2017 NBA Draft: Breaking Down De'Aaron Fox

De'Aaron Fox, Point Guard, Kentucky 

Height: 6-3 Weight: 187 Age: 19

De'Aaron Fox has managed to be a high level impact player despite performing quite poorly from an efficiency standpoint, including a well below average .452 eFG% and a .513 TS% For example, his TS% would be 39th of qualified point guards in the NBA, just behind Ricky Rubio.

The root of Fox's ineffiency comes from the fact that he has proved almost completely ineffective as a shooter. Fox is just not a threat from three-point range (.153% on 26 attempts) nor does he have much more success on two point jumpers (.291% on 55 attempts). At the college level, defenses are unsophisticated and frankly, frequently just poorly coached. For example, against North Carolina, Fox's defender consistently fought through the screens set for Fox instead of going under them, despite that he is little threat shooting the ball. Until Fox can prove he can shoot when left open, NBA defenses will give him open shots and go under screens against him, seriously hindering his ability to gain an advantage driving to the rim. Fox's jumper isn't terrible looking, but it just does t go in and hasn't throughout his young career in college and high school.

Fox is very quick and athletic, so he can still get to the rim, even without that advantage at the college level. Fox has taken nearly half his shots at the rim. Once he gets there, Fox is a good finisher (.658%) but needs to improve in contested situations, where his lack of strength and so-so touch can occasionally become issues, weaknesses that will only be exacerbated in the NBA when defenders become stronger, longer, and more athletic. It should be said that this iteration of Kentucky is very shooting-light, featuring only two players shooting better than 35% from three, so Fox isn't being given much room to operate, something that should improve in the NBA. 

It is all the other areas that Fox really excels, he is a tremendous passer with a good handle, creativity and vision. He is excellent in transition, pushing the ball with both the dribble and the pass and has extensive experience running pick-and-roll and generally makes the correct decisions. 

Defensively, Fox has a chance to be special (provided his lack of strength doesn't prove to much of a hinderance) he has tremendous lateral agility, great defensive instincts and quick, disruptive hands to create deflections and steals. What is most impressive about Fox is how hard he competes on a play-to-play basis, which shows in his defensive tenacity, transition ability, and contributions on the glass (8.1 rebound rate).

Even if his ability to shoot and score efficiently never improves to an above-average rate, Fox's passing, defense, motor, and intelligence should allow him to stick in the league, ironically in a similar way that Ricky Rubio has succeeded and been a positive contributor in the NBA.

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2017 NBA Draft: Breaking Down Lonzo Ball

Lonzo Ball, UCLA 

Height: 6-6 Weight: 190 Age: 19

Statistically, Ball has been one of the most efficient players in college basketball, posting a .664 TS% and .659 eFG%, both elite numbers for a point guard. This is even more impressive when you consider that he neither gets fouled a ton (4.4 FTA/100 possessions) nor does he convert said free throws at a high rate (.658%). Ball's efficiency is built almost completely on his ability to score from the field, taking and making a high number of threes per game (7.7 per 100) while also scoring absurdly effienctly from two point range (.673%). His two point shooting is almost all based at the rim, as 2-point jumpers make up a paltry 6% of his shot taking.

However, here lies some of the concern for Ball, who clearly benefits from the elite offensive talent around him; for example UCLA has five players averaging heavy minutes shooting over 39% from three, which certainly contributes to Ball shooting .726% at the rim as elite spacing provides much easier opportunities at the basket, especially when you factor in Ball's passing ability requires opponents to stay at home on shooters. Additionally, Ball isn't an great one-foot leaper, which makes finish contested shoots at the rim more difficult. Unless Ball is drafted into the perfect situation in the NBA, he won't be nearly as effective at the rim, which is a large part of why he has been so effienctly so far in college. What about the other half of his offensive efficiency? Ball's three-point shooting is also some what questionable, and not just because his jumper makes Kevin Martin's shot look textbook. What isconcerning is that Ball's three pointers are being assisted on .793% of the time, that means that only 1/5 of his jumpers are created on his own. Ball likes to pull up in transition, which is one way he creates open threes, but overall Ball's awkward release makes shooting off the dribble, particularly when defends go under screens, difficult. Overall, his shot is easier to challenge than most so when the spacing UCLA has most likely disappears at the next level, he could see his open shots drop because of the margin for error lessening. 

Overall, Ball will most likely be more of an opportunistic scorer in the NBA, scoring in transition and using the threat of his passing to create open looks instead of the high efficiency player offensive player that his college stats might suggest.

Ball shines in his ability to affect the game in multiple ways with scoring. At 6-6, he has the size and defensive versatility to guard multiple positions and though his athletic tools will likely hold him back from being a lock down defender against an position, that versatility is a valueable commodity in today's NBA. Ball is active defensively, particularly off the ball, and has a inherent ability to be disruptive in passing lanes with quick hands and tremendous instincts. He also uses his size well as a deterrent to shooters, averaging 1.4 blocks per 100. He may never be a shutdown defender, but Ball has the versatility and disruptive ability to be an overall plus on that end

Though he is point guard, Ball is also excellent off the ball, adept at cutting and finding open spaces to receive the ball. Despite the awkwardness of his jumper, Ball is still effective shooting when he is open, which is crucial when playing without the ball.

As a passer, Ball is obviously quite gifted, especially in transition when pushing the ball with his eyes up searching for the open man. While he isn't the quickest player, Ball is deadly when breaking down the defense because of his vision, instincts, and IQ. However, there is some question as to how easily he will be able to penetrate without UCLA excellent spacing and whether he can be able to break down defenders off the dribble when the floor closes up in the halfcourt. 

UCLA, which has four excellent guards, doesn't always need Ball to be a dominant creator and can attack matchups accordingly. Workouts will be key to show whether or not Ball can be counted on to break down defenses at a high enough level to utilize his vision and passing in the halfcourt. He might benefit playing with another creator, for instance Boston could be drafting in the range where Ball would likely be selected and he could play as a co-creator role with Isaiah Thomas but without being asked to be the one and only creator on the floor.

Though there are some questions about his jumper and ability to get into the lane, Ball is still an excellent prospect because of his high level of intelligence and the way he can affect the game not with and without the ball. 

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5 Potential Bargain Free Agents

There is likely going to be crazy money thrown around the NBA world starting July 1st, but that doesn't mean that there still won't be some bargains on the market. Here is a starting five of potential bargain contracts that could turn into consistent contributors...

C: Tyler Zeller, Boston Celtics, Age: 26 (Restricted)

Zeller was excellent during the 2014-15 season, but fell out of the rotation the next season and is now entering restricted free agency with a real chance of moving teams, especially since the Celtics appear to be targeting the likes of Dwight Howard. In 2014-15, Zeller played in all 82 games and averaged 17.3 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per 36 minutes, shooting .549% from the field and .823% from the line. Zeller's best attributes are his ability to run the floor and be a high efficiency finisher in the pick-and-roll. He probably isn't good enough defensively to be a full-time starter, but could be a high usage backup helping to anchor the offense of a uptempo, pick-and-roll heavy second unit. Brooklyn, Utah, Indiana, Charlotte, Washington, Dallas, Houston, and New Orleans are in need of depth at center and could look to Zeller as an affordable option with some upside.

PF: Jon Leuer, Phoenix Suns, Age: 27

Leuer doesn't look like an effective NBA player, and especially not an above-average defensive player (and not just because he is white) but in fact that is just what he is. Last season, Leuer played in 67 games and averaged 16.3 points, 10.7 rebounds, 2.1 assists per 36 minutes and is a career .479/.375/.718 shooter. Even more impressive, Leuer has graded out as a plus defensively, despite the fact that he played in a train wreck of a team in Phoenix last season. He might not be a starting level player, but Leuer can be an integral part of an effective second unit. Leuer will basically be on a bargain basement contract and could fit any team that needs a little bit of shooting and solid defense from the big man spots.

SF: Dorell Wright, Miami Heat, Age: 30

Believe it or not, it has been 12 years since Dorell Wright entered the NBA and he has bounced around the league, including a year in China, but is still just 30 years old and can be a contributor as a shooter off the bench that has some defensive flexibility. For his career, Wright is a .365% shooter and while not a traditional wing stopper, is at least an average defender with the size at 6-9 to work in a switching style of defense. Wright could be signable for as low as the veteran minimum and be a shooter off the bench with at least average defense. There can never be too much shooting in the league, especially from the wings and every team in the NBA could use more. Wright may be limited offensively, but the skill he offers at the likely price is enough for any team.

SG: E'Twuan Moore, Chicago Bulls, Age: 27

Like all the players on this list, "solid" is the best way to describe Moore, he doesn't have a ton of upside but is good enough to be a versatile, impactful bench player. Moore is a combo guard that can play a little point but is probably best suited as an off guard that can function as a secondary creator. Moore is a career .369% three-point shooter and an average to above-average defensive player at both guard spots. Again, nothing flashy but Moore is a depth piece that can provide consistent guard play off the bench in a league that has fewer better than average guards than you might expect. Chicago shouldn't let Moore go, but teams like New York, Sacramento, Brooklyn, Orlando, Washington, Dallas, Philadelphia, Minnesota, Detroit, Houston, New Orleans, and many more could look to shore up their depth with a player like Moore, that is how broad his appeal is.

PG: Jerryd Bayless, Milwaukee Bucks, Age: 27

Bayless is a known commodity for the most part, a scoring combo guard that has never quite performed up to his talent but has quietly been a good backup because of his shot creation skills. Even more quietly has been the improvement of his jumper, which was once seen as a weakness but is now a weapon, to the point he shot .437% from three last season. While he is sure to regress from that number, there is no reason he can't settle in as an above-average shooter with the ability to break down defenses and beef up the scoring off of the bench of team that maybe has another distributor at a non-point guard position for an inexpensive price.

