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[Skooby]

NBA trade deadline: How can Houston catch the Warriors?

NBA trade deadline: How can Houston catch the Warriors?



There is no shortage of confidence in Houston these days.

After passing a litmus test Saturday night against the defending champion Warriors, the Rockets can now enter the next two weeks before the trade deadline with a baseline of their current roster.

What moves will help them contend with the defending champs, and what kinds of deals can they make?






The untouchables


The new $169 million extension for James Harden also comes with a no-trade clause for one year (expires on July 7). Had Harden not signed an extension in the summer, the All-Star would be deemed untouchable on the trade market. Having an MVP-type season (once again), Harden is in the prime of his career at 28 years old and is the franchise cornerstone for this Houston team.

Besides Harden, three pieces of this Rockets roster -- point guard Chris Paul, top sixth man Eric Gordon and center Clint Capela -- are deemed part of their core.

"Our core is going to be our core and we feel very confident that this group can challenge for a championship," Rockets general manager Daryl Morey told ESPN in late December.

The combination of Paul, Harden and Capela is 18-0 when all three play. Gordon continues to play a big role, either coming off the bench or starting when Harden and Paul were out with injuries. Even with Paul and Capela hitting free agency in the offseason, the Rockets are comfortable that both players will be part of the long-term future.

He's not part of the core, but Gerald Green was signed to a one-year contract in late December and cannot be traded at the deadline.





The value of the roster
On any given night the Rockets can go 11 deep with their roster.

Still dominant on the offensive end (second in offensive rating), Houston changed the personality of its team by signing PJ Tucker and Luc Mbah a Moute for a combined $9 million in the offseason. Both players -- along with the addition of Paul (All-Defensive first team the past four seasons) -- plus returning starters Trevor Ariza and Capela have Houston ranked 12th in defensive rating, up six spots from last season. Before the Mbah a Moute injury, Houston ranked second, behind only the Warriors in defensive rating.

"We can roll out strong defensive lineups," Morey said. "We don't put out any lineup without three strong defenders. We have to be able to play both ends of the court."

As evidenced by their 25-4 record to start the season and their recent win, the Rockets can challenge Golden State in the Western Conference when healthy. The only question: Can the Rockets get to mid-April in one piece? Harden, Paul, Capela and Mbah a Moute all have missed time this season because of injury.



Rockets roster breakdown
Player Current Salary Roster Type
1. James Harden $28,299,399 Franchise
2. Chris Paul* $24,599,495 Franchise
3. Clint Capela* $2,334,528 Core
4. Eric Gordon $12,943,020 Top starter
5. Trevor Ariza $7,420,912 Starter
6. Ryan Anderson $19,578,455 Key reserve
7. PJ Tucker $7,590,035 Key reserve
8. Luc Mbah a Moute* $1,471,382 Key reserve
9. Nene Hilario $3,477,600 Rotation A
10. Tarik Black* $3,290,000 Rotation A
11. Gerald Green* $872,854 Rotation B
12. Troy Williams $1,471,382 Development
13. Chinanu Onuaku $1,312,611 Development
14. Zhou Qi $815,615 Development
*2018 Free Agent






The chemistry factor


Don't think that the Rockets' front office is content with the second-best record in the NBA.

"When you are in our window of a chance to win it all, you need to be aggressive like last year when we added Lou Williams," Morey said.

Since taking over as GM in 2007, Morey has been active at the deadline with 14 trades, the most of any current front office in the past 11 seasons. However, Houston's 33-12 record also brings with it concerns that making an in-season trade could disrupt the chemistry on and off the court.

"I think the better your team is, the more you think of continuity and chemistry," Morey said.

Case in point: Ariza. The starting small forward is on an expiring contract and continues to have value in the NBA based on his durability (he has missed only two games because of an injury in three seasons) and leadership. The Rockets could lose the small forward in free agency in five months, but trading him now would be detrimental.





Toughest contract to trade


A year from now, the Ryan Anderson contract will be deemed more of an asset. The starting power forward is under contract through the 2019-20 season with cap hits of $19.6 million, $20.4 million and $21.3 million. As the offseason showed in the dialogue with the New York Knicks about Carmelo Anthony, moving the current Anderson contract presents obstacles. However, as the months pass and his salary begins to decrease in the amount owed and years left, Houston will have a trade chip. Although his contract is bloated -- like the rest of the 2016 free-agent class -- and he has been plagued by inconsistent play, Anderson will not turn 30 until May and still presents challenges for opponents with his ability to space the floor.

Because the Rockets are also unlikely to be a major factor in free agency over the next few years because of the Harden extension and new contracts for Paul and Capela, Houston can shop the Anderson contract in 2019 and balance out the roster.





The tradable contracts


Houston does not have any trade exceptions available to acquire a player without giving up a contract. Without disrupting their depth, the Rockets do have young players such as Troy Williams, Zhou Qi and Chinanu Onuaku on minimum-salary-type deals that they could package together or separately. All three players are on either a partial or non-guaranteed contract for next season and could bring back salary ranging from $2.5 million to $6.4 million.

The Rockets are currently $2.67 million below the luxury tax and taking back salary would likely push them into the tax for only the third time since the 2002-03 season. Going into the tax could be justified based on Houston's record and title ambitions.





The roster change that moves the needle


Houston will need to keep Paul fresh for the second half of the season. Though Harden or Gordon can handle point guard duties when Paul is out of the game, Houston relied on two-way players (recently: Briante Weber) when Paul was out with an injury.

One name at backup PG stands out: the Grizzlies' Mario Chalmers. Chalmers is a free agent in the offseason and the asking price to acquire him is not high since Memphis is out of playoff contention.

Chalmers is on a minimum contract and can be acquired without giving up a player. There also is no need to give up a draft pick for a three-month rental, and Houston can send back cash to make a deal work.





The limited draft assets


Unlike last season when Houston was able to trade its 2017 first-round pick and add scoring off the bench in Lou Williams, the Rockets do not have that luxury this trade deadline.

The Paul trade in June has left the Rockets without their first-round pick this year. Houston is not allowed to trade a first during the season until two years after its pick owed to the Atlanta Hawks is conveyed. The Hawks (via the Clippers) are projected to land the 28th pick in the draft from the Rockets (top-four protected).

Houston does have what is projected to be the 53rd pick (from Miami) in the draft and, starting in 2020, its own second picks.





Post-trade deadline roster movement


Houston will have an open roster spot available if there is no trade to be made.

The Rockets have only the prorated minimum exception available and will have an eye on the buyout market at the end of February.

One veteran who could be available by March 1 is the Magic's Arron Afflalo. While offense is not an issue in Houston, adding another shooter off the bench -- even if Afflalo is on the downside of his career -- could prove to be beneficial.

Signing a player would cost Houston roughly $400,000 and keep the Rockets under the tax.

 

[Jplaya2023]

Eight big trades we'd like to see at the NBA deadline

 

[Skooby]

Eight big trades we'd like to see at the NBA deadline

Eight big trades we'd like to see at the NBA deadline


Major Cavs shakeup


Cavs get: George Hill, Derrick Favors, Rodney Hood, Utah's 2018 first-round pick (protected Nos. 1-14 in 2018, Nos. 1-4 from 2019 to 2021, converts to UTA and WAS second-round picks in 2021 if not previously conveyed)

Jazz get: Kevin Love, Malachi Richardson, Derrick Rose

Kings get: Joe Johnson, Iman Shumpert, Miami's 2020 second-round pick (from CLE)

View in ESPN's trade machine

Kevin Pelton: I think this trade could make sense for all three teams. While Cleveland surely doesn't want to move Love, this version of the deal turns one rotation player -- who's currently injured -- into three productive players who would dramatically improve the Cavaliers' perimeter depth. Like last summer's Kyrie Irving trade, this one balances Cleveland's short-term goals with the desire to prepare for life after LeBron James, adding a first-round pick (likely to come in 2019) and cutting $16 million from the team's 2018-19 payroll pending decisions on whether to re-sign Favors and Hood. And the Cavaliers would keep Channing Frye, either to use in another deal as an expiring contract or to play situationally off the bench.

