Essential The Official ESPN Insider Thread (ESPN+)

[Skooby]

Trout's the greatest through age 26. Is he destined to be best ever?

Trout's the greatest through age 26. Is he destined to be best ever?

We've known the Golden Rule of Free Agency for a long time now. It's a lesson that, given the collective hot stove behavior over the past two winters, seems to have taken root in front offices across baseball. The GRFA is simply this: Pay for what you're going to get, not for what has already been done. The tricky part of this truism is that in sports, past behavior can be highly suggestive of what is going to happen. That's what projections are all about.

When the Los Angeles Angels agreed to a 12-year, $430 million extension with Mike Trout, it was a no-brainer from the team's standpoint. The game's best player will now almost certainly be a career Angel and would eventually add his name to the exclusive list of one-team Hall of Famers. The Angels are now the franchise of Mike Trout and it might be that way for generations.

Is Trout worth $430 million? Did he deserve it? The language at times like this tends to be fairly loaded, as we lose perspective in our fantasy world of sports fandom. Sure, Trout undoubtedly deserves the money. He is absolutely worth the commitment the Angels have made to him. But these statements are true only in the context of the inflated economics of professional sports. Given some of the rhetoric on both the players' and owners' sides over the winter, it's important to maintain some perspective.

On the baseball front, there are two key questions: Have the Angels violated the Golden Rule of Free Agency? And what does Trout have to do to end up as what he seems to be on pace to become: recognized as the consensus best player of all time. The questions are completely intertwined.

You don't realize how many sportswriters have mastered the use of Baseball-Reference.com's Play Index until times like this. Over and over, we've seen this tidbit, and for good reason: Trout's 64.3 bWAR is the highest total for any position player in history through the age of 26. (If we include pitchers, and limit ourselves to the modern era, pitcher Walter Johnson actually ranks higher.) That tidbit is usually followed by pointing out that Trout ranks just ahead of Ty Cobb and Mickey Mantle by this criterion, making the point that Trout indeed stands with the game's legends, perhaps above them.

Let's look at the top 10 position players by bWAR through age 26:

1. Mike Trout (64.3)

2. Ty Cobb (63.4)

3. Mickey Mantle (61.4)

4. Rogers Hornsby (56.9)

5. Alex Rodriguez (55.2)

6. Jimmie Foxx (54.2)

7. Mel Ott (51.3)

8. Ken Griffey Jr. (50.0)

9. Tris Speaker (48.7)

10. Arky Vaughan (48.0)

Yeah, that's a pretty good list to be on, much less be on the top of. They are all Hall of Famers except for Rodriguez, who deserves to be there but isn't yet eligible. But it also doesn't look quite like the list of top 10 position players by career bWAR, with no age cutoff:

CAREER bWAR

>1. Barry Bonds (162.8)

>2. Babe Ruth (162.1)

>3. Willie Mays (156.4)

4. Ty Cobb (151.0)

>5. Hank Aaron (143.0)

6. Tris Speaker (134.1)

>7. Honus Wagner (130.9)

>8. Stan Musial (128.2)

9. Rogers Hornsby (127.0)

>10. Eddie Collins (124.0)

NOTE: > denotes players not in top 10 through age 26.

Only three of the six non-Trout leaders through age 26 ended up in the top 10. More than that, look at the career totals of Bonds, Ruth, Mays et al. Bonds finished nearly 100 bWAR ahead of where Trout is now. For all the historically elite work Trout has done thus far, he has lots and lots of work to do to maintain his current standing. One final list before we dig in for possible portents:

bWAR AFTER AGE 26

1. Barry Bonds (121.6)

2. Babe Ruth (118.1)

3. Willie Mays (115.6)

4. Honus Wagner (113.7)

5. Hank Aaron (96.4)

6. Stan Musial (90.9)

7. Ted Williams (88.9)

8. Ty Cobb (87.6)

9. Tris Speaker (85.4)

10. Nap Lajoie (81.4)

The after-26 list looks a lot more like the list of overall best ever than the list of through-26 dominators. All of them excelled well into their 30s, something Trout is going to have to do to eventually stand alone. Will he? Can he? We can't know those answers with any degree of certainty. What we can do is see what characteristics he shares with those who have maintained their excellence that long, and also with those who tailed off.


Of the top 50 in all-time bWAR by age 26, four are active, including Trout, Mookie Betts, Manny Machado and ... wait for it .... Jason Heyward. We will omit the three active players from the Trout comparison, leaving us with 46 players for comparison. For each of those, I calculated a similarity score between them and Trout. I did not use a positional adjustment and focused only on seasons completed by age 26.

The four most similar players to Trout all had scores of 900 or better: Frank Robinson (965), Ken Griffey Jr. (941), Mickey Mantle (938) and Hank Aaron (913). The names are all legendary, but this is actually a mixed bag for Trout. The best case is Aaron, whose eventual career bWAR was 3.07 times that of his age-26 total. Robinson was at 2.32. However, Mantle (1.80) and Griffey (1.68) actually tailed off in their 30s as their athleticism declined because of age and injuries. Mantle retired at 36, an age at which Trout would still have two years remaining on the extension he just signed. The average for the group was a career bWAR of 2.22 times that of the age-26 total.

That figure (2.22) would leave Trout at 142.7 for his career, which would rank sixth all-time. If he follows Aaron's path, he ends up with 197.4, a total that would clearly leave Trout universally acclaimed as the best player ever. Let's compare Trout and Aaron, through age 26:



Mike Trout vs. Hank Aaron


Player bWAR Years G AB R H HR RBI BB SO SB BA OBP SLG
Trout 64.3 2011-18 1065 3870 793 1187 240 648 693 998 189 .307 .416 .573
Aaron 46.6 1954-60 1039 4114 714 1309 219 743 341 378 36 .318 .369 .560

Trout is off to a faster start, but Hank Aaron became Hank Aaron because of how long he was great, not just because he was great. Both were .300 hitters by age 26, though Aaron put the ball in play far more frequently. Of course, eras have a lot to do with this. In any event, this is the path Trout wants to pursue. Aaron had a 4-win season at age 39. If Trout is doing that, there will be no arguments about Trout vs. Bonds or Trout vs. Ruth. We'll just be arguing about who is No. 2.

There were 17 players with a similarity score between 800 and 900 when compared to Trout. These players are somewhat similar, but not as similar as the previous quartet, so presumably their paths are less telling. Listing them all in order from most similar to least: Eddie Mathews (897), Alex Rodriguez (890), Mel Ott, Albert Pujols, Andruw Jones, Jimmie Foxx, Al Kaline, Vada Pinson, Joe DiMaggio, Johnny Bench, Ron Santo, Willie Mays, Cal Ripken Jr., Cesar Cedeno, Joe Medwick, Lou Gehrig, Rogers Hornsby.

I listed the scores for Mathews and A-Rod because they were not far off the 900 cutoff. Plus Rodriguez joined Trout in the top 10 players through 26. Let's compare those three:


Mike Trout vs. Eddie Mathews and Alex Rodriguez


Player bWAR Years G AB R H HR RBI BB SO SB BA OBP SLG
Trout 64.3 2011-18 1065 3870 793 1187 240 648 693 998 189 .307 .416 .573
Mathews 45.5 1952-58 1029 3752 703 1039 253 663 646 607 34 .277 .382 .541
Rodriguez 55.2 1994-02 1114 4382 885 1354 298 872 472 869 160 .309 .380 .579


What jumps out is just how complete Trout is as a player, even compared to these all-time fast starters. Rodriguez had more homers but still held only a 6-point edge in slugging percentage. Rodriguez was known for his elite homers-steals combination early in his career, but Trout has quite a few more steals and nearly three times as many triples. Mathews walked as often as Trout, but has a 30-point deficit in average. Basically, Trout is what you'd have if you combined the early careers of A-Rod and Eddie Mathews. Mathews eventually increased his bWAR total by 2.12 times his age-26 mark, nearly identical to what A-Rod did (2.13). That pace would leave Trout around 136.9 career bWAR, which would leave him sixth on the career list.

As for the other 25 players in the comparison, all had similarity scores under 800, so they are all pretty different from Trout. Those 25 players ended up increasing their age-26 bWAR totals by 2.28 times. The range was large, from 3.94 (Bonds) to 1.31 (John McGraw), but the similarity scores are low enough that we can discount them in comparison to Trout.

All of this assumes that Trout remains healthy, of course. But with that caveat aside, we can see from these comparisons that even when you're looking at the best career starts in all of baseball's history, the face of the Angels is largely incomparable. To end up ahead of Bonds on the career position-player list, Trout would need to stay on a trajectory somewhere between Aaron and Robinson. That will be incredibly difficult to do, as you'd expect in the quest to become the best player of all time.

But it seems likely that whether Trout takes the Aaron/Robinson path, or that of Griffey/Mantle, he's going to at the very least end up as an upper-tier Hall of Famer. And when your floor is Alex Rodriguez or Eddie Mathews ... yeah, even at $430 million of 21st-century money, you're worth it.


MORE BEST EVER?

As good as Trout is, he's not the best home run hitter in the game, perhaps because he's so busy doing so many other things. Don't take that the wrong way -- Trout is a great home run hitter, one of the best ever. Given his consistency and likely duration of excellence, he's a threat to hit 600-700 dingers. Maybe more. However, there are other active players who have homered more frequently on a per-rata basis. In fact, there are a handful of bombers who might eventually emerge as the game's best-ever home run hitter, at least on a percentage basis.

The most likely player to achieve that honor is Giancarlo Stanton, who has a prodigious early-career homer pace. He's through only his age-28 season, but already ranks 22nd in homers by age 30, tied with Vladimir Guerrero (305). The all-time leader in this category is A-Rod, with an amazing 464, 26 more than Ken Griffey Jr.

However, we also have to consider how many games Stanton missed because of injuries before he finally put it all together in his 59-homer season in 2017. He has played 159 and 158 games the past two seasons, respectively, so it seems his luck has turned. Let's imagine what Stanton's homer total might look like had he played 150 games per season from 2011, the year after he broke into the majors, through 2016. That would have given him an additional 173 games played on his career ledger.

During those seasons, Stanton averaged .256 homers per game. At that pace, he could have hit an additional 44 homers, bringing his total through age 28 to 349. That would be the third-highest ever through 28, behind A-Rod (381) and Griffey (350). Over the past two seasons, Stanton has upped his pace to .306 homers per game. If he keeps that up and keeps playing 158-plus games, by the time he's through his age-30 season, Stanton would already be at 402 career homers. That would put him sixth through age 30 behind A-Rod, Griffey, Jimmie Foxx, Albert Pujols and Mantle.