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2016 NBA Draft: Phoenix Suns Draft Review

Current 2016-17 Roster

PG: Eric Bledsoe/Brandon Knight/Tyler Ulis

SG: Devin Booker/Archie Goodwin/John Jenkins

SF: P.J. Tucker/T.J. Warren

PF: Jared Dudley/Dragan Bender/Marquese Chriss

C: Alex Len/Tyson Chandler/Alan Williams

Free Agents

PF Jon Leuer

SF Chase Budinger

PG Ronnie Price

PF Mirza Teletovic

Who They Acquired

04. Dragan Bender, F/C Maccabi Tel Aviv

Despite their proclivity to search for quick fixes, Robert Sarver's Suns made the correct decision and drafted the best prospect available, despite the fact that he won't be able to step in from day one and be a starting level contributor. Bender is a wonderful prospect for the modern NBA and the exact type of player the high usage, guard heavy Suns need.

09. Marquese Chriss, PF Washington

The Suns traded their latter two of three first round picks and the draft rights to Bogdan Bogdanovic to move up from 13 to 9 and select Chriss, whom was in play starting at three and represented the clear end of a tier. Chriss is loaded with potential but really needs time to develop and learn the game. The physical talent and raw offensive skill are obvious, but the lack of feel and experience are just as well.

34. Tyler Ulis, PG Kentucky

Despite buzz that he would be a first round pick, logic won out and no one drafted a sub-150 pound guard with a first round pick. In the second round, as a clear backup or even third guard, Ulis is much more palatable. Ulis is the third point guard on the Suns roster and believe it or not, the fifth Kentucky guard on Phoenix's roster.

How They Fit

Bender is exactly the type of player the Suns need, a low-usage player that is completely content to do the little things, spacing the floor, passing, and defending on the perimeter while players like Eric Bledsoe, Brandon Knight, Devin Booker, and TJ Warren soak up offensive possessions. Bender is an ideal modern NBA big man who can play in a switching defense, space the floor, and be a ball-mover offensively. His rookie year, Bender should probably just play 15-20 minutes a game as he develops his body and adjusts to the NBA game. Once he is able to play starters minutes, there is a ton you can do with Bender, including playing both sides of the pick and roll as either ball-handler or screener, where he can pop or roll. Defensively, Bender will likely need a strong rim protector next to him, because his strengths defensively lie more in his ability to guard on the perimeter and switch. Perhaps it will change as his body develops, but currently Bender is just average on the glass, so a center and wings/guards that can rebound would be a benefit. Alex Len has shown flashes of that level of rebounding and defense but the jury is still out regarding whether or not he can become that guy.

Chriss shares some of the same weaknesses as Bender, namely his troubles on the glass, so pairing him with players who are good rebounders like Warren, PJ Tucker, and Bledsoe would be advantageous. Chriss is so good getting up and down the floor that he would be a real threat in a uptempo offense where he can get out and run. Chriss needs to develop his feel, instincts, and polish but the flashes he gives show a forward that can attack off the dribble and shoot from the outside. He could be a devastating pick-and-roll player due to his smooth athleticism and explosiveness as a roll-man or popping for a jumper, once his jumper get consistent. Further away yet is an ability to score in isolation, the tools are definitely there but serious refinement is needed going forward as he learns actual moves and builds his experience. All of this might be a few years away, but the reward of patient development could lead to a devastating offensive player with serious switchability on defense. Chriss might spend most of his time in the D-League, as he probably won't be ready for the big team quite yet, especially considering his very high foul rate. The question of long-term fit with Bender and Chriss comes down to whether or not Bender can play center eventually, which will likely be determined by how his body fills out. Still, as more and more teams turn to small-ball lineups, it's hard to see Bender being punished too severely but a lack of strength, especially since if you have Bender and Chriss, you are probably switching everything anyways so that would mitigate many of those issues.

Ulis is a player tailor made for backup or third point guard because he is too physically small (not just short, small) to be effective against starters, but his ability to run pick-and-roll means that when he is on the floor you are going to have an effective offense, even if he really struggled to defend anyone with size. If Knight isn't traded and Ronnie Price is brought back, I would keep Ulis in the D-League for much of the season so he can build chemistry with Chriss. Defensively, Ulis defintely gives tremendous effort but 5-10, 150 he is little better than a traffic cone in the NBA, though he is good picking up steals. You'd want to play a big guard with Ulis to cover up but his utter lack of size and strength would hurt your ability to switch. The question with Ulis is how his intangibles, his leadership and work ethic, can have an affect, if any.

What They Need Going Forward

First and foremost, the Suns need to solve their logjam at center and guard, Alex Len and Tyson Chandler are completely redundant and cannot be played together. Whether by trade, buyout, or stretch it is time for Chandler to move on, presumably to the contender he desires. If Chandler is moved, Alan Williams should be given his shot as the backup, but the Suns should still look for depth, particularly an athletic big that can move and defend the rim. At guard, the Suns have four players that are best with the ball in the hands and a fifth, Devin Booker, that will need plenty of possessions himself. Whether it's Goodwin, Knight, or even Bledsoe, the Suns need to find balance to their roster and get some lower usage wings to compliment their ball-dominant players. At small forward, the Suns have two guys who are probably better at power forward and might not be starter quality, while at power forward there is only Chriss and Bender, neither of whom are ready to play starters minutes. So either the Suns need to move Tucker and Warren to power forward and acquire a small forward or they need to find a power forward. Even with Warren and Tucker there, depth will be needed at both spots. Phoenix signed Jared Dudley to a reasonable deal that will likely have him playing power forward, but they could use another combo forward, perhaps Maurice Harkless. To maximize their current roster and help their young players the most, Phoenix should look for shooters at the forward spots that can create space for Len posting up and their ball-dominant guards.

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2016 NBA Draft: Brooklyn Nets Draft Review

Current 2016-17 Roster

PG: Isaiah Whitehead

SG: Bojan Bogdanovic/Caris LeVert/Sean Kilpatrick

SF: Rondae Hollis-Jefferson

PF: Chris McCullough

C: Brook Lopez

Free Agents

SG Sergey Karasev

PF Thomas Robinson

C Henry Sims

PG Donald Sloan

PG Shane Larkin (Player Option)

SG Wayne Ellington (Player Option)

PF Willie Reed (Restricted)

SG Markel Brown (Restricted) 

Who They Acquired

20. Caris LeVert, SG Michigan

The Nets traded Thad Young for this pick and took a serious risk in LeVert, who's leg and foot injury history is quite terrifying. When healthy, LeVert is a very talented wing that can really shoot and has played as some point guard in his career. Without injuries LeVert would be a likely lottery pick. However, even if you take away the injuries LeVert isn't a lock to be a hit, he is a bad defender, lacks toughness, and might be a product of Michigan's spread out system (ala Nik Stauskas and Trey Burke). The Nets are taking a huge risk with a rare resource (for them) at a point where they could have gotten a more bankable return. 

42. Isaiah Whitehead, G Seton Hall

The Nets took a solid gamble in the second round with Brooklyn native Whitehead, a talented combo guard that can really shoot with extended range. Despite strength and quickness, Whitehead is a poor inside the arc scorer, shooting 39% from two point range and a terrible 47% at the rim. The question is, can he be a point guard and more than just shooter off the bench that can make some flashy passes?

How They Fit

One of the most appealing aspects of LeVert's jack-of-all-trades skillset is that he easily fits into most every team as a role player because of his ability to shoot, handle the ball, and pass. You could use him as secondary ball-handler alongside a more ball-dominant point point guard or as a co-lead guard with more of a combo guard. Due his shooting ability, LeVert projects to be a dangerous pick-and-roll threat, especially from the wing spot, so playing him with a good screener/roll man would make for a dangerous second unit offense. LeVert's defense is questionable, so I like his pairing with Rondae Hollis-Jefferson on the wing, who is a strong defensive player but poor shooter. LeVert and Hollis-Jefferson compliment each other well. I would also want a good defensive point guard playing with LeVert as well, though it might not be a necessity. 

Whitehead is a shot-creating combo guard with deep shooting range, so in that respect he actually makes sense with LeVert. Getting penetration and using the threat of his jumper to beat his many has never been an issue for Whitehead, but converting inside the arc and specifically at the rim have been a real problem for him. Spacing on a basketball floor doesn't just help players get to the rim, it makes finishing easier, pulling defenders away from the paint so their challenges are fewer and not as tight. Kemba Walker's finishing improved once Charlotte started spreading the floor and Dirk Nowitzki has been making mediocre guards successful with the threat of his jumper in pick-and-pop for years. With that in mind, spreading the floor for Whitehead and giving him a screening partner that can shoot would help him maximize his efficiency, especially considering his shooting ability will not allow teams to go under on his screens.

What They Need Going Forward

Really everything, so in that respect they actually need assets to rebuild their team from the ground up. They have a promising building block in Hollis-Jefferson (who even still barely played last season) but beyond that there really isn't much. Chris McCullough, LeVert, and Whitehead have upside but also serious questions and are a long way to go to become anything. The next step is selling off Brook Lopez and Bojan Bogdanovic for whatever you can get, both are good players, especially Lopez, but they aren't necessarily part of the Nets rebuilding effort and the ultimate iteration of what Brooklyn is building. From that perspective, the Nets need to view any free agents and non-foundational young players as potential trade assets that can bring back draft picks or good, young, cost controlled players. For example, I could see Whitehead showing his flashy game for a year them being flipped in a package over the summer. Brooklyn might see it differently and look to rebuild quicker, but with how dire this team's situation is, a full tear down seems like it will be necessary for Brooklyn to contend.

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2016 NBA Draft: Los Angeles Lakers Draft Review

Current 2016-17 Roster

PG: D'Angelo Russell

SG: Nick Young

SF: Brandon Ingram/Anthony Brown

PF: Julius Randle/Larry Nance Jr.

C: Ivica Zubac

Free Agents

PF Brandon Bass

SG Kobe Bryant (Retired)

C Roy Hibbert

C Robert Sacre

SF Metta World Peace

G Jordan Clarkson (Restricted)

PG Marcelo Huertas (Restricted)

PF Ryan Kelly (Restricted)

C Tarik Black (Restricted)

Who They Acquired

02. Brandon Ingram, SF Duke

The Lakers made the obvious choice, going with whom many considered the 1b to Ben Simmons 1a. Ingram probably won't be the star that Los Angeles craves, but we will be an excellent contributor in every area of the game and the kind of player that will attract free agents and can fit in pretty much any offense.

