a need for the Celtics for a while now, and I think Smith could be a great fit if he lands here. He is one of the best shooting big men in his class, is aggressive defensively, and rebounds like crazy. I think he needs to beef up a little bit more to take on some the tougher centers in the league, but as the NBA evolves his abilities as a shooter and switchable defender could be exactly what Boston is looking for from their 5.
15. Orlando Magic: Tyrese Maxey, SG- Kentucky
Given the culture Orlando is building, this seems like a perfect pairing. Maxey has a bulldog mentality on defense, and loves to attack the rim. The jumper is there, it just needs time to develop. With Chuma Okeke also expected to debut this year, Orlando could add two more plus defenders to an already versatile unit.
16. Portland Trail Blazers: Patrick Williams, PF- Florida State
With their guard situation figured out, I like Portland to go best player available, and I believe that player is Williams. Williams is yet another solid wing player who projects as a solid 3 and D candidate with upside to become a bigger role player.
17. Minnesota Timberwolves (From Brooklyn): Aleksej Pokusevski, Intl.
I’m a big fan of teams taking chances on risk/reward players when they have other draft picks as well. Given that this won’t be the first move Minnesota makes on Draft Night, they can afford to take the chance on the big man from Serbia. He’s a few years, and a few pounds, away from being ready, but the instincts are there. He’s an exceptional playmaker for a 7 footer and it’s hard not to geek out about his potential if he develops in the right system. If the right team is patient, he could work out great.
18. Dallas Mavericks: Josh Green, SG- Arizona
Dallas is another team I could see being very aggressive throughout free agency in attempts to land one more current star to pair with Luka and Kristaps Porzingis. In the scenario where they do draft here, let’s go with Green. He’s another solid 3 and D guy who can play well in a defined role. He’s good enough offensively in his role that he won’t hurt Dallas’ historic offensive efficiency, and he has great defensive upside for a team that struggled a little more on that end.
19. Brooklyn Nets (From Philly): Theo Maledon, PG- France
Absolutely no rush on this pick for Brooklyn. The Nets will have a championship caliber roster next year with Kyrie and KD finally teaming up. Most of the pieces are already there as well and I’m not sure they’ll find anyone at the back end of the first round that will be a major contributor in year 1. With the uncertainty that is Kyrie Irving, drafting Maledon gives them some safety for the future at point guard, just in case. Maledon is one of the youngest players in this draft and could benefit from sitting behind Irving and Spencer Dinwiddie. If all works out he could be one of the best pure point guards in this class.
20. Miami Heat: Cole Anthony, PG- North Carolina
All in on this one. Whether Goran Dragic returns or not, the Cinderella of the 2020 season could use more help at the point guard spot. Anthony can really shoot it, facilitates well, and I feel like he fits the vibe that Miami attracts right now. I can only imagine him and Jimmy Butler becoming best friends.
21. Philadelphia 76ers (From OKC): Tyrell Terry, PG- Stanford
The Sixers need shooters. The spacing issues when they are on the floor can be downright unpleasant to watch at times. If Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid are going to coexist, they need to have guys surrounding them that can knock down shots. Terry is one of the best deep ball guys in this draft, and his range can at times look Curry-esque.
22. Denver Nuggets (From Houston): Tyler Bey, SF- Colorado
The Nuggets are in championship contention mode for the foreseeable future. Their core is well-established and it’s all about finding complementary pieces now. Bey might be the best defensive player in the draft, which is the type of value teams at the bottom half of the draft are looking for. The ability to plug and play Bey as a lockdown defender in key playoff matchups should be exactly what Denver is looking for.
23. Utah Jazz: Kira Lewis Jr, PG- Alabama
I’ll kick off by saying I could be way off on this and Lewis might go in the top 10. His skillset is the type that could make him very enticing as the point guard of the future for some teams. He has blurring speed and his jumper is solid as well. I do like the fit in Utah if he falls this far, as he’d benefit from a year or two behind Mike Conley. A future backcourt of him and Donovan Mitchell could be one of the league’s most explosive.
24. Milwaukee Bucks (From Indiana): Tre Jones, PG- Duke
What exactly do the Bucks need? It’s still stunning to me how easily handled Milwaukee was by Miami in the Playoffs this year. This is one of the best rosters in basketball and will be as long as they have Giannis. I’m going with Jones here because he’s the perfect second-unit point guard. He will do everything the Bucks need him to do while also bringing the defensive mentality that everyone on the Bucks possesses.
25. Oklahoma City Thunder (From Denver): Isaiah Stewart, PF- Washington
The Thunder need more bodies up front. Stewart loves to play physically on the interior and he has a great defensive motor with a 7’4 wingspan. Rotating him around with the other bigs on Oklahoma City’s roster could physically wear down opponents.
26. Boston Celtics: Nico Mannion, PG- Arizona
Mannion is a tremendous playmaker with great size at the point guard spot. He was a human highlight reel in high school and could look really good setting up Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. A year or two under Kemba Walker could really help him develop into a quality player in the league.
27. New York Knicks (From LAC): RJ Hampton, SG- Intl.
I’m not super high on Hampton, but I recognize the potential and feel that it makes him worthy of a first round flier. For a team like the Knicks, who have multiple first rounders, Hampton could definitely be worth the gamble. There’s some star potential for sure, but I worry about if he’ll ever reach it.
28. Los Angeles Lakers: Desmond Bane, SG- TCU
Sometimes there are just fits that are too perfect. If we found a weakness during the Lakers title run, it was consistent outside shooting from the wings. Bane is a phenomenal shooter who can excel in that type of role on a good team. We know LeBron prefers rookies that are older, and Bane is one of the oldest guys in this class. He’ll be ready to go from day one.
29. Toronto Raptors: Jaden McDaniels, SF/PF- Washington
Another guy that’s oozing with potential in this class is McDaniels. His senior year in high school he drew comparisons to KD, but left a lot to be desired in his one year at Washington. Toronto is a team that can afford to make this gamble, and I think he’d benefit a lot playing with the group of wing players the Raptors have.
30. Boston Celtics (From Milwaukee): Leandro Bolmaro, SG- Spain
Bolmaro is super interesting as a prospect. There’s a good amount of talent and potential, but he’s already indicated he’ll be a draft and stash player for at least one year. I think that could scare some teams earlier in the first round. Boston, however, is on their 3rd pick of the 1st round, giving them the capital to take this risk. Stash Bolmaro for a year or two, see what happens with the current roster, and react accordingly.
Players Who Could Also Go In The 1st Round
Sam Merrill, SF- Utah State
Devon Dotson, PG- Kansas
Cassius Winston, PG- Michigan State
Vernon Carey, PF- Duke
Cassius Stanley, SF- Duke
Grant Riller, PG- College of Charleston
Killian Tillie, PF- Gonzaga
Jordan Nwora, SF- Louisville
Udoka Azubuike, C- Kansas
Elijah Hughes, SF- Syracuse