Forgetting about any age cutoff, for all players with at least 4,000 career plate appearances, Stanton ranks third with 6.32 homers per 100 plate appearances, behind Mark McGwire (7.61) and Babe Ruth (6.73). Based on that, there really is a non-zero chance that Stanton ends up as the most prolific homer hitter of all time, at least before you start dragging in ballpark and league-context considerations.

But the crazy thing about this: If you lower the career threshold to a minimum of 1,200 plate appearances, that pushes Stanton's ranking in HR/100 PA down to fifth. That's because there are two active players homering at an even more rapid pace than Stanton. Plus, there's another slugger right on his heels. Joey Gallo (6.97) has a higher HR/100PA than Ruth, trailing only McGwire, while Stanton teammate Aaron Judge (6.53) ranks fourth all-time. Right behind Stanton is Khris Davis (6.31). And there is one other active active player in the top 25, at that 1,200 minimum -- the Cubs' Kyle Schwarber (5.65).

None of these players is likely to usurp Trout's place as the game's best player, at least not anytime soon. (One of the few who could do it eventually is Judge.) Nevertheless, if homers are your thing, some of the best-ever long ball threats are in the game right now.

 

[storyteller]

NBA draft stock watch: Ja Morant rising, top-100 movement

Many thanks in advance fam!

 

[FreddyCalhoun]

6. New York Giants
Dwayne Haskins, QB, Ohio State

Another mock, another Haskins-to-the-Giants projection. It just makes sense. New York needs to secure its future at the position while it has this high pick, and Haskins has some great anticipation and feel in the pocket. Give him a year of learning from Eli Manning, not unlike what Kansas City did with Patrick Mahomes and Alex Smith, and then let him start unleashing deep balls to Odell Beckham Jr.

 

[Skooby]

NBA draft stock watch: Ja Morant rising, top-100 movement

Many thanks in advance fam!

NBA draft stock watch: Ja Morant rising, top-100 movement

Which prospects are rising and falling?

Here's the latest draft intel on Ja Morant, Zion Williamson, Nassir Little, Brandon Clarke, Mfiondu Kabengele and other potential first-rounders -- including what's next for both the eliminated players and those who have advanced to the Sweet 16.





Ja Morant | PG | Murray State
Top 100 ranking: No. 2


Morant's storybook season came to an end at the hands of a long, versatile Florida State team that did an outstanding job of forcing him to do his damage as a scorer (28 points), limiting him to 8-of-21 shooting and only four assists. After Morant effortlessly picked apart Marquette with 16 dimes in 39 minutes using a flurry of jaw-dropping, NBA-caliber passes, the Seminoles stayed home on Murray State's shooters, funneling Morant to a bevy of rim protectors, resulting in his 3-for-15 performance inside the arc. Having to generate all of Murray State's offense, Morant had occasional struggles with the length and physicality of FSU. He wasn't able to capitalize in midrange spots when the Seminoles started to go over ball screens.

While Florida State's game plan was well-executed, Morant still had some spectacular moments. He came out of the gates scorching, burying four triples in the first nine minutes, with FSU going under screens. Morant showed tremendous range and touch on off-the-dribble 3s, finishing the season shooting 36.8 percent from deep (152 attempts) and 81.5 percent from the free throw line.

Morant also looked dynamic going to the rim when given space, shifting gears to set up scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates, who simply weren't able to cash in against FSU. His ability to get into the teeth of the defense without a ball screen is second to none in this class, and his finishing potential was on full display. He showed a fearlessness attacking FSU's big men, and he figures to look even more slippery on a spaced NBA floor.

On the flip side, Morant remains a bit turnover prone, playing with the ball on the perimeter too often and opting for flash over substance as a passer, while also standing around a bit too much when off the ball. Defensively, Morant had his ups and downs, showing his tendency to relax in his stance. It's important to keep in mind that Morant was clearly gassed; over the course of Murray State's last four games, he sat a total of 1 minute and 28 seconds.

Each NBA team values the tournament differently, with some jettisoning to Europe to avoid recency bias and others traveling to sites to continue live scouting. For a mid-major prospect like Morant, a clash against an ACC power certainly holds value. He more than held his own, not backing down from the challenge and proving he has some toughness in the process. Morant showed NBA scouts that he may have some struggles scoring efficiently in the half court early in his career, but he has clear star potential as a De'Aaron Fox/Trae Young hybrid PG.

While it was just one game, watching RJ Barrett get lit up by UCF's Aubrey Dawkins and have issues creating high-percentage offense certainly strengthens Morant's case as the second-best prospect in the draft. Once he goes through the pre-draft process, it's easy to envision Morant going No. 2 overall, where I'd rank him at this stage. Barrett still has opportunities to prove himself in the rest of the tournament -- and how the lottery shakes out will be a factor -- but there's simply too much to like about Morant's upside to pass on him once Zion is off the board. -- Schmitz




Zion Williamson | F | Duke
Top 100 ranking: No. 1

Playing on the biggest stage of his career, Williamson once again showed a willingness to carry his team by posting 32 points, 11 rebounds and 4 assists to get past UCF. Zion tied his career high for made 3s in a game (three), bringing his season total to 21. He also made some spectacular passes. He was impossible to contain all over the court when given even the slightest amount of daylight. Most important, he embraced the moment when Duke's offense needed him most. -- Givony






Brandon Clarke | PF | Gonzaga
Top 100 ranking: No. 14

Benefiting from the impeccable spacing of the Gonzaga offense -- as well as an undersized and overmatched Baylor frontcourt -- Clarke had one of the signature performances of the tournament, scoring 36 points on just 18 field goal attempts. Clarke showed tremendous body control and touch creating his own shot and operating inside the arc. His defensive instincts were also on full display, as he repeatedly shut down Baylor's guards on switches with his remarkable combination of agility, fluidity and instincts. He jumped the passing lanes repeatedly and controlled the paint with terrific anticipation skills.

He'll have a much more difficult matchup on Thursday in the Sweet 16 against FSU. Christ Koumadje and Mfiondu Kabengele possess the size, strength and length advantage that we haven't seen Clarke get a chance to face much this season -- exactly what NBA teams want to help project his ability at the next level. This will be a perfect chance to show that the concerns about his average size are overblown thanks to his feel and unique athleticism. -- Givony





Nassir Little | F | UNC
Top 100 ranking: No. 16

Little had an extremely productive weekend, putting up 39 points on 22 shots with 11 rebounds in just 38 minutes, which is encouraging considering the stakes. While it's good to see Little produce like a top-five recruit, he did most of his damage in the open floor, on the offensive glass or feasting on zone defenses. NBA scouts would still want to see more ballhandling, playmaking and perimeter shooting to feel completely comfortable using a lottery pick on him, though they will probably have to wait for private workouts for that. -- Givony




Talen Horton-Tucker | F | Iowa State
Top 100 ranking: No. 19

Horton-Tucker's youth and inexperience showed in a loss to Ohio State, as he notched just two points while spending the majority of the second half glued to the bench. Steve Prohm simply couldn't trust Horton-Tucker's shot selection in a do-or-die game, as he was yanked for good shortly after air-balling a step-back 3 early in the shot clock. Horton-Tucker limped through the season's finish line while averaging 5.3 points over the Cyclones' final three games, ending the year shooting 30.8 percent from 3. He's a polarizing prospect. Some scouts see him as more of an early second-round pick, while others are enamored of his upside and unconventional combination of strength, length and shot creation potential.

Analytics models clearly value Horton-Tucker's combination of age (18.3) and tools, as he ranks No. 9 on Kevin Pelton's projections by stats and scouting. Should Horton-Tucker shed some of his extra weight, shoot the ball in workouts and interview well, a team willing to wait on his development could easily snag him in the top 20. -- Schmitz

Luguentz Dort | SG | ASU
Top 100 ranking: No. 26

Dort's season, and possibly his college career, came to a close with a blowout loss to Buffalo. A streaky shooter (31 percent from 3), Dort had a cold night from the perimeter but still found ways to impact the game with his impressive athleticism, physical style of play and willingness to move the ball. His strengths were a lot more pronounced in ASU's First Four victory over St. John's, where he was able to operate more in the open floor and had some impressive finishes around the rim.

An NBA team that believes in its development system will likely be attracted to his terrific physical profile and toughness defensively. Despite his awkward shooting mechanics, Dort found ways to make 3s and free throws all season. While he may have to overhaul his release to realize his full potential, Dort has plenty of characteristics you look for in a role player and will have a good chance to go in the first round with a strong pre-draft process. -- Givony







Mfiondu Kabengele | C | FSU
Top 100 ranking: No. 30

Few players have improved their stock this March as much as the FSU redshirt sophomore, who is emerging as a potential 2019 first-round pick. In two NCAA tournament games, the 21-year-old center has a combined 43 points, 17 rebounds and four blocked shots in just 52 minutes. Kabengele bothered Ja Morant at the rim while also switching onto the dynamic guard regularly, showing his defensive versatility on top of his inside-outside scoring attack. While he still has issues with foul trouble and doesn't have great passing feel (he hasn't recorded an assist in seven games), his combination of rim protection, switch potential, shooting touch, strength, mobility and length (7-4 wingspan) make him an interesting fit in today's NBA. While more assertive and far less gifted as a passer, Kabengele isn't that dissimilar to Wendell Carter Jr. in the ways he can impact the game.

Scouts will learn a lot more about Kabengele when the Seminoles take on Gonzaga in Anaheim, a bout that should yield a head-to-head matchup with potential lottery pick Brandon Clarke. Continued stellar play could cement Kabengele in the first round, should he opt to enter the draft. -- Schmitz







Eric Paschall | F | Villanova


Top 100 ranking: No. 31

Paschall's 19 points on 18 shots wasn't enough to deter a 28-point drubbing against Purdue in his final college game. It will be interesting to see how scouts grade the 22-year-old Paschall in the pre-draft process, as his shortcomings were far more accentuated this season with little help around him. Will teams view Paschall as a role-playing, small-ball big or a streaky prospect who looked uncomfortable trying to create efficient offense as Villanova's go-to scorer?