32. Ivica Zubac, C Mega Leks

In the second round, the Lakers got a steal a in Zubac, who was projected by many to be a sure-fire first round pick. Croatia's Zubac most likely fell because he wants (and presumably will) come to the NBA right away and wasn't interested in being stashed. He isn't ready to be a starting center, but in a back role of the bench Zubac could play 10-15 minutes a game as early as next season, especially if the Lakers aren't competing for anything, which is likely.

How They Fit

One of the biggest appeals of Ingram is that he fits really well with any team in any offense. However, despite the fact that he will likely be a starter and play many minutes for LA, it is important to remember the Ingram is far from a finished product and isn't the player he will be a few years from now. Starting out, Ingram will likely be limited to spot-up shooting and the occasional pick-and-roll opportunities as he adjusts to the physicality of the game. As he develops, Ingram projects as a secondary ball-handler who can play both forward spots, run pick-and-roll, and while he may never be an elite at-the-rim scorer, his pull-up game is something that could become a real weapon in the NBA. Ingram and an athletic big like Julius Randle as the role man would be difficult to contend with. Using Ingram as the screener is another possibility, where he can both pop or roll, with D'Angelo Russell as the ball-handler. At this point, Ingram is still learning the defensive fundamentals and should not be asked to guard the best opposing wing, however with defensive tissue paper in Russell and Jordan Clarkson as the projected backcourt, Ingram may have no choice but to take his lumps defensively. While eventually he can be a high usage player, Ingram can also be a low usage shooter/defender if LA is able to attract stars.

Zubac is definitely an old-style center, he doesn't have range to his game and is the most effective close to the basket, both offensively and defensively. Posting up, Zubac has good hands and feet, but his skills scoring there aren't what you call polished. However, at 7-1, 265 and still growing, there aren't going to be a ton of centers that will be able to matchup physically once his frame has fully filled out. Zubac will require offense to be created for him, either as a dump off or in the screen-and-roll game, therefore it would be wise to play him with a pure, passing point guard like Marcelo Huertas who can find him easy baskets as his other offense develops. Defensively, the further you move Zubac away from the basket at this point, the less effective his defense becomes. He isn't a pure shot-blocker, but his sheer size and reach make him an impediment at the basket. Where he needs to improve is defending on the moving, he isn't the kind of guy you want switching, but if he can just improve in the little areas like hedging screens then recovering, it will really help his defensive value. Pairing Zubac with a mobile power forward that can help him out would be wise.

What They Need Going Forward

With nine potential free agents this summer, the Lakers have a lot of needs and a chance to really re-make their roster with any number of free agents, from stars on down. While I am bullish on Zubac's potential career prospects, he is far from ready to be a starting center, which is LA biggest need. None of the Lakers other four starts project to be above-average defensive players, so a strong defensive center is a must (Dwight Howard? Just kidding.) Another wing player that could force Clarkson into a sixth-man role would be another option, particularly one that can shoot and play defense. Assuming that Huertas is retained, the Lakers should look to fill out their depth with strong defensive players that can mix-and-match with their more offensive focused starters. 

In reality, none of the Lakers incumbent players have proved themselves to be starter level players yet, so if the Lakers can acquire a more proven young player, either in free agency or trade, then they should regardless of their current roster.

Oh and in what any way possible they can get rid of festering human boil Nick Young, they should.

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2016 NBA Draft: Philadelphia 76ers Draft Review

Current 2016-17 Roster

PG: T.J. McConnell/Kendall Marshall

SG: Nik Stauskas/Timothe Luwawu

SF: Robert Covington/Jerami Grant

PF: Ben Simmons/Dario Saric/Richaun Holmes

C: Joel Embiid/Nerlens Noel/Jahlil Okafor/Carl Landry

Free Agents

PF Elton Brand

PG Ish Smith

G Isaiah Canaan (Restricted)

SG Hollis Thompson (Restricted)

PF Christian Wood (Restricted)

Who They Acquired

01. Ben Simmons, G/F LSU

Philadelphia made the pick everyone was expecting and drafted Simmons, who is essentially a 6-10 lead guard with his advanced ball-handling, vision, and point guard skills. He is tremendous in transition and rebounds very well, but there are questions about his ability to shoot, defend, and lead.

24. Timothe Luwawu, SF Mega Leks

Luwawu's "value" (whatever that means) seems to have peaked early in the process before he slided back into where he started, in the late first round. The Frenchman has defensive potential and a developing, if inconsistent jumpshot and some floor game, though both need polishing out. Reportedly Luwawu will come to Philadelphia this coming season.

26. Furkan Korkmaz, SG Anadolu Efes

The Sixers doubled up on international wing prospects, taking the raw but talented Korkmaz. The Turkish international is a very good athlete with a sweet outside stroke and some slasher potential, though his ability to score inside the arc is a question mark.

How They Fit

Simmons is obviously, along with Joel Embiid if he can stay healthy, part of the two foundational building blocks in Philadelphia. By taking Simmons, the Sixers are committing to building around him and playing in a style that suits him. That means getting up and down with fast, athletic players that can both shoot and defend as well as a big man that can play pick-and-roll and defend the rim. Simmons will, more often than not, be the primary ball-handler and playmaker, the point guard. Spreading the floor with a 4/5 pick-and-roll with Simmons and Embiid (or Noel) will be the bread-and-butter of this offense, give him the ball, set a screen and let him have a wide-open floor to see and create. Simmons can also posted up if opponents try to put a smaller player on him, however if defenders lay off and dare Simmons to shoot, he will need to find a way around that tactic, something he was unable to do consistently in college.

Luwawu, should he come over right away as is being reported, will be an important part of the Sixers are doing, ready or not, because they really lack true wings that can shoot the ball. Even if that weakness is addressed in trade or free agency, Luwawu should be a big part of their plans going forward because he fits so well with Simmons and Embiid. Provided Luwawu continues his development as a shooter, his ability to run in transition and space the floor should be ideal for the type of up-tempo, spread out offense you want to run with Simmons. Defensively, Luwawu looks to be an ace against 1s and 2s, but we will need to get stronger if he wants to switch beyond that and guard bigger wings, which is presumably the kind of defense you'd like to play with Simmons, as his point guard skills allow you to play three wings instead of a traditional point guard.

Whether in Europe of the D-League next season, Korkmaz has some clear areas of improvement he can focus on before becoming a part of Philadelphia's main roster. First and foremost, he needs to get stronger. At roughly 6-7, 185 Korkmaz is far too skinny and it shows in his finishing and defense, which are the two most glaring areas of weakness in his game. Just getting stronger will help Korkmaz with both, but there is more to it than that, particularly craft as a finisher and effort as a defender. If he becomes a finished product, Korkmaz would be similar to Luwawu as an athletic wing that can get up and down the floor, but likely with better shooting and worse defense.

What They Need Going Forward

First and foremost, the Sixers need to get their big man position sorted out, they have the most imbalanced roster in the league with zero at least average NBA guards and seven guys who are best at center and power forward, eight if Dario Saric comes over. Despite their efforts to trade Nerlens Noel (a good fit with Ben Simmons), Jahlil Okafor (an apocalyptically bad fit with Simmons) is the one they need to move, possibly throwing in another of their young bigs in attempt to bring back a better guard or wing.

The Sixers have made it clear they are willing to spend money in free agency and the guard and wing spots should be their focus, in particular those that can defend and shoot. And while Simmons is able to play point guard himself, it would be a mistake not to put other playmakers on the floor because he can be played off of so severely. Besides, why wouldn't you want more passers and playmakers on the floor?

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2016 NBA Draft: Mock Draft

I have no sources or inside information, just some (kinda) educated speculation:

01. Philadelphia 76ers: Ben Simmons, G/F LSU (6-10, 240) Age: 19

The Sixers are taking Simmons, that is 99% of a lock at this point, the only intrigue left is what Philadelphia does with their logjam of big men and if they acquire another lottery pick.  

02. Los Angeles Lakers: Brandon Ingram, SF Duke (6-9, 196) Age: 18

Ingram is basically a lock here as well, though they have been making noise looking at some other players, I think that is just due diligence in case some team blows away with an offer for the #2 overall pick.

03. Boston Celtics (from Brooklyn): Jaylen Brown, SF/PF California (6-7, 223) Age: 19

I still don't think the Celtics are taking Dragan Bender, and will most likely trade this pick, but if they use it they will try to sell that they are taking a star, but go with a player like Jaylen Brown, with a higher floor than say Marquese Chriss, but also has some upside as well.

04. Phoenix Suns: Marquese Chriss, PF Washington (6-10, 233) Age: 18

Dragan Bender would literally be the perfect fit for the Suns, but I am not sure Robert Sarver will stand for a top 5 pick that won't player right away. Ironically, Chriss isn't going to help much starting out either and has a significantly higher bust factor and not any more upside.

05. Minnesota Timberwolves: Kris Dunn, PG Providence (6-4, 205) Age: 22

I don't know if Ricky Rubio gets traded (it would be a mistake, in my opinion) but Dunn is the type of player that can play a role for Minnesota early on, especially playing with a guard like Zach LaVine. Most importantly, Dunn can defend his tail off, which will appeal to Tom Thibodeau.

06. New Orleans Pelicans: Jamal Murray, SG Kentucky (6-4, 207) Age: 19

The Pelicans need to find more scoring and shot creation, which in theory is what Murray provides. Especially with Eric Gordon most likely departing in free agency, Murray could fill a similar role as a shooter and sometimes creator,

07. Denver Nuggets (from New York): Dragan Bender, PF Maccabi Tel Aviv (7-1, 225) Age: 18

This is obviously a no-brainer for Denver, who not only could really use a player like Bender but also have patience with and an affinity for International prospects.