For Utah, this deal consolidates expiring contracts into a better player than the Jazz could possibly hope to get using cap space this summer. That comes at the cost of a first-round pick, as well as whatever value Favors and Hood would hold in trades elsewhere, but I like the Love-Rudy Gobert frontcourt going forward. Sacramento makes more or less the same deal involving Hill that was previously rumored while finding a new home for Richardson without having to give up any draft picks.





Tyreke to Cleveland


Cavs get: Tyreke Evans, $3.29 million trade exception

Grizzlies get: Cleveland's 2018 first-round pick

Bobby Marks: Taking on Evans' $3.3 million salary comes at a cost for Cleveland. Acquired into the $5.8 million Kyle Korver trade exception that was created in January 2017, Evans would cost Cleveland an additional $14 million in luxury tax.

Is it worth it for a four-month rental? In the case of Evans, yes. The Grizzlies' best player this season (sorry, Marc Gasol) gives the Cavaliers a dimension they lack -- a combo guard who can play on or off the ball if needed. The cost for the Cavaliers is their own first-round pick.

From a roster standpoint, Cleveland would need to waive Derrick Rose, who has been ineffective. For the Grizzlies, acquiring a first-round pick for a player such as Evans -- set to enter free agency in July -- is a great return.





Love for DJ


Cavs get: DeAndre Jordan

Clippers get: Kevin Love

View in ESPN's trade machine

André Snellings: Kevin Love is a five-time All-Star, but his skill set overlaps too much with LeBron James' for them to mesh perfectly. Like LeBron, Love needs the ball to be maximized.

Jordan is the interior defensive anchor Cleveland needs, and he doesn't require the ball on offense -- he can play off LeBron and the Cavs' other playmakers. Jordan is also healthy and would make a great big-man platoon with Channing Frye, who would fill in when a shooter is needed.

Meanwhile, Love would be a perfect fit for the Clippers. He has the game to fill Blake Griffin's old role and then some. Compared with Griffin, he is just as natural as an offensive hub out top but has a better jumper and is a much better rebounder. Love's game also fits well with that of newly acquired Tobias Harris.

As an added perk, it would be a return to L.A. for Love -- a former star at UCLA -- who would give the Clippers a marketable face of the franchise with championship experience.





The Brow to Philly
76ers get: Anthony Davis

Pelicans get: Amir Johnson, Dario Saric, Markelle Fultz, the Lakers' 2018 first-round pick (No. 1, or Nos. 6-30) or the Kings' 2019 first-round pick

View in ESPN's trade machine

Jeremias Engelmann: We already know New Orleans does not intend to trade Davis, but I think they should consider it.

The Pelicans are in a tough spot. With DeMarcus Cousins out for the season, they probably won't make the playoffs. And the future looks even more bleak.

Why? Without Cousins, whose return to the roster and to full health is far from assured, the Pelicans won't have enough to compete for a top seed in the playoffs. This potentially creates the situation we've seen many times over the years -- a superstar who is good enough to get his team to the middle of the pack, where it probably misses the playoffs and misses out on getting a top draft pick. That's no-man's-land, and that's where the Pelicans appear to be.

Fultz's shooting woes are well-known, but he's just 19 -- chances are he'll return to the form that made him the No. 1 pick in the draft just months ago. The Pelicans would also receive a high draft pick this year or next year, in addition to Saric, a promising 23-year-old already playing big minutes for a potential playoff team.

It's extremely difficult to give up a player like Davis and take a step back in the standings, which is why the Pelicans probably won't do it until their hand is forced -- Davis is under contract until at least the summer of 2020. But while the Pelicans would be starting at the bottom, this trade would brighten their long-term future.

On the Sixers' side, the equation is easy. With Davis, Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons, they would have a huge trio of stars that could dominate the league for years to come.







Tyreke to Philly


76ers get: Tyreke Evans, Brandan Wright

Grizzlies get: Jerryd Bayless, Philly's 2018 first-round pick (protected Nos. 1-14 in 2018, weaker of 76ers' and Kings' picks protected Nos. 1-14 in 2019, Nos. 1-4 2020, converts to DAL and PHI second-round picks in 2020 if not previously conveyed)

View in ESPN's trade machine

Pelton: Although the Sixers are in eighth place in the Eastern Conference, I think there's a chance for them to make some noise in the playoffs this year. Philadelphia has the fifth-best point differential in the East, and FiveThirtyEight's CARM-Elo projections have the 76ers finishing just one game shy of home-court advantage.

Evans would be a huge upgrade to the second-unit offense and capable of finishing games as a spot-up shooter alongside Ben Simmons. Plus, Philadelphia sheds Bayless' $8.6 million salary for 2018-19. Taking that on might prevent the Grizzlies from using their full midlevel exception this summer, even if they stretch Bayless' salary, but they get a first-round pick with more upside to finish in the teens than the others they're likely to be offered for Evans.





Avery Bradley to OKC


Thunder get: Avery Bradley

Clippers get: Alex Abrines, Josh Huestis, OKC's 2018 second-round pick, $1.6 million trade exception

View in ESPN's trade machine

Marks: The eight-game winning streak in Oklahoma City has been replaced by a four-game losing streak (with Golden State on deck), after the loss of defensive stopper Andre Roberson for the season. The Thunder have been relying on a committee to fill the void, including rookie Terrance Ferguson.

The challenge for OKC to cobble a deal together is matching $8.8 million (125 percent) of Bradley's salary without trading Ferguson and top three reserves Raymond Felton, Jerami Grant and Patrick Patterson. Because of those restrictions, a trade for Bradley would cost it Abrines and Huestis.

The Thunder would love to add the $4.7 million Kyle Singler contract (plus his 2018-19 salary) to the deal, but they don't have much additional salary to get the finances to work, unless they want to include current contributors. The cost for the Thunder is also $4 million in additional luxury tax penalties for a player who will hit free agency in July.

For the Clippers, the decision to move an expiring contract and take on the additional salary next season (Abrines is owed $5.7 million) will need to be weighed. Does 24-year-old Abrines play a part in the future? And if he doesn't, wouldn't the Clippers be best just letting Bradley walk for nothing? Besides its own second-round pick added in the trade, Oklahoma City can also include Boston's 2018 second.





Lou Will to Miami


Heat get: Lou Williams

Clippers get: Tyler Johnson, Justise Winslow

View in ESPN's trade machine

Snellings: The Heat are a scrappy team that can string together wins in the regular season. But they lack the top-end offensive talent to be dangerous when defenses tighten up in the playoffs.

Williams would be a Megatron version of what they got from Dion Waiters a year ago, and would give them a legitimate No. 1 scoring threat who wouldn't necessarily disturb their team chemistry since he could ease into his role off the bench.

Johnson is redundant with Heat starting point guard Goran Dragic, but he has the talent to potentially be the Clippers' lead guard of the future. He would have to waive his trade kicker for this deal to work, and he is owed $19 million in each of the next two seasons. Still, he's only 25 and would help upgrade LA's backcourt long term.

Winslow was a dark-horse favorite out of the 2015 draft to become an impact wing as an athletic defensive stopper, but his offensive game hasn't developed. He would get a fresh start with LA and, at age 21, has time to find his game.

 

[Skooby]

Dragic and Whiteside to Cleveland


Cavs get: Wayne Ellington, Goran Dragic, Hassan Whiteside

Heat get: Kevin Love, Channing Frye, Isaiah Thomas, Derrick Rose, Brooklyn's 2018 first-round pick

View in ESPN's trade machine

Engelmann: The Heat are seventh in the East after riding a four-game losing streak down the standings, with a negative scoring margin on the season -- essentially an average team.

To make matters worse, they have one of the highest expected payrolls next season and owe two future first-round picks to Phoenix.

The solution seems rather obvious, if they can do it: acquire expiring contracts and draft picks. Enter the Cavs, who have a coveted first-round pick from Brooklyn and multiple expiring contracts attached to Thomas, Rose and Frye, none of whom is making a big contribution in Cleveland.

Losing Love (currently injured) would hurt, but the Cavs would be getting three talented players who could plug gigantic holes immediately.

Whiteside is the league's best player in defensive real plus-minus (DRPM) and would be a major boost to a Cleveland defense that is ranked 28th. Ellington is a tremendous shooter who could replace JR Smith, who hasn't played well. And Dragic would be a significant upgrade over Thomas and Rose at point guard.

If LeBron leaves in free agency, then losing the Brooklyn pick hurts, but this move would give the Cavs a real shot to compete while they still have James.

 

[storyteller]

McShay's 2018 NFL Mock Draft 2.0: Barkley's best landing spot

thanks in advance

 

[Skooby]

McShay's 2018 NFL Mock Draft 2.0: Barkley's best landing spot

thanks in advance

Todd McShay's 2018 NFL Mock Draft 2.0

1. Cleveland Browns
Sam Darnold, QB, USC*



I still believe the Browns need to address the QB position here, and any of the top four quarterbacks are in play now that Darnold and Josh Rosen have officially declared for the draft. This pick obviously changes (or is up for grabs via trade) if Cleveland lands Kirk Cousins in free agency. Between off-field issues for Rosen and his tools and intangibles on the field, Darnold should be the pick. I understand why Kiper went with Josh Allen in his first mock, but Darnold is a little safer. He's the best of the bunch at this point.

2. New York Giants
Josh Rosen, QB, UCLA*



New coach Pat Shurmur has publicly supported 37-year-old Eli Manning as New York's starting QB next season, so this pick remains the same as my last mock. The Giants could take Rosen as the heir apparent, but I wouldn't be surprised if a team traded with New York to get ahead of the Jets and Broncos in an effort to grab Rosen. Drafting Saquon Barkley to pair with Odell Beckham Jr. could be a possibility as well. The Giants have a lot of options.

3. Indianapolis Colts
Bradley Chubb, DE, NC State



Indianapolis has needs all over the roster but is one of the few teams in the top 10 that should be set at QB, assuming Andrew Luck comes back healthy. One of their needs is an edge rusher, and Chubb is the best one available. He's a grinder with a great motor and has played his way into being a top-10 pick. The Colts will be another potential team looking to trade back if someone wants to move up for a QB.

4. Cleveland Browns (via Houston Texans)
Saquon Barkley, RB, Penn State*

The Browns have a lot of needs (CB, WR, DE opposite Myles Garrett among them), but they have a real chance to finish off a home run draft in this scenario. With a new QB at No. 1, running back is also a need. Isaiah Crowell is a pending free agent, and Duke Johnson has one year left on his deal. Barkley is better than both players and is No. 1 on my list of the top 32 prospects. He's the best player in this draft.

5. Denver Broncos
Baker Mayfield, QB, Oklahoma



The Broncos have to accept that they missed on Paxton Lynch (No. 26 overall in 2016) and are still looking for a franchise QB. This is another potential landing spot for Cousins or another free-agent QB, but if Denver doesn't get one in free agency, it will likely use an early pick on a signal-caller. John Elway was at the Senior Bowl and scouted both Mayfield and Josh Allen. This will be a really interesting pick if both are on the board. Mayfield had an impressive week in Mobile and checked the biggest remaining box with his measurements (6-foot, 216 pounds, 9½-inch hand span). He's rising.

6. New York Jets
Josh Allen, QB, Wyoming*

Yes, it's a running theme -- this is another landing spot for Cousins. If the Jets don't sign him in free agency, Allen makes a lot of sense if Mayfield is off the board. There is a significant drop-off in talent after the first four QBs in this draft, so the Jets need to make sure they grab one here. Allen had an impressive performance at the Senior Bowl, showing off his arm and his mobility. There are still concerns about his accuracy and ability to make multidimensional throws consistently, but all the tools are there. And he has the prototypical QB build (6-4 7/8, 237).

7. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Minkah Fitzpatrick, S, Alabama*

The Bucs were dead last in the NFL with 17 sacks last season, and the defense was been porous (31st in total points). They still need another edge rusher opposite Noah Spence, but drafting the best possible player is better than reaching for a pass-rusher here. Fitzpatrick is a shutdown cornerback with the versatility to play safety and can be plugged in immediately.

8. Chicago Bears
Calvin Ridley, WR, Alabama

The Bears desperately need playmakers on the outside for second-year QB Mitchell Trubisky and can't count on Kevin White to stay healthy. Ridley is the clear No. 1 wideout in this class, and while I don't think he's a true No. 1 NFL wide receiver, he's much better than his stats in a run-heavy Alabama offense indicate. Denzel Ward would be another consideration here.

9. San Francisco 49ers**
Denzel Ward, CB, Ohio State*



Well, things have changed a bit for the 49ers, haven't they? With Jimmy Garoppolo looking like a franchise QB, all of a sudden it's no longer a position of need for San Francisco. Instead, the 49ers can look to the defensive side of the ball and grab the best man-to-man cover corner in this draft. Ward lacks ideal starting experience at Ohio State but was exceptional this season and quickly rose up my board.

10. Oakland Raiders**


Tremaine Edmunds, DE/OLB, Virginia Tech*



The Oakland defense gave up 5.6 yards per play last season (27th), so help is needed. CB Gareon Conley, last year's first-round pick, is still an unknown after playing only two games in 2017, which means the secondary is still a question mark. But the Raiders also have a need at linebacker, and with the top two CBs off the board, they can choose between Edwards and Roquan Smith. Edmunds is a better fit for Oakland, as he can play off the line and rush off the edge. He's an athletic freak who will turn some heads at the combine.

11. Miami Dolphins
Quenton Nelson, G, Notre Dame*



Quarterback could be an option if one of the top four QBs is still available here. However, Miami has a glaring need at guard, both in the run game (29th in rushing yards in 2017) and to protect Ryan Tannehill. Dolphins fans won't be excited with this pick, but they would be getting one of the top five players in this draft. Nelson is one of the safer picks.

12. Cincinnati Bengals
Connor Williams, OT, Texas*

Cincinnati had a disappointing season, and the offensive line was a big reason why. Cedric Ogbuehi and Jake Fisher (out for the season with an irregular heartbeat) haven't played up to their draft potential, and Cincinnati struggled to protect Andy Dalton and run the ball. The Bengals should take the best offensive lineman available at No. 12. If they are comfortable with Williams' medicals, he's the most gifted left tackle in this class.

13. Washington Redskins
Roquan Smith, LB, Georgia*

After trading for Alex Smith and parting ways with Cousins, the QB position will no longer be an issue for the Redskins. Now they must shore up their defense and add weapons for Smith. Derwin James is a possibility here, especially with the uncertainty surrounding Su'a Cravens, but Smith is the best player on the board and would immediately increase the speed and athleticism on Washington's defensive front.

14. Green Bay Packers
Marcus Davenport, DE, UTSA

Davenport was one of the clear winners of the Senior Bowl. Not only were his measurements impressive (6-5 7/8, 259), but he was terrific in practice. He's still a work in progress and needs more of a variety of pass-rush moves, but he's already long and powerful. Green Bay needs more difference-makers on defense, and Davenport could be one.

15. Arizona Cardinals


Orlando Brown, OT, Oklahoma*

The Cardinals seem likely to add a quarterback in free agency, but if they don't and one of the top four QBs is available here, they'd have to consider taking him. If QB isn't an option, cornerback opposite Patrick Peterson and offensive line should be the two target areas. Brown would be an immediate upgrade at right tackle for Arizona. He's overpowering and a nasty run-blocker. Plus, it takes a $20 cab ride to get around him as a pass-rusher.

16. Baltimore Ravens
Vita Vea, DT, Washington*

The Ravens are in dire need of offensive playmakers, but there just isn't the value at this point in the draft. What direction will GM Ozzie Newsome go for his final NFL draft? He has usually gone best player available, and that's what I see Baltimore doing here. Vea is a versatile defensive lineman who has drawn comparisons to Haloti Ngata and should put up some big numbers at the combine.

 

[Skooby]

17. Los Angeles Chargers
Derwin James, S, Florida State*

James had a disappointing season at Florida State, but he would fit perfectly in defensive coordinator Gus Bradley's scheme. James flies around the field versus the run and is a good matchup piece in the passing game. I think he'll have a better pro career than he did at FSU.