Paschall's defensive versatility, strength, two-foot bounce and shooting potential are enough to warrant looks in the late 20s or early 30s. Scouts should get another opportunity to see Paschall in a different environment at the combine, where they'll have a close eye on how his jump shot translates to the deeper line. -- Schmitz





Dylan Windler | SF | Belmont
Top 100 ranking: No. 34

Belmont came up just short in a narrow first-round loss, but not for a lack of production on Windler's part, with the senior dropping 35 points and 11 rebounds. Windler's combination of size, length, IQ, competitiveness and shooting ability was once again on full display -- this time against a high-major opponent, the likes of which he had struggled with at times in the past. It was important that he not only shot the ball at a high rate from the perimeter (7-of-14 from 3 on a number of difficult attempts) but also made plays attacking the rim in a straight line or finding teammates on the move. He held his own defensively as well.

We thought Windler was already a strong candidate to be a first-round pick, and this performance did nothing to discourage that notion. -- Givony





Bruno Fernando | C | Maryland
Top 100 ranking: No. 35

While Fernando's numbers were fairly solid -- 24 points on 18 shots, 28 rebounds, 5 assists, 6 turnovers, 3 steals and 2 blocks in 74 minutes -- there were quite a few moments in both of his games that showed just how much of a work in progress he is on both ends of the floor. Fernando's feel and timing leave a lot to be desired, as he relies heavily on dominating opponents with brute force, something that simply doesn't work in games against similarly sized opponents (like LSU). On the other hand, Belmont put him in open spaces defensively and took advantage of his struggles there.

Fernando had a terrific sophomore season and certainly has a role in the NBA with his freakish physical tools and excellent motor on the glass, but he may have lost some ground to other center prospects jockeying for position in the first round. -- Givony





Dedric Lawson | PF | Kansas
Top 100 ranking: No. 45

Lawson became the first player to post consecutive 25-point, 10-rebound games in the NCAA tournament since Blake Griffin in 2009 but likely ended his college career in a blowout loss. He hit a pair of 3s, showed impressive vision as a passer and found ways to impact the game on the offensive glass. But his shortcomings as a defender were never more clear, as Auburn put him in open spaces repeatedly and made him look slow and heavy trying to cover ground in the pick-and-roll.

Lawson's best position is likely as a small-ball center, but his struggles protecting the rim due to his lack of explosiveness and inability to switch make that challenging. Kansas found ways to make that work this season by running its entire offense through him and taking advantage of his terrific feel and scoring versatility; his next coach might not be as willing. Lawson will have to up his intensity level on defense and work on maximizing his quickness to translate his impressive production. Long term, he has the talent to do it. -- Givony

 

[Skooby]

Dedric Lawson | PF | Kansas
Top 100 ranking: No. 45

Lawson became the first player to post consecutive 25-point, 10-rebound games in the NCAA tournament since Blake Griffin in 2009 but likely ended his college career in a blowout loss. He hit a pair of 3s, showed impressive vision as a passer and found ways to impact the game on the offensive glass. But his shortcomings as a defender were never more clear, as Auburn put him in open spaces repeatedly and made him look slow and heavy trying to cover ground in the pick-and-roll.

Lawson's best position is likely as a small-ball center, but his struggles protecting the rim due to his lack of explosiveness and inability to switch make that challenging. Kansas found ways to make that work this season by running its entire offense through him and taking advantage of his terrific feel and scoring versatility; his next coach might not be as willing. Lawson will have to up his intensity level on defense and work on maximizing his quickness to translate his impressive production. Long term, he has the talent to do it. -- Givony



Carsen Edwards | G | Purdue
Top 100 ranking: No. 49

Edwards picked a great time to put forth his best game of the season, exploding for 42 points on just 21 shots in a blowout win over Villanova. He showcased incredible range, a quick release and the ability to hop into pull-ups that are perfect for today's NBA.

The 21-year-old has had an inefficient season overall, with a 53.9 true shooting percentage and more turnovers than assists. He has been a mixed bag defensively, with the strength and length to handle guards yet inconsistent effort at times. But with the success of players such as Landry Shamet, there's clearly a role for Edwards in the NBA. After entering the season as a potential late first-round pick, Edwards reminded scouts just how dangerous he is from the perimeter when he gets going. He will be tested more than ever during Purdue's Sweet 16 matchup with Tennessee and its strong defenders. -- Schmitz




Miye Oni | SF | Yale
Top 100 ranking: No. 53

Oni had one of the worst games of his college career in his lone NCAA tournament performance -- shooting 2-of-16 from the field in a narrow first-round loss to LSU -- but he still found ways to make a positive impact. Oni showed his upside as a multi-positional defender who can cover ground seamlessly and make plays with his big wingspan, registering two blocks and two steals while sliding from guarding point guards up to power forwards. He also did a nice job of moving the ball and displaying his athleticism.

While the results weren't there, it was good to see Oni embrace the moment and take good looks, even if he was uncharacteristically cold (39 percent from 3 this season). Turning 22 this summer, Oni has a tough decision ahead of him and will likely end up testing the NBA draft waters to see where he stacks up in this class. -- Givony




Tremont Waters | PG | LSU
Top 100 ranking: No. 59

Scoring 27 points on 27 shots this weekend with 12 assists and 5 turnovers, Waters was up and down at times, but he still showed his overall talent in leading LSU to the Sweet 16 -- particularly in hitting the game-winning basket to take down Maryland.

Waters' NBA prospects will always be inhibited somewhat by his sub-6-foot height, length and 166-pound frame. Still, his quickness, tight handle, shot-making prowess and impressive creativity as a passer certainly give him a great case as a D.J. Augustin-style backup. Waters picked apart Maryland's pick-and-roll defense, forcing the Terps to go to a zone to try to slow him down. His streakiness as a shooter is the main thing he'll need to iron out to carve out a long career at the NBA level, and LSU will certainly need him to make shots to advance. -- Givony




Ethan Happ | F/C | Wisconsin

Top 100 ranking: No. 88

Happ's ultra-productive collegiate career came to a screeching halt, as Oregon did a tremendous job limiting the 22-year-old senior to just 12 points, no assists and five turnovers. The Ducks took advantage of Happ defensively, leaving scouts with more questions than answers as to how his game translates to the NBA.

It's hard to take too much from Happ's offensive performance, as Oregon consistently threw double-teams his way and his teammates gave him little help. But Happ's struggles defensively created cause for concern, as Payton Pritchard torched him in pick-and-roll, and the Wisconsin big man struggled to recover to vertical spacers. He got beat to defensive rebounds at times and offered little rim protection, making him a tough fit at the 5 even if he does have solid defensive instincts. Offensively, Happ's footwork and feel are strong, yet his lack of shooting remains a concern. He looked far more like an undrafted two-way candidate than a sure draft pick. -- Schmitz


Tacko Fall | C | UCF
Top 100 ranking: NR

The 23-year-old finished his career at UCF on a strong note, posting 15 points, 6 rebounds and 3 blocks in 25 minutes against Duke. Fall's frame and conditioning have improved considerably since his freshman season, and he did a good job of making his presence felt. He had some great moments on deep post-entry passes, lobs in transition and slipped ball screens. UCF's strategy of having him guard Tre Jones -- while barely leaving the paint -- was creative and certainly changed the complexion of the game. Fall's incredible reach makes him very difficult to shoot over, as Zion Williamson found out on a number of occasions. He has been one of the best shot-blockers in the country during his career.

The NBA's defensive three-second rule plus the much faster pace would theoretically make things a lot harder on Fall. Just parking in the paint isn't allowed the way it is in college, and going under every ball screen isn't usually a winning proposition in the pros. While it would be surprising if Fall ended up being drafted, it's not out of the question that a team is intrigued enough to offer a two-way or Exhibit 10 contract to see how he progresses in the G League. -- Givony



Aubrey Dawkins | G | UCF
Top 100 ranking: NR

Dawkins had one of the best single-game performances of the tournament, scoring 32 points on just 18 field goal attempts with 4 assists and 3 steals -- just missing a tip-in that would have upset Duke. Dawkins proved his mettle as a high-level shot-maker by coming off screens from NBA range all game while also making tough pull-up jumpers. He attacked the paint in transition, caught alley-oop lobs and hit midrangers with defenders draped all over him. All of Duke's perimeter players got a turn at trying to slow him down, and no one found any real success.

Converting 41 percent of his 3s, Dawkins is clearly a reliable shooter, even if his career has been marred by injuries and inconsistency. Turning 24 in six weeks, he's considered a bit one-dimensional outside of his shooting stroke. Still, he possesses coveted traits for today's NBA. If he can find a way to get a little tougher and improve his feel, it's not out of the question that he finds his way onto a team. Only seven players age 24 or older have been drafted since 1996, so he'll need to have a big pre-draft process to hear his name called in June. -- Givony




Tyrese Haliburton | G | Iowa State
Top 100 ranking: NR

The freshman saw 38 minutes of action in the Cyclones' loss to Ohio State thanks to his defensive value and steady play, even though he failed to move the needle offensively. Haliburton is a highly controversial prospect among NBA scouts, as he entered the collegiate ranks off the radar and hasn't shown much in terms of scoring punch or aggressiveness. But he grades out incredibly well using analytics, ranking No. 6 in Pelton's stats and scouting model.

A lean 6-foot-5 guard with impressive length and quickness, Haliburton possesses quick feet and an excellent feel for the game. He makes good decisions on the court and has proved he can knock down occasional spot-up 3s with time and space. But Haliburton uses just 5.4 possessions per game. He's strictly a ball-mover and defender at this stage, and he still has to prove himself from 3 given his unorthodox stroke. Haliburton looks much more like a long-term name for teams to track than an immediate impact 2019 pick. -- Schmitz




Jalen Smith | F/C | Maryland
Top 100 ranking: NR

After an up-and-down freshman season, the former McDonald's All American reminded NBA scouts of his long-term intrigue with two spirited showings. Smith impressed with his rim running, effort on the offensive glass, shot-blocking instincts and floor-spacing potential. While he has a unique set of ingredients, Smith also showed that he could still use more time at the collegiate level. Although agile in a straight line, he struggles to step out and defend the perimeter, in part due to his narrow base, which we saw as Tremont Waters glided past him out of a pick-and-roll to score the game-winning bucket. It would be wise of Smith to spend the summer working on his lateral agility and strength, improving his ability to play in traffic and slide up to center -- his most advantageous position long term.

With Fernando gone to the NBA and Smith potentially spending some time at the 5 next season, he could easily emerge as a potential first-round prospect in 2020. -- Schmitz



Jared Harper | G | Auburn
Top 100 ranking: NR

Although not considered a major NBA prospect going into the tournament -- mostly due to his lack of size -- Harper showed that he has a strong case to be mentioned among the best point guards in college basketball in a beatdown of Kansas. Harper's athleticism, deep shooting range, ability to make quick reads out of pick-and-roll and competitiveness defensively all stood out in an exhilarating first half in which Auburn led by 25 points.