08. Sacramento Kings: Buddy Hield, SG Oklahoma (6-5, 212) Age: 22

This is another no-brainer. There are major questions about just how good Hield can be in the NBA, but he is unlikely to bust completely and is a high character player that can help transform the Kings dysfunction. There are likely to be better players drafted after Hield, but with Sacramento I get swinging for a double, at this point they just need talent.

09. Toronto Raptors (from Denver): Jakob Poeltl, C Utah (7-1, 239) Age: 20

With Bismack Biyombo departing, Toronto can look to beef up their big man depth and draft a solid, well-rounded big man in Poeltl, though the Raptors are talented enough to go in pretty much any direction, minus point guard most likely.

10. Milwaukee Bucks: Dejounte Murray, PG Washington (6-5, 170) Age: 19

Last year the Bucks drafted Rashad Vaughn way earlier than expected and you could defintely see them do that again with Murray, a raw prospect with upside but a looooong way to go,

11. Orlando Magic: Deyonta Davis, PF/C Michigan State (6-11, 237) Age: 19

Point guard is the main need for Orlando, but they don't seem to think so after they parted ways with their coach partially over Elfrid Payton. Davis has upside and a solid floor, but most of all he projects to compliment Orlando's current big men. 

12. Atlanta Hawks (from Utah): Domantas Sabonis, PF/C Gonzaga (6-11, 231) Age: 20

After trading Jeff Teague for this pick, the Hawks (who may yet trade up further) can look to address their need for big man depth. The Hawks were really bad on the glass last season, an area Sabonis excels at. Even better his high IQ and skill fits the Hawks system.

13. Phoenix Suns (from Washington): Timothe Luwawu, SF Mega Leks (6-7, 205) Age: 21

After power forward, a low-usage defensive wing/shooting wing is the Suns biggest need, so it would not be a shock for them to use one of their two lottery picks on a player like Timothe Luwawu.

14. Chicago Bulls: Wade Baldwin IV, PG Vanderbilt (6-4, 202) Age: 20

The Bulls finally pulled the plug on Derrick Rose and now have a Jerian Grant/Jose Calderon combo at point guard. While Grant has some value (his fit with Fred Hoiberg is as good as his fit in the triangle was bad) but neither he nor Calderon has the upside of Wade Baldwin, who would fit well with Jimmy Butler.

15. Denver Nuggets (from Houston): Henry Ellenson, PF/C Marquette (7-0, 242) Age: 19

If Dragan Bender isn't able to come over and play right away, Denver could look to get a more immediate contributor in Ellenson or the like.

16. Boston Celtics (from Dallas): Malachi Richardson, SG Syracuse (6-6, 200) Age: 20 

Someone is taking Richardson in the first round, likely in the top 20 and Boston (or whomever they trade with) seem like as likely a destination as any.

17. Memphis Grizzlies: Taurean Prince, SF/PF Baylor (6-8, 220) Age: 21

The Grizzlies are forever in a search for shooting and have built their team around tough defense in recent times. Prince projects to provide some of both.

18. Detroit Pistons: Denzel Valentine, SG Michigan State (6-6, 210) Age: 22

Valentine slides due to concerns about his knee. The local connection and Valentines fit in Stan Van Gundy's system make him too good to pass on.

19. Denver Nuggets (from Portland): Demetrius Jackson, PG Notre Dame (6-2, 194) Age: 21

Even with the strides that Emmanuel Mudiay took last season, the Nuggets still need to find him a back up and Jackson is great value here and an ideal fit as a backup point guard.

20. Brooklyn Nets (from Indiana): Tyler Ulis, PG Kentucky (5-10, 149) Age: 20

The Nets have the worst point guard situation in the league and desperately need something, anything there. Tyler Ulis is likely a backup but at least he can play point guard and has some tremendous intangibles.

21. Atlanta Hawks: Juan Hernangomez, PF Estudiantes (6-9, 220) Age: 20

With Paul Millsap entering the last year of his deal (most likely) and Al Horford a free agent to-be, it wouldn't be surprising to see the Hawks double on big men, especially if one with the potential of Hernangomez falling to them.

22. Sacramento Kings (from Charlotte): Malik Beasley, SG Florida State (6-5, 190) Age: 19

After trading Marco Bellineli to Charlotte for this pick, making there need for wings that can shoot and defend even more dire.

23. Boston Celtics: Damian Jones, C Vanderbilt (7-0, 244) Age: 20

Again, who knows if the Celtics actually use this pick but if they do, an athletic big man like Jones makes sense because he is significantly more physically talented than the rest of his team.

24. Philadelphia 76ers (from Miami): Patrick McCaw, SG UNLV (6-7, 185) Age: 20

The Sixers need wings that can shoot and defend, which is what McCaw projects to do, with some real upside as well.

25. Los Angeles Clippers: Malcolm Brogdon, SG Virginia (6-5, 223) Age: 23

Does it really matter who the Clippers draft here? He'll never play for Doc Rivers anyway. Still, if he did get to okay Malcolm Brogdon could help the Clippers in the backcourt with shooting, defense, and passing.

26. Philadelphia 76ers (from Oklahoma City): Furkan Korkmaz, SG Anadolu Efes (6-7, 185) Age: 18

The Sixers are unlikely to bring in three rookies from this draft, so unless they trade the pick they will likely look to stash an international. Korkmaz could go much higher in the draft, but also might fall do to the rise of other prospects.

27. Toronto Raptors: Ante Zizc, C Cibona Zagreb (7-0, 249) Age: 19

Zizic is another prospect but could go higher but also might fall. He has been extremely productive in Europe at a young age and has the skills and motor to be a backup center at least.

28. Phoenix Suns (from Cleveland): Ivica Zubac, C Mega Leks (7-1, 265) Age: 19

Yet another international guy that could go higher, Zubax is huge and has some idea what he is doing, which is more rare than you might think.

29. San Antonio Spurs: Cheick Diallo, C Kansas (6-9, 219) Age: 19

The Spurs' lack of athleticism was glaring in their playoff series loss to the Thunder, they need to find some big bodies that can move, especially as Tim Duncan's career comes to a close.

30. Golden State Warriors: DeAndre Bembry, SF Saint Joseph's (6-6, 207) Age: 21

The Warriors lack of depth was exposed somewhat against the Cavaliers, so they would be wise to continue to add and develop real contributors, not just projects or players who fall due to injury. DeAndre Bembry is a really good fit there with his offensive and defensive versatility.

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2016 NBA Mock Lottery

Now that we know the official draft order (which it turns out we already knew) and the top of the draft class seems to be crystallizing as far as who will be remaining in the draft and who will be returning to school. It is still to early to know very much about what will actually happen, but information has been slowly leaking out as to the strategies of both teams and players. After the first two picks in the draft (Brandon Ingram and Ben Simmons in some order), things could go off script quickly as teams have wildly differing views of the potential of this draft. Some value experience and production more, others look for upside and potential. Those two groups rarely intersect in this draft, leading to disparate rankings depending on what aspects you value more.

01. Philadelphia 76ers: Brandon Ingram, SF Duke (6-9, 196) Age: 18

Once Sam Hinkie was ousted, it appeared conventional NBA wisdom was going to reign supreme, leading to the logical conclusion that Ben Simmons, the traditional "star-power" in the draft, the big name that could get fans excited and put rears in the seats would be the direction Philadelphia would look to go in. However, with the new that Simmons and his agent are trying to force their way to LA (as reported by Nick DePaula of The Vertical), it now appears that Ingram will be the direction they will go in, unless Simmons changes course and is willing to go to Philadelphia and be a model citizen and teammate. This isn't the worst thing for the Sixers, as Inrgam is a better fit on and off the court, mainly because he is a lock to play small forward and is the type of shooter that the Sixers have been desperate for, two things that cannot be said with certainty about Simmons.

02. Los Angeles Lakers: Ben Simmons, PF LSU (6-10, 240) Age: 19

This is an ideal scenario for the Lakers, as they get a highly marketable young player to fill the Mamba-sized left by Kobe Bryant and someone that will be easy to sell stars on playing with because he is such a willing and capable passer. The fit alongside Julius Randle is tenuous at best, and the dearth of shooting in LA is an issue, but those are all secondary concerns to LA. I would expect Simmons to be installed in a similar role as Draymond Green in new coach Luke Walton's DubSoCal offense. Defensively, he isn't a tenth of Green yet so there will be a need to figure things out around him there. LA will need a strong defensive center and role man to make best use of Simmons, as well as shooters to balance the floor and probably a good defender at small forward as well. Again, this is all of secondary concern to LA, who desperately need to re-ignite their franchise after the wasteland of the last couple seasons.

03. Boston Celtics (from Brooklyn): Jakob Poeltl, C Utah (7-1, 239) Age: 20

I could be totally wrong, but I get the feeling there is no way that Dragan Bender is the number 3 pick or Boston Celtics have the rights to Dragan Bender by the end of the summer. Now that could mean they trade the pick as part of a package for an established player, or to someone who falls in love with a prospect and sees how ugly this draft is and tries to get the guy they think could be a star, which I don't see being Bender. It also means if the Celtics pick here, they aren't taking Bender. They could (and should, in my opinion) but I just don't see it. Danny Ainge has eschewed foreign players in the past and I don't know why Bender would change his mind considering he is so young and is getting few minutes right now. There is also the question of message, Ainge has been selling his fans on all these assets and making the big move to get a star for years, and hasn't really gotten close, nor have they made it out of the first round of the playoffs with their current roster either. Is Ainge really going to take a project big man that might not even come over right away and when he does, still not be ready? That seems unlikely. So if not Bender, and not a trade, who? There are a number of options, none of which is particularly appealing but Poeltl is the best of the bunch. He is a Steven Adams type of center that isn't flashy but has few weaknesses but makes winning plays. Poeltl is the kind of big man Boston has lacked since Brad Stevens' arrival. The fact that Ainge went to BYU and Poeltl played for Utah, well...