18. Seattle Seahawks
Mike Hughes, CB, UCF*

Hughes is a little smaller (listed at 5-11, 185) than the Seahawks typically like for their corners, but he excels in press-man coverage. An outstanding talent, Hughes is capable of winning a starting job as a rookie. He has had some trouble off the field, but he has matured, and Seattle hasn't shied away from players with troubled pasts before. Cornerback is an area of need with Richard Sherman's future still up in the air.

19. Dallas Cowboys
Mo Hurst, DT, Michigan

I'm higher on Hurst than others, but he's a good value here in the mid-to-late first round. He's highly disruptive in the middle and would be a good fit as a three-technique in Rod Marinelli's scheme. With Jason Witten turning 36 this offseason, TE Dallas Goedert could be an option here as well.

20. Detroit Lions
Isaiah Wynn, OG, Georgia

An edge rusher would be ideal with Ezekiel Ansah a pending free agent, but I don't see a great value here. Detroit has plenty of needs on defense, but needs to keep Matthew Stafford upright to have any chance. Wynn developed into a dominant OT at Georgia and had a brilliant week of practice at the Senior Bowl when they moved him to guard.

21. Buffalo Bills
Rashaan Evans, LB, Alabama



The big question for the Bills is what they're doing at QB. Will they package this pick and No. 22 to move up for one? Buffalo missed on LB Reggie Ragland (a 2016 second-rounder who was traded to K.C.), but I think they go back to the well here. Evans is much more athletic than Ragland and really came on strong during the 2017 season for Alabama. He has great range in coverage and can play the run.

22. Buffalo Bills (via Kansas City Chiefs)
Da'Ron Payne, DT, Alabama*

Payne's sack numbers are underwhelming, but he's a disruptive interior player. Just turn on the national championship game film; it seemed like he was in the backfield most plays. I believe he can be an every-down defensive lineman in the NFL and get pressure on QBs frequently. He's also a playmaking run defender.

23. Los Angeles Rams
Billy Price, G/C, Ohio State

A plug-and-play starter, Price will help an improved Rams offense line on the inside. A four-year starter, Price has elite experience at both guard and center. An excellent leader, I would think he'd play guard for Los Angeles.

24. Carolina Panthers


Christian Kirk, WR, Texas A&M*

Kirk had a frustrating 2017 season but showed flashes of why he should be picked this high. The Panthers need to continue to put playmakers around Cam Newton, and Kirk can threaten defenses vertically and create with the ball in his hands.

25. Tennessee Titans
Dallas Goedert, TE, South Dakota State

It isn't a terrific tight end group this year, but Goedert is the best one in this class. He's still a little underrated and didn't get a chance to shine in the Senior Bowl, as he was injured on the first day of practice. You don't get too many two-way TEs coming out of college, but Goedert fits the bill. He's got a big frame (6-4, 260) with good speed and can play in-line or detached. He's another good, young weapon for Marcus Mariota.

26. Atlanta Falcons
James Daniels, G/C, Iowa*

The Falcons may look to the defensive line with Dontari Poe and Courtney Upshaw both free agents, but they could also upgrade their running game with Daniels. He played mostly at center for Iowa but does have experience at guard. He has very consistent tape.

 

[Skooby]

27. New Orleans Saints
Harold Landry, OLB, Boston College

Wide receiver is a bigger need for New Orleans, but there's no value fit here. The Saints could use another edge rusher to pair with Sheldon Rankins and Cam Jordan. Landry is a bit undersized and battled through an ankle injury this season, but he has shown the ability to get home as a pass-rusher (he led the nation with 16.5 sacks in 2016). A hard worker, he uses his hands well and shows the flexibility to bend the edge.

28. Pittsburgh Steelers


Josh Jackson, CB, Iowa*

The Steelers still can use help on the outside, even after using a first-round pick on a CB in 2016 (Artie Burns). Jackson is a long corner and an absolute ball hawk who led the nation with eight INTs. His timed speed at the combine will play a big role in where he gets drafted.

29. Jacksonville Jaguars
Hayden Hurst, TE, South Carolina*

This may be a bit of a reach for Hurst, but he's a big (6-5, 250), athletic target who can contribute immediately. A former pro baseball player, Hurst has good ball skills and can help stretch the field for Leonard Fournette and Jacksonville's offense.

30. Minnesota Vikings
Mike McGlinchey, OT, Notre Dame

Minnesota came up short in the NFC Championship Game, but this is a very solid roster with good depth throughout. The biggest question mark is at QB, but that will be solved one way or another in free agency. Even after investing in the offensive line last offseason (Mike Remmers, Riley Reiff), the Vikings could use some more depth there. McGlinchey is a good player who played left tackle at Notre Dame but will likely be an RT at the next level. He's an experienced starter with great character. Minnesota has had success with Fighting Irish players in the past (Harrison Smith, Kyle Rudolph).

31. New England Patriots
M.J. Stewart, CB, North Carolina

Given his Super Bowl controversy, it certainly appears New England will part ways with Malcolm Butler. Spending an early pick on a CB makes sense, especially with Stephon Gilmore on the other side. Stewart is underrated and an experienced player, with adequate height (5-10) and very good top-end speed. He'll also support the run.

32. Philadelphia Eagles
Taven Bryan, DT, Florida*



After winning a Super Bowl with a backup QB, it's fair to say this is a deep roster. The Eagles have the luxury of drafting for value, and it's never a bad idea to add depth along the defensive line. A twitchy one-gap DT with the tools to continue to develop, Bryan is raw, but he has the athleticism to mold and good get-off quickness. He could work into Philadelphia's defensive line rotation behind Fletcher Cox and Timmy Jernigan.

 

[Frump]

NBA mock draft: Five rising prospects for 2019

 

[Skooby]

NBA mock draft: Five rising prospects for 2019

NBA mock draft: Five rising prospects for 2019



With the trade deadline in the rearview mirror, NBA decision-makers can now shift their attention not only to the 2018 draft, but beyond. At this time of year, more than ever, they will be closely monitoring the progress of young players around the globe.


Teams try to build deep and thorough logs in their internal scouting databases on as many legitimate draft prospects as possible. That includes collecting background information on physical development, character, injury history, social media tendencies and much more. You can never have too much data at your disposal to help understand a player's trajectory potential, which includes where they came from, their current status and what they might achieve down the road.

The 2018 high school senior class is considered one of the weakest in some time, and with the international crop looking fairly shallow (once again), NBA teams aren't overly optimistic early about about the way the 2019 draft is shaping up thus far, particularly within the top 10, but also in terms of first-round depth.

There is an alarming lack of quality point guards on the horizon. However, it seems highly unlikely that only eight freshmen will end up becoming one-and-done draft picks, as we currently have projected. We don't know who will be the next Trae Young (No. 21 by RSCI), Daniel Gafford (No. 36) or Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (No. 33), but certainly someone will emerge from the pack who ends up being much better than the high school recruiting analysts thought.

Here's our new 2019 mock draft, including five relatively new players who have established themselves as first-round prospects to keep an eye on heading into the 2018-19 season. If you're searching for a common theme, players on teams that have exceeded expectations and are contributing to squads playing winning basketball are always a good place to start.

Keep in mind that this is not an exact science. A certain amount of projection goes into evaluating a draft class 16 months out, and we'll have to see whether these players continue to improve and take the next steps in their evolution or stagnate and get eclipsed by others.

Note: ESPN's Future Power Rankings and Basketball Power Index were used to project the draft order.



2019 NBA mock draft
Team Player Year/League Team Height Pos. Age
1. PHI (via SAC) R.J. Barrett HS Sr. Duke 6-8 SG 17.6
2. PHX Cameron Reddish HS Sr. Duke 6-7 SF 18.4
3. CHI Zion Williamson HS Sr. Duke 6-6 PF 17.6
4. ATL Nassir Little HS SR. North Carolina 6-6 SF 18.0
5. BKN Romeo Langford HS Sr. Uncommitted 6-6 SG 18.3
6. NYK Luka Samanic LEB Gold Barcelona 2 6-11 PF 18.0
7. ORL Sekou Doumbouya France 2 Poitiers 6-9 PF 17.1
8. DAL Quentin Grimes HS Sr. Kansas 6-4 SG 17.7
9. BOS (via MEM) Bol Bol HS Sr. Oregon 7-2 C 18.2
10. CHA Louis King HS Sr. Oregon 6-7 SF 18.8
11. NOP Jontay Porter Fr. Missouri 6-11 C 18.2
12. LAL Rui Hachimura So. Gonzaga 6-8 PF 20.0
13. LAC Justin Jackson So. Maryland 6-7 SF/PF 20.9
14. POR Marko Simonovic LegaDue Siena 7-0 PF/C 18.3
15. IND Herb Jones Fr. Alabama 6-8 SF 19.3
16. UTA Zhaire Smith Fr. Texas Tech 6-5 SF 18.6
17. DET Nickeil Alexander-Walker Fr. Virginia Tech 6-5 PG 19.4
18. MIA Aric Holman Jr. Mississippi St. 6-10 PF/C 20.5
19. OKC Gary Trent Fr. Duke 6-5 SG 19.0
20. ATL (via CLE) O'Shae Brissett Fr. Syracuse 6-9 PF 19.6
21. DEN Terence Davis Jr. Mississippi 6-5 SG 20.7
22. MIL Kris Wilkes Fr. UCLA 6-7 SF/PF 19.4
23. WAS D'Marcus Simonds So. Georgia St 6-3 PG/SG 20.3
24. BOS (via PHI) De'Andre Hunter Fr. Virginia 6-8 PF 20.1
25. TOR Jarrey Foster Jr. SMU 6-6 SF 21.1
26. MIN Josh Okogie So. Georgia Tech 6-4 SG 19.4
27. SAS Jerome Robinson Jr. Boston College 6-5 SG 20.9
28. BOS Brandon Randolph Fr. Arizona 6-6 SG 20.4
29. HOU Kyle Alexander Jr. Tennessee 6-11 C 21.3
30. GSW Donte Divincenzo So. Villanova 6-5 PG/SG 21.0
31. PHI (via SAC) Jarred Vanderbilt Fr. Kentucky 6-8 SF/PF 18.8
32. PHX Kevin Huerter So. Maryland 6-6 SG 19.4
33. LAL (via CHI) John Petty Fr. Alabama 6-5 SG 19.1
34. ATL Shamorie Ponds So. St. John's 6-1 PG 19.6
35 ORL (via BKN) Quinton Rose So. Temple 6-8 SG 20.0
36. BKN (via NYK) Markis McDuffie Jr. Wichita St 6-8 SF 20.4
37. ORL Isaac Bonga Germany Frankfurt 6-9 SF 18.2
38. DAL Tony Carr So. Penn St 6-3 PG 20.3
39. MEM Donta Hall Jr. Alabama 6-9 C 20.5
40. CHA Sagaba Konate So. West Virginia 6-8 C 20.4
41. NOP Tryggvi Hlinason ACB Valencia 7-1 C 20.2
42. POR (via LAL) Goga Bitadze Adriatic Mega Bemax 6-11 C 18.5
43. LAC Tyus Battle So. Syracuse 6-7 SG/SF 20.3
44. LAC (via POR) James Palmer Jr. Nebraska 6-6 SF 21.5
45. IND Josh Reaves Jr. Penn St 6-4 SG 20.6
46. UTA Austin Wiley So. Auburn 6-11 C 19.0
47. DET Markus Howard So. Marquette 6-0 PG 18.9
48. MIN (via MIA) Killian Tillie So. Gonzaga 6-10 PF 19.7
49. OKC D.J. Hogg Jr. Texas A&M 6-9 SF/PF 21.4
50. SAC (via CLE) Nick Richards Fr. Kentucky 6-11 C 20.2
51. DEN Omer Yurtseven So. N.C. State 7-0 C 19.6
52. SAC (via MIL) Abdoulaye N'doye France Cholet 6-7 PG 19.9
53. DEN (via WAS) Tadas Sedekerskis Lithuania Nevezis 6-10 SF 20.0
54. PHI Matisse Thybulle Jr. Washington 6-5 SG 20.9
55. TOR Aleksa Radanov Adriatic FMP 6-8 SG 20.0
56. ATL (via MIN) LaGerald Vick Jr. Kansas 6-5 SG 21.0
57. SAS Cameron Johnson Jr. North Carolina 6-7 SF 21.9
58. MEM (via BOS) John Konchar Jr. IPFW 6-6 SG 21.9
59. NYK (via HOU) Shakur Juiston Jr. UNLV 6-7 PF 20.8
60. DAL (via GSW) Vic Law Jr. Northwestern 6-7 SF/PF 22.1

De'Andre Hunter | 6-foot-8 | Fr. (RS)


Power forward | Virginia

At 12-1 in the ACC and 23-2 overall, Virginia should be ranked No. 1 when the polls are released on Monday, and Hunter is a huge reason for that.

Despite redshirting last year and now coming off the bench, Hunter has overcome a slow start and established himself as an essential cog on both ends of the floor.

While slightly undersized at 6-8, Hunter's 7-2 wingspan, chiseled frame and outstanding lateral quickness more than make up for that, allowing him to defend guards, wings and big men alike. We've seen him effectively slow down ACC stars such as 6-11 Marvin Bagley III, 6-4 Josh Okogie and 6-7 Tyus Battle, demonstrating the type of multipositional defensive versatility that the NBA so actively covets these days.

Hunter enjoys an unusual amount of offensive freedom for a freshman on the slowest-paced team in all of college basketball, ranking second on the team in usage, He's one of the better shot-creators on the team thanks to his ability to dribble, pass and shoot, and his poise, confidence and versatility on this end of the floor have been impressive.

Hunter's jumper is far from a finished product, but he has a nice stroke and the ability to stretch the floor confidently, something that will be tracked closely going into next season as one of the biggest keys to his evolution as a prospect. The fact that he is such a good passer helps mask the fact that he's not a freakish athlete. But it will be important for the 20-year-old to continue to make progress with his skill level and polish as incumbent starting forwards Devon Hall and Isaiah Wilkins graduate and he's asked to step into their shoes as a sophomore.

You can't have enough versatility, basketball IQ and length at the combo forward position in today's NBA, and Hunter stands out in both those categories as a strong candidate to play positionless basketball. Being a key cog on the No. 1 defensive team in college basketball while learning how to play a role under highly respected coach Tony Bennett helps his cause a great deal, as well.

 

[Skooby]

Zhaire Smith | 6-5 | Fr.


Small forward | Texas Tech

Texas Tech will achieve its highest AP poll ranking in program history when the polls are officially released Monday.

Part of the reason for that -- besides senior point guard Keenan Evans and the leadership of coach of the year candidate Chris Beard -- is the play of Smith, an unheralded freshman who has made huge contributions on both ends of the floor.

A season-ending injury to senior Zach Smith forced Zhaire Smith into the starting lineup, and he has responded with impressive productivity and a slew of highlight-reel plays that have made him a fixture on SportsCenter.


Smith fits the mold of what NBA teams are looking for in a wing physically, standing 6-4 barefoot with a 6-10 wingspan, an excellent 199-pound frame and tremendous athletic ability, all while measuring a 44-inch vertical leap, according to Texas Tech. He covers ground exceptionally. He's quick off his feet and explosive vertically, being one of the better two-foot jumpers in high-major basketball.

Smith's offensive game is raw at this stage, as his ballhandling skills are crude and his jump shot is far from a consistent weapon. He's still figuring out the nuances of utilizing his athleticism to create high-percentage shots, even if he's a terror attacking in a straight line in the half court or operating in the open floor. While his shooting mechanics aren't terrible, he doesn't have great footwork and regularly passes up open shots from the perimeter, hitting just eight 3-pointers on the season through 25 games. To Smith's credit, he doesn't turn the ball over, plays an efficient style and shows flashes of a solid basketball IQ, despite not having the most polished skill level.

Smith's primary value at the moment comes on the defensive end, where his combination of quickness, length, intensity and anticipation skills makes him a multipositional stopper. He's the only underclassman in high-major basketball averaging more than 1.8 blocks and steals per 40 minutes pace adjusted. Texas Tech is an undersized team, and Smith's ability to put a body on power forwards, despite his still-developing frame, has been valuable for the Red Raiders at times.

Smith will benefit from another year of seasoning in the Big 12, as he has been somewhat inconsistent throughout the year, which is to be expected considering his career trajectory (No. 223-rated high school recruit) and the fact that he doesn't turn 19 until June. He'll have to show he can make shots with his feet set and score more consistently in the half court to hold scouts' interest next year, but he has certainly put himself on the map.



Herb Jones | 6-8 | Fr.


Shooting guard/small forward | Alabama

Jones had his coming-out party on a national stage at the end of January against Oklahoma, being tasked with slowing down Trae Young while also initiating Alabama's offense at times, scoring a season-high 14 points.

Jones has been inconsistent since, scoring just 14 total points on 17 field goal attempts in four games, showing that he's very much a down-the-road prospect at this stage.

Nevertheless, it's difficult to ignore Jones' tools and overall talent. He measured 6-6½ barefoot with a 7-foot wingspan at the Alabama pro day in October, giving him ample size and length to guard anywhere from 1 to 4 as his skinny-but-promising 194-pound frame fills out.

He already is Alabama's best defender, which is no small feat considering it has been the best defensive team in the loaded SEC by a wide margin. His combination of length and lateral quickness is elite, and the fact that he's a real competitor gives him a chance to make huge strides in this area as he gets stronger.

The development of Jones' scoring ability will dictate how quickly he can emerge as a more immediate NBA prospect. At the moment, he looks uncomfortable operating in the half court, as his inability to make jump shots consistently hampers him.

Avery Johnson seems to have a lot of confidence in Jones, often asking him to moonlight as a secondary initiator, and he has shown some promise operating out of ball screens and finding the open man with solid court vision. He has plenty of room to improve his ballhandling skills, as well, as he's clearly at his best in the open court right now, where his fluidity and athleticism shine through most vividly.

Jones is somewhat of a speculative prospect at this stage, as evidenced by his paltry numbers (5 points per game, 49 percent true shooting), and he might end up being more of a 2020 draft prospect when it's all said and done. Players with his physical tools, budding versatility and motor are intriguing in today's NBA, and there's no doubt that his upside could be harnessed into something interesting down the road.



Donte DiVincenzo | 6-5 | So. (RS)


Point guard/shooting guard | Villanova

A season-ending injury to Phil Booth has put DiVincenzo into Villanova's starting lineup and forced him to take on more offensive responsibility, giving NBA scouts more insight into his progress.

DiVincenzo has long been considered one of the NCAA's top glue guys, as his ability to play either backcourt spot (or as a wing in three-guard lineups), rebound, defend, make shots consistently and do all the little things is attractive, even projecting to the NBA level.

DiVincenzo is first and foremost a bulldog on defense, with great feet, a high activity level and a penchant for delivering hard fouls. He's extremely physical boxing out and in helpside situations, bumping opposing players running off screens and demonstrating a level of grit that scouts love to see from potential role players.

While not overly long (6-5 wingspan), DiVincenzo has a strong frame and good size for a guard at 6-5. He has improved considerably as a perimeter shooter since arriving at Villanova, hitting 40 percent of his 3s this season on a high volume of attempts.

Although he's not yet comfortable operating as a full-time primary ballhandler, DiVincenzo does a great job of helping Villanova's offense flow with his unselfishness and willingness to execute in the half court. He drives with his head up, finds cutters with well-timed bounce passes and looks to make the extra pass along the perimeter.

With Jalen Brunson and Mikal Bridges both graduating and likely moving onto the pro ranks this spring, DiVincenzo will move into a more prominent role next season, potentially as Villanova's starting point guard. It will be interesting to see how he handles an increased workload, as he isn't the most talented shot-creator in terms of his ability to play pick-and-roll and go one-on-one with the shot clock running down.

Having redshirted his freshman year due to an injury, DiVincenzo is a little bit older than most sophomores (already 21). DiVincenzo isn't oozing with upside like some of the other players on this list, but there's plenty of value in versatile defensive-minded guards, as players such as T.J. McConnell and Matthew Dellavedova are showing.



Kyle Alexander | 6-11 | Jr.
Center | Tennessee



It certainly makes sense to dig into the success that Tennessee (8-4 in the SEC, 18-6 overall) is having and try to understand how the Volunteers have skyrocketed into the No. 16 spot by BPI.

A good place to start is with 6-11 defensive anchor Alexander, who is leading the SEC in blocks per 40 minutes while also leading the country in offensive efficiency.

Alexander is a fairly unlikely story, having grown up playing mostly soccer and volleyball in suburban Toronto before deciding to try his hand at basketball as a sophomore in high school just five years ago. His father was a Division I player and his sister a first-round pick in the WNBA. Alexander's body has taken a while to fill out, and at 222 pounds he is still a ways away, but the fact that he stands 6-11½, with a 7-5½ wingspan and a massive 9-2 standing reach, obviously helps.

Alexander isn't only tall and long, he's also mobile, covering ground exceptionally on both ends of the floor while being quick getting off his feet. He regularly beats opposing big men down the floor, corralling outlet passes and going up for dunks in one fluid motion.


He's shooting a ridiculous 72 percent from the field, which while impressive on the surface also is a testament to the limited number of touches and shots he gets every game. He ranks 11th on Tennessee in usage rate, which is alarming considering the team only goes eight or nine deep on most nights. Still, it's hard not to be impressed with Alexander's reliable hands, soft touch and occasional ability to make turnaround or short-range face-up jumpers. This, combined with the fact that he's shooting 73 percent from the foul line, indicates he might still have room to expand his offensive game as he gets stronger and more comfortable making decisions with the ball in his hands.

For now, Alexander is an elite screen-setter, diver, offensive rebounder and finisher -- all coveted traits in the NBA.

His defense is what will get him on the map, though. He shows terrific timing as a shot-blocker and gets out to hedge or switch screens on the perimeter.

While already 21 years old, Alexander is still a baby at this stage of his development physically and experience-wise. He has made a massive jump from his sophomore to junior seasons, and NBA scouts will be interested to see if he can continue to make similar improvement after a good offseason in the weight room. He draws rave reviews for his character and work ethic from people who have worked with him.

 

[Frump]

NBA mock draft: Teams, players moving in lottery and first round

 

[Skooby]

NBA mock draft: Teams, players moving in lottery and first round

NBA mock draft: Teams, players moving in lottery and first round



Who's No. 1 now?

The trade deadline created a lot of movement in the 2018 NBA draft.

Let's look at where the top prospects -- including Trae Young, Luka Doncic, Deandre Ayton, Mohamed Bamba and Marvin Bagley III -- might land.




Our mock draft differs in two crucial ways from our recently updated top-100 prospect rankings. It uses ESPN's BPI to project the draft order, and it's adjusted for NBA team needs accordingly. It also attempts to project which players will ultimately end up declaring and keeping their names in the draft.





1. Phoenix Suns

Luka Doncic
Real Madrid
Age: 18.9
PG

Height: 6-foot-8 | Weight: 228

The Suns' backcourt is a work in progress after Phoenix traded Eric Bledsoe and brought in Elfrid Payton for what may end up being a rental.

Doncic's size, skill level and versatility allow him to play anywhere from 1 to 4, but there's little doubt that he's at his best with the ball in his hands. He would fit very well with playmaking wings Devin Booker and Josh Jackson.

He's having a phenomenal season in Europe, posting historic numbers in the Euroleague and Spanish ACB for an 18-year-old.

Deandre Ayton also will get a long look here.



Starting salary: $8,095,680





2. Atlanta Hawks

Deandre Ayton
Arizona
Freshman
C

Height: 7-foot | Weight: 243



The Hawks are not in a position to draft based on need at this stage of their rebuilding effort, and there are question marks about how well promising big man John Collins fits in alongside another center who doesn't protect the rim at an elite rate.

Nevertheless, Ayton has elevated himself into the conversation as a top-two pick with his incredible natural physical tools and high skill level. His rebounding and scoring prowess could be very attractive here, even if Mohamed Bamba might actually be a better fit stylistically.





Starting salary: $7,243,440







3. Sacramento Kings

Mohamed Bamba
Texas
Freshman
C

Height: 7-foot | Weight: 207



None of the Kings' big men have emerged as franchise cornerstones at this stage, meaning it would be foolish to pass on a top-tier talent due to positional concerns.

Bamba will likely get some looks in the top two as well, given his rare combination of length, shot-blocking instincts and offensive promise. He is starting to make 3-pointers more consistently (10-for-28 in his past 15 games), and his unicorn potential gives him arguably the highest upside of any player in this draft.



Starting salary: $6,504,600



4. Cleveland Cavaliers (via Nets)

Jaren Jackson
Michigan State
Freshman
C

Height: 6-foot-11 | Weight: 242



At 6-foot-11 and 242 pounds, with a 7-foot-4 wingspan, it's very likely that Jackson will see significant minutes at center in the NBA as his promising frame fills out, rather than at the 4, as he mostly does in college at the moment. Jackson's ability to space the floor (44 percent from 3; 79 percent from the line), block shots (5.9 per 40 minutes), switch on every screen and, increasingly, put the ball on the floor from the perimeter make him an ideal fit for the modern NBA.

He has significant upside to grow into as well, as he's the youngest player currently projected to be drafted. Jackson is the exact type of player the Cavs sorely need on their roster right now, but he'd be a terrific building block to have regardless of what LeBron Jamesdecides to do.



Starting salary: $5,864,640

Cleveland will receive Brooklyn's first-round pick unprotected.





5. Orlando Magic

Marvin Bagley III
Duke
Freshman
C

Height: 6-foot-11 | Weight: 234



Although there are some positional concerns regarding Bagley and his fit in the modern NBA, at some point his talent level and sheer production are likely too great to pass on.

The Magic could very well be in the market for a point guard, but there are still question marks about whether Trae Young and Collin Sexton are worthy of being picked this high. Bagley is likely best suited for the center spot, and his scoring instincts, rebounding prowess and athleticism would make for an interesting fit alongside building blocks Aaron Gordon and Jonathan Isaac.



Starting salary: $5,310,720







6. Chicago Bulls

Michael Porter Jr.
Missouri
Freshman
PF

Height: 6-foot-10 | Weight: 214



The Bulls have a gaping hole at the small forward position, and could use all the firepower they can find from the perimeter. Porter's ability to play alongside Lauri Markkanen should make him very attractive at this spot.

Porter came into the season with the hope of making a run at being the No. 1 pick in the draft, but unfortunately he hasn't been able to build his case because of a back injury. The results of his medical examination will play a significant role in where he is ultimately drafted, but NBA teams don't appear to be especially concerned right now about the nature of the injury and his long-term prognosis.



Starting salary: $4,823,520





7. Memphis Grizzlies

Trae Young
Oklahoma
Freshman
PG

Height: 6-foot-2 | Weight: 176



Mike Conley is a Memphis cornerstone signed to one of the NBA's most lucrative contracts, but he is already 30 and has struggled to stay healthy in recent seasons. With the Grizzlies' playoff run ending, they will have to think about entering a rebuilding stage -- including drafting for talent rather than need.

Young has been mired in a prolonged shooting slump since exploding onto the national radar, but still is a very intriguing fit in today's NBA with his tremendous passing and scoring ability.

Starting salary: $4,403,280





8. Dallas Mavericks

Wendell Carter Jr.
Duke
Freshman
C

Height: 6-foot-10 | Weight: 263



Carter's season got off to a slow start, but he has been Duke's best player in 2018 and has recaptured his status as a potential top-10 pick, which is where he started the season.

The Mavs could certainly use help in the frontcourt, and Carter's basketball IQ and versatility are promising in a number of ways.

Starting salary: $4,033,800





9. New York Knicks

Collin Sexton
Alabama
Freshman
PG

Height: 6-foot-2 | Weight: 183



Frank Ntilikina has had some nice rookie moments, but the Knicks are finding out that the long-armed, 6-foot-5 guard seems better suited playing alongside a more dominant ball handler and shot creator who can take some of the scoring responsibilities off his shoulders.

Enter Sexton, with his tremendous aggressiveness driving the lane, taking off-the-dribble jumpers and putting defensive pressure on opposing guards. NBA teams have some concerns about Sexton's ability to stay healthy because of his reckless style of play. He has been dinged up much of the season, which hasn't helped matters.

Starting salary: $3,708,120

 

[Skooby]

10. Philadelphia 76ers (via Lakers)

Mikal Bridges
Villanova
Junior
SF

Height: 6-foot-7 | Weight: 200

The Sixers are in line to draft in the top 10 due to the shrewd Michael Carter-Williams trade made by Sam Hinkie three years ago (as long as the pick is not second, third, fourth or fifth, in which case it goes to Boston).

Shooting, defensive versatility and basketball IQ are what the 76ers need to continue to add, and Bridges brings all of them along with the ability to guard 1 to 4. He isn't as gifted a shot-creator as you'd like from a top-10 pick, but if he's playing alongside the likes of Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid, he won't need to be.

Starting salary: $3,522,480



Philadelphia will receive L.A.'s pick if it lands at No. 1 or Nos. 6-30. Otherwise, the pick goes to Boston. BPI projects a 92.5 percent chance the Sixers get this pick.





11. Charlotte Hornets

Miles Bridges
Michigan State
Sophomore
SF/PF

Height: 6-foot-6 | Weight: 226

Charlotte continues to search for long-term solutions at both forward positions, and will likely look to add athleticism to what has become a fairly disappointing roster.

Bridges is a freakish athlete who has struggled at times to make the full-time transition to small forward, but he undoubtedly has potential as a two-way forward who can guard all over the floor and give you enough shooting, ballhandling and passing to get by at one of the most important positions in today's NBA.

Starting salary: $3,346,560



12. LA Clippers (via Pistons)

Kevin Knox
Kentucky
Freshman
PF

Height: 6-foot-9 | Weight: 205



The Clippers will likely be looking to add athleticism, shooting and length at the forward positions, where they don't have much depth outside of Tobias Harris.

Knox hasn't had a very efficient freshman season, partially due to his playing out of position, but there's a significant market in the NBA for combo forwards in his mold who can make an open shot, defend multiple positions and offer some offensive versatility. He's one of the youngest players in this draft, so he still has plenty of room to grow.

Starting salary: $3,179,280

The Clippers will receive Detroit's pick if it falls outside the top four.



13. LA Clippers

Robert Williams
Texas A&M
Sophomore
C

Height: 6-foot-9 | Weight: 237



Williams has had a somewhat disappointing sophomore season while playing out of position as a power forward in traditional dual-post player lineups. His game is tailor-made for the NBA, though -- he has potential as a rim-running, pick-and-roll-finishing, shot-blocker/offensive rebounder in the Clint Capela mold.

With DeAndre Jordan in the final year of his contract, the Clippers could certainly look to Williams as a potential successor.

Starting salary: $3,020,280



14. Chicago Bulls (via Pelicans)

Lonnie Walker IV
Miami
Freshman
SG/SF

Height: 6-foot-4 | Weight: 206



Chicago's wing rotation is still a work in progress, and could certainly use some more shooting, length and perimeter defensive prowess.

Walker started off the season poorly, but has been much better in ACC play, reestablishing himself as a potential lottery-caliber prospect. The lack of depth at the wing position certainly helps him as well.

His youth, strong frame, 6-foot-10½ wingspan and ability to shoot with his feet set or off the dribble make him a candidate to rise even further during the pre-draft process as teams search for upside and diamonds in the rough.

Starting salary: $2,869,320

The Bulls will receive New Orleans' pick if it falls outside the top five.





15. Phoenix Suns (via Heat)

Daniel Gafford
Arkansas
Freshman
C

Height: 6-foot-11 | Weight: 217

Gafford's tremendous physical tools and significant upside will likely mean his name is called somewhere in the top 20 on draft night, if he has a strong pre-draft process.

