As the NBA draft approaches and free agency comes to a close, the excitement and anticipation for the upcoming season is at an all-time high. With teams making big moves and players switching jerseys, the landscape of the league is constantly changing. And with the draft being the first opportunity for teams to add new talent to their rosters, it’s no wonder that fans and analysts alike are eagerly awaiting the big event.
So, with that in mind, let’s take a look at a mock draft of the entire first round as things stand.
1. New Orleans Pelicans – Zion Williamson, Duke
There’s no surprise here. Zion Williamson has been the consensus number one pick for months now and the Pelicans are lucky enough to have the opportunity to add this generational talent to their roster. With his athleticism, strength, and overall skill set, Williamson has the potential to be a game-changing player for the Pelicans.
2. Memphis Grizzlies – Ja Morant, Murray State
After trading away franchise star Mike Conley, the Grizzlies are in need of a new point guard and Ja Morant fits the bill perfectly. With his speed, playmaking ability, and high basketball IQ, Morant has the potential to be a future star in the league.
3. New York Knicks – RJ Barrett, Duke
The Knicks may have missed out on the top two picks, but they still have a chance to add a talented player to their roster in RJ Barrett. The Duke standout has the potential to be a versatile scorer and playmaker for the Knicks, who are in desperate need of a new face of the franchise.
4. Los Angeles Lakers – Darius Garland, Vanderbilt
With the fourth pick, the Lakers have the opportunity to add a talented young point guard to their roster. Darius Garland may have only played five games in college due to injury, but his shooting and playmaking abilities make him an intriguing prospect for the Lakers.
5. Cleveland Cavaliers – Jarrett Culver, Texas Tech
The Cavaliers are in a rebuilding phase and adding a versatile wing player like Jarrett Culver could be a step in the right direction. Culver’s defensive prowess and improving offensive game make him an attractive option for the Cavs.
6. Phoenix Suns – De’Andre Hunter, Virginia
The Suns have been in need of a solid wing player for some time now and De’Andre Hunter could be the answer. The Virginia forward is a strong defender and has shown improvement on the offensive end, making him a valuable addition to the Suns’ roster.
7. Chicago Bulls – Coby White, North Carolina
With the departure of point guard Kris Dunn, the Bulls are in need of a new floor general. Coby White’s speed and scoring ability make him an ideal fit for the Bulls’ fast-paced offense.
8. Atlanta Hawks – Cam Reddish, Duke
The Hawks have a young and talented core, but they could use some more shooting and scoring. Cam Reddish, who played alongside Zion Williamson and RJ Barrett at Duke, has the potential to be a dynamic scorer and playmaker for the Hawks.
9. Washington Wizards – Sekou Doumbouya, France
The Wizards are in need of a fresh start and adding a talented international prospect like Sekou Doumbouya could be a step in the right direction. The 6’9″ forward has a versatile skill set and could develop into a valuable player for the Wizards.
10. Atlanta Hawks – Jaxson Hayes, Texas
With their second pick in the top 10, the Hawks could look to add some size and athleticism to their frontcourt. Jaxson Hayes, a 6’11” center out of Texas, has shown potential as a rim protector and could be a valuable addition to the Hawks’ young core.
11. Minnesota Timberwolves – Brandon Clarke, Gonzaga
The Timberwolves could use some help in their frontcourt and Brandon Clarke could be a solid addition. The Gonzaga forward is an efficient scorer and a strong defender, making him a valuable asset for the Timberwolves.
12. Charlotte Hornets – Nassir Little, North Carolina
The Hornets are in need of some scoring and Nassir Little could provide just that. The North Carolina forward has shown flashes of potential and could develop into a valuable player for the Hornets.
13. Miami Heat – Romeo Langford, Indiana
The Heat are in need of some scoring and Romeo Langford could be the answer