04. Phoenix Suns: Dragan Bender, PF Maccabi Tel Aviv (7-1, 225) Age: 18

This would be ideal for Phoenix, as Bender is exactly the kind of player they need. A dirty-work type of guy who can defend at a high level and projects as a good enough shooter to space the floor. However, with Phoenix it is always dicey, how will they view themselves? As just a young piece away from contention, unwilling to wait to develop a player like Bender? If so, a more pro-ready player might be more of what they consider, such as Buddy Hield. However, if they are willing to be patient and form their team around a young core of Devin Booker and a prospect like Bender (as they should) then they will be looking a different batch of prospects, like Bender or Jaylen Brown. Seriously though, the marketing of the Killer Bs in Booker, Bender and Bledsoe? Worth it just for that. Then what if they traded up and drafted Brown? Then drafted Ben Bentil and Joel Bolomboy? Okay, I'll stop.

05. Minnesota Timberwolves: Jamal Murray, SG Kentucky (6-4, 207) Age: 19

The Timberwolves, exploding with young talent, will have a chance to add another peice to their world domination plan. With four of their starting five set, Minnesota could look towards a power forward to fill the void there, and players like Deyonta Davis and Marquese Chriss certainly make some sense there, they shouldn't force it in the power forward spot, especially since they might want a more veteran player there, via free agency. Instead, improving their shooting should be a priority. If Tom Thibodeau wants someone with more defensive potential that will be ready to step in early on, Buddy Hield makes a ton of sense. However, if they are targeting upside, Jamal Murray seems like a logical fit that could really help stabilize the second unit in the future. A sweet shooting combo guard that can create a little and would give them another scoring option on the perimeter. Murray is probably best suited to the bench, at least early on because he has yet to show he can consistent create against athletic defenders yet and wouldn't face the best of the best NBA guards playing second units.

06. New Orleans Pelicans: Kris Dunn, PG Providence (6-4, 205) Age: 22

Outside of Jrue Holiday, is there an above-average, healthy player on New Orleans' roster? Anthony Davis doesn't even fit into that category. The Pelicans have completely wasted a top five player with terrible trades, signings, and the possibly the league's worst medical staff. Now that they finally have a draft pick again, the Pelicans can start their rebuild, provided they can get out of their own first. Hield would make sense here, as would any of the power forwards in the draft. However if Kris Dunn falls this far (which seems likely given the lack of need for a point guard among the picks above), he seems like the most logical direction for New Orleans, that struggled to defend and create offense last season, two thing that Dunn should help with. Plus, with his size and length, Dunn should be able to function alongside Holiday, but without the pressures of leading the offense until ready.

07. Denver Nuggets (from New York): Jaylen Brown, SF California (6-7, 223) Age: 19

The Nuggets have so many young players on their rosters and three picks in the first round of this draft, so they have a great deal of flexibility. One of the options they have with so much draft capital is to take a risk or two. Jaylen Brown is risky because he hasn't put it all together on the floor yet. However, his physical tools are outstanding and he fits into the small-ball revolution as a potential small forward. With Danilo Gallinari's future far from certain, a combo forward like Brown could be groomed as his replacement in a year or two, filling the role of shot creator and foul-drawer in Denver. It will also be crucial that Brown ends up a team where he isn't under pressure to be a large role right away and has the time to develop and ease into the league.

08. Sacramento Kings: Buddy Hield, SG Oklahoma (6-5, 212) Age: 22

The Kings have to be hoping that Hield is available here, he is really an ideal fit for what they need both on and off the court. Sacramento had a really big spacing issue last season, as well as another drama filled season in the front office, coaching staff, and players. Hield is as close to an NBA ready shooting guard as you are going to find, he is an excellent outside shooter and has the tools to be a good defensive player. Perhaps even more importantly, Hield is a high character, hard-working player that gets along well with teammates and would be a step in the right direction when it comes to rebuilding the culture in Sacramento.

09. Toronto Raptors (from Denver): Deyonta Davis, F/C Michigan (6-11, 237) Age: 19

The Raptors, benefiting from the Knicks mistakes, get a rare chance to add a top ten pick to a conference finals team. With Bismack Biyombo's impending free agency and a hole already existing at power forward for Toronto, they will have their choice of several big man options here if they so choose. I have always been an advocate for good teams swinging for the fences when given the chance to draft high, in which case Marquese Chriss or Skal Labissiere would be possibilities, has however if they wish to go a safer route, Henry Ellenson provides a more stable floor. In this scenario, they split the difference with Deyonta Davis, a physically blessed big man who still has a ton of room to grow, but also with the floor of a solid rebounder/defender with potential for a nice perimeter game with some polish down the road. Add to that the size to play center and you have a logical choice for Toronto.

10. Milwaukee Bucks: Skal Labissiere, PF Kentucky (7-0, 216) Age: 20

The Bucks seem to favor high upside talent and the upside doesn't get much higher than Skal Labissiere. Also, because the two foundational young pieces on their roster (Giannis Antetokounmpo and Jabari Parker) are both for the most part inside the three-point line players, it makes a lot of sense to look to add someone like Labissiere who has a wonderful stroke that should work from the three point line eventually. Labissiere is a work in progress in many areas, but Milwaukee has shown a willingness to draft and develop raw players and would seem to be a good landing place for Labissiere, who needs patience and confidence from a coach willing to us him in the areas he excels, things he didn't get at Kentucky.

11. Orlando Magic: Demetrius Jackson, PG Notre Dame (6-2, 194) Age: 21

Don't be surprised if this pick ends up in a deal, as Orlando seems done with rebuilding and want to go all in with free agency this summer and may look to trade for pieces as well. If they use this pick, they might shoot for the high upside talent GM Rob Hennigan has favored in the past of they could look for more instant contribution. Demetrius Jackson certainly has upside, but he is further along in his development than say a Marquese Chriss. Orlando clearly thinks Elfrid Payton is the point guard of their future (despite much evidence to the contrary) which was a primary reason for Scott Skiles resignation. However, they lack any kind of quality backup, which is a role Jackson should be able to play early on in his career. Also, because of his shooting ability and Payton's size, the two could easily play alongside one another, if Orlando insists on playing a point guard with a .478 TS%.

12. Utah Jazz: Wade Baldwin IV, PG Vanderbilt (6-3, 202) Age: 20

The Jazz missed out on the playoffs last season in large part because of terrible point guard play. Now, part of that wasn't there fault due to Dante Exum's unfortunate injury, but relying inexperienced Exum, coming off a serious knee injury seem pa the height of folly without a backup plan. Wade Baldwin IV probably isn't ready to lead an NBA offense, but in Utah he wouldn't have to. The Jazz have many creators on the wing who could supplement Baldwin until he is more comfortable as the lead guard, leaving him free to knock down 3s (something he did with a greater than 40% success rate in college) and use his size, athletic ability and absurd 6-11+ wingspan to defend. Both he and Exum can play alongside one another, giving Utah two versatile players how can both shoot and defend, something their point struggled to do last season.

13. Phoenix Suns (from Washington): Henry Ellenson, PF Marquette (7-0, 242) Age: 19

If they make more of a long term investment at power forward at pick 4, the Suns could use their second of three first rounders on a more immediate contributor, whether that be a wing like Timothe Luwawu or Denzel Valentine or a big man in the vein of Henry Ellenson. If their first pick is a safer prospect, they could take a high upside flier on the likes of Marquese Chriss or Skal Labissiere. Ellenson has a ways to go defensively, but he has the tools to be average in that area, which is all he would need to be because of his versatile offensive skillset and rebounding. Though he shot poorly from deep in college, Ellenson projects as an above-average stretch big with the additional playmaking and post-scoring abilities of a modern NBA big man.

14. Chicago Bulls: Marquese Chriss, PF Washington (6-10, 233) Age: 18

Though they will likely never admit to it, the Bulls are entering a different phase of their franchise history, one that is closer to rebuilding than contending. With the all but inevitable departures of Joakim Noah and Pau Gasol, the Bulls frontcourt will need to be rebuilt around Bobby Portis, Christiano Felicio, Taj Gibson, and Nikola Mirotic, the first two of which are unproven, while the latter two are flawed in one way or another. Marquese Chriss certainly has a higher upside than any of them, though he is still very early on in his development and might take some time to adjust and learn the NBA game. However, if it all clicks you have a tremendously athletic power forward that can both shoot the ball and attack the basket off the dribble. He isn't in the usual "proven college player" mold the Bulls like, but at this point he is too good to pass up on. The Bulls could also use a point guard and a wing that can both shoot and defend, meaning they will take a long look at the likes of Demetrius Jackson, Wade Baldwin IV, Timothe Luwawu, and Denzel Valentine.

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2016 NBA Draft Rankings

Last year, I felt like I had some gut feelings on prospects, but sided with the conventional knowledge more than perhaps I should have. This year I am going all out on what I think without being held back by group opinion and seeing where that leads. Maybe this is over compensating too much, however every year prospects turn out to be great players or bust and the position they are drafted has little to do with projecting that.

01. Dragan Bender, PF Maccabi Tel Aviv (7-1, 216) Age: 18

Why Bender number 1? Several reasons, the most important of which is I think the type of player he projects to become is as unique as it is valuable in the NBA: a big man who can switch and guard any position, make threes, attack off the dribble, and find teammates. If he develops fully, Bender's overall positive influence on both sides of the ball will be the best in this class, better than Simmons ball-dominating, no defense and shooting game or Ingram's questionable inside the arc scoring ability and so-so athleticism. Bender is more of a project and definitely a bigger risk, and if I were a GM I might not have the guts to draft him number one overall, but 5 years from now I believe Bender will be the best NBA player from this draft, maybe not in raw statistics or to the average fan, but where it really matters: contributing to winning. Oh and the Bosnia and Herzegovina native is even younger than Ingram, and about as young as you can be and still be eligible for this draft.

02. Brandon Ingram, SF Duke (6-9, 196) Age: 18

Ingram and Simmons continue to battle it out with very little to separate them; both are worthy number one picks in this draft, though neither would be in better drafts. Ingram has the slight edge because he is the better shooter and doesn't have the unsettling questions about effort and improvement. Ingram certainly has his own issues and like Bender he is more about what he'll become than what he is, as his defensive fundamentals, passing feel, and two point offense are all lacking thus far.

03. Ben Simmons, PF LSU (6-10, 240) Age: 19

Simmons continues to be polarizing mostly because he himself is a dichotomy in his talents, unbelievable in some areas like feel, passing, and rebounding, but also unbelievably bad at shooting and defense. Part of it isn't his fault, he didn't asked to be hyped to death and a lot of the questions about his character are probably just noise, but it is concerning that Simmons hand picked his school, playing for his godfather, and then stopped giving effort when things went south. That could be an issue for a team drafting one or two that is presumably not going to be very good. Still, it is easy to watch Simmons and see a future star, it is also just as easy to see the work necessary to reach that point, as it is with Ingram as well. If your philosophy is shoot for the best possible scenario, Simmons is probably your top over prospect, if it is about balancing risk and reward, you might go for Ingram. 

04. Demetrius Jackson, PG Notre Dame (6-2, 194) Age: 21

Jackson's overall numbers this year were down, leading some to suggest he was disappointing this year, however the injury he suffered partway through the year seems to have been a contributing factor:

Freshman and Sophomore Seasons

48% FG (222-460) 42% 3P (79-186)

Junior Year Pre-Injury

50% FG (114-226), 39% 3P (31-79)

Junior Year Post-Injury

39% FG (79-202), 27% 3P (23-84)

Jackson has great physical tools, is an advanced ball-handler, as well as a very good shooter and creator. There are very few players in this draft with above-average to plus starter potential, Jackson is one of them.

05. Jakob Poeltl, C Utah (7-1, 239) Age: 20

Because he isn't flashy and played for Utah, Jakob Poeltl hasn't gotten nearly the publicity his skillset and production warrants. Poeltl is really a solid big man prospect with few weaknesses in his game; he is big, athletic for his size, mobile, and tough. He rebounds, protects the rim, and defends on the move while also providing solid post-up skills and developing perimeter game. Poeltl is a modern NBA center with some significant upside considering he is close to NBA ready as is. Big men like Poeltl aren't sexy picks, but they actually help you win. Just look at how Steven Adams is affecting this year's playoffs.

06. Kris Dunn, PG Providence (6-4, 205) Age: 22

Despite again being one of the best players in the country as a Junior, Kris Dunn had a disappointing season to some observers, probably because he was basically the same guy as the year prior: an frequently dynamic, occasionally frustrating, sometimes baffling player with high highs and mediocre lows. I think Dunn's issue is he was cast at Providence as a take-over offensive player when in reality his skillset is much better suited to being a third scoring option who sets up teammates and scores opportunistically in transition and in the flow of pick-and-roll offense, not an isolation, carry-the-team level. He could take over games at times, but not sustainably. Providence had Dunn, Ben Bentil, and nothing else consistent. In the NBA, with better scoring teammates and more space to operate, Dunn should flourish but in a different role than some might think considering his reputation.

07. Timothe Luwawu, G/F Mega Leks (6-7, 205) Age: 21

With the dearth of quality wings in the NBA, an athletic wing with size, athleticism, and shooting ability, it should get your attention. Luwawu, a French international, was on NBA radars because of his excellent multi-directional athleticism but his stock has really taken a step forward since finding his jumper. His jumper isn't pure shooter level but is more than good enough to work with his defensive potential, which is excellent due to his fluidity, smooth athleticism, and explosiveness, though he does need to get stronger to be elite. His upside offensively is somewhat limited, due to his low release Luwawu probably won't be able to shoot off the dribble against pressure defense effectively, but he has room for growth handling the ball and passing. Even with these issues, the upside of a wing that can both shoot and defend is worthy of a lottery pick.

08. Jaylen Brown, SF/PF California (6-7, 223) Age: 19

After and up and down (or more accurately down and up and down) season, Jaylen Brown is in an interesting spot. There are some more traditional scouting teams that will drool over his physical tools, his stong frame, length, and explosiveness and see a future star while analytics based teams will see meh all-around production and see a potential bust. The truth is most likely somewhere in the middle, because he is so physical strong and the NBA is becoming more and more friendly towards small ball big men, Brown actually has a decent floor as a matchup small four. Whether or not his perimeter skills develop enough to be also playabale as a traditional small forward that will determine his value, with the upside of a Jae Crowder-type player, probably not a star.

09. Wade Baldwin IV, PG Vanderbilt (6-4, 202) Age: 20

The combine measurement didn't help anyone as much as they did Baldwin, even though everyone knew he was long, a 6-11+ wingspan is still eye-popping for someone a shade under 6-3 in bare feet. The measurements and athleticism of Baldwin alone would make him a draftable prospect, but Baldwin is also a greater than 40% three point shooter and solid playmaker. He isn't a ball dominant lead guard, more of a secondary playmaker at this point, and is more of an off the catch type shooter than off the dribble but that length, shooting and the room for reasonable growth Baldwin has makes for an intruiging prospect and one that could really take a team with non-point guard creators to the next level offensively. He could contribute right away in that type of environment and grow into more of a lead guard down the line, though even if he doesn't, again his shooting and length give him value.

10. Deyonta Davis, PF Michigan State (6-11, 237) Age: 19

Coming into the start of last season, Deyonta Davis was considered a very good recruit, but more of a longterm NBA prospect. All of that changed however when Davis completely remade his body, adding more than 25 pounds of good weight and strength to his frame and showed a burgeoning skillset to go along with obvious physical tools. Davis has a long way to go offensively, but th makings of a jumper and modest post game are there. Even if he never develops on that end, Davis should have value as a defender/rebounder/finisher in a Ed Davis type of role. Deyonta Davis isn't an amazing athlete, merely a very good one, so don't expect him to be DeAndre Jordan or anything like that, but he is explosive enough, to go with the length to play either big man spot down the line, block shots and defend the pick-and-roll, though I don't know if his foot speed is good enough to be truly plus in this area.

11. Henry Ellenson, PF Marquette (7-0, 242) Age: 19

Despite shooting poorly from three, there is little question that it should be a weapon for him in the NBA as a stretch big man. There are other questions about his game though that pertain more to his upside than floor because he shooting should give him value in at least a Matt Bonner-type of role. His athleticism is a question mark as far as defense, scoring one-on-one and finishing at the rim. He is very skilled offense however, and his 7-2+ wingspan and 9-foot reach is what makes him different from say Frank Kaminsky, who has below average length. This length will help make a difference on the boards and defensively, making up for a lack of lateral quickness and vertical explosiveness, to the point he can at the very least be playable.

12. Malik Beasley, SG Florida State (6-5, 190) Age: 19

Of all the excellent freshman in the country, Malik Beasley may have had the best season that no one noticed, better than many more heralded players. Beasley's game begins with his excellent three-point shot, which he is comfortable taking off both the catch and the dribble. With the ball in his hands, he is good at attacking closeouts, taking advantage of the opportunities his shooting frequently opens up. At the rim, he is an athletic and aggressive. He needs to improve as a ball handler, but has shown flashes in this area. Defensively, Beasley plays very hard and has tremendous athleticism horizontally and vertically. The only knock being his relatively short arms (6-7 wingspan). Beasley has potential to be a starting caliber shooting guard, in the mold of a Kentavious Caldwell-Pope.

13. Buddy Heild, SG Oklahoma (6-5, 212) Age: 22

Buddy Hield had a great year. He was the toast of college basketball, one of the most popular players in the country, a top scorer, winning multiple player of the year awards, and leading his team to a final four birth. As a capper, Hield will certainly be a lottery pick, likely in the top ten and even as high as third overall. For all his accolades, Hield does have some work to do in order to become more than just a role player at the next level. For starters, he needs to become a more consistent, committed defender; he has the tools but needs more focus and effort on that end to live up to his potential there. The same goes with ball handling and passing, which needs some refinement and polish. Hield is of course a wonderful shooter, which will be his primary weapon in the NBA, but there are some areas of upside left in his game.

14. Jamal Murray, SG Kentucky (6-4, 207) Age: 19

Those expecting Jamal Murray to be more than what he is were likely disappointed last season, but Murray was exactly what he has always been: a shooter and crafty scorer with questionable athleticism and play-making ability. As a three point shooting threat that can operate as a secondary ball-handler, Murray does everything you want; he can really knock it down, has a good handle and feel for getting open. As a primary scorer and playmaker, Murray is lacking. He isn't athletic enough to get by good defenders and has a low release that will make it difficult for him to get his shot off in isolation and may struggle to shoot off the dribble. Likewise, Murray's point guard abilities aren't developed and he simply isn't wired to be anything but a score-first player, which is totally fine as long he isn't forced into a point guard role he isn't equipped to handle. 

15. Juan Hernangomez, PF Estudiantes (6-9, 220) Age: 20

Brother of last year's number 35 overall pick, Guillermo Hernangomez, Juan isn't as big as brother is a better athlete who plays with a good level of skill and high motor. He has become a reliable ~35% three-point shooter that has also shown an ability to slash to the rim. Defensively he has tools and rebounds well, but needs to get stronger while on offense his passing and feel could stand to improve Hernangomez has been on of the most productive players for his age in the Spanish ACB, which is considered by many to be the second best basketball league in the world, a league that better prepares players than college basketball does. Though he might still be stashed, it isn't absurd to believe that Hernangomez could fill a role in the NBA next season.

16. Skal Labissiere, PF Kentucky (7-0, 216) Age: 20

After being considered by many to be the top overall pick, Skal Labissiere had a mostly disappointing season that was not helped one bit by a coach that failed to build his confidence or put him in positions to succeed offensively. Labissiere definitely has faults, he isn't strong enough yet to create good position, he is still learning the game in many ways and it shows in defense and offensive rebounding. However, Labissiere also has tremendous physical tools, both length and athleticism, and a pure jumpshot that should be good from three point range eventually. An athletic seven-footer with long arms that can both make threes and block shots is a special commodity in the NBA, enough so that Labissiere should be a lottery pick, even with the not insignificant risk that he gets stronger or improves his feel/instincts.

17. Marquese Chriss, PF Washington (6-10, 233) Age: 18

Despite being outside the radar of most prior to the NBA season, Marquese Chriss burst onto the scene in his freshman year and is now considered by many to be a top ten pick. Like Labissiere, Chriss has significant upside and a very athletic big man that can make jumpers. Chriss also adds the potential of dribble-drives to the basket. However, like Labissiere, Chriss is also early on in his development curve and has a ways to go learning the nuances of the game. He is just 18 so that is to be expected, but any team hoping for instant contribution will likely be looking in other directions tha Chriss.

18. Furkan Korkmaz, SG Anadolu Efes (6-7, 185) Age: 18

Korkmaz will be an interesting test case, the Turkish international is the first draft prospect in a while that could go in the lottery but will not likely be coming to the NBA or ready contribute for a few years. Dario Saric was the last big one, but he was drafted by a team that was actively trying to be bad and wanted him to stay overseas. If Korkmaz stays in the draft, his most likely bet will be on teams that either have a lot of draft picks in the first round (Sixers, Celtics, Suns, Nuggets) or a team looking to save money for this particular summer. Korkmaz has a ton of potential, but his body and experience level need to improve in order to be NBA ready. The potential is there though to be an athletic wing that can get to the basket and shoot from range, it just might take a little while to realize that potential.

19. Denzel Valentine, SG Michigan State (6-6, 210) Age: 22

After three years of solid production, Denzel Valentine exploded as a Senior, putting up monster stats and landing player of the year awards. Valentine is a very skilled guard: a tremendous shooter, gifted passer, and excellent ball-handler for a non-point guard. He also rebounds very well. The question as surrounding Valentine have to do with his athleticism, he is just average in that area and has struggled as a defender and finisher because of it, areas that will only get more difficult in the NBA game.

20. Taurean Prince, SF Baylor (6-8, 220) Age: 21

Prince isn't a flashy player, but he is the type of player that the NBA is always in need of: a 3-and-D wing that can make outside shots and and defend on the perimeter. Prince has the size, length, and athleticism to be a solid wing defender and rebounds well enough get minutes as a small-ball four as well. His shooting is good and could improve, especially if he benefits from playing in a lower usage role that requires him to create less offense. Lacking in star potential sure, but much more important in the NBA than most people realize.

21. Patrick McCaw, SG UNLV (6-7, 181) Age: 20

McCaw flew under the radar partially because of how woeful his team was but also because he shared the floor with highly regarded recruit Stephen Zimmerman (#23 on the list). That is a shame because McCaw had an excellent season that saw him improve across the board and show real potential. McCaw's flaw is obvious, he needs to get stronger (though he can still be effective ala Will Barton) but he is a good, smooth athlete with long arms and excellent potential defensively to go with a solid, if occassionally inconsistent, jumpshot and really nice feel handling and passing the ball as a secondary playmaker. Despit his slight frame, McCaw still competed on the boards, pulling down double-digit boards multiple times.

22. Ante Zizic, C Cibona Zagreb (6-11, 240) Age: 19

Zizic has been incredibly productive for his age group (best season in Europe by PER, among under-22 year olds via DraftExpress Jonathan Givony) and has the tools to match the production, with a 7-3 wingspan and very good overall athleticism, especially for someone if his size. He is mobile, rebounds well and blocks shots. Offensively, the Croatian international is inexperienced and lacks any go-to moves, but he has shown flashes and should settle in as a good roll-man and finisher, even if he never develops an ability to create his own offense. There is a lot to like here and Zizic should be a hot commodity amongst teams looking for a young, athletic center that has shown the ability to produce in professional basketball.

23. Domantas Sabonis, PF Gonzaga (6-10, 231) Age: 20

After losing Przemeck Karnowski, Domantas Sabonis was able to establish himself as Gonzaga's alpha Bulldog and put together a fantastic season. Sabonis, son of Hall of Famer Arvydas, is as smart of player as you'd expect, with the skills to match. He is very comfortable scoring in the post and has shown flashes of range on his jumper, as well as excellent instincts on that glass and high IQ decision making. The questions regarding Sabonis involve his ability to defend and score over length. The latter is a bit overblown, as Sabonis is big and crafty enough to become solid there. Defense is a legitimate issue how ever, as Sabonis has below average length and foot speed. Still as a backup big that won't be asked to go up against the top offensive starters, Sabonis should be a valuable addition to a second unit. 

24. Cheick Diallo, C Kansas (6-9, 219) Age: 19

After a new nightmare season featuring bogus NCAA academic issues and very limited playing time at Kansas, Cheick Diallo was finally able to show what he is capable of at the NBA combine, leaving a very favorable impression in the minds of those who watched him play. What Diallo can do is play his tail off, rebounding, defending, running the floor, and working to get dunks offensively. His offensive skill level is low, and he likely will only ever be a roll man or clean-up guy on that end, however his defensive potential is high due to tremendous overall athletic ability, especially the ability move laterally, and a 7-4+ wingspan to block and challenge shots. Diallo' biggest hurdles are strength and becoming comfortable and useful with his role in an offense.

25. Petr Cornelie, PF Le Mans (7-0, 220) Age: 20

The fact that Petr Cornelie is a 40% three-point shooter that stands a shade under 7-1 sans shoes (according to DraftExpress) is enough to get him drafted. When you add into the mix a specific defensive potential that rounds out a game uniquely suited to the modern NBA, you have a solid first round pick. Cornelie lacks length and strength and isn't the traditional ideal of a rim protector, but makes up for that with his smooth, wing-like lateral agility and ability to switch in to small players. The ability to switch in addition to drawing opposing bigs away from the basket is exactly what NBA teams want nowadays.

26. Stephen Zimmerman Jr, C UNLV (7-0, 234) Age: 19

With the lack of quality backup big men in the NBA, Stephen Zimmerman's skillset should making him appealing to teams looking for a backup big. Zimmerman has the size and length to play center and projects to be very effective in the screen game, where he is fluid and athletic as a dive-man and has the shooting touch to be a threat popping for the jumper as well. His above-average passing instincts would serve him well in the screen game and though no one would mistake him as a post-up threat, he should at least be able to punish small opponents on switches with relative consistency. Defensively, Zimmerman moves well and has the length to be a solid defender, though this will likely never be an area of considerable strength for him. However, although he has improved his body admirably, Zimmerman still needs to add strength, to the benefit of all areas of his game.

27. Ivica Zubac, C Mega Leks (7-1, 265) Age: 19

Since coming to Mega Leks in the winter, Bosnia and Herzegovina's Ivica Zubac has gotten the kind of minutes he hadn't previously has been very solid in that time and giving more opportunities to show off his game. Zubac is absolutely huge, particularly for a teenager and that size alone makes him effective in certain situations, especially combined with good athleticism, soft hands, and intelligence which allow him to be a threat scoring around the basket in a number of ways, though his offense ends there When planted under the rim, he can be a solid rim protector due to being huge, but Zubac is limited defending on the move and isn't dynamic blocking shots or on the glass. He is defiantly a project, but you can't teach the size and hands Zubac has.

28. DeAndre Bembry, SF Saint Joseph's (6-6, 207) Age: 21

With versatility the name of the game in the NBA these days, the appeal of a player such as DeAndre Bembry isn't difficult to see. Bembry is such a well rounded player, an excellent ball handler and passer for his size, he rebounds, he defends, he is athletic, and has length. The one big question is his jumper, it may not be a fatal flaw and Bembry has definitely improved in that area, but it will be a huge key to unlocking all his other skills if the jumper comes along to at least a league average level. Look for teams seeking versatile backup wings to consider Bembry in the mid-to-late first round.

29. Paul Zipser, SF Bayern Muenchen (6-8, 210) Age: 22

German international Paul Zipser is yet another member of the excellent international class in this draft, a very athletic wing with the jumper requisite for becoming a solid 3-and-D role player in the NBA. Zipser is the age of a college Senior and his game and body are fairly NBA ready, making him a safer choice of the international flavor, provided he is willing to come straight to the NBA. Nothing too flashy in Zipser's game but effective.

30. Kay Felder, PG Oakland (5-10, 177) Age: 21

It is almost disappointing that Kay Felder didn't return for his Senior year and make a run at the NCAA all-time assist record, though an opportunity to make it in the NBA is not something a sub-six foot player should pass up. Felder is a really fun player to watch, a very athletic, quick guard that can really fill it up from all around the floor when he gets going that is also a good and willing passer. Obviously at his size, it would be an extreme outlier for Felder to end up a starter, but as a backup point guard he could be very effective in a Patty Mills type of role.

31. Tyler Ulis, PG Kentucky (5-10, 149) Age: 20

Look, there is a ton to love about Ulis. He is a fiery competitor, extremely tough and smart. The kind of player every team needs. However, even more so than an average sub-six foot player, Ulis' success in the NBA would be a outlier: Amongst the top 100 seasons in win shares by sub-six foot NBA players, only the 5-6 Spud Webb, 5-5 Earl Boykins, and 5-3 Muggsy Bogues weighed less than Tyler Ulis' 149 pounds. He is just very, very, very small. Add to that Ulis good but not great shooting ability and it is certainly easy to question how far intangibles can take you.

32. Isaia Cordinier, SG Denain (6-5, 177) Age: 19

Though he never burst out the way some expected, French guard Isaia Cordinier is still a very solid prospect, most like of the draft-and-stash variety as he works on improving his consistency shooting and driving with the ball. Cordinier is a very good athlete and has shown the ability to both shoot and slash, but he needs to polish up those skills into usable weapons.

33. A.J. Hammons, C Purdue (7-0, 278) Age: 23

At some point, just being huge is an advantage in the game of basketball, and A.J. Hammons is definitely huge. He is also a really good athlete, another thing that helps in basketball, as it turns out.

34. Dejounte Murray, PG Washington (6-5, 170) Age: 19

How ironic that a tall, long, athletic point guard that is equal parts devastating and erratic in his ability to get to the rim and create plays who is also a wildly inconsistent jumper shooter just happens to play at the same college as Tony Wroten. Murray perhaps isn't as wild, but the same issues are there: will he learn how to take a ton of natural basketball ability and harness it into something that actually contributes to winning? The answer is unclear and the question you need to ask is whether or not this gamble is indeed worth taking.

35. Thon Maker, PF Athlete Institute (7-1, 216) Age: 19

Despite the hype videos that make Thon Maker look like a superstar, he is actually much more likely to be a role player at the next level due to his solid athleticism and jump shot to go with impressive size and length. There are considerable questions on how functional his athleticism is and how his lack of feel and toughness will affect his ability to translate his abilities on the court.

36. Chinanu Onuaku, C Louisville (6-10, 245) Age: 19

Onuaku has the classic backup center skills of rebounding, defense, and little offensive contribution outside of lob finishes and clean up work. However, with a 7-2+ wingspan and excellent lateral agility for switching and perimeter defending, Onuaku's defense should carry him to a backup role in the NBA.

37. Ben Bentil, PF Providence (6-8, 229) Age: 21

There aren't many guys as big, strong, and mobile as Bentil that can also stroke it from outside, that is what makes Bentil appealing. What makes him less appealing is that he doesn't do much else, he isn't a passer or much of a post player and despite his fluidity and length, Bentil isn't a very good defender yet. His shooting will make him valuable, but how much the rest of his game develops will determine how just how valuable.

38. Malachi Richardson, SG Syracuse (6-6, 200) Age: 20

Richardson, who almost certainly will be a first round pick, is doing a lot to disapprove the idea that NBA teams don't give extra weight to NCAA tournament performances, as Richardson was not very good before blowing up in March. Before then and in high school, you could see they flashes: smooth athleticism and a money jumper with some toughness to his drives, there is just a lot more development and refinery that needs to happen.

39. Malcolm Brogdon, SG Virginia (6-6, 223) Age: 23

What Brogdon lacks in upside he makes up for in a ready-to-go skillset that should be able to step in right away and contribute. Brogdon has good not great physical tools but gets the most of of them and is a very good defensive player. Offensively he is excellent moving off the ball to get open 3s and is a smart player and very good passer with the ball in his hands. Brogdon could easily be a first rounder for a playoff team looking for an instant boost to their rotation.

40. Joel Bolomboy, PF Weber State (6-9, 224) Age: 22

Like Brogdon, Joel Bolomboy isn't a sexy pick but he brings a pretty established skillset and some slight upside as well. A long, bouncy forward that plays extremely hard, Bolomboy seems to be a traditional energy big man, however he has slowly been developing a perimeter jumpshot that could take him beyond that profile, much like Richaun Holmes last year.

41. Diamond Stone, C Maryland (6-10, 254) Age: 19

Diamond Stone is a difficult evaluation, on one hand he is very large, with soft hands and good footwork that appears to add up to a low post threat. On the other hand, Stone is a below average athlete, short for a center, and not particularly productive during his one year in college, particularly on the glass. With work, a team could turn him into something, but even if he reaches that potential it is probably just as a backup big. Is the risk worth the reward?

42. Zhou Qi, C Xinjiang (7-2, 218) Age: 20

You want length? Zhou Qi and his near 7-8 wingspan has got it. He has also shown a nice outside touch on his jumper, which seems like a pretty good combo. Unfortunately, Qi is very slight and there are serious questions about whether he can every bulk up enough to compete in the NBA. The length and shot are nice though.

43. Guerschon Yabusele, PF Rouen (6-8, 240) Age: 20

A wide-bodied, below the rim type player, France's Guerschon Yabusele's game isn't in vogue in the NBA right now but they are still effective players in a backup role. Yabusele has a comfortable face-up game, including surprising ball-handling, and can create some space on the glass, but his lack of explosiveness makes him a questionable defensive presence and limiting to a Carl Landry-like bench role. 

44. Brice Johnson, PF North Carolina (6-11, 209) Age: 21

Johnson turned in an awesome Senior year and was a no doubt All-American, producing double-doubles on a consistent basis. Though he was a star in college, Johnson is more than likely going to be a role player in the NBA, a rebounding, pick and roll big similar to another former Tar Heel, Brandon Wright. Johnson is too frail and poor defensively to be much more, unless his fre

Ame and instincts take a big step forward.

45. Robert Carter, PF Maryland (6-9, 251) Age: 22

Like Johnson, Robert Carter has a definite skillset but several flaws that make his projection to anything more than a backup a difficult one. Carter is quite skilled as an offensive player, able to score from the post on out to the three point line. However, he is slow-footed and has poor defensive instincts that limit his upside. If, and it is a big if, a team can improve his defense, Carter is good enough offensively to be an above-average starter.

46. Caris LeVert, SG Michigan (6-7, 191) Age: 21

An unfortunate victim of a multitude of injuries, Caris LeVert might be a lottery pick if he had a clean health record. When healthy, which won't be until training camp at the earliest, LeVert is a sweet-shooting wing with legitimate point guard skills. Hopefully he can get and stay healthy.

47. Dorian Finney-Smith, SF Florida (6-8, 213) Age: 23

Finney-Smith is another potential 3-and-D wing, and even a potential small ball power forward. He has the physical tools to be a solid defender and a track record of good three point shooting. There is little upside, but the potential to become a valueable role player is nothing to sniff at.

48. Michael Gbinije, SG Syracuse (6-7, 205) Age: 24

Another older, low upside high floor prospect, this draft is rife with them. Michael Gbinije is a good athlete that plays hard defensively, has made himself into a good shooter over the last couple of seasons. He also served admirably as Syracuse's point guard the last two seasons. He is versatile and can fill a number of roles in the NBA, albiet without upside for much else.

49. Isaiah Whitehead, G Seton Hall (6-5, 210) Age: 21

After a year and a half of mediocrity at Seton Hall, Isaiah Whitehead ended last season on a tear, leading the Pirates to a Bog East tournament championship before turning back into a pumpkin in the NCAA tournament. Whitehead is as skilled combo guard that can really get hot and full it up from deep. Unfortunately, the rest of his game, including role, inside the arc scoring, and defense, are all still major question marks.

50. Jake Layman, PF Maryland (6-9, 209) Age: 22

Layman was at his best as a power forward in previous years for Maryland, however with the arrival of Diamond Stone and Robert Carter, he was forced to play much more ten on the wing, with less success. As a power forward, his shooting and ball-handling become a real weapon, however he will likely need to get much better as a defender, in spite of a lack of strength and length in order to be anything more than a situational backup.

51. Gary Payton II, PG Oregon State (6-3, 184) Age: 23

The Mitten has quite the legacy as the son of a Hall of Famer and anyone expecting that from him is going to be disappointed. He is, not surprisingly, a very good defender and he rebounds like a power forward, but his abilities as a playmaker taking a step forward is what has really improved his game recently. The struggles of Payton's jumper are a concern, but there is role for energetic defenders with some playmaking skills.

52. Damian Jones, C Vanderbilt (7-0, 244) Age: 20

Jones is very athletic and has a tremendous frame and long arms. He also lacks feel and is a poor rebounder and inconsistent defender, despite his physical gifts. Some see a first rounder, however there is so much he must develop that it is hard to see him making it, but I hope I am wrong.

53. Rade Zagorac, SF Mega Leks (6-9, 205) Age: 20

Zagorac, teammates of fellow prospects Luwawu and Zubac at Mega Leks, doesn't have the standout tools of those two, but it is very solid in his own right. The Serbian international has great size and good athleticism for a wing and makes his hay as a high energy slasher. As of now, his three point shot isn't a weapon and there is some question whether he is athletic enough to score without a jumper to keep defender's honest.

54. Pascal Siakam, PF New Mexico State (6-10, 227) Age: 22

Siakam is a very good athlete with great size and length that plays very hard and is smart enough to find the areas on the court where he can be useful. Not likely to create his own shot much in the NBA, but a potential to play a solid role as a high energy big down the line. 

55. Wayne Selden Jr, SF Kansas (6-6, 232) Age: 21

After two disappointing seasons, Wayne Selden finally began living up to some of the potential he showed as a five star high school recruit. However, there are some rather serious concerns with Selden's game. He only really broke out this season because he was able to go up against forward's instead of guards, mainly because he isn't tremendously quick or athletic off the bounce or finishing at the rim. Selden's best role is as a 3-and-D wing, and he has become a good shooter, though despite strength and length, Selden isn't a very good defender, however he does have tools to be solid.

56. Prince Ibeh, C Texas (6-11, 261) Age: 22

Ibeh did little to nothing the first three and a half years of his career, but Shaka Smart was able to get something out of him finally and Ibeh showed what he can do as a potential backup big man with very good devensiv potential. Ibeh has tremendous physical tools and almost zero offensive skill outside of dunking,

57. Sheldon McClellan, SG Miami (6-6, 198) Age: 23

Another Senior with a ready-to-go skillset, Sheldon McClellan is solid across the board offensively with a very good three point shot and usable off the bounce game. Not a lot of upside and McClellan doesn't have great length or lateral quickness, which will likely limit his defenive potential.

58. Marcus Paige, PG North Carolina (6-2, 164) Age: 22

Paige, who has played both on and off ball during his career, is a smart player that fits as a backup guard because of the ability to fill several roles, spotting up or distributing. He also has surprisingly excellent physical tools, especially his 6-6+ wingspan.

59. Georges Niang, PF Iowa State (6-9, 231) Age: 23

One of the most skilled bigs in the country, Niang can shoot, handle, and pass. Unfortunately he is limited physical tools and is particularly slow footed. However, if Kyle Anderson can be a first round pick, Niang deserves at least a shot.

60. David Walker, SG Northeastern (6-7, 200) Age: 22

Walker, an under-the-radar player for many years, isn't anyone's idea of a first round pick but has good size, a really excellent outside shot and solid ball-handling and passing. He might be nothing better than an end of the bench player at his best, but the skills are there for a contributor. 

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