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 Can someone please post his new mock 4.0 thanks in advance

[ThunderHog35Participant]

 

We have a rough idea of the draft order now. Obviously the lottery on May 19 will shake things up a bit at the top, but for the most part, we have a draft order.

 

Second, we are getting very close to figuring out who is in and who is out of this year’s draft. Underclassmen have until April 26 to declare for the draft. Most have made their decision; just a handful of potential first rounders — namely D’Angelo Russell, Stanley Johnson, Kris Dunn and Christian Wood.

 

It’s very likely that Russell will be in. The rest are bigger question marks, and could shake up this mock. Look for updated versions of this mock throughout the week, should any of these players decide to return to school.

 

Remember, our mock draft is different from our Big Board. In a mock draft we don’t tell you where a player should go, but rather, what each team in the draft would likely do with their pick. Obviously, we are still a long ways away from teams making up their minds. We still have the NBA draft combine and team workouts for players to improve or hurt their draft stock.

 

Nevertheless, it’s time for our fourth full mock draft of 2015. It’s our best stab at a full first round mock draft after taking into account team needs. If you want to see what the Mock would look like if your favorite team won the lottery, check out our Lottery Mock Draft machine.

 

Note: Traded picks are denoted by numbers with explanations at the bottom.

 

1Karl-Anthony TownsMinnesota TimberwolvesCOLLEGE: KentuckyHT: 6-11WT: 250POS: C

Timberwolves’ chances of winning lottery: 25 percent

 

The Wolves might have had the worst record in the NBA, but they actually have one of the brightest futures in the league. Andrew Wiggins will likely win the Rookie of the Year Award and has the talent to be a transcendent player. Zach LaVine finished the season strong and won the dunk contest. Ricky Rubio, Shabazz Muhammad, Gorgui Dieng all had their moments and several other players such as Anthony Bennett and Adreian Payne have strong futures as well. Adding Towns to the team just makes them scarier — an athletic big man who can score inside and outside and protect the rim? In two years, this team is going to be very hard to contend with.

 

PLAYER CARD

2Jahlil OkaforNew York KnicksCOLLEGE: DukeHT: 6-11WT: 275POS: C

Knicks’ chances of winning lottery: 19.9 percent

 

Phil Jackson might not want to rebuild, but he needs to. The free agent money New York will throw around this summer is unlikely to give them a superstar to pair with Jahlil Okafor. However, with Okafor, they have a great chance of adding a dominant big man who can score the basketball at will. There are few big men in the NBA who can do what Okafor can already do on offense. Defensively? That’s a bigger question mark and might lead the Knicks to consider Emmanuel Mudiay instead. But for now, Okafor remains the No. 2 prospect on our Big Board and is a nice fit in New York.

 

PLAYER CARD

3Emmanuel MudiayPhiladelphia 76ersCOLLEGE: ChinaHT: 6-5WT: 196POS: PG

Sixers’ chances of winning lottery: 15.6 percent

 

If you listen to SMU head coach Larry Brown, Mudiay is the guy they’ve wanted all along. With Michael Carter-Williams now running the point for the Milwaukee Bucks, Mudiay is suddenly a fit — perhaps a better one than either Towns or Okafor given the 76ers’ cornucopia of big men already in the fold. While Mudiay is a bigger question mark than others on the board, he also has the most upside of anyone. Sam Hinkie hasn’t shied away from taking risks in the past and I doubt he will this year. If Mudiay, Joel Embiid and Dario Saric perform as well as Nerlens Noel did at the end of this season, Hinkie and head coach Brett Brown are going to have a very dangerous team going forward.

 

PLAYER CARD

4D’Angelo RussellLos Angeles LakersCOLLEGE: Ohio StateHT: 6-5WT: 176POS: PG

Lakers’ chances of winning lottery: 11.9 percent

 

Will Kobe Byant will ever be able to perform at an All-Star level again? It’s doubtful. What the Lakers need is the next player who can light it up offensively. Russell is that guy. He’s not the same player as Bryant (who was much more athletic, aggressive and a better defender), but Russell brings a lot to the table that Bryant didn’t (a sweet 3-point shot and the ability to get others involved). He’s more James Harden than Bryant, and given how challenging it was to find chemistry with Bryant on the floor, that might be a good thing. With Russell, Jordan Clarkson and Julius Randle, the Lakers will finally have a young core to get excited about.

 

PLAYER CARD

5Kristaps PorzingisOrlando MagicCOLLEGE: LatviaHT: 6-11WT: 220POS: PF

Magic’s chances of winning lottery: 8.8 percent

 

The Magic are very happy with their young backcourt of Elfrid Payton and Victor Oladipo, and have a big man to anchor them in the middle. What they need now is a big, athletic rim protector who can also stretch the floor. Enter Porzingis. There are few international players who have come into the league with his talent. He might duplicate Channing Frye a bit (albeit as a better version of Frye) but the Magic shouldn’t hesitate to pull the trigger on him. Porzingis is a better long-term prospect in virtually every way.

 

PLAYER CARD

6Willie Cauley-SteinSacramento KingsCOLLEGE: KentuckyHT: 7-0WT: 240POS: C

Kings’ chances of winning lottery: 6.3 percent

 

The Kings will be tempted to grab Justise Winslow, who would be a steal at this point in the draft. However, they have even bigger needs. The Kings need a rim protector to pair in the frontcourt with DeMarcus Cousins, and Cauley-Stein is the best on the board. But rim protection is just part of his appeal. Cauley-Stein doesn’t need the ball to impact the game (a great thing on a team filled with guys who do need the ball) and he can guard all five positions on the floor. If the Kings are going to have identity as a defensive team, it starts with Cauley-Stein.

 

PLAYER CARD

7Justise WinslowDenver NuggetsCOLLEGE: DukeHT: 6-6WT: 222POS: SF

Nuggets’ chances of winning lottery: 4.3 percent

 

Winslow has been the hottest name in the draft since March and for good reason. He’s blessed with an elite NBA body and athleticism and plays with a crazy motor every second he’s on the floor. There are questions about his ability to shoot off the bounce, but the rest of the package is totally there. With Arron Afflalo shipped off to Portland, Winslow should fit right in between Ty Lawson and Danilo Gallinari next season.

 

PLAYER CARD

8Mario HezonjaDetroit PistonsCOLLEGE: CroatiaHT: 6-7WT: 200POS: SF

Pistons’ chances of winning lottery: 2.8 percent

 

The Pistons need shooting and have a pretty big hole at small forward next year. Hezonja should be a nice fit. Not only does he stretch the floor, but he’s very athletic and likes to attack. Given that he’s been playing at the highest levels of European basketball this season, he’ll be more ready than most rookies to step in and play right away. With Stan Van Gundy eyeing the playoffs next season, that’s a major factor in who they select with the No. 8 pick.

 

PLAYER CARD

9Kelly OubreCharlotte HornetsCOLLEGE: KansasHT: 6-7WT: 204POS: SF

Hornets’ chances of winning lottery: 1.5 percent

 

The Hornets were a major disappointment last year. They desperately need to put a shooter in their system and I think they may skip over a few potentially more talented candidates to get one. The question is which one. Oubre has the most upside, Devin Booker has the sweetest stroke and R.J. Hunter might be the most prepared to come in and contribute right now. But I think they’ll have a hard time passing on Oubre, who has elite size and length to go along with a smooth shooting stroke. The fact that Bill Self also turned him into a committed defender this year makes him an even more attractive candidate.

 

PLAYER CARD

10Stanley JohnsonMiami HeatCOLLEGE: ArizonaHT: 6-7WT: 237POS: SF

Heat’s chances of winning lottery: 1.4 percent

 

The Heat’s future is very much up in the air this summer. Dwayne Wade, Goran Dragic and Luol Deng can opt out and Chris Bosh’s health is still a major question mark. Drafting for need probably isn’t the smartest move. Johnson would be a nice fit regardless of what the others do. He’s one of the most NBA-ready players in the draft, can play the 2 and the 3 and he’s a fierce competitor. He can back up both Wade and Deng if they come back, or take a starting role if one of them (likely Deng) decides to leave.

 

PLAYER CARD

11Myles TurnerIndiana PacersCOLLEGE: TexasHT: 7-0WT: 240POS: PF

Pacers’ chances of winning lottery: 0.8 percent

 

Larry Bird threw down the gauntlet in the Pacers’ exit press conference. They are going to play faster next year and lumbering center Roy Hibbert may no longer fit in the plans. With an aging David West and Luis Scola also occupying the Pacers front line, it’s time for an infusion of youth. While Turner runs awkwardly, he’s a very good prospect this late in the draft. He’s an excellent post defender and rim protector, and on offense he can shoot the 3 with ease. He needs to get stronger and more consistent, but he has the talent of a top 5 pick.

 

PLAYER CARD

12Kevon LooneyUtah JazzCOLLEGE: UCLAHT: 6-10WT: 210POS: PF

Jazz’s chances of winning lottery: 0.7 percent

 

The Jazz will probably be pinching themselves if somehow Looney lands here. He was widely regarded by scouts as a top-5 pick most of the year, but an uneven finish for him began to worry scouts about his NBA readiness and position. Still, it’s tough to find many players with his combination of skills, length and versatility. He reminds me a bit of a young Lamar Odom and should be perfect backing up both Derrick Favors and Gordon Hayward in Utah.

 

PLAYER CARD

13Frank KaminskyPhoenix SunsCOLLEGE: WisconsinHT: 7-0WT: 234POS: C

Suns’ chances of winning lottery: 0.6 percent

 

Big man Alex Len really started to come along this year, but the Suns don’t have a lot of options in the middle behind him. For a team that will once again be eyeing the playoffs next year, Kaminsky should be a good fit. He’s a different type of center than Len — he thrives facing the basket and stretching the floor — but he’s an adequate rebounder and shot-blocker to play the middle. Some scouts love him and some think he’s a potential bust, but this is the right point in the draft to roll the dice on Kaminsky.

 

PLAYER CARD

14R.J. HunterOklahoma City ThunderCOLLEGE: Georgia StHT: 6-5WT: 185POS: SG

Thunder’s chances of winning lottery: 0.5 percent

 

The future in OKC has never been more clouded. They have two superstars in Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook, but the long-term future of both players has never been in more doubt. They could lose both of them to free agency in the next few summers. But for now their best chance to keep them around is to give them one more shot a title next year. Assuming they find a way to re-sign Enes Kanter this summer, their biggest need is at the 2 where the combination of Dion Waiters, Anthony Morrow, Jeremy Lamb and Andre Roberson has played to decidedly mixed reviews. I think a player such as Hunter could thrive in OKC. Despite his shooting slump this season, he’s an elite shooter, with crazy range, who can handle the ball and defend. He’s a potential upgrade over all four of the players they are fielding right now.

 

PLAYER CARD

15Sam DekkerAtlanta HawksCOLLEGE: WisconsinHT: 6-9WT: 230POS: SF

The Hawks get the right to trade picks with the Nets as a result of the Joe Johnson trade. If they can add Dekker, it will be another feather in the cap for a trade that keeps on giving and giving. Dekker’s versatility, toughness, ability to stretch the floor and high basketball IQ make his a great fit on this Hawks team. And 2015 Coach of the Year Mike Budenholzer runs the right sort of offense to set a player like Dekker free. This would be an ideal fit for both him and the team.

 

PLAYER CARD

16Trey LylesBoston CelticsCOLLEGE: KentuckyHT: 6-10WT: 235POS: PF

He’s not going to be a superstar for Boston, but Lyles is the type of heady player that should thrive in Brad Stevens’ system. He has a soft touch around the basket, a sweet mid-range jumper and just understands the game. With Brandon Bass and Jonas Jerebko both hitting free agency this summer, there’s going to be a need at the four behind (or maybe in front of) Jared Sullinger.

 

PLAYER CARD

17Devin BookerMilwaukee BucksCOLLEGE: KentuckyHT: 6-6WT: 195POS: SG

I don’t think any team was more bummed than Milwaukee that Jakob Poeltl dropped out of the draft on Monday — the Bucks really need a center. But with no real centers left worth drafting this high, they move onto need two, another 3-point shooter in their backcourt. Booker isn’t sexy, but he might be the best shooter in the draft and could be a nice long-term back-up to Khris Middleton at the two.

 

PLAYER CARD

18Kris DunnHouston RocketsCOLLEGE: ProvidenceHT: 6-3WT: 180POS: PG

The Pelicans sent their pick to the Rockets as part of the Omer Asik trade. The Rockets are hunting for a point guard and they’ll have a lot of options at this point in the draft. Dunn, Jerian Grant, Cameron Payne and Tyus Jones are all serious options here. There have been rumblings that the Rockets have eyes for Jones, the Most Outstanding Player of the Final Four. But I’d be surprised if they passed on Dunn if he declares. Dunn is bigger, more athletic and a more dynamic passer than Jones. He doesn’t have the steadiness of Jones, but his NBA upside is much bigger.

 

PLAYER CARD

19Bobby PortisWashington WizardsCOLLEGE: ArkansasHT: 6-11WT: 231POS: PF

Portis is one of the least sexy players in the draft — but that might just make him appealing to the Wizards. Portis is a so solid in every way — he does just about everything well, though nothing great. The Wizards already have their young core, but with only one year left on Nene’s contract, it’s time to start grooming a successor.

 

PLAYER CARD

20Jerian GrantToronto RaptorsCOLLEGE: Notre DameHT: 6-5WT: 185POS: PG

With NBA Sixth Man of the Year Lou Williams heading to free agency, the Raptors might not be able to keep him around much longer. I’m not sure his replacement is in this draft, but Grant would be an interesting choice nonetheless. He can play two positions, is a great athlete and gets anywhere he wants on the floor. His versatility and maturity make him a great pick for a Raptors team that is in a ‘win now’ mode.

 

PLAYER CARD

21Cameron PayneDallas MavericksCOLLEGE: Murray StateHT: 6-2WT: 180POS: PG

Rajon Rondo hasn’t exactly worked out according to plan. There’s still some time for playoff Rondo to make an impact in Dallas, but even if he does, he’s an unrestricted free agent this summer and if he plays well, other suitors will surely come calling. While the last thing the Mavs need is a rookie point guard, they do need depth there and many scouts feel Payne, who shows a great balance between scoring and distributing the basketball, is one of the biggest sleepers in the draft.

 

PLAYER CARD

22Tyus JonesChicago BullsCOLLEGE: DukeHT: 6-1WT: 170POS: PG

The Bulls are experiencing the joys of having a healthy Derrick Rose again, but finding a long-term backup for him is important. Jones might be the perfect guy. He’s coming off winning the Final Four MOP, he’s got a basketball IQ well ahead of his years, and he rarely turns the ball over. He could be the perfect long-term backup for Rose.

 

PLAYER CARD

23Montrezl HarrellPortland Trail BlazersCOLLEGE: LouisvilleHT: 6-7WT: 243POS: PF

Both LaMarcus Aldridge and Joel Freeland are free agents this summer. Aldridge should be back, but the Blazers could use some depth at the 4. Harrell is a bit undersized, but his length, athleticism and terrific motor mean he should be able to come in and impact the game right away.

 

PLAYER CARD

24Delon WrightCleveland CavaliersCOLLEGE: UtahHT: 6-5WT: 178POS: PG

Matthew Dellavedova has been Kyrie Irving’s primary backup all year. While he’s done an adequate job, Wright could be an upgrade. He’s the rare senior who still has some upside. While his jump shot is still a work in progress, he has the ability to get wherever he wants on the floor and is a good passer. He’d be a nice backup in Cleveland.

 

PLAYER CARD

25Rondae Hollis-JeffersonMemphis GrizzliesCOLLEGE: ArizonaHT: 6-7WT: 220POS: SF

Tony Allen is still one of the best wing defenders in the NBA, but at the age of 33 he’s beginning to slow down. Enter Hollis-Jefferson, who might be the best wing defender in this draft. Blessed like Allen with a NBA body and elite athletic ability, he was a jump shot away from being a top-10 pick.

 

PLAYER CARD

26Justin AndersonSan Antonio SpursCOLLEGE: VirginiaHT: 6-6WT: 222POS: SF

The Spurs are going to face a pretty huge fork in the road this summer, when most of the team hits free agency. Some, like Tim Duncan and even Manu Ginobili, could end up retiring. Others, like Danny Green, might be too expensive to re-sign. Anderson seems like a great get here — especially if those elite 3-point shooting numbers he put up all season aren’t a fluke. He has NBA athleticism and strength — if he can become a ‘3 and D’ guy in the NBA, he has a lot of value.

 

PLAYER CARD

27Dakari JohnsonLos Angeles LakersCOLLEGE: KentuckyHT: 7-0WT: 255POS: C

The Lakers are pretty thin at the center position. While Johnson projects more as a backup than a star, the Lakers could use his rebounding and toughness.

PLAYER CARD

28Christian WoodBoston CelticsCOLLEGE: UNLVHT: 6-11WT: 220POS: PF

The Celtics could use some athleticism in their frontcourt, and Wood brings that. He needs to add strength and a more consistent jump shot, but Wood would immediately be the best shot-blocker on the Celtics.

 

PLAYER CARD

29Terry RozierBrooklyn NetsCOLLEGE: LouisvilleHT: 6-2WT: 190POS: PG

Rozier isn’t for everyone. He’s not a "true" point guard, and is undersized to play the 2. But he’s tough as nails, always plays in attack mode and does enough point guard things to get time at the position. Deron Williams has two years left on his deal and Jarrett Jack has one, but if the Nets are serious about the future, they should start grooming Rozier now.

 

PLAYER CARD

30Tyler HarveyGolden State WarriorsCOLLEGE: Eastern Wash.HT: 6-4WT: 185POS: SG

Tyler Harvey plays a lot like a poor man’s Stephen Curry. Is there a destination in the league where Harvey would be more likely to progress from a poor man’s Curry to the real thing than within Steve Kerr’s offense in Golden State? Hey, you can never have enough shooting.

 

PLAYER CARD

 

[ThunderHog35Participant]

 

We have a rough idea of the draft order now. Obviously the lottery on May 19 will shake things up a bit at the top, but for the most part, we have a draft order.

 

Second, we are getting very close to figuring out who is in and who is out of this year’s draft. Underclassmen have until April 26 to declare for the draft. Most have made their decision; just a handful of potential first rounders — namely D’Angelo Russell, Stanley Johnson, Kris Dunn and Christian Wood.

 

It’s very likely that Russell will be in. The rest are bigger question marks, and could shake up this mock. Look for updated versions of this mock throughout the week, should any of these players decide to return to school.

 

Remember, our mock draft is different from our Big Board. In a mock draft we don’t tell you where a player should go, but rather, what each team in the draft would likely do with their pick. Obviously, we are still a long ways away from teams making up their minds. We still have the NBA draft combine and team workouts for players to improve or hurt their draft stock.

 

Nevertheless, it’s time for our fourth full mock draft of 2015. It’s our best stab at a full first round mock draft after taking into account team needs. If you want to see what the Mock would look like if your favorite team won the lottery, check out our Lottery Mock Draft machine.

 

Note: Traded picks are denoted by numbers with explanations at the bottom.

 

1Karl-Anthony TownsMinnesota TimberwolvesCOLLEGE: KentuckyHT: 6-11WT: 250POS: C

Timberwolves’ chances of winning lottery: 25 percent

 

The Wolves might have had the worst record in the NBA, but they actually have one of the brightest futures in the league. Andrew Wiggins will likely win the Rookie of the Year Award and has the talent to be a transcendent player. Zach LaVine finished the season strong and won the dunk contest. Ricky Rubio, Shabazz Muhammad, Gorgui Dieng all had their moments and several other players such as Anthony Bennett and Adreian Payne have strong futures as well. Adding Towns to the team just makes them scarier — an athletic big man who can score inside and outside and protect the rim? In two years, this team is going to be very hard to contend with.

 

PLAYER CARD

2Jahlil OkaforNew York KnicksCOLLEGE: DukeHT: 6-11WT: 275POS: C

Knicks’ chances of winning lottery: 19.9 percent

 

Phil Jackson might not want to rebuild, but he needs to. The free agent money New York will throw around this summer is unlikely to give them a superstar to pair with Jahlil Okafor. However, with Okafor, they have a great chance of adding a dominant big man who can score the basketball at will. There are few big men in the NBA who can do what Okafor can already do on offense. Defensively? That’s a bigger question mark and might lead the Knicks to consider Emmanuel Mudiay instead. But for now, Okafor remains the No. 2 prospect on our Big Board and is a nice fit in New York.

 

PLAYER CARD

3Emmanuel MudiayPhiladelphia 76ersCOLLEGE: ChinaHT: 6-5WT: 196POS: PG

Sixers’ chances of winning lottery: 15.6 percent

 

If you listen to SMU head coach Larry Brown, Mudiay is the guy they’ve wanted all along. With Michael Carter-Williams now running the point for the Milwaukee Bucks, Mudiay is suddenly a fit — perhaps a better one than either Towns or Okafor given the 76ers’ cornucopia of big men already in the fold. While Mudiay is a bigger question mark than others on the board, he also has the most upside of anyone. Sam Hinkie hasn’t shied away from taking risks in the past and I doubt he will this year. If Mudiay, Joel Embiid and Dario Saric perform as well as Nerlens Noel did at the end of this season, Hinkie and head coach Brett Brown are going to have a very dangerous team going forward.

 

PLAYER CARD

4D’Angelo RussellLos Angeles LakersCOLLEGE: Ohio StateHT: 6-5WT: 176POS: PG

Lakers’ chances of winning lottery: 11.9 percent

 

Will Kobe Byant will ever be able to perform at an All-Star level again? It’s doubtful. What the Lakers need is the next player who can light it up offensively. Russell is that guy. He’s not the same player as Bryant (who was much more athletic, aggressive and a better defender), but Russell brings a lot to the table that Bryant didn’t (a sweet 3-point shot and the ability to get others involved). He’s more James Harden than Bryant, and given how challenging it was to find chemistry with Bryant on the floor, that might be a good thing. With Russell, Jordan Clarkson and Julius Randle, the Lakers will finally have a young core to get excited about.

 

PLAYER CARD

5Kristaps PorzingisOrlando MagicCOLLEGE: LatviaHT: 6-11WT: 220POS: PF

Magic’s chances of winning lottery: 8.8 percent

 

The Magic are very happy with their young backcourt of Elfrid Payton and Victor Oladipo, and have a big man to anchor them in the middle. What they need now is a big, athletic rim protector who can also stretch the floor. Enter Porzingis. There are few international players who have come into the league with his talent. He might duplicate Channing Frye a bit (albeit as a better version of Frye) but the Magic shouldn’t hesitate to pull the trigger on him. Porzingis is a better long-term prospect in virtually every way.

 

PLAYER CARD

6Willie Cauley-SteinSacramento KingsCOLLEGE: KentuckyHT: 7-0WT: 240POS: C

Kings’ chances of winning lottery: 6.3 percent

 

The Kings will be tempted to grab Justise Winslow, who would be a steal at this point in the draft. However, they have even bigger needs. The Kings need a rim protector to pair in the frontcourt with DeMarcus Cousins, and Cauley-Stein is the best on the board. But rim protection is just part of his appeal. Cauley-Stein doesn’t need the ball to impact the game (a great thing on a team filled with guys who do need the ball) and he can guard all five positions on the floor. If the Kings are going to have identity as a defensive team, it starts with Cauley-Stein.

 

PLAYER CARD

7Justise WinslowDenver NuggetsCOLLEGE: DukeHT: 6-6WT: 222POS: SF

Nuggets’ chances of winning lottery: 4.3 percent

 

Winslow has been the hottest name in the draft since March and for good reason. He’s blessed with an elite NBA body and athleticism and plays with a crazy motor every second he’s on the floor. There are questions about his ability to shoot off the bounce, but the rest of the package is totally there. With Arron Afflalo shipped off to Portland, Winslow should fit right in between Ty Lawson and Danilo Gallinari next season.

 

PLAYER CARD

8Mario HezonjaDetroit PistonsCOLLEGE: CroatiaHT: 6-7WT: 200POS: SF

Pistons’ chances of winning lottery: 2.8 percent

 

The Pistons need shooting and have a pretty big hole at small forward next year. Hezonja should be a nice fit. Not only does he stretch the floor, but he’s very athletic and likes to attack. Given that he’s been playing at the highest levels of European basketball this season, he’ll be more ready than most rookies to step in and play right away. With Stan Van Gundy eyeing the playoffs next season, that’s a major factor in who they select with the No. 8 pick.

 

PLAYER CARD

9Kelly OubreCharlotte HornetsCOLLEGE: KansasHT: 6-7WT: 204POS: SF

Hornets’ chances of winning lottery: 1.5 percent

 

The Hornets were a major disappointment last year. They desperately need to put a shooter in their system and I think they may skip over a few potentially more talented candidates to get one. The question is which one. Oubre has the most upside, Devin Booker has the sweetest stroke and R.J. Hunter might be the most prepared to come in and contribute right now. But I think they’ll have a hard time passing on Oubre, who has elite size and length to go along with a smooth shooting stroke. The fact that Bill Self also turned him into a committed defender this year makes him an even more attractive candidate.

 

PLAYER CARD

10Stanley JohnsonMiami HeatCOLLEGE: ArizonaHT: 6-7WT: 237POS: SF

Heat’s chances of winning lottery: 1.4 percent

 

The Heat’s future is very much up in the air this summer. Dwayne Wade, Goran Dragic and Luol Deng can opt out and Chris Bosh’s health is still a major question mark. Drafting for need probably isn’t the smartest move. Johnson would be a nice fit regardless of what the others do. He’s one of the most NBA-ready players in the draft, can play the 2 and the 3 and he’s a fierce competitor. He can back up both Wade and Deng if they come back, or take a starting role if one of them (likely Deng) decides to leave.

 

PLAYER CARD

11Myles TurnerIndiana PacersCOLLEGE: TexasHT: 7-0WT: 240POS: PF

Pacers’ chances of winning lottery: 0.8 percent

 

Larry Bird threw down the gauntlet in the Pacers’ exit press conference. They are going to play faster next year and lumbering center Roy Hibbert may no longer fit in the plans. With an aging David West and Luis Scola also occupying the Pacers front line, it’s time for an infusion of youth. While Turner runs awkwardly, he’s a very good prospect this late in the draft. He’s an excellent post defender and rim protector, and on offense he can shoot the 3 with ease. He needs to get stronger and more consistent, but he has the talent of a top 5 pick.

 

PLAYER CARD

12Kevon LooneyUtah JazzCOLLEGE: UCLAHT: 6-10WT: 210POS: PF

Jazz’s chances of winning lottery: 0.7 percent

 

The Jazz will probably be pinching themselves if somehow Looney lands here. He was widely regarded by scouts as a top-5 pick most of the year, but an uneven finish for him began to worry scouts about his NBA readiness and position. Still, it’s tough to find many players with his combination of skills, length and versatility. He reminds me a bit of a young Lamar Odom and should be perfect backing up both Derrick Favors and Gordon Hayward in Utah.

 

PLAYER CARD

13Frank KaminskyPhoenix SunsCOLLEGE: WisconsinHT: 7-0WT: 234POS: C

Suns’ chances of winning lottery: 0.6 percent

 

Big man Alex Len really started to come along this year, but the Suns don’t have a lot of options in the middle behind him. For a team that will once again be eyeing the playoffs next year, Kaminsky should be a good fit. He’s a different type of center than Len — he thrives facing the basket and stretching the floor — but he’s an adequate rebounder and shot-blocker to play the middle. Some scouts love him and some think he’s a potential bust, but this is the right point in the draft to roll the dice on Kaminsky.

 

PLAYER CARD

14R.J. HunterOklahoma City ThunderCOLLEGE: Georgia StHT: 6-5WT: 185POS: SG

Thunder’s chances of winning lottery: 0.5 percent

 

The future in OKC has never been more clouded. They have two superstars in Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook, but the long-term future of both players has never been in more doubt. They could lose both of them to free agency in the next few summers. But for now their best chance to keep them around is to give them one more shot a title next year. Assuming they find a way to re-sign Enes Kanter this summer, their biggest need is at the 2 where the combination of Dion Waiters, Anthony Morrow, Jeremy Lamb and Andre Roberson has played to decidedly mixed reviews. I think a player such as Hunter could thrive in OKC. Despite his shooting slump this season, he’s an elite shooter, with crazy range, who can handle the ball and defend. He’s a potential upgrade over all four of the players they are fielding right now.

 

PLAYER CARD

15Sam DekkerAtlanta HawksCOLLEGE: WisconsinHT: 6-9WT: 230POS: SF

The Hawks get the right to trade picks with the Nets as a result of the Joe Johnson trade. If they can add Dekker, it will be another feather in the cap for a trade that keeps on giving and giving. Dekker’s versatility, toughness, ability to stretch the floor and high basketball IQ make his a great fit on this Hawks team. And 2015 Coach of the Year Mike Budenholzer runs the right sort of offense to set a player like Dekker free. This would be an ideal fit for both him and the team.

 

PLAYER CARD

16Trey LylesBoston CelticsCOLLEGE: KentuckyHT: 6-10WT: 235POS: PF

He’s not going to be a superstar for Boston, but Lyles is the type of heady player that should thrive in Brad Stevens’ system. He has a soft touch around the basket, a sweet mid-range jumper and just understands the game. With Brandon Bass and Jonas Jerebko both hitting free agency this summer, there’s going to be a need at the four behind (or maybe in front of) Jared Sullinger.

 

PLAYER CARD

17Devin BookerMilwaukee BucksCOLLEGE: KentuckyHT: 6-6WT: 195POS: SG

I don’t think any team was more bummed than Milwaukee that Jakob Poeltl dropped out of the draft on Monday — the Bucks really need a center. But with no real centers left worth drafting this high, they move onto need two, another 3-point shooter in their backcourt. Booker isn’t sexy, but he might be the best shooter in the draft and could be a nice long-term back-up to Khris Middleton at the two.

 

PLAYER CARD

18Kris DunnHouston RocketsCOLLEGE: ProvidenceHT: 6-3WT: 180POS: PG

The Pelicans sent their pick to the Rockets as part of the Omer Asik trade. The Rockets are hunting for a point guard and they’ll have a lot of options at this point in the draft. Dunn, Jerian Grant, Cameron Payne and Tyus Jones are all serious options here. There have been rumblings that the Rockets have eyes for Jones, the Most Outstanding Player of the Final Four. But I’d be surprised if they passed on Dunn if he declares. Dunn is bigger, more athletic and a more dynamic passer than Jones. He doesn’t have the steadiness of Jones, but his NBA upside is much bigger.

 

PLAYER CARD

19Bobby PortisWashington WizardsCOLLEGE: ArkansasHT: 6-11WT: 231POS: PF

Portis is one of the least sexy players in the draft — but that might just make him appealing to the Wizards. Portis is a so solid in every way — he does just about everything well, though nothing great. The Wizards already have their young core, but with only one year left on Nene’s contract, it’s time to start grooming a successor.

 

PLAYER CARD

20Jerian GrantToronto RaptorsCOLLEGE: Notre DameHT: 6-5WT: 185POS: PG

With NBA Sixth Man of the Year Lou Williams heading to free agency, the Raptors might not be able to keep him around much longer. I’m not sure his replacement is in this draft, but Grant would be an interesting choice nonetheless. He can play two positions, is a great athlete and gets anywhere he wants on the floor. His versatility and maturity make him a great pick for a Raptors team that is in a ‘win now’ mode.

 

PLAYER CARD

21Cameron PayneDallas MavericksCOLLEGE: Murray StateHT: 6-2WT: 180POS: PG

Rajon Rondo hasn’t exactly worked out according to plan. There’s still some time for playoff Rondo to make an impact in Dallas, but even if he does, he’s an unrestricted free agent this summer and if he plays well, other suitors will surely come calling. While the last thing the Mavs need is a rookie point guard, they do need depth there and many scouts feel Payne, who shows a great balance between scoring and distributing the basketball, is one of the biggest sleepers in the draft.

 

PLAYER CARD

22Tyus JonesChicago BullsCOLLEGE: DukeHT: 6-1WT: 170POS: PG

The Bulls are experiencing the joys of having a healthy Derrick Rose again, but finding a long-term backup for him is important. Jones might be the perfect guy. He’s coming off winning the Final Four MOP, he’s got a basketball IQ well ahead of his years, and he rarely turns the ball over. He could be the perfect long-term backup for Rose.

 

PLAYER CARD

23Montrezl HarrellPortland Trail BlazersCOLLEGE: LouisvilleHT: 6-7WT: 243POS: PF

Both LaMarcus Aldridge and Joel Freeland are free agents this summer. Aldridge should be back, but the Blazers could use some depth at the 4. Harrell is a bit undersized, but his length, athleticism and terrific motor mean he should be able to come in and impact the game right away.

 

PLAYER CARD

24Delon WrightCleveland CavaliersCOLLEGE: UtahHT: 6-5WT: 178POS: PG

Matthew Dellavedova has been Kyrie Irving’s primary backup all year. While he’s done an adequate job, Wright could be an upgrade. He’s the rare senior who still has some upside. While his jump shot is still a work in progress, he has the ability to get wherever he wants on the floor and is a good passer. He’d be a nice backup in Cleveland.

 

PLAYER CARD

25Rondae Hollis-JeffersonMemphis GrizzliesCOLLEGE: ArizonaHT: 6-7WT: 220POS: SF

Tony Allen is still one of the best wing defenders in the NBA, but at the age of 33 he’s beginning to slow down. Enter Hollis-Jefferson, who might be the best wing defender in this draft. Blessed like Allen with a NBA body and elite athletic ability, he was a jump shot away from being a top-10 pick.

 

PLAYER CARD

26Justin AndersonSan Antonio SpursCOLLEGE: VirginiaHT: 6-6WT: 222POS: SF

The Spurs are going to face a pretty huge fork in the road this summer, when most of the team hits free agency. Some, like Tim Duncan and even Manu Ginobili, could end up retiring. Others, like Danny Green, might be too expensive to re-sign. Anderson seems like a great get here — especially if those elite 3-point shooting numbers he put up all season aren’t a fluke. He has NBA athleticism and strength — if he can become a ‘3 and D’ guy in the NBA, he has a lot of value.

 

PLAYER CARD

27Dakari JohnsonLos Angeles LakersCOLLEGE: KentuckyHT: 7-0WT: 255POS: C

The Lakers are pretty thin at the center position. While Johnson projects more as a backup than a star, the Lakers could use his rebounding and toughness.

PLAYER CARD

28Christian WoodBoston CelticsCOLLEGE: UNLVHT: 6-11WT: 220POS: PF

The Celtics could use some athleticism in their frontcourt, and Wood brings that. He needs to add strength and a more consistent jump shot, but Wood would immediately be the best shot-blocker on the Celtics.

 

PLAYER CARD

29Terry RozierBrooklyn NetsCOLLEGE: LouisvilleHT: 6-2WT: 190POS: PG

Rozier isn’t for everyone. He’s not a "true" point guard, and is undersized to play the 2. But he’s tough as nails, always plays in attack mode and does enough point guard things to get time at the position. Deron Williams has two years left on his deal and Jarrett Jack has one, but if the Nets are serious about the future, they should start grooming Rozier now.

 

PLAYER CARD

30Tyler HarveyGolden State WarriorsCOLLEGE: Eastern Wash.HT: 6-4WT: 185POS: SG

Tyler Harvey plays a lot like a poor man’s Stephen Curry. Is there a destination in the league where Harvey would be more likely to progress from a poor man’s Curry to the real thing than within Steve Kerr’s offense in Golden State? Hey, you can never have enough shooting.

 

PLAYER CARD

 

[jonwangcbParticipant]

It’s funny that Justise Winslow can enter a season with people questioning his inconsistent effort, and just one season later, can be considered as having a “crazy motor every second he’s on the floor.”

[jonwangcbParticipant]

It’s funny that Justise Winslow can enter a season with people questioning his inconsistent effort, and just one season later, can be considered as having a “crazy motor every second he’s on the floor.”

[wonzi_bellsParticipant]

 I don’t know what you were seeing or who you were reading. In no way did anyone ever question Winslow’s motor. That guy was intense coming out the womb.

[wonzi_bellsParticipant]

 I don’t know what you were seeing or who you were reading. In no way did anyone ever question Winslow’s motor. That guy was intense coming out the womb.

[mgreener_34Participant]

 Dear lord, Stanley Johnson has become so under rated over the past month or so. How many hard working, fundementally sound, with and NBA body SF’s are going to get picked in the #10 range and turn into all-stars before we need to realize they should go higher. I love Kelly Oubre, but there is no way I would pass up Stanley for him! 

I think this is actually a pretty solid mock from Ford for once, but I do have my doubts. The first thing that stuck out to me was Porzingis to Orlando. I just don’t see a backcourt of Vuc and Porzingis working out, and it would mean the Magic are going to delegate Gordon to the "Tweener" position. I would prefer it if they just let Tobias walk, and take one of Winslow/Johnson who would fit in perfectly with what they already have. But with that being said, my friends who are Magic fans all say they think their team will draft Porzingis, so maybe I need to watch more Magic games. 

I also think having Kevon Looney that high is a little ridiculous. He’s a project player, and the Jazz already have a bunch of those. He also won’t get much time playing with Gobert and Favors playing big minutes, so I would hope the Jazz go with a better system player. Someone like a Gerian Grant who could give them both PG/SG minutes and space the floor. 

Overall I think he was spot on with most of these picks, and really like Dunn to Houston, Dekker to ATL, and Portis to WAS. All would be solid pick ups for those teams, and are reasonable. 

As mentioned in so many other threads though, I wouldn’t be surprised to see a lot of trades during or even before the draft. Realistically I could see picks #8-#14 all up for grabs, as a lot of those teams might be looking for proven talent. I think the #6 pick is the obvious one that could probably be had at the right price, but I also wouldn’t be shocked to see Detroit move #8.

Detroit is going to have to reup both Jackson and Drummond to huge contracts, and who knows what’s going to happen with BJ. I would love him in a 6th man off the bench role, but how will he handle that? I think it’s safe to say that their guard rotation is set this year though with BJ/Jackson/KCP/Meeks, so they could really use shooters at the 3 or 4. If a team is willing to part ways with someone like a Jullinger/Olynyk/Morris/Tucker and their own pick, you would think that the Pistons would give them a listen because I just don’t see Draymon going there after this Warriors run. 

This draft is really going to come down to trades and free agency I think. Are guys like Knight, Jackson, Monroe, Milsap, Dragic, and Tobias going to stay? If not where do they go, and how does that effect the team drafting? I think we are going to see a lot of roster shake up in the draft, and I can’t wait. 

[mgreener_34Participant]

 Dear lord, Stanley Johnson has become so under rated over the past month or so. How many hard working, fundementally sound, with and NBA body SF’s are going to get picked in the #10 range and turn into all-stars before we need to realize they should go higher. I love Kelly Oubre, but there is no way I would pass up Stanley for him! 

I think this is actually a pretty solid mock from Ford for once, but I do have my doubts. The first thing that stuck out to me was Porzingis to Orlando. I just don’t see a backcourt of Vuc and Porzingis working out, and it would mean the Magic are going to delegate Gordon to the "Tweener" position. I would prefer it if they just let Tobias walk, and take one of Winslow/Johnson who would fit in perfectly with what they already have. But with that being said, my friends who are Magic fans all say they think their team will draft Porzingis, so maybe I need to watch more Magic games. 

I also think having Kevon Looney that high is a little ridiculous. He’s a project player, and the Jazz already have a bunch of those. He also won’t get much time playing with Gobert and Favors playing big minutes, so I would hope the Jazz go with a better system player. Someone like a Gerian Grant who could give them both PG/SG minutes and space the floor. 

Overall I think he was spot on with most of these picks, and really like Dunn to Houston, Dekker to ATL, and Portis to WAS. All would be solid pick ups for those teams, and are reasonable. 

As mentioned in so many other threads though, I wouldn’t be surprised to see a lot of trades during or even before the draft. Realistically I could see picks #8-#14 all up for grabs, as a lot of those teams might be looking for proven talent. I think the #6 pick is the obvious one that could probably be had at the right price, but I also wouldn’t be shocked to see Detroit move #8.

Detroit is going to have to reup both Jackson and Drummond to huge contracts, and who knows what’s going to happen with BJ. I would love him in a 6th man off the bench role, but how will he handle that? I think it’s safe to say that their guard rotation is set this year though with BJ/Jackson/KCP/Meeks, so they could really use shooters at the 3 or 4. If a team is willing to part ways with someone like a Jullinger/Olynyk/Morris/Tucker and their own pick, you would think that the Pistons would give them a listen because I just don’t see Draymon going there after this Warriors run. 

This draft is really going to come down to trades and free agency I think. Are guys like Knight, Jackson, Monroe, Milsap, Dragic, and Tobias going to stay? If not where do they go, and how does that effect the team drafting? I think we are going to see a lot of roster shake up in the draft, and I can’t wait. 

[HuRRiCaNeS324Participant]

 Lol i pray to God Stanley falls to us at 10

[HuRRiCaNeS324Participant]

 Lol i pray to God Stanley falls to us at 10

[Lotto StudParticipant]

 Too bad the Rozier selection to the Nets will not see the light of day. On the bright side of things, kudos to the team for stalling out the projected lottery pick to Atlanta. It would be a terrible sighting to watch the Hawks battle everyone out to potential win a ring and walk away with a Top 15 pick. Thank you, very much Memphis/Indiana. 

[Lotto StudParticipant]

 Too bad the Rozier selection to the Nets will not see the light of day. On the bright side of things, kudos to the team for stalling out the projected lottery pick to Atlanta. It would be a terrible sighting to watch the Hawks battle everyone out to potential win a ring and walk away with a Top 15 pick. Thank you, very much Memphis/Indiana. 

[Mad MaxParticipant]

 RJ Hunter a lotto pick??????????????????????¿!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!¡?????¿¿!!!!!

[Mad MaxParticipant]

 RJ Hunter a lotto pick??????????????????????¿!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!¡?????¿¿!!!!!

[machu46Participant]

I could see him getting picked around there.  The two questions around him are if his shot is legitimately elite and if he’s athletic enough for his defense to translate.

Personally, I expect him to blow teams away as a shooter, and I expect him to surprise a bit with his athleticism.  If those two things happen, he could definitely become a late riser.

 

[machu46Participant]

I could see him getting picked around there.  The two questions around him are if his shot is legitimately elite and if he’s athletic enough for his defense to translate.

Personally, I expect him to blow teams away as a shooter, and I expect him to surprise a bit with his athleticism.  If those two things happen, he could definitely become a late riser.

 

[Mad MaxParticipant]

 Also as a UK fan I find it hilarious that Dakari Johnson would be drafted in the first rd and before the Harrisons (even if guards are a dime a dozen). Also never use the word tough to describe Dakari Johnson, he’s the opposite.

[Mad MaxParticipant]

 Also as a UK fan I find it hilarious that Dakari Johnson would be drafted in the first rd and before the Harrisons (even if guards are a dime a dozen). Also never use the word tough to describe Dakari Johnson, he’s the opposite.

[JordanC20Participant]

 Yeah Dakari is extremely slow on his post moves and gets his shot blocked a lot…going to be a hard hill to climb for the big fella. His role in the NBA is going to be to take up space and that’s it he can’t do much more.

[JordanC20Participant]

 Yeah Dakari is extremely slow on his post moves and gets his shot blocked a lot…going to be a hard hill to climb for the big fella. His role in the NBA is going to be to take up space and that’s it he can’t do much more.

[hbomb3300Participant]

– not sure why he included Anthony Bennett in the Wolves "bright future".  I’m not even sure if they will pick up his team option.

–  The Nuggets would be getting a steal if Winslow falls to 7.  I can’t really argue with the logic behind the picks before that, so I guess it’s possible.

–  I don’t like R.J Hunter for the Thunder since I think he will be a bad defender, especially at the beginning of his career.  If they want a great shooter they already have that in Morrow.  I would prefer a young point guard to develop like Kris Dunn or Devin Booker since he has more potential.

–  Hollis-Jefferson would be a great pick for any team in the 20s, but especially the Grizzlies.

 

 

  

[hbomb3300Participant]

– not sure why he included Anthony Bennett in the Wolves "bright future".  I’m not even sure if they will pick up his team option.

–  The Nuggets would be getting a steal if Winslow falls to 7.  I can’t really argue with the logic behind the picks before that, so I guess it’s possible.

–  I don’t like R.J Hunter for the Thunder since I think he will be a bad defender, especially at the beginning of his career.  If they want a great shooter they already have that in Morrow.  I would prefer a young point guard to develop like Kris Dunn or Devin Booker since he has more potential.

–  Hollis-Jefferson would be a great pick for any team in the 20s, but especially the Grizzlies.

 

 

  

[Robb_CParticipant]

 Dakari Johnson 

NBA Comparison: Fab Melo… Enough Said.

[Robb_CParticipant]

 Dakari Johnson 

NBA Comparison: Fab Melo… Enough Said.

[nick5354Participant]

Tyus Jones at 22 is nuts. Steal of the draft if he goes low 20s

[nick5354Participant]

Tyus Jones at 22 is nuts. Steal of the draft if he goes low 20s

[Malik-UniversalParticipant]

if stanley johnson fell to the pistons i would be pretty happy.. i think hes slighly underrated.. and he has a great work ethic.. i trust players with great work ethics and hes nba ready for the most part.. this guy could be a lot more than  a 3 and D player.. i hope teams dont stagnate him to just that… one guy im not sold on at all is devin booker… 

[Malik-UniversalParticipant]

if stanley johnson fell to the pistons i would be pretty happy.. i think hes slighly underrated.. and he has a great work ethic.. i trust players with great work ethics and hes nba ready for the most part.. this guy could be a lot more than  a 3 and D player.. i hope teams dont stagnate him to just that… one guy im not sold on at all is devin booker… 

[Author]

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