Unlike most college PGs, Harper doesn't need to learn how to play at an NBA tempo with modern spacing principles. He already does that at Auburn, which would make him attractive to teams in a backup role. -- Givony

 

[Alexander The Great]

'Grade: A' three-round NFL Mock Draft: Kiper plays GM for all 32 teams

@Skooby

 

[Skooby]

'Grade: A' three-round NFL Mock Draft: Kiper plays GM for all 32 teams

@Skooby

Arizona Cardinals
Round 1 (1): Kyler Murray, QB, Oklahoma
Round 2 (33): Cody Ford, OT, Oklahoma
Round 3 (65): Riley Ridley, WR, Georgia


Josh Rosen's strengths. I have Murray just behind Dwayne Haskins on my Big Board, but it's close.

One reason why it was extremely tough to evaluate Rosen's rookie year was the poor offensive line play, so let's get Murray some help in his former teammate Ford, who could play guard or tackle. Arizona has tried to upgrade its line this offseason, adding Marcus Gilbert and J.R. Sweezy, and Ford could play immediately. Ridley isn't as polished as his brother, Calvin, who went in Round 1 last year, but he has some upside, and the Cardinals need to think about life after Larry Fitzgerald.

San Francisco 49ers
Round 1 (2): Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State
Round 2 (36): JJ Arcega-Whiteside, WR, Stanford
Round 3 (67): Trayvon Mullen, CB, Clemson
Jimmy Garoppolo got injured last season, the bottom fell out for the Niners, but remember that they were a sneaky playoff pick before the season. This team has some talent, even if its defense underachieved. No. 2 is too high to take a defensive back in this class, and it's way too high to snag a wide receiver. If San Francisco keeps this pick, Bosa is the pass-rusher to target.

San Francisco can fill its need at receiver at the top of Round 2 -- and grab a Bay-area star -- as Arcega-Whiteside is a touchdown machine. He's moving up my board. Mullen has first-round talent, but he had an underwhelming 2018 for the national champs. If he can be more consistent, he can be an NFL starter.

New York Jets
Round 1 (3): Josh Allen, OLB, Kentucky
Round 3 (68): Michael Deiter, OL, Wisconsin
Round 3 (93): Amani Oruwariye, CB, Penn State



Quinnen Williams for the Jets, and both are going to be impact contributors as rookies. New York's biggest need is on the edge, however, so I lean toward Allen, the SEC Defensive Player of the Year who had 17 sacks last season.

The Jets are in a good spot here, and after trading up for Sam Darnold a year go, they don't have a second-round pick in this draft. They do have an extra third-rounder from the preseason trade of Teddy Bridgewater (remember when he was a Jet?). Deiter is my second-ranked center, but he has some versatility as he played guard, center and tackle over 54 college starts. Oruwariye is a big, 6-foot-2 corner who had seven interceptions over the past two seasons. You can't count on third-rounders as immediate starters, but Deiter and Oruwariye could compete for spots.

Oakland Raiders

Round 1 (4): Quinnen Williams, DT, Alabama
Round 1 (24): Rock Ya-Sin, CB, Temple
Round 1 (27): Irv Smith Jr., TE, Alabama
Round 2 (35): Josh Jacobs, RB, Alabama


Chicago and Dallas, many thought they'd be getting extra top-15 picks. Instead, the Bears had a breakout season under new coach Matt Nagy, Amari Cooper made the Cowboys' offense instantly better, and both teams made the playoffs. That means Jon Gruden & Co. have picks in the mid-20s instead in this draft. And Gruden and new GM Mike Mayock need to hit here. They have to get starters.

Williams is a game-wrecker, a defensive playmaker whom Gruden will love. Ya-Sin, one of college football's best lockdown corners in 2018, is still raw -- he played just one season at the FBS level -- but he has a high ceiling. Smith would fill the void left by Jared Cook. If there's one qualm with my own picks here, it's that there are no first-round edge rushers left on my board at No. 24. There is going to be a run on them in the top 20, which means Oakland could miss out on a big need area.

Jacobs might not make it to Round 2, but Gruden and Mayock shouldn't pass on him if he's there at No. 35. Get the best back in this class and help out Derek Carr.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Round 1 (5): Devin White, ILB, LSU
Round 2 (39): Juan Thornhill, S, Virginia
Round 3 (70): David Montgomery, RB, Iowa State


Kwon Alexander replacement and three-down stud. This is high for a linebacker who doesn't rush the quarterback, but the 2018 Butkus Award winner is that good.


Thornhill is my third-ranked safety, but I know some teams think he's the best safety in this class. He could sneak into the bottom of Round 1. The Bucs used a second-round pick on running back Ronald Jones last season, but he couldn't get on the field for an offense that averaged just 3.9 yards per carry. Montgomery is a more physical back than Jones, who has more upside in the receiving game, and they could complement each other.

New York Giants
Round 1 (6): Dwayne Haskins, QB, Ohio State
Round 1 (17): Clelin Ferrell, DE, Clemson
Round 2 (37): Terry McLaurin, WR, Ohio State
Round 3 (95): David Long, CB, Michigan


Eli Manning is 38 and mediocre by any statistical measurement you can find. Don't miss out on Haskins, who can be the future at the position. Now, the Giants have other needs -- their roster is among the worst in the league -- but they are in the beginning stages of a rebuild. Start that rebuild with a quarterback.

New York is desperate for edge-rushing talent, and Ferrell would help. That's the pick it got from Cleveland in the Odell Beckham Jr. trade. (I think I'd still rather have OBJ.) The Giants have two good slot receivers in Golden Tate and Sterling Shepard, and McLaurin, who averaged 20 yards per catch last season, could be an outside receiving threat. Near the end of Round 3, the Giants can get an intriguing corner in Long.

Jacksonville Jaguars
Round 1 (7): Jawaan Taylor, OT, Florida
Round 2 (38): Deionte Thompson, S, Alabama
Round 3 (69): Andy Isabella, WR, UMass
Round 3 (98): Bryce Love, RB, Stanford


Jaguars' roster. What position needs to be upgraded? There is a lot of young talent here. If you believe in Nick Foles as the answer at quarterback, I'd look at safety, tight end and wide receiver as spots in need. But offensive tackle should be the top priority, and Taylor -- my No. 1-ranked tackle -- makes too much sense here.

Jacksonville can get help at safety with Thompson, who looked like a top-10 pick at the beginning of last season but struggled down the stretch. He hasn't been able to work out for teams during the pre-draft process because of a wrist injury. Isabella is only 5-foot-9, but don't limit him as just a slot player. He ran a 4.31 40-yard dash at the combine and led the FBS in receiving yards (1,698) last season. I like the idea of Love in Jacksonville to push Leonard Fournette, but the former Stanford star's stock has dropped after he tore his ACL in the regular-season finale and struggled with an ankle injury the rest of 2018.

Detroit Lions
Round 1 (8): Montez Sweat, DE, Mississippi State
Round 2 (43): Justin Layne, CB, Michigan State
Round 3 (88): Yodny Cajuste, OT, West Virginia


Trey Flowers, who got $56 million guaranteed from the Lions. Sweat's 4.41 40 at the combine was the fastest by any prospect at least 6-foot-5 and 260 pounds since 2006, but he also produced in college, putting up 22 sacks over the past two seasons.

The Lions can get a corner in Round 2 -- it's a deep class -- and Layne is a converted receiver who has a ways to go to get to his ceiling. Can Matt Patricia & Co. get the best out of him? Cajuste might begin his career as a swing tackle. He just had surgery to repair a torn quad and could drop to Day 3.

Buffalo Bills
Round 1 (9): T.J. Hockenson, TE, Iowa
Round 2 (40): N'Keal Harry, WR, Arizona State
Round 3 (74): Jaylon Ferguson, DE, Louisiana Tech


Josh Allen. They're never going to see him develop if he's running for his life and throwing to subpar pass-catchers like he did in 2018. And with the additions of center Mitch Morse and receivers Cole Beasley and John Brown, you can see what GM Brandon Beane is doing. And since this is my "Grade: A" mock draft, I'm going a step further and getting Allen some more weapons. That means Hockenson, the best tight end in the class and a true upgrade as a blocker and pass-catcher, and that means Harry, a big target (6-foot-2) with great hands. Let's see how Allen can progress in Year 2 with upgraded players around him.

Ferguson, who set the NCAA record for career sacks with 47, including 17.5 last season, doesn't wow you with his measurables, but he already has an advanced arsenal of pass-rushing moves.

 

[Skooby]

Denver Broncos
Round 1 (10): Ed Oliver, DT, Houston
Round 2 (41): Dalton Risner, OT, Kansas State
Round 3 (71): Ryan Finley, QB, NC State

I thought about Drew Lock at No. 10. Is Joe Flacco really the long-term answer? But with Oliver still available, he'd be hard to pass up. Put him at end in Vic Fangio's 3-4 defense. Put him at nose tackle. Maybe let him get some edge-rushing reps to spell Von Millerand Bradley Chubb. Oliver has the athletic ability to be a star at multiple positions, although he needs to develop some true pass-rushing moves.

Denver can still take a quarterback on Day 2, and although I don't have as high of a grade on Finley as McShay does, he's worth a shot in the third round. Let him sit behind Flacco and see how fast he picks up the pro game. Risner could play tackle, center or guard for the Broncos.

Cincinnati Bengals
Round 1 (11): Devin Bush, ILB, Michigan
Round 2 (42): Khalen Saunders, DT, Western Illinois
Round 3 (72): Max Scharping, OL, Northern Illinois


Andy Dalton today they'd owe him $0 and have no dead cap hit? It's true. That's why I wouldn't rule out Drew Lock here, as new coach Zac Taylor could start fresh, like Kliff Kingsbury is likely to do in Arizona. Still, though, we know what Dalton is, and he's not a bad quarterback. He just might not be a great one. Cincinnati has already proved it can win with him, although its talent level has dropped the past few years.

So let's stick with Dalton in 2019 and go best player available with the No. 11 pick. That's Bush, a sideline-to-sideline linebacker with elite athleticism. Saunders has gone under the radar a little bit in a deep defensive line class, but he could be an impact player. Scharping has played some guard, but he's likely to be a tackle. Could he push Bobby Hart on the right side?

Green Bay Packers
Round 1 (12): D.K. Metcalf, WR, Mississippi
Round 1 (30): Noah Fant, TE, Iowa
Round 2 (44): Kaleb McGary, OT, Washington
Round 3 (75): Taylor Rapp, S, Washington


Za'Darius Smith and Preston Smith in free agency, taking an edge rusher with their first pick would have been a no-brainer. Now? GM Brian Gutekunst can focus on other positions (although it would be tough to turn down Rashan Gary's potential). And with my top-ranked receiver Metcalf still here, let's get some assistance for Aaron Rodgers, who at age 35 is sneakily the NFL's sixth-oldest starting quarterback. Metcalf has gotten attention for being an out-of-this-world athlete, but he can play, too. Injuries shortened his career at Ole Miss, so hopefully he can stay healthy.


Fant is another weapon for Rodgers; the comp I've made for him actually played with Rodgers for a season -- Jared Cook, who just signed with the Saints. Fant won't block much (yet), but he'll outrun a few defensive backs and score a few touchdowns. McGary could be the right tackle of the future in Green Bay. Rapp didn't run well at his pro day, but he could be a steal in Round 3.

Miami Dolphins
Round 1 (13): Rashan Gary, DE, Michigan
Round 2 (48): Chauncey Gardner-Johnson, S, Florida
Round 3 (78): Jarrett Stidham, QB, Auburn


Ryan Tannehill, Robert Quinn, Cameron Wake, Ja'Wuan James and Danny Amendola, among others. They have holes all over the roster, which makes this a tough pick.

This is about where Gary's floor is in the draft -- he could go as high as No. 4. And he'd be the Dolphins' most talented pass-rusher as soon as he hits the field. Their top returning sacker is linebacker Jerome Baker, who had only three last season. Gary has enormous potential; the issue is getting that potential out of him every play.

Gardner-Johnson is a versatile safety who could play down in the box or cover the deep middle of the field. Stidham is a project; he had a down 2018 season in a run-oriented offense. But he has an intriguing tool set that will likely see him picked on Day 2. The team that takes him probably doesn't want him to see the field as a rookie, but with Ryan Fitzpatrick as the No. 1 in Miami, this might be the spot where he's most likely to play early.

Atlanta Falcons
Round 1 (14): Christian Wilkins, DT, Clemson
Round 2 (45): Julian Love, CB, Notre Dame
Round 3 (79): Connor McGovern, C/G, Penn State


Grady Jarrett's skill set. He'd also be stellar in the locker room.

During the season, I thought Love had a chance to sneak into the first round, but his workout numbers were just OK. He has stellar ball skills and could compete with Isaiah Oliver for the spot opposite Desmond Trufant. McGovern would likely play guard if he went to Atlanta. I also considered pass-rusher Ben Banogu with that third-round pick.

Washington Redskins
Round 1 (15): Drew Lock, QB, Missouri
Round 2 (46): A.J. Brown, WR, Mississippi
Round 3 (76): Oshane Ximines, DE, Old Dominion
Round 3 (96): Dru Samia, OG, Oklahoma


Kyler Murray and Dwayne Haskins in two areas: arm strength and sample size. He can sling it. He showed that over 50 career games at Mizzou, while Murray and Haskins were essentially one-year starters. Lock's biggest issue is accuracy, though, and he's far behind the other two top quarterbacks there. He completed just 56.9 percent of his passes over those 50 games. Now, he didn't have great talent around him, and he played in college football's toughest conference. NFL coaches see the talent there. That's why he might not make it out of the top 10 picks later this month.

In Washington, Lock wouldn't be under pressure to start immediately, although I'd count on him getting a few starts. The Redskins can also add some Day 2 receiving help with Brown, who had a much more productive college career than his former teammate D.K. Metcalf. Ximines, who had 33 career sacks for the Monarchs, would likely play outside linebacker in Washington's 3-4 defense. Samia started 48 career games for the Sooners.

Carolina Panthers
Round 1 (16): Brian Burns, DE, Florida State
Round 2 (47): Amani Hooker, S, Iowa
Round 3 (77): Chuma Edoga, OT/G, USC
Round 3 (100): Maxx Crosby, DE, Eastern Michigan


Julius Peppers retired, and Carolina can't count on Bruce Irvin to be an every-down defensive end. I'd go with Burns or Clelin Ferrell here, and Burns is higher on my board. He produced 65 pressures last season, second most in the FBS.

After running a 4.48 40 at the combine, Hooker is another defensive back who is rising up boards. He is a good tackler who could play close to the line of scrimmage. Edoga played right tackle in college, but his testing numbers make him more likely to play guard in the NFL. Crosby opened some eyes with a 4.66 40 at the combine, putting him in the third-round discussion. Again, defensive end is the Panthers' top need.

Minnesota Vikings
Round 1 (18): Jonah Williams, OL, Alabama
Round 2 (50): Dre'Mont Jones, DT, Ohio State
Round 3 (81): Miles Sanders, RB, Penn State


Dalvin Cook has struggled to stay on the field. Sanders would be a great No. 2 back, and he has limited tread on his tires after sitting behind Saquon Barkley for his first two college seasons.

Tennessee Titans
Round 1 (19): Dexter Lawrence, DT, Clemson
Round 2 (51): Deebo Samuel, WR, South Carolina
Round 3 (82): Ben Banogu, DE/OLB, TCU


Marcus Mariota in the quarterback's contract year, you might have to wait until Round 2. But don't discount Lawrence, who can play nose tackle in Mike Vrabel's 3-4 defense. Lawrence won't be an elite sack producer, but he has the athletic ability to get into the backfield and create disruptions. Also keep an eye on an edge rusher at No. 19.


Samuel excelled at Senior Bowl practices, putting him in the second-round discussion. He could boost Tennessee out of the slot and as a return man. Banogu, who had 17 sacks over the past two seasons, would be in the rotation at outside linebacker.

 

[Skooby]

Pittsburgh Steelers
Round 1 (20): Deandre Baker, CB, Georgia
Round 2 (52): Mack Wilson, ILB, Alabama
Round 3 (66): Emanuel Hall, WR, Missouri
Round 3 (83): Will Harris, S, Boston College

The Steelers have lost some star power this offseason, but they still have the talent to compete for the AFC North title. Where are Pittsburgh's biggest needs? I look at cornerback, where former first-round pick Artie Burns had a disappointing 2018, and inside linebacker, where the Steelers still haven't replaced Ryan Shazier. So as the GM here, that was my plan. Baker is my top-ranked corner, a steady and reliable lockdown cover defender. Wilson is a sure tackler who can slide into Shazier's former role.

The Steelers have the No. 66 pick from the Raiders (in the Antonio Brown trade), and they could find a starter at the top of Round 3. Hall was Drew Lock's deep threat at Mizzou. He averaged 23.5 yards per catch over the past two seasons, which led all FBS players with at least 35 receptions. Harris could compete to start at one of the safety spots.

Seattle Seahawks
Round 1 (21): Chris Lindstrom, OG, Boston College
Round 3 (84): Hakeem Butler, WR, Iowa State


Earl Thomas was the most recent defensive back the Seahawks took in Round 1? That was in 2010, and Thomas played at a Hall of Fame level over nine seasons in Seattle but left for Baltimore in free agency. I thought about a defensive back with the 21st pick, but we know Pete Carroll can mold Day 3 DBs, and he likes young picks Tedric Thompson, Shaquill Griffin and Tre Flowers.

So where to next? While Seattle rode its running game to a surprising wild-card spot in 2018, both of its guards are on cheap, short-term deals. The Seahawks can upgrade with Lindstrom, who is my top-ranked guard. He could be in play for Baltimore at No. 22 as well. Seattle doesn't have a second-round pick due to the Duane Brown trade with Houston. If Butler is still available in the middle of the third round, the 6-foot-5 athlete is worth a flier. His inconsistency has him lower on my board than some teams, but getting him at No. 84 would be good value.

Baltimore Ravens
Round 1 (22): Erik McCoy, C/G, Texas A&M
Round 3 (85): Mecole Hardman, WR, Georgia
Round 3 (102): Justice Hill, RB, Oklahoma State


C.J. Mosley, Terrell Suggs and Za'Darius Smith, Baltimore will be eyeing any linebackers who drop in Round 1. Based on how my board fell, though, there aren't any left with first-round grades. McCoy could start at guard or center for the Ravens, who in 2019 are likely to be one of the most run-dominant teams again.

Former GM Ozzie Newsome was aggressive in getting quarterback Lamar Jackson last year, trading up to take him at No. 32 overall. That cost the Ravens their second-round pick this year, but I don't think new GM Eric DeCosta will mind if Jackson is the guy for the next 10-plus years. Hardman, one of the fastest prospects in this draft, could be a deep threat for Jackson, and he's also an excellent punt and kick returner. Hill tested well at the combine and could join the Baltimore running back rotation with new signing Mark Ingram II and Gus Edwards.

Houston Texans
Round 1 (23): Andre Dillard, OT, Washington State
Round 2 (54): Damien Harris, RB, Alabama
Round 2 (55): Darnell Savage Jr., S, Maryland
Round 3 (86): Antoine Wesley, WR, Texas Tech


Lamar Miller with Harris, a reliable runner and pass-catcher, although he's not as explosive as his former teammate Josh Jacobs. Savage had seven interceptions over the past two seasons and could compete with Tashaun Gipson for the other safety spot next to Justin Reid. Wesley is a 6-foot-4 giant with good ball skills and a 37-inch vertical.

Philadelphia Eagles
Round 1 (25): Johnathan Abram, S, Mississippi State
Round 2 (53): Tytus Howard, OT, Alabama State
Round 2 (57): Bobby Okereke, ILB, Stanford


Jordan Howard), defensive line (Malik Jackson and Vinny Curry) and wide receiver (DeSean Jackson) but not committing a ton of long-term money.

So if I'm taking Roseman's job as GM in Philly, give me an heir apparent for Malcolm Jenkins in Abram, a physical and tough tackler who can play in space. Howard is extremely raw -- he came to Alabama State as a 235-pound walk-on tight end in 2014 before putting on weight and moving to tackle. He needs reps but has potential. And Okereke can compete for the starting middle linebacker job, which is vacant with Jordan Hicks now in Arizona.

Indianapolis Colts
Round 1 (26): Marquise Brown, WR, Oklahoma
Round 2 (34): Byron Murphy, CB, Washington
Round 2 (59): Chase Winovich, OLB, Michigan
Round 3 (89): Sione Takitaki, LB, BYU


last year's trade with the Jets, in which New York moved up three spots in Round 1 and dealt Indianapolis its first-round pick and three more second-rounders (two last year, one this year). And the Colts can get a starter with that No. 34 pick. There should be several solid defensive backs available at the top of Round 2, which means GM Chris Ballard can pick his favorite. My favorite on the board here is Murphy, who is the best ball-hawk corner in this class.