Unfortunately the glut of big men in this class (plus the lack of wings around the league) makes it difficult for him to crack the lottery in this team-needs-based mock draft. The Suns are one team that could potentially look for depth at the center spot, adding much needed rim protection and finishing ability as Alex Len enters free agency.

Starting salary: $2,725,680



Phoenix will receive Miami's pick if it is outside the top seven.



16. Portland Trail Blazers

Dzanan Musa
Cedevita
Age: 18.5
SF

Height: 6-foot-9 | Weight: 195

Shooting and depth at the wing/combo forward spots will likely be priorities for the Blazers this offseason (not unlike most teams in the NBA).

Musa's size, scoring instincts and aggressiveness could be intriguing for Portland at this stage of the draft. He's one of the youngest players in this draft class, but he is already very productive in Europe, playing at a fairly high level.

Starting salary: $2,589,480





17. Indiana Pacers

Troy Brown
Oregon
Freshman
SF

Height: 6-foot-7 | Weight: 210



Indiana's wing rotation could certainly use more depth, and Brown's versatility as a big ball handler, defender and rebounder is intriguing in a league that is starved for players at his position.

Brown's inconsistency as a perimeter shooter has made it difficult for him to fully break out, but being the third-youngest player in this draft class means he still has time to address that.

Starting salary: $2,460,000







18. Denver Nuggets

Chandler Hutchison
Boise State
Senior
SF

Height: 6-foot-7 | Weight: 193



The Nuggets have been cycling through options at small forward all season and could very well look to address that position in the draft and/or free agency this summer.

Hutchison has made significant strides with his game as a senior. He looks primed to take advantage of the lack of wings in the draft -- and the NBA in general -- this June. He has outstanding physical tools and is a much-improved ball handler and perimeter shooter.

Starting salary: $2,337,000





19. Utah Jazz

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
Kentucky
Freshman
PG/SG

Height: 6-foot-6 | Weight: 171

The Jazz might look for a versatile guard who can operate in different lineups without dominating the ball alongside Donovan Mitchell.

Gilgeous-Alexander has the size, length, multipositional defensive versatility and unselfishness needed to operate as a role player alongside a variety of different types of guards and wings.

Starting salary: $2,231,760

 

[Skooby]

20. Milwaukee Bucks

Anfernee Simons
IMG Academy (HS)
Age: 18.4
SG

Height: 6-foot-4 | Weight: 183



In recent years the Bucks have not been afraid to roll the dice on an unproven prospect with significant long-term upside. Simons is one of the least NBA-ready players in the draft, but he's intriguing due to his combination of youth, explosiveness and shot-making prowess.

He's a few years away from panning out, but at this stage of the draft, there isn't much risk, and adding a prospect with his upside would be intriguing. Eventually he could be a nice backcourt mate with Malcolm Brogdon while providing floor spacing for Giannis Antetokounmpo.

Starting salary: $2,142,360

Phoenix will receive Milwaukee's pick if it lands in Nos. 11-16.



21. Washington Wizards

Khyri Thomas
Creighton
Junior
SG/SF

Height: 6-foot-3 | Weight: 210



Thomas is one of the better defenders in college basketball, capable of guarding three positions with his 6-foot-11 wingspan. He's also a willing ball-mover and a promising spot-up shooter and has exactly the type of grit and unselfishness the NBA covets in role players.

The Wizards, like most other teams, could use wing depth and might look to bolster their rotation with a player in Thomas' mold.

Starting salary: $2,056,680









22. Philadelphia 76ers

Aaron Holiday
UCLA
Junior
PG

Height: 6-foot-1 | Weight: 185

Shooting, creativity and perimeter defense are all qualities the 76ers will likely look to continue to add to their backcourt rotation as they attempt to construct the right lineups to surround their building blocks of Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid.

Holiday has broken through in a major way in his senior season, and would bring a number of very attractive traits with his microwave scoring ability, long wingspan and toughness.

Starting salary: $1,974,480









23. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Thunder)

Bruce Brown
Miami
Sophomore
SG

Height: 6-foot-3 | Weight: 200

Minnesota's guard and wing rotation will need to be shored up over the summer. Brown was in the midst of a disappointing sophomore season before breaking his foot and potentially ending his college career, but he has promise as an NBA prospect.

He's a willing passer, a lockdown defender and a gritty rebounder, and he has shown potential with his jump shot. There's a significant market for players in his mold, provided that he gets healthy and is able, in the pre-draft process, to recapture some of the momentum he lost.

Execs and coaches like Tom Thibodeau might fall in love with his toughness.

Starting salary: $1,895,520

Minnesota will receive Oklahoma City's pick if it is outside the lottery.





24. San Antonio Spurs

Melvin Frazier
Tulane
Junior
SF

Height: 6-foot-6 | Weight: 200

A significant part of San Antonio's wing rotation is up for free agency this summer, meaning this could very well be a position the Spurs look to address in the draft.

Frazier's stock has been moving in the right direction during a very impressive junior season at Tulane. He's a tremendous athlete, standing 6-foot-6 with a nearly 7-foot wingspan, and he's making 39 percent of his 3-pointers this season.

Starting salary: $1,819,800







25. Atlanta Hawks (via Wolves)

Keita Bates-Diop
Ohio State
Junior
PF

Height: 6-foot-7 | Weight: 235

With the second of their three first-round picks, the Hawks might look to add some depth at forward.

Bates-Diop has increased his stock dramatically with a breakout season. He has been moving among all of the frontcourt positions for surging Ohio State and looks like an ideal fit for the modern NBA if he can find a way to rev his motor into higher gear at the professional level.



Starting salary: $1,746,840

Atlanta will receive Minnesota's pick if it is outside the lottery.



26. Los Angeles Lakers (via Cavs)

Mitchell Robinson
College: None
Freshman
C

Height: 6-foot-11 | Weight: 215

The Lakers are sorely lacking athleticism and rim protection in their frontcourt, and might be willing to roll the dice on a project here.

Physically, Robinson is one of the most gifted prospects -- with impressive length, athleticism and shot-blocking instincts -- but he is a long way from contributing. The fact that he elected not to play college basketball this season won't help his NBA readiness, but at some point in the draft, he's worth taking a gamble on.

Starting salary: $1,689,000



The Lakers will receive Cleveland's pick if it is outside the top three.



27. Boston Celtics

De'Anthony Melton
USC
Sophomore
PG/SG

Height: 6-foot-3 | Weight: 195



The Celtics have a tough decision in front of them with Marcus Smart entering free agency, and may need to find a cheaper backcourt option to avoid luxury tax issues.

Melton looked to be on the verge of a breakout season for USC before the FBI investigation shut him down indefinitely. His defensive versatility, toughness and intangibles make him a prospect worth investing in.

Starting salary: $1,640,400





28. Brooklyn Nets (via Raptors)

Shake Milton
SMU
Junior
PG/SG

Height: 6-foot-6 | Weight: 207

The Nets have plenty of work to do in building out their backcourt and wing rotations, and could look to draft a role player here who can do a little bit of everything.

A player such as Milton, who has the size and length to defend all three backcourt spots, can operate on or off the ball and is a consistent outside shooter, would make sense here.

Starting salary: $1,630,320

Brooklyn will receive Toronto's pick if it is outside the lottery.



29. Atlanta Hawks (via Rockets)

Landry Shamet
Wichita State
Sophomore
PG/SG

Height: 6-foot-4 | Weight: 188



With their third and final first-round pick, the Hawks may look to add some backcourt depth.

Shamet is shooting 45 percent from 3-point range on the season, combining a potent pull-up jumper with the ability to come off screens, and he's arguably the most consistent spot-up shooter in the college game. Shamet sees most of his minutes at point guard despite standing 6-foot-4, thanks to his terrific feel for the game and all-around creativity, but there are some question marks about his ability to create his own shot at the NBA level.

His size will allow him to play alongside a point guard, such as Dennis Schroder, while also handling backup playmaking responsibilities.

Starting salary: $1,618,320

Atlanta will receive Houston's pick if it is outside the top three.