01. Philadelphia 76ers

Markelle Fultz, PG/SG, Washington

Why:

The Sixers stunned the NBA landscape by trading up for this pick, giving number 3 and a protected first-rounder to get it. Acquiring Fultz represents the official end of “the Process,” and he should fit right in to the Sixers youth movement that now includes Fultz, potential Rookie of the Year candidate Dario Saric and, oh yeah, another number 1 pick and a guy who probably should have been one. With only one backcourt position left undecided and Fultz’s ability to play either spot, we probably should have trusted the process a lot earlier. However, because Fultz’s Huskies won single-digit games last year, there will be a lot of scrutiny on he and Simmons, considering they represent the brand new trend of “top pick on otherwise terrible college team” that leaves their winning mentalities shrouded in questions. For the record, this trend is far from over, what with Michael Porter, Jr. committing to Missouri. That aside, Fultz will land in an ideal situation with plenty of gelling time available for years.

Will also look at:

Probably nobody else.

Why would they do that?

Why wouldn’t they? The number one pick is a clear-cut case of BPA, and Fultz clearly is just that.

If I’m the GM:

I’m sending Danny Ainge a Christmas card and a chest containing the finest meats and cheeses available from Hickory Farms.

02. Los Angeles Lakers

Lonzo Ball, PG, UCLA

Why:

Magic Johnson is a rookie GM, and with that comes some rookie smokescreens. LA is picking Lonzo Ball, and it’s not very close. D’Angelo Russell isn’t at his best as a facilitator, but as a scorer, and the team is equipped with a slew of offensive weapons in Randle and Clarkson, and a future one in Ingram. The Lakers need someone to get the ball to each one of them, and Lonzo is that guy. The rest of the clear-cut top picks play positions that the Lakers already have (Josh Jackson, Jonathan Isaac, Jayson Tatum), or are positional equals to Ball but without the efficiency that the Lakers crave (Fox, Dennis Smith). Nothing short of a PR disaster from Herr Ball Sr. could derail this pick.

Will also look at:

Not a lot else.

Why would they do that?

Expect the team to exercise due diligence by working out several other picks, but it isn’t picking anyone else unless LaVar Ball slaps Magic right in the mouth.

If I’m the GM:

I’d probably draft Lonzo and make his dad wear a bell collar, so I can shut and lock the door if I hear him coming down the hall.

03. Boston Celtics

Jayson Tatum, SF/PF, Duke

Why:

Here’s the straight dope: Amir Johnson is Amir Johnson—he’s an aging, largely ineffective power forward best suited to a bench role. Yet, here he was, starting power forward for a number 1 seeded team. Thankfully and mercifully, he’s out this summer. If Danny Ainge decides to keep the third pick, he could do far worse than Jayson Tatum, a player seen as one of the highest-upside players in the draft. He could slot immediately into a small-4 role, as well as be the mortar in the cracks of the wing rotation. Since Boston has Brooklyn’s pick next year also, they could go with Tatum here and hold their breath for DeAndre Ayton or Mohamed Bamba next season, after which Brooklyn can call off the Billy King car-egging brigade.

Will also look at:

Josh Jackson, Jonathan Isaac

Why would they do that?

Both these players can fill Tatum’s role here, though only Tatum has the combination of length, offense, defense, off-court personality and immediacy that Boston craves while they continue to scale Mt. LeBron.

If I’m the GM:

I’m probably drafting either Tatum or Jackson, because there are no true power forwards until later, unless I’m feeling saucy enough to trade even farther down and take John Collins or even Lauri Markkanen.

04. Phoenix Suns

Josh Jackson, SG/SF/PF, Kansas

Why:

Let me start off by saying that the Suns got hosed. Phoenix tried its damnedest to put the tank into overdrive that it blurred the lines between tanking and floundering into the transparent. Despite this, the Suns ended up with the fourth pick, a spot in the draft with no clear-cut BPA as the draft gets close to ignition. Getting Josh Jackson is a fine consolation prize, once thought the number one pick but with draft stock that likely took a hit because of his attitude issues. However, incumbent SF TJ Warren is somewhat one-dimensional, while we know Jackson is good at pretty much everything one can do on a basketball court. Together with Booker, he can form a spectacular nucleus that is certainly worth building around.

Will also look at:

Jonathan Isaac, De’Aaron Fox

Why would they do that?

Isaac and Fox are both elite prospects that will need a varying amounts of seasoning, either of which is a period of time that the Suns definitely have.

If I’m the GM:

I’m phoning up Sacramento and offering Bledsoe (or maybe Knight) and number 4 for 5, 10 and maybe Papagiannis (if it’s Bledsoe). The dialogue is open from last season, Len is a free agent (not to mention a bum) and certainly neither Bledsoe nor Knight is the point guard of the future. Ulis might not be either, but the Suns have a while to figure that out. With picks 5 and 10, I’d draft Collins and whichever point guard is left after everyone else picks. It’s hard to imagine neither Smith nor Ntilikina being available at 10.

05. Sacramento Kings

De’Aaron Fox, PG, Kentucky

Why:

The Kangz want two things, and not necessarily in this order: A great point guard, and to get the city excited about the team again. Fox fits both. As one of the most hyped players in this class, and I mean this in the nicest way possible, Fox is big on style, and less so on substance. There’s no doubt that he’s a great point guard prospect, but he’s a score-first type, and so his game is much sexier to the layperson. And I’ll tell you this much: If you’re a Kings fan, you almost have to be a layperson. If Fox is unavailable at 5, it’s extremely hard to imagine them passing. Unless . . .

Will also look at:

Jonathan Isaac

Why would they do that?

Let’s get one thing straight: The tank is wholly and completely on in Sacramento, which means that any player the Kings take in this draft will be a high-upside pick that will be molded over the course of years. Isaac fits this bill stupendously, especially since Sacramento can afford to taken an equal project with pick 10, such as Collins, Ntilikina, Anunoby or whomever else.

If I’m the GM:

I’m taking Isaac with 5 and there’s not much you can do to change my mind. Rudy Gay is opting out, and perpetual injury machine Tyreke Evans is gone, leaving not one small forward in Sac. If I pass on Fox at 5, that leaves Fox, Ntilikina and Smith still on the board, along with Tatum and Markkanen. One of Dallas and Minnesota is likely to snatch up Markkanen, and someone—probably Orlando—will grab Tatum, leaving one of Fox, Smith or Ntilikina at 10. I’m hoping it’s Ntilikina. A defense-first point guard . . . hmm . . . sounds like someone Dave Joerger has coached in the past.

06. Orlando Magic

Jonathan Isaac, SF/PF, Florida State

Why:

If there’s one recent lottery pick that screams, “this isn’t working out,” it’s Mario Hezonja. A super-hyped Euro prospect, Hezonja hasn’t exactly caught fire in Orlando, even across two different coaches. As a prime candidate for a trade mulligan, Hezonja’s departure opens up the door for Terrence Ross to seize the majority of minutes. However, Orlando is about to attempt Rebuild v5.0, and it’s hard to imagine Ross as a cornerstone of this particular iteration. Isaac is. Jeff Green packed up his salary circus and will hit the road in search of new fairgrounds, leaving Aaron Gordon as the sole power forward on the roster. Isaac can play both positions and he’s in prime need of some real minutes, of which Orlando can offer plenty.

Will also look at:

Dennis Smith, Jr.

Why would they do that?

For some reason, Orlando’s front office really hates Elfrid Payton and wants nothing more than to wash their hands of him. Of course, this is the last GM talking, but one has to think that there’s more to it than a vendetta-soaked Rob Hennigan. At any rate, Smith would kill it with a young Orlando team that likes to run and dunk.

If I’m the GM:

I’m trading up so I can draft Isaac without worrying about it. Pick 6 and DJ Augustin should get it done. If I’m feeling brave, I’m trying to get both 5 and 10 from Sacramento and using 10 to draft Zach Collins. If I’m truly in need of a point guard to replace Augustin (and possibly Payton), Jawun Evans will likely be available when I pick later. So will PJ Dozier and Frank Jackson.

07. Minnesota Timberwolves

Malik Monk, PG/SG, Kentucky

Why:

Minnesota is in an interesting position. On one hand, each of its positions is filled by a high draft pick, including two number ones. On the other hand, the Wolves’ cup runneth over with picks, and the team is in need of depth. If there’s one thing we learned about Minny’s ultimately disappointing season, it’s that either the team’s depth genuinely blows, or that it doesn’t blow and Thibodeau doesn’t trust it one bit. Either situation bodes well for Malik Monk to slot right in and work in a backcourt rotation with the rest of Minnesota’s picks. He’s one of the best shooters in the draft by a country mile at number 7 with room to grow, and given LaVine’s disappointing injury, he might not regain his explosiveness. Monk and should elevate the Wolves to the level that many thought they were at last season. Spooky.

Will also look at:

Point guard leftovers, Lauri Markkanen

Why would they do that?

It’s only been one season, but the early returns are in: Kris Dunn kind of sucks. He’s a 23-year-old NBA sophomore and his rookie season was astronomically bad. Amid reports of him goofing off on the sidelines and other annoying bits of news certain to bother Thibodeau, it might be time to call it a day with the Dunn experiment. If Thibs throws in the towel early, he might pick whichever point guard falls to this spot. Markkanen would essentially turn the Wolves into an all-lottery squad if he were to usurp Gorgui Dieng, and he’d turn the Wolves’ frontcourt into a terrifying thing, if he could sharpen his defensive iron a bit.

If I’m the GM:

I’m probably still going with Monk, but I’m trying to unload Dieng’s contract for cast-off vet depth. I’m also going to at least dangle Dunn into the trade tank, and let Bjelica play more. Lots more.

08. New York Knicks

Frank Ntilikina, PG, France

Why:

It’s time to talk about the triangle. You know, that offense that Phil Jackson has been trying to implement in NYC for a few years, to no avail? It would appear that the triangle is not going away, and no amount of paper bag-wearing fans is going to stop it. Because of the brazen commitment to this offense that doesn’t seem to work very well in today’s NBA, the Knicks need a malleable point guard with a high basketball IQ, and at this point, Ntilikina fits the bill perfectly. He’s extremely long for the position and is capable of disrupting passing lanes on defense while maintaining a large catch radius on offense. And at 19 years old, he’s at just the right age to start getting familiar with the sweet science. On top of that, the Knicks rebuild will be long and arduous, and what better asset to harvest than one as tantalizing as Ntilikina’s?

Will also look at:

Dennis Smith Jr.

Why would they do that?

There’s a chance that the triangle is scrapped, and if so, Dennis Smith is much more equipped to function as a franchise cornerstone for a presumably up-and-coming young squad. One has to think that the Knicks find a way to jettison almost every player on the roster and start anew. Dennis Smith is that dude.

If I’m the GM:

I’d be calling up Minnesota and trying to reunite Thibodeau with Noah for the price of Pekovic and a protected first-rounder or two future second-rounders. Hell, I might even throw in O’Quinn if the pick was good enough. Then, I’d can Pek and bow out before the situation in New York sours any more than it has.

09. Dallas Mavericks

Dennis Smith, Jr., PG, NC State

Why:

Rick Carlisle is a genius of a coach, and he has a knack for making good players into great ones. Mark Cuban even admitted that the Mavs were trying to tank, which explains Carlisle’s lackadaisical coaching for the last few months. Yogi Ferrell is not the Mavs’ point guard of the future, and Dallas would be positively beside themselves to have Dennis Smith fall to 9. Smith is a monster in transition and makes everyone around him better. The Mavs are trending younger and Smith is the ticket.

Will also look at:

Frank Ntilikina if available

Why would they do that?

Ntilikina is a Carlisle player through and through. If pick 9 rolls around and both Smith and Ntilikina are on the board, you’d have to think Dallas asks Siri to flip a coin.

If I’m the GM:

I’m putting my phone on silent. Dallas is getting a point guard one way or the other and either Smith or Ntilikina would be a great fit.

10. Sacramento Kings

Lauri Markkanen, PF, Arizona

Why:

Sacramento’s roster is filled with a whole gaggle of ne’er-do-wells, none of which will likely be on the team past the trade deadline. Eventually, this means that Dave Joerger will have to put Kosta Koufous on a train somewhere and wave to him with a tear-soaked handkerchief. When that day comes, Skal Labisierre will be the only serviceable power forward in the city of Sacramento. To counteract this inevitability, one has to think that Lauri Markkanen gets the call at number 10. Having already addressed the point guard issue, and with a glut of player capable of playing the 2 or a small 3, power forward is next, and why not someone who can positively stretch the floor with either of Sac’s paint hog centers in tandem? Markkanen is downright deadly from deep and Sacto is where he can contribute immediately.

Will also look at:

Zach Collins

Why would they do that?

Zach Collins is basically the bizarro version of Markkanen—a version where defense and range are swapped. Collins is an excellent defender with a decent, yet slow, three-point shot, and Markkanen is a traffic cone on D that rains in the long ball. Markkanen is a better fit, but Collins provides more upside. However, because Sac already has two lottery picks in Willie Cauley-Stein and Georgios Papagiannis (snicker), another center might not be on the menu.

If I’m the GM:

Because the Kings are in the beginning of a rebuild and have two lottery picks, there’s not a whole lot for the GM to do other than answer the phone and not make an ass of himself. With that said, if I’m the GM, that’s exactly what I’m doing.

11. Charlotte Hornets

Zach Collins, C, Gonzaga

Why:

Charlotte is one of those teams that seems to end up in the lottery every year, then you look at the depth chart and wonder why. “But they have so many good players,” you might say. Do they? Well, if you count Cody Zeller a good player, they might have a competent starting five. Beyond that, things get shaky in a hurry. Miles Plumlee and Johnny O’Bryant complete the center stable in Charlotte, and that’s just a bad look on any team. Charlotte also has the tenth highest payroll in the league, committing tens of millions of dollars to Zeller and Plumlee over the next few years, two players that combined for 12.8 points, 8.6 rebounds and 1.2 blocks across 41.2 minutes per game. Add in O’Bryant, and the totals reach 17.3 points, 10.6 rebounds and the same 1.2 blocks, all over 49.4 minutes per game. Yikes. To put that in per-40 terms, the combined efforts of Charlotte’s entire pantry of centers amounts to 14 points, 8.5 rebounds and 0.97 blocks per game. Double yikes. Collins’s per-40 numbers: 23.2 points, 13.6 rebounds, and 4.1 blocks. It’s kind of ridiculous to say, but is Collins better than the combined efforts of three existing players? Maybe—and it’s that “maybe” that will get him picked at 11.

Will also look at:

Jarrett Allen, Bam Adebayo

Why would they do that?

As for Allen, see above re: center rotation. Adebayo could fill the Biyombo role as a thunderous rim-rocker, giving the Hornets some actual ferocity across both frontcourt spots. To be clear, Adebayo at 11 is unlikely, but hey, the Kings took Papagiannis in the lottery last year.

If I’m the GM:

I’d probably call up GarPax and try to give them 11 (and maybe 41) for 16 and Robin Lopez. Lopez and Batum played very well together in Portland, Chicago gets Collins, and with 16, I’m going all-in and drafting Harry Giles.

12. Detroit Pistons

Donovan Mitchell, SG, Louisville

Why:

Kentavious Caldwell-Pope is going to get paid this summer, and Detroit has the eighth highest payroll in the league, with only crumbs coming off the books in July. It stands to reason that they might not want to pay up, lest they get slapped with the tax. Donovan Mitchell, as it turns out, is almost an exact duplicate of KCP, except he’s two inches shorter, but with a two-inch wingspan advantage. And just like KCP, Mitchell profiles as a lock-down defender that can stroke it from deep. He’s their guy.

Will also look at:

Jarrett Allen

Why would they do that?

Nobody in Detroit is a plus-defender at the four. You might even be able to make the argument that half the personnel at the five isn’t one either. Jarrett Allen can step in and fill this need and then some, but . . .

If I’m the GM:

I’m on the phone with Ainge, and honestly I’m offering 12 and whatever else for number 3, including Drummond or Harris if the return is right. Boban slots in at starting center, Ellenson and Leuer share the 4, and whomever I pick at 3 will slot into the SF position, with Reggie Jackson at 1. I’d at least try to trade Reggie for a pick, then let the real games begin.

13. Denver Nuggets

Justin Jackson, SF, UNC

Why:

Denver almost made the playoffs last year, and they would have gotten away with it too, if it weren’t for those meddlin’ Blazers. This puts Denver in a tough spot, sort of—the Nugs need a piece that’s ready to go. Danilo Gallinari’s contract expires this summer; Denver has tons of cap room, has all but pledged to re-sign Mason Plumlee, and has room for one more sizable contract. With that said, even if the Nuggets don’t re-sign Gallinari, they’re looking to win. At 13, there may be no more NBA-ready pick than Justin Jackson. Jackson, fresh off his national championship on the biggest stage in the NCAA, performed admirably at every step of the way, and should be ready to contribute on opening night. Denver can still go hunting for a point guard in free agency, as all the goodies are off the board at this point.

Will also look at:

OG Anunoby, Harry Giles

Why would they do that?

Anunoby is an amazing defender with a high upside, but Denver is hungry and is tired of watching all the cool kids having fun at the prom. 2018 will likely not be Anunoby’s year. And if Giles turns out to be over half as good as he was supposed to be, he’s a steal even this early.

If I’m the GM:

I’m drafting Jackson unless some situation presents itself where I can trade up and get Tatum or Dennis Smith. Tatum isn’t as polished as Jackson, but he’s ready enough to contribute on the level on which he’ll be asked. Dennis Smith because, well, Mudiay kind of stinks and I’m kind of over Jameer Nelson. I think I’d be more suited to take a vet in free agency, though.

14. Miami Heat

John Collins, PF, Wake Forest

Why:

http://www.espn.com/nba/team/depth/_/name/mia

Will also look at:

Lauri Markkanen, Jarrett Allen (if available)

Why would they do that?

http://www.espn.com/nba/team/depth/_/name/mia

If I’m the GM:

One of the aforementioned large humans will be available at 14. Until I pick, I’m talking about the weather with my staff in the war room.

15. Portland Trail Blazers

OG Anunoby, SF, Indiana

Why:

The Blazers were strictly in the middle of the pack in both offensive and defensive rating last season. But what’s this—the Blazers allowed the sixth most points per game in the league? P.U, bro. The Blazers have three picks this year, and you can best believe they’ll use one of them shoring up their shoddy D. OG Anunoby is the cure. In his short time at Indiana, Anunoby defended all five positions regularly, and piled up almost two blocks and two steals per game. Quite simply, OG is the best defender in the draft. Because he’ll spend the beginning of the year sidelined with an ACL injury, Anunoby is a fine gamble for a team that just needs its opponent to not get the ball in the hole so damn much.

Will also look at:

Ike Anigbogu, Jarrett Allen

Why would they do that?

Many times last season, the Blazers lacked size. Meyers Leonard plays ball like the back end of a two-person horse costume and if Nurkic is injured, them’s the brakes. Size is on the menu, and both Anigbogu and Allen have just that. Expect the Blazers to go big with its other two picks, unless . . .

If I’m the GM:

I’ll probably change this any day now, but watching the Warriors put it on cruise control in the playoffs made me want a western team to dethrone them in the worst way. If the Blazers could somehow finagle Paul George for just one season, they might be onto something. With that said, the Pacers can have all my picks and another piece as well.

16. Chicago Bulls

Harry Giles, PF/C, Duke

Why:

Dwyane Wade can’t play forever; he’ll be 36 next season and he might not even play for the Bulls. In fact, much of Chicago’s roster is off the books this summer, with Butler, Rondo, Lopez, and a pantload of young’uns remaining. This smells like a rebuild if I’ve ever seen one, and I’d be surprised if Rondo and Lopez were on the roster when the season started. Any team’s high hopes combined with a pick just outside the lottery will always equal Harry Giles in 2017. If Giles’s knees and such can hold together permanently, the Bulls will have their centerpiece around which to build, along with the steal of the draft. It might take a while, but if this pick kicks off a rebuild, they have time.

Will also look at:

Ike Anigbogu, Luke Kennard

Why would they do that?

As far as boom-or-bust prospects are concerned, Anigbogu is diet, caffeine-free Giles. While he has the tools to be a great player, his upside is lower—almost anyone in this draft’s is. However, with less reward comes less risk, and the Bulls may not want to take it. If Wade truly leaves, it will open up the starting 2-guard position to someone who actually shoots threes. Kennard can shoot them—lots of them, and he’d slot right in there as a surefire NBA-ready pick.

If I’m the GM:

I’m poking around to see who wants Lopez and Rondo immediately. Lopez is a serviceable center, and he’s pretty good, which is why he makes sense as a tool to mine late-round picks. You could say the same about Rondo, but that’s a bit of a harder sell. And if Ainge calls me up about Butler, it never hurts to hear him out.

17. Milwaukee Bucks

Luke Kennard, SG, Duke

Why:

The Bucks are 21st in 3-pointers made and 22nd in points per game, but the team is a staggering 6th in 3-point percentage. To break the numbers down into the simplest terms, the Bucks are composed of a few sharpshooters, but they take very few shots from distance. Those who can’t don’t, and those who can don’t do enough. The solution to this problem is to hope Luke Kennard falls to them at 17. Arguably the best shooter in the entire draft, Kennard’s accuracy and scoring acumen make him a solid addition to the Bucks. His playing time is a bit murky since Jabari Parker will be healthy, shifting everyone down a position. However, he should still carve out a decent role in the rotation since the wings are in Milwaukee are largely in shambles after the starters sit.

Will also look at:

Terrance Ferguson

Why would they do that?

Ferguson projects as a sort of proto-Kennard with a bit higher upside. His athleticism is through the roof compared to Uncle Luke, and his shooting mechanics are there. Milwaukee may choose to nab him, counting on the fact that he’s not near NBA ready, and will be waiting in the wings should one of Milwaukee’s split.

If I’m the GM:

Realistically, there’s no room for a rookie to come in right away and contribute meaningful minutes. Milwaukee’s team is super young, with outliers like Jason Terry and Spencer Hawes only driving up the average age. The squad is ready to compete, and so I’d either take Ferguson as future insurance, or I’d package 17 with a player like John Henson or Greg Monroe to get a great veteran piece that helps my team win now.

18. Indiana Pacers

Ike Anigbogu, C, UCLA

Why:

For the Pacers, this draft is about one man: Paul George. The man whose name is synonymous with Pacers basketball has made no bones about his desire to seek greener pastures after his contract expires in the summer of 2018. Jeff Teague is already a free agent, and no sane GM would keep trying to legitimately compete with the rest of the roster, even if Myles Turner is really good. The Pacers pick should go to the player with the highest upside and no injury history. That player is Ike Anigbogu. UCLA’s bruiser, Anigbogu has a grown man’s body at just a hair over 18 years old. And as an 18-year-old, he averaged over 14 points and 12 rebounds, and just a share under four blocks per game. Drafting him at 18 and then giving him crucial seasoning next to Turner makes almost too much sense.

Will also look at:

Jarrett Allen

Why would they do that?

Allen is essentially Myles Turner 2.0. He profiles similarly, is from the same school and even has that bogus false-knock of “having a hitch in his gait.” He’s been falling across boards because of questions of his attitude, but sometimes millions of dollars can patch that up in a hurry.

If I’m the GM:

I’d take Giles here if he’s available, but selecting him or Anigbogu at this position is essentially hitting the reset button. If I’m committed to taking either of those guys, there’s a Tobias Fünke-esque fire sale taking place on everyone but Turner before and during the draft.

19. Atlanta Hawks

Jarrett Allen, PF/C, Texas

Why:

To be clear, Atlanta will have put in some serious time in the prayer realm for Allen to fall this far. And if he does, you can expect the Hawks to jump on him immediately. Paul Millsap is tired of Atlanta (and presumably not winning), and he’s leaving a sizable hole in his wake. Conversely, Dwight Howard isn’t getting any younger, and you’d have to think that Atlanta takes Allen and forces Howard to mentor him for the remainder of his contract. Say what you want about Dwight, but the man is a former Defensive Player of the Year and might be able to breathe life into Allen’s reported sour attitude and lukewarm love of the game.

Will also look at:

Bam Adebayo, Justin Patton, Terrence Ferguson

Adebayo and Patton occupy the same line of reasoning as Jarrett Allen, but with bigger question marks. Both players have disappointing positional knocks on their game; Adebayo profiles as a shot-blocking big man who rebounds like a magnet, but he is and does neither. Patton is billed as a super-athletic big man, but his combine numbers were abysmal for his position. Ferguson might lend a hand in the three-shooting department, seeing as how Atlanta ranked in the 20s for both three pointers made and percentage—and Millsap, who contributed right at the team average in percentage, then chipped in one three a night, is about to leave. Eesh.

20. Portland Trail Blazers

DJ Wilson, PF, Michigan

Why:

It’s no secret that Portland needs big men, and at this point, there may be no more high-upside pick on the board than DJ Wilson. Like CJ McCollum’s playoff series against the Grizzlies two years ago, Wilson seemed to put together his potential during the tournament and turned a ton of heads. He’s equipped with elite size, a stroke that reaches NBA range and an innate shot blocking ability that seems to come naturally. His only question marks revolve around wondering whether his tournament performance was a fluke, and his frankly abhorrent rebounding average, which is a paltry 7.0 per 40. The surest thing surrounding Wilson’s position on the Blazers is that both Jusuf Nurkic and Noah Vonleh are free agents in 2018. Given Portland’s cap situation, only one of them is likely to get paid, and smart money is on Nurkic. Thus, the search for his replacement may end with DJ Wilson, with upside to spare.

Will also look at:

Bam Adebayo, Jordan Bell, Anzejs Pasecniks

Why would they do that?

Both Adebayo and Bell are candidates for 20, but Wilson offers the best size-and-potential cocktail. And because Portland has only two open roster slots and three picks, you have to think one might be the draft-and-stash Pasecniks—known in some circles as “Diet Porzingis.”

If I’m the GM:

“The 20s” is the range where you have to think about packaging the pick with a vet for a more desirable piece, especially if your roster is near maxed. And since Portland is eligible for the MLE on account of its clogged salary cap, pick 20 might be the one. I’m looking at teams that are rebuilding but don’t know it yet—Indiana, Atlanta and Chicago come to mind.

21. Oklahoma City Thunder

Bam Adebayo, PF/C, Kentucky

Why:

When OKC slightly overpaid Philadelphia for Jerami Grant, they were expecting a high-flying athletic proto-four who could block shots and finish putbacks. Now that we’ve had an extended look at Grant on both the Sixers and Thunder, it’s safe to say that it didn’t quite pan out. At 21, the Thunder get a mulligan where they choose Bam Adebayo. Bam is a rim-running gigantic human being who has to turn sideways to walk through doors—quite a physical specimen. The only knock on Bam’s game is that he’s profiled as a shot-blocking rebound gobbling pile of muscle—except his blocks are a little on the “blah” side and he barely clears double-digit rebounds per 40. But, he certainly has exceptional size, something that proverbially cannot be taught. While last year’s lottery pick Domantas Sabonis pairs well with Steven Adams, and Taj Gibson a free agent, Adebayo should slot in nicely next to Kanter, especially if he keeps developing his range.

Will also look at:

Jordan Bell

Why would they do that?

If OKC truly wants a Jerami Grant do-over, Jordan Bell is almost the standard issue, except he’s quicker than Grant and has better defensive acumen. While Bam gives a nice size and potential boost, Bell is no slouch either.

If I’m the GM:

I’m probably sticking with Adebayo. It’s just such a great fit that I would likely stay pat.

22. Brooklyn Nets

Terrance Ferguson, SG/SF, Adelaide 36ers

Why:

When you’re running the franchise that another GM doomed to absolute ruins over the next couple years, you scrounge up any pick you can, and then you pick the highest upside player you can. Being the GM of the Nets almost means scouting the injury report and finding guys who offer the most upside when healthy. At any rate, upside is the name of the game in Brooklyn, and Terrence Ferguson offers the most at pick 22. Until the Nets can actually get their own hard-earned picks back, the team has to lock into high upside, no matter how raw the prospect. Ferguson profiles as a plus defender with a shooting stroke that is as sweet as honey. In an ideal world, Fergie will put on a few pounds and slot right into the small forward position, with a high-upside wing rotation of he and LeVert.

Will also look at:

Anzejs Pasecniks

Why would they do that?

Upside.

If I’m the GM:

I might try to package 22 and 27 to move up and take Harry Giles, the 2017 draft’s lottery ticket. If Giles truly goes at 16, these two picks might not be enough, but it’s worth a shot, especially if Jimmy Butler winds up in Boston.

23. Toronto Raptors

TJ Leaf, PF, UCLA

Why:

Remember Pascal Siakam? Until Toronto was serious about winning, Siakam was the starting power forward and was one of the worst starters in the league. Ibaka arrived and rectified this, sending Siakam to the bench. Problem: Siakam probably shouldn’t be a main bench piece on a playoff team until he gets a little more seasoning. TJ Leaf is just the guy to show up and shoot his way into the reserve minutes behind Ibaka, and even behind Valanciunas and Noguiera for center minutes. However, Leaf’s acquisition might be nullified if the Raps decide to take . . .

Will also look at:

Derrick White, Anzejs Pasecniks

Why would they do that?

If Lowry goes ring chasin’ in free agency, Cory Joseph will become the team’s de facto point guard, which seems unlikely. Even though the team has Delon Wright, Derrick White might be able to slot in and take some minutes. Pasecniks has been mentioned about 50 times so far, but Masai loves picks like him, and may look to swing for the fences yet again.

If I’m the GM:

I would try my best to resign Lowry or go for Chris Paul, then trade 23 away for a valuable vet on a rebuilding team. Thaddeus Young comes to mind.

24. Utah Jazz

Justin Patton, C, Creighton

Why:

Though Jeff Withey is a serviceable NBA big, his upside is, well, nonexistent. He’s shown pretty much everything he’s going to show, and he’s a free agent this summer anyway. You’d have to think Utah takes a flyer on a super-high-upside big this late, one who can come in and learn from perennial DPOY candidate Gobert immediately. He needs the court time, but Utah might have a big of a steal in Patton if he can prove he’s better than his combine measurements suggest.

Will also look at:

You guessed it, Anzejs Pasecniks

Why would they do that?

Pasecniks doesn’t have to come over right away and he profiles as a stretch-4, something the Jazz desperately needs to pair with Gobert.

If I’m the GM:

I’m trying to trade Favors and his fragile back, along with Alec Burks, fellow fragile human. If I can get that done, I’m all in on Pasecniks, but if not, Patton is a good pick for this late.

25. Orlando Magic

Semi Ojeleye, SF/PF, MSU

Why:

Upside is officially the name of the game at 25, and Semi Ojeleye has plenty of it. As likely the most jacked entrant in the draft, Ojeleye is a tweener just like previous pick Jonathan Isaac, but he get his reps behind Isaac at practice while getting occasional minutes as a small-ball SF while Gordon plays center and Isaac plays power forward. Terrence Ross is a free agent next year and one has to think he’ll be packing his bags seconds after the final horn sounds in 2018. When that happens, Semi will have a more pronounced role, and even at that point, he will be a viable trade chip as Orlando tries to develop talent and sell it for top dollar.

Will also look at:

My boy Anzejs Pasecniks, Jawun Evans

Pasecniks, again, brings the upside to the table, but you’d have to think a squad desperately in need of immediate help and talent wouldn’t be spending a pick on a draft-and-stash—it’s a new GM, though, so who knows. Jawun Evans would be a nice addition to the mix if the Magic is absolutely certain that it hates Elfrid Payton (I don’t really know why, though).

If I’m the GM:

I’m scouring for high-upside, ready-to-play guys that might make some noise immediately or begin the tempering process early on. Some names like Dwayne Bacon, Kyle Kuzma, Caleb Swanigan and Johnathan Motley might crop up between now and draft night. Gotta keep them options open.

26. Portland Trail Blazers

Jordan Bell, SF/PF/C, Oregon

Why:

Jordan Bell is part of the Noah Vonleh dilemma: If the Blazers are still far, far over the cap at the end of the 2017–2018 season and they have to pay both Jusuf Nurkic and Vonleh at its conclusion, who do you think they go with? Jordan Bell is a slightly undersized power forward who was forced into center’s minutes when Oregon’s Chris Boucher went down with an ACL tear. As it turns out, Bell is a defensive force who made the most of his promotion, averaging over four blocks per 40 in the tournament. In addition to his defensive prowess, his passing game evolved even since the tournament, dropping seven assists at the combine’s 5-on-5. Credit his work ethic for that—but his shot will likely need some serious commitment. Insofar, Bell is best suited to putbacks and lobs, and the Blazers were 14th in pace, so they could definitely use players like Bell. He could step into Vonleh’s minutes after the upcoming season, as well as play some Draymond Green-esque small-ball center.

Will also look at:

My guy Anzejs Pasecniks

Why would they do that?

The Blazers have one open roster spot and three picks—draft and stash is certainly a possibility this late in the draft, and Pasecniks actually worked out for the Blazers earlier, as what seemed to be the main focus of a day otherwise filled with relative no-names.

If I’m the GM:

With all this Paul George talk, 26 may become a casualty of war if Olshey can figure out a way to make the caller ID say anything but “Portland.”

27. Brooklyn Nets

Anzejs Pasecniks, PF/C, Latvia

Why:

As has been outlined countless times, the Nets desperately need upside more than any other tangible stat. Points? Rebounds? Blocks? Upside. Many teams shy away from draft-and-stashes in the first round, only because they’re the ultimate risk—look around on Wikipedia sometime about how many overseas picks never set foot on an NBA court. When you’re the Nets, that’s a risk you have to be willing to take. Pasecniks offers a lot of upside this late, but someone else does too, and the Nets might opt for him instead . . .

Will also look at:

Jonah Bolden

Why would they do that?

Bolden recently shot up draft boards like nobody else—even a couple weeks ago, he was unranked even inside the top 60. Upside is also the name of the game—he is considered the top prospect of the Adriatic League, an honor once bestowed upon Nikola Jokic.

If I’m the GM:

Swing for the fences. It simply has to be Pasecniks or Bolden.

28. Los Angeles Lakers

Tyler Lydon, PF, Syracuse

Why:

Nick Young is as good as gone, as he simply doesn’t fit the timeline of the nü-Lakers. Why am I telling you this? Well, you see, Nick Young was a positive contributor to the Lakers’ 3-point shots. Without his 2.6 per game, the Lakers are dead last in 3-pointers made. Because Lonzo Ball is as good as gone at number 2, it sure looks like the Lakers aren’t getting any extra help beyond the arc. Though no one player can revive this dead stat, Tyler Lydon can chip away at the disparity. Known as a sharpshooter at Syracuse, Lydon can back up Randle and maybe even Zubac, and draw out defenses from the paint, then make them pay immediately.

Will also look at:

Jonah Bolden, Jawun Evans

Why would they do that?

When we’re talking about pick 28, you must either swing for the fences or accept a low percentage of conversion. Bolden is sitting overseas and oozing with potential, and it’s tough to see many teams passing on him this late. If the Lakers are truly committed to moving Clarkson (why?) they will need some help at the point, and Jawun Evans is simply the best young point guard available at this point.

If I’m the GM:

I don’t have a draft pick next year, and so I’d have to flip a coin between Lydon and Bolden. I’d also at least think about moving this pick and Clarkson for whatever it takes to draft Luke Kennard.

29. San Antonio Spurs

Jonah Bolden, PF, Belgrade

Why:

Ah, the rich get richer. The Spurs get a pick at the end of the first round every year, and they always make a pick that has people slapping their foreheads in disgust, with the rest of the NBA GM troupe wondering why they didn’t make it. With Bolden, a high-flying foreign-born player with NCAA experience, the Spurs get one of the highest upside picks in the draft, a player who didn’t work out for any teams, yet you just know RC Buford had a bead on years ago. With Kawhi, Murray and Bolden, you have to think that the Spurs are yet again set for the future.

Will also look at:

Wesley Iwundu, Sindarius Thornwell

Why would they do that?

If Ginobli retires (and let’s be honest, even if he doesn’t retire), San Antonio could be looking to fill his role—perhaps with either of these two high-IQ hard-nosed defenders with the capability to create as a secondary function. Either one would be great.

If I’m the GM:

It’s Bolden or bust. If he comes off the board before 29, it’s probably Iwundu. He’s long, he can defend and he can create. He’s an absolute Pop player.

30. Utah Jazz

Wesley Iwundu, SG/SF, Kansas State

Why:

Fewer things are more certain in this world than Alec Burks getting hurt—it’s become more of a question of “when” than “if.” Instead of continuing to buy Burks get-well-soon cards, Utah should invest in a piece that will give the same effects as a healthy—and better—Burks. Wesley Iwundu is a great defender, he can shoot from anywhere on the court and he profiles as an ideal second-unit ballhandler. In a system that is prized for its defense, Utah should have no qualms with grabbing Iwundu with the last pick in the draft.

Will also look at:

Sindarius Thornwell

Why would they do that?

If Iwundu is unavailable at 30, Thornwell is a less-lengthy version and is all but guaranteed to be there at 30.

If I’m the GM:

Just draft Iwundu, maaaaaaan.