In Round 1, I'll add a weapon for Andrew Luck in Brown, who has dealt with a foot injury and hasn't been able to work out for teams during the pre-draft process. If he comes back healthy, he could be a No. 1 receiver. He's lightning fast. Winovich could instantly be added to the edge-rushing rotation, while Takitaki is a tackling machine who ran better than expected at the combine (a 4.63 40).

Los Angeles Chargers
Round 1 (28): Jeffery Simmons, DT, Mississippi State
Round 2 (60): Will Grier, QB, West Virginia
Round 3 (91): Bobby Evans, OT, Oklahoma


Vita Vea and Daron Payne were both off the board. They ended up with Derwin James, one of the best picks of the entire draft, but still have a need along the interior of their defense. Simmons might not be picked in Round 1. He tore his ACL in February and could redshirt this season. But he's a top-15 talent, and he's going to be on my Big Board. And he could be a steal here.

Is it time to start thinking about life after Philip Rivers? He's 37, although he hasn't shown signs of declining. Grier, my fifth-ranked quarterback, is going to go somewhere on Day 2, and teams looking for a long-term project like the Chargers and Patriots make sense for him. Evans, who blocked for Kyler Murray in high school and college, played left and right tackle for the Sooners and could be a swing tackle as a rookie.

Kansas City Chiefs
Round 1 (29): Greedy Williams, CB, LSU
Round 2 (61): Elgton Jenkins, C, Mississippi State
Round 2 (63): Jachai Polite, OLB, Florida
Round 3 (92): Trayveon Williams, RB, Texas A&M


Dee Ford and Justin Houston this offseason, I expect the Chiefs to keep an eye on the edge rushers in the first round. But cornerback is also a need position, and there aren't any defensive ends or outside linebackers left on my board with first-round grades. Williams had eight interceptions over the past two seasons, but he has dropped in the eyes of teams because of his unwillingness to stick his head in and make tackles in run support. When he's on, though, he can be a lockdown defender. There's a chance we'll look back on this pick in a few years and wonder how Williams fell so far.

Kansas City has an extra second-round pick (via the Rams and the Marcus Peters trade), and it can pick up a Mitch Morse replacement in Jenkins and an edge rusher in Polite, who had a miserable combine but is super talented. His 2018 tape is phenomenal, so you have to wonder why his workout was so poor. Williams might be the best receiving back in this class, and he'd get some third-down snaps as a security blanket for Patrick Mahomes.

 

[Skooby]

Kansas City Chiefs
Round 1 (29): Greedy Williams, CB, LSU
Round 2 (61): Elgton Jenkins, C, Mississippi State
Round 2 (63): Jachai Polite, OLB, Florida
Round 3 (92): Trayveon Williams, RB, Texas A&M


Dee Ford and Justin Houston this offseason, I expect the Chiefs to keep an eye on the edge rushers in the first round. But cornerback is also a need position, and there aren't any defensive ends or outside linebackers left on my board with first-round grades. Williams had eight interceptions over the past two seasons, but he has dropped in the eyes of teams because of his unwillingness to stick his head in and make tackles in run support. When he's on, though, he can be a lockdown defender. There's a chance we'll look back on this pick in a few years and wonder how Williams fell so far.

Kansas City has an extra second-round pick (via the Rams and the Marcus Peters trade), and it can pick up a Mitch Morse replacement in Jenkins and an edge rusher in Polite, who had a miserable combine but is super talented. His 2018 tape is phenomenal, so you have to wonder why his workout was so poor. Williams might be the best receiving back in this class, and he'd get some third-down snaps as a security blanket for Patrick Mahomes.

Los Angeles Rams
Round 1 (31): Garrett Bradbury, C, NC State
Round 3 (94): Joejuan Williams, CB, Vanderbilt
Round 3 (99): L.J. Collier, DE, TCU


Dexter Lawrence made it to No. 31, he'd be a great fit as the nose tackle in Wade Phillips' defense. Since he's not here, though, I'll look to another potential need spot along the interior of the offensive line, where Rodger Saffold and John Sullivan are both gone from the Super Bowl runners-up. Bradbury played guard for the Wolfpack in 2016 before spending the past two seasons at center. He showed off his athletic ability at the combine, running a 4.92 40 at 306 pounds.

Williams, a legit 6-foot-4 corner, got some first-round buzz in December, but he doesn't have great long speed. He has been passed up by a few other corners. But with the future uncertain for Aqib Talib and Marcus Peters, Williams could get some playing time. There's nothing flashy about Collier, but he can bull rush with the best in the class. He'd likely play end in Phillips' 3-4.

New England Patriots
Round 1 (32): Daniel Jones, QB, Duke
Round 2 (56): Jerry Tillery, DT, Notre Dame
Round 2 (64): Miles Boykin, WR, Notre Dame
Round 3 (73): Lonnie Johnson Jr., CB, Kentucky
Round 3 (97): Kahale Warring, TE, San Diego State
Round 3 (101): Jace Sternberger, TE, Texas A&M

Look at all these picks. No team takes advantage of the compensatory system like the Patriots, who have two third-round comp picks in this draft and will likely get two more in 2020. And they have an extra second-rounder as a result of the Bears moving up for Anthony Miller a year ago. So let's get to the six prospects:

• Tom Brady can't play forever, and New England's backup is Brian Hoyer. It needs to find Brady's successor. Jones has improved every year at Duke, and he can learn a lot from Brady. Some team is going to take him on Day 1.
• Tillery just had surgery to repair a torn labrum and might miss some time. When he's healthy, he's a disruptive force at defensive tackle.
• Boykin was a big riser after the combine; he ran a 4.42 40 and had a 43-inch vertical. He's still raw, but he has the physical traits to be a contributor.
• Johnson is a bigger corner (6-foot-2) who could develop under Belichick & Co.
• You might be curious why I have two tight ends to the Patriots in Round 3. That's because no one player can replace the all-around game of Rob Gronkowski. Sternberger is the better pass-catcher of the two, while Warring is already an above-average blocker who is still learning the receiving part of the position. Don't forget that New England also has to replace Dwayne Allen.

Cleveland Browns
Round 2 (49): Nasir Adderley, S, Delaware
Round 3 (80): Greg Little, OT, Mississippi


Odell Beckham Jr. instead. Think the Browns are excited about that? They have an exciting, young roster that could compete for an AFC North title.

Adderley has stellar ball skills and could play immediately in their defensive back rotation. Little, a former five-star prospect, has seen his stock drop since he entered the draft, but this is a dominant left tackle with tremendous feet when he's at his best. The problem is that there were too many lapses on tape. He has starting potential.

Dallas Cowboys
Round 2 (58): Gerald Willis III, DT, Miami (FL)
Round 3 (90): Jalen Hurd, WR, Baylor


Amari Cooper instantly made them a playoff contender last season. But their roster does have a couple of holes, particularly at safety and defensive tackle. Dallas' problem is that there could be a run on safeties at the top of Round 2, which means it could miss out on guys like Juan Thornhill, Chauncey Gardner-Johnson and Deionte Thompson. Jerry Jones & Co. can then move on to address the other need, taking Willis, a powerful tackle who had 18 tackles for loss last season.

Hurd is a 6-foot-5 wide receiver who played running back at Tennessee before playing a season at Baylor. He has an intriguing size/speed skill set, though he's still learning the position.

New Orleans Saints
Round 2 (62): Parris Campbell, WR, Ohio State


Marcus Davenport a year ago, giving up their 2019 first-rounder to move up 13 spots. Their third-round pick? That went to the Jets in last preseason in the Teddy Bridgewater trade. So with one lonely pick in the first three rounds, let's give Drew Brees a slot weapon with 4.31 speed. Campbell had 90 catches and 12 touchdowns last season.

Chicago Bears
Round 3 (87): Devin Singletary, RB, Florida Atlantic


The Khalil Mack trade means Chicago doesn't have a first-round pick, while the trade up for Anthony Miller took away its Round 2 pick. Singletary didn't run well at the combine, but even at 5-foot-7 he has some juice between the tackles. He had a huge workload for the Owls in his career -- 714 carries over the past three seasons -- but he could help replace Jordan Howard. I expect the Bears to take a running back somewhere in this draft, and they could also target an offensive tackle or cornerback in Round 3.

 

[Frump]

2020 NBA mock draft: New top three prospects, latest intel

 

[Skooby]

2020 NBA mock draft: New top three prospects, latest intel

2020 NBA mock draft: New top three prospects, latest intel



Three months have passed since we previously updated our 2020 mock, and quite a bit has changed in the world of high school, college and international basketball.

We got a chance to evaluate all of the top high school seniors competing with one another in practices and games the past few weeks at the Geico Nationals, the McDonald's All-American Game, the Nike Hoop Summit and the Jordan Brand Classic, learning plenty of new intel.

We'll continue to find out more about the 2020 draft class at the NBA Global Camp in Monaco, the Nike Basketball Academy, the CP3 camp and numerous FIBA competitions over the next few months, but here's how we currently see things, with plenty still to be determined 14 months out.

We used the same projected standing from ESPN's Basketball Power Index for the 2019 draft in this 2020 edition. Although the 2020 draft is too far away to reasonably predict the team order, this gives a sense of picks owed and owned.




2020 NBA mock draft
Pick Player Team HT POS Age
1. NYK James Wiseman Memphis 7-1 C 18.0
2. CLE Anthony Edwards Georgia 6-3 SG 17.7
3. PHX Cole Anthony UNC 6-3 PG/SG 18.9
4. CHI Theo Maledon Villeurbanne 6-5 PG 17.8
5. ATL Deni Avdija Maccabi Tel Aviv 6-9 SG/SF 18.2
6. WAS Nico Mannion Arizona 6-3 PG 18.1
7. DAL Jaden McDaniels 6-10 SF/PF 18.5
8. MEM Scottie Lewis Florida 6-5 SG/SF 19.1
9. NOP Precious Achiuwa 6-9 PF 19.5
10. MIN Isaiah Stewart Washington 6-9 C 17.9
11. LAL Tyrese Maxey Kentucky 6-3 SG 18.4
12. CHA Matthew Hurt Duke 6-9 PF 19.0
13. MIA Josh Green Arizona 6-5 SG 18.4
14. SAC Trendon Watford 6-9 SF/PF 18.4
15. DET Tre Jones Duke 6-3 PG 19.2
16. BKN Bryan Antoine Villanova 6-5 SG 18.9
17. ORL Wendell Moore Duke 6-6 SF 17.5
18. IND Patrick Williams Florida State 6-8 SF/PF 17.6
19. LAC Kahlil Whitney Kentucky 6-7 SF/PF 18.2
20. SAS Josiah James Tennessee 6-6 SG 18.6
21. BOS Killian Hayes Cholet 6-5 PG/SG 17.7
22. PHI (via OKC) Vernon Carey Duke 6-10 C 18.1
23. UTA Ayo Dosunmu Illinois 6-4 PG/SG 19.2
24. LAC (via PHI) Amar Sylla Real Madrid 6-8 PF 17.5
25. HOU Malcolm Cazalon Bourg 6-6 SG 17.6
26. POR A.J. Lawson* South Carolina 6-6 SG 18.7
27. DEN Henri Drell* Bamberg 6-9 SF/PF 18.9
28. GSW Ashton Hagans Kentucky 6-3 PG 19.7
29. TOR Devon Dotson* Kansas 6-2 PG 19.7
30. PHX (via MIL) Aaron Nesmith Vanderbilt 6-6 SF 19.5
31. PHI (via NYK) Jalen Smith Maryland 6-10 PF 19.0
32. CHA (via CLE) LaMelo Ball 6-6 PG/SG 17.6
33. PHX Matthieu Gauzin Le Mans 6-3 PG 18.1
34. CHI Paul Eboua* Roseto 6-8 PF 19.1
35. ATL A.J. Reeves Providence 6-5 SG 19.8
36. NOP (via WAS) Marcos Lousada Silva* Franca 6-6 SF 19.8
37. PHI (via DAL) Arturs Zagars* Joventut 6-3 PG 19.0
38. CHI (via MEM) Obadiah Toppin* Dayton 6-9 PF 21.1
39. NOP Xavier Johnson Pittsburgh 6-3 PG 19.5
40. MIN Jordan Nwora* Louisville 6-8 PF 20.6
41. LAL Tyrese Haliburton Iowa St 6-5 PG 19.1
42. NYK (via CHA) Kira Lewis Alabama 6-3 PG 18.0
43. SAC (via MIA) Isaiah Joe Arkansas 6-5 SG 19.8
44. SAC Ochai Agbaji Kansas 6-5 SF 19.0
45. SAC (via DET) Derrick Alston Boise St 6-8 SF/PF 21.5
46. CHA (via BKN) Joshua Obiesie* Wuerzburg 6-6 PG/SG 18.9
47. ORL Jarron Cumberland* Cincinnati 6-5 SG 21.5
48. IND Cassius Winston Michigan St 6-1 PG 21.1
49. LAC Paul Reed DePaul 6-9 PF 19.8
50. SAS Karlton Dimanche Cholet 6-5 PG/SG 19.1
51. BOS Dalibor Ilic* Igokea 6-9 SF/PF 19.1
52. OKC Paul Scruggs Xavier 6-4 PG/SG 21.1
53. CLE (via UTA) Neemias Queta* Utah St 6-10 C 19.7
54. PHI Tyler Bey Colorado 6-7 PF 20.1
55. DAL (via HOU) Markus Howard Marquette 6-0 PG 20.1
56. BKN (via POR) Kenny Wooten* Oregon 6-9 C 21.0
57. BKN (via DEN) Grant Riller* Charleston 6-3 PG/SG 22.1
58. SAC (via GSW) Rayshaun Hammonds Georgia 6-9 PF 21.4
59. TOR Gytis Masiulis* Neptunas 6-9 PF 21.0
60. NOP (via MIL) Georgios Kalaitzakis Panathinaikos 6-6 SG 20.2
*Player is 2019 draft eligible but may withdraw

 

[Skooby]

James Wiseman | 7-1 | Center | Memphis


Rank: No. 1 (previously No. 3)

Long considered the most physically gifted prospect in the 2019 high school class, Wiseman has finally turned the corner with his energy and effort, looking every bit like the No. 1 overall pick in 2020. For years, the often-subdued Wiseman left much to be desired in terms of consistency and overall impact, tantalizing with his incredible fluidity, ideal basketball frame and budding skills, yet struggling to find an elite skill or two to hang his hat on. But Wiseman has looked like a different player over these past few weeks, competing during McDonald's All-American practices, putting a lid on the rim at Nike Hoop Summit with six blocks in 22 minutes and winning co-MVP of the Jordan Brand Classic in Las Vegas with 22 points, 6 rebounds and 2 blocks in 24 minutes, featuring a variety of eye-popping plays on both ends.

"Really just getting my conditioning up and making sure I have a consistent motor on a daily basis," Wiseman told ESPN of his improvement. "Studying a lot of film on great bigs in this era. Really going out there and just playing hard because usually in the summertime I always used to be patient. I used to not be involved as well, not running the floor that much even though I had the ability to. So really just doing that on a consistent basis."

Although the NBA certainly isn't clamoring for more centers, Wiseman checks most every box that teams are looking for in a franchise big man, starting with his ability to protect the rim. While not a prolific shot-blocker at the FIBA or Nike EYBL level, Wiseman brings a 7-foot-5 wingspan, 9-3 standing reach, agility and steadily improving instincts that should allow him to anchor a defense at the next level. His measurables rival Joel Embiid's at the same age.

"Timing is everything [with shot-blocking]," Wiseman said. "I've been studying a lot of David Robinson highlights. A lot of Hakeem Olajuwon highlights. So really just studying my timing and really just being there, being alert, improving myself awareness and just be active on both ends of the floor."

While he needs to improve his fundamentals and discipline defending ball screens, Wiseman is also more than comfortable stepping out and sliding with point guards on switches. He stonewalled Jaden McDaniels during the Nike Hoop Summit scrimmage and moves with impressive grace for a player his size. His aggressiveness on the defensive glass is underwhelming at times, but he's really rounding out into a defensive weapon (à la Jaren Jackson Jr.).

Offensively, Wiseman has proved he can add value as a rim runner, lob catcher and even an occasional bust-out ball handler, as he's extremely agile and slithery with unique ball skills. In the half court, though, he's still finding himself, often shying away from contact and opting for finesse over physicality. He's not the most instinctual passer at this stage and lives off a lot of step-back, long 2-pointers in search of earning the unicorn tag. But the fact that he even has the footwork to get to those shots is encouraging, along with his touch to step out and make an occasional 3, a right-shoulder jump hook or a goofy-foot finish.

Although Georgia's Anthony Edwards still poses a major threat at the No. 1 spot given his shot creation at a more coveted position, NBA scouts were wowed by Wiseman's tools and upside, and teams will spend no shortage of time in Memphis next season evaluating the 18-year-old hometown kid on his chase toward becoming the No. 1 pick in 2020. -- Schmitz



Anthony Edwards | 6-3 | SG | Georgia


Rank: No. 2 (previously No. 2)

Edwards was up-and-down at times in his two all-star events -- McDonald's and Jordan Brand -- but vividly showed his talent, and he has a real opportunity to be the No. 1 pick in the draft. Edwards came into McDonald's practices noticeably out of shape but had already trimmed down by the time Jordan Brand rolled around, as he has the type of frame that can get heavy in time if he's not careful about his diet and work habits.

Edwards is a prototype for a modern NBA guard prospect with his ideal combination of size, length, body control, explosiveness, shot-making ability and defensive versatility. His ability to play at different speeds in pick-and-roll, his strength to get his own shot rising up off the dribble, and the scoring instincts he displays finishing through contact are exactly what teams are looking for.

With that said, Edwards is still a bit of an unknown commodity, as he reclassified into the 2020 draft late, played off the radar in high school and AAU, and turned down numerous opportunities with USA Basketball. His effort level comes and goes, he can be very streaky with his jump shot, and his decision-making is still at an early stage. NBA teams say Edwards has some convincing to do to show he can be trusted to be such a high draft pick, but that's exactly why the age minimum was implemented, and he's in a perfect situation at Georgia to show he's worthy of a million-dollar investment. -- Givony



Cole Anthony | 6-3 | PG/SG | UNC


Rank: No. 3 (previously No. 6)

MVP of McDonald's and Jordan Brand -- and the leading scorer for the U.S. in a win at the Nike Hoop Summit -- Anthony displayed alpha-dog status in this class, as he dropped 64 points in 74 minutes on 43 shots between the three games. Yet NBA teams continue to express a degree of skepticism regarding how that might translate to higher levels of competition due to his streaky jumper, his reluctance to make others better and his head-down, at-times-ugly style of play.

Nevertheless, it's difficult not to be impressed by Anthony's scoring instincts and ability to manufacture offense out of nothing, as his ability to play at different speeds, make difficult shots off the bounce and seek out contact are coveted qualities in today's NBA. He's willing to put his body on the line defensively, stepping in for charges, and he has a little more ability to find teammates off the bounce in drive-and-dish situations than he gets credit for.

At UNC, we'll get a better sense for how good of an athlete, shooter, defender and facilitator Anthony is, as well as his skills as a teammate and overall winner -- things on which you hear mixed feedback. Still, it's difficult to argue with his standing among his peers in this class considering how dominant he has been in every setting, and others will need to show they have more value as NBA prospects before we can forecast Anthony going any lower than this. -- Givony





Nico Mannion | 6-3 | PG | Arizona


Rank: No. 6 (previously No. 17)

Mannion helped himself as much as any other player in the class with his showings at McDonald's and Hoop Summit, making a strong case as the top PG. According to our database, going back to 1995, Mannion's single-game performance for the World team was the best the event has seen from an international player in Hoop Summit history, breaking Dirk Nowitzki's record in 1998.

Mannion demonstrated an ideal blend of scoring and passing from a modern guard, knocking down deep jumpers while proving capable of getting into the paint and finishing creatively around the rim. He is already extremely advanced operating out of ball screens, changing speeds instinctively and using well-timed bounce passes or lobs while seeing both sides of the floor. He plays with toughness and intelligence, which his teammates respect.

Mannion will need to continue to work on his body and maximize his athleticism to maintain this lofty projection, as he isn't blessed with prototypical physical tools for a NBA point guard with his negative wingspan and 179-pound frame. He struggled at times defensively and can't always get by better defenders one-on-one, things that will be tested more in college. -- Givony



Jaden McDaniels | 6-10 | SF/PF | Uncommitted


Rank: No. 7 (previously No. 1)

It has been a tough month for McDaniels. He struggled through McDonald's All-America week, looking frail and passive, much to the chagrin of NBA scouts given his clout coming into the event.

Left off the Nike Hoop Summit team, the Seattle-born-and-bred McDaniels had a great opportunity to bounce back in Portland, as he suited up for the PDX Generals -- a team of mostly local high school and college players -- to take on USA in a scrimmage in front of what seemed like the entire NBA.

McDaniels again faltered, going at half speed and looking uninspired on both ends of the floor. Struggling to make shots from the perimeter, McDaniels didn't affect the game in other ways, had issues playing through contact and looked far too flat over the course of the game. McDaniels did remind scouts of his talent for stretches at Jordan Brand, playing with far more aggression in the game by attacking off the dribble into floaters, connecting on pullups with touch and showing some fight on the glass and defensively despite his thin frame. It's important not to overreact too much to his struggles, as he's still 6-foot-10 with shooting potential, a strong positional handle, natural scoring instincts and a solid overall feel for the game. He's a bit of a late bloomer as well.

But McDaniels' development and overall motor have certainly stalled, and his college decision is likely going to go a long way toward determining whether he's able to maximize his potential long-term. -- Schmitz




Scottie Lewis | 6-5 | SG | Florida


Rank: No. 8 (previously No. 4)

Lewis had strong showings at McDonald's All-American and Nike Hoop Summit, looking like one of the higher-floor prospects in this group while still having plenty long-term potential. Lewis is arguably the best defender in this class, at his best using his near 7-foot wingspan, quick feet and exceptionally high intensity level to smother opposing ball handlers at the point of attack. Offensively, Lewis showed glimpses of potential with his streaky shot-making and ability to score in the open floor with his long strides and explosive athleticism, but he remains a work in progress on this end.

He loses confidence in his jumper easily, preferring to get to his midrange pullup rather than take open spot-ups, and he plays a frenetic brand of basketball in the half court, leading to quite a few out-of-control decisions. Learning when to slow down and adding more craftiness to his game will be key toward maximizing his potential, as will improving his narrow frame, which hasn't changed that much over the past year. -- Givony



Precious Achiuwa | 6-9 | PF | Uncommitted


Rank: No. 9 (previously unranked)

Coming off a 22-point performance (on 20 attempts) in the McDonald's game, Achiuwa strung together an outstanding week of practice in Portland, culminating in a strong 15-point, 11-rebound outing at the Nike Hoop Summit game. After an up-and-down high school senior season with Montverde, Achiuwa seemed to benefit from the added spacing of these settings with more opportunities to showcase his on-ball skill set. Achiuwa displayed impressive upside with his physical profile (6-9, 7-2 wingspan), explosive athleticism, budding shot-making ability and flashes of defensive prowess.

Achiuwa is a hungry scorer who is aggressive attacking the rim in the open floor, pulling up off the dribble, shooting with his feet set and taking difficult shots from inside the arc. His ability to change speeds powerfully, finish above the rim and throw in jumpers is intriguing for a player his size, even if his tunnel-vision decision-making and shot selection still often leave a lot to be desired. Achiuwa also is a playmaker defensively who wows you at times with his versatility switching onto guards and protecting the rim. His feel for the game and overall consistency are still a major work in progress, though, and going to the right school will be paramount for him. Ultimately, his combination of tools and talent are just too tantalizing to not project as a lottery talent now. -- Givony



Tyrese Maxey | 6-3 | SG | Kentucky


Rank: No. 11 (previously No. 21)

Maxey helped himself in a big way over the past month with his shot-making, scoring instincts, touch in the paint, confidence and defensive energy at 6-3 with a strong frame and 6-6 wingspan. While he wasn't overly prolific in the Hoop Summit game or Jordan Brand Classic, his talent has really stood out, as he's an ideal fit in the modern NBA with his ability to shoot off the dribble with range, change speeds to get to floaters and make the necessary reads to eventually become more of a lead guard. Maxey is still wired to score, as he'll fire contested jumpers early in the clock or fail to deliver basic passes in traffic. But he also showed enough instincts and change of pace to suggest he'll be able to play more on the ball down the road.

Inconsistent defensively in the past, Maxey guarded with great energy as well, fighting bigger wings in the post and making an effort to slide with guards on the perimeter. He's not the most traditionally explosive leaper and has to keep his frame in check, but Maxey has three-level scoring potential and quite a bit of value in the modern game. Maxey figures to fit well next to Ashton Hagans at Kentucky and could easily have a Coby White-like rise if given the freedom in Lexington. -- Schmitz

 

[Skooby]

Matthew Hurt | 6-9 | SF/PF | Duke


Rank: No. 12 (previously No. 16)

Hurt had a strong week of practice at the Nike Hoop Summit, as he's arguably the most skilled frontcourt player in his class. He can create his own shot on the perimeter, has terrific footwork and touch inside the arc and possesses deep range on his jumper, looking nearly automatic with his feet set. Hurt is bouncy off two feet, shows some budding instincts defensively and looks like a pretty good passer as well, giving him more versatility than your typical standstill shooter.

His frame is a major work in progress, and he needs to prove his ability as a rebounder and defender of quicker guards. It's easy to project a role for Hurt in the modern NBA game with his ability to score from all over the floor, though, and it will be interesting to see how his body continues to evolve once he arrives on campus at Duke. -- Givony



Josh Green | 6-6 | SG/SF | Arizona


Rank: No. 13 (previously No. 9)

Green was inconsistent on the all-star circuit, scoring 13 points on 17 field goal attempts in 41 minutes at the McDonald's and Hoop Summit games combined. Green told us he was battling an illness in Atlanta and suffered a shoulder injury early in the game in Portland, but he did have some impressive moments in practice, plus an MVP showing at the Geico Nationals in between, helping IMG Academy win its first national championship.

Green has too much going for him from a talent standpoint not to think of him as a one-and-done prospect. He's extremely gifted physically, standing 6-6 with a 6-10 wingspan and impressive athleticism, and he shows enough versatility as a passer, ball handler, shooter and defender to bet on his trajectory. He's a talent in the open floor with his impressive combination of explosiveness and body control, bringing the tools to guard multiple positions as well.

Green's jumper will clearly be his swing skill, an area he's struggled with over the past few weeks. His release is fairly stiff and on the slower side, and he struggles to make shots when closely contested, especially off the dribble. Green's ability to affect the game in other ways on nights when his shot isn't falling will help determine how high he gets picked, and he's walking into a good situation at Arizona alongside AAU teammate Nico Mannion. He should make an immediate impact. -- Givony



Trendon Watford | 6-9 | SF/PF | Uncommitted


Rank: No. 14 (previously unranked)

Watford has emerged as a legitimate one-and-done candidate and potential lottery pick thanks to his tools and two-way versatility as a mismatch combo forward. With a physical profile somewhat similar to Kyle Anderson's (6-8½, 227 pounds, 7-1½ wingspan), Watford's ability to handle like a guard, facilitate on the move, make an open 3 and defend multiple positions make him an extremely intriguing fit in today's game.

He has really improved his defensive motor and is playing a far more unselfish brand of basketball, coming into his own as a shot-creator. More long and fluid than explosive, Watford will need to rely on his shooting to rise, as he has natural touch yet doesn't have the quickest release, bringing the ball up across the left side of his face to get to his release point.

As long as he spends most of his minutes as a mismatch 4 at the college level, expect the 18-year-old Alabama native to stuff the stat sheet and get looks in the lottery. -- Schmitz



Wendell Moore | 6-6 | SF | Duke


Rank: No. 17 (previously No. 23)

One of the youngest players in his high school class, the 17-year-old showed glimpses of his NBA value given his versatility, feel and two-way potential. Moore, who has been in the USA Basketball system since he was 15, passes the eye test physically at 6-6 with a strong 215-pound frame and a near 7-foot wingspan, resembling a young Tyreke Evans with his measurements.

Despite suffering an ankle injury in practice, Moore really helped the USA team sneak past the World squad in the Hoop Summit, posting 13 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists and 2 steals in 23 minutes, sliding between the 1 and the 3 comfortably on both ends of the floor. Although he lacks a degree of offensive aggression/explosion and has yet to prove himself as a 3-point shooter, Moore really knows how to play. He's comfortable handling in pick-and-roll as a primary facilitator and at least has enough mid-range touch to suggest his flat-footed stroke could become more consistent in time (31 percent from 3-point territory on 583 attempts, according to the game-film tool Krossover).

Moore struggled to follow up on his Portland showing in Vegas, as his inconsistent confidence showed at times. With that said, his game isn't suited for an all-star setting. He's a fill-in-the-gaps prospect who does a little bit of everything on both ends and impacts winning in competitive games, just as he did for the USA U16 and U17 teams, winning two gold medals and going undefeated as a starter.

So long as Moore doesn't blend in against ACC competition as a freshman, he could certainly end up as a top-20 pick in the 2020 draft. -- Schmitz



Patrick Williams | 6-8 | SF/PF | Florida State


Rank: No. 18 (previously unranked)

Williams is looking more and more like a one-and-done candidate in the 3-and-D combo forward mold, now standing 6-8, 215 pounds with a 7-foot wingspan, huge hands and an ideal frame at just 17.

Williams didn't wow with his skill level, as he's still a rigid ball handler, streaky shooter and unpolished decision-maker. But the late-blooming North Carolina native showed his clear value on the defensive end, checking up to four positions, displaying great feet and a competitive streak not every prospect brings in a setting like Jordan Brand. Athletically, he made a few spectacular plays in the scrimmage, exploding off two feet, hammering home dunks and attacking the rim powerfully in a straight line. While his stroke is far from natural, Williams does show enough rotation and touch to suggest he can become an average standstill shooter in time, which is supported by his 39 percent clip on 175 attempts, according to Krossover. Williams is a high-intangibles competitor with tools and age on his side -- exactly the type of prospect NBA teams will want to bet on maximizing his potential. -- Schmitz



Kahlil Whitney | 6-7 | SF/PF | Kentucky


Rank: No. 19 (previously No. 11)

Few prospects struggled through McDonald's week and the Jordan Brand Classic quite like Whitney, as his lack of skill level and feel in the half court was more evident than ever. While he's a physical specimen at 6-7 with a 6-11 wingspan and ideal basketball frame, resembling a young Jason Richardson, he really had issues thinking the game against a set defense. He's a rigid ball handler who plays with his head down too often and lives off contested midrange pullups regularly. Although he may never be asked to generate much offense, he still needs to iron out his shooting stroke, as he's a career 31 percent 3-point shooter (242 attempts) and 57 percent free throw shooter (165 attempts), according to Krossover, which showed with several bad misses in Vegas.

Whitney remains a dynamic open-court athlete and a hard-nosed defender with at least some shooting potential to grow into. Because of that, he's still a one-and-done candidate, but if he plays mostly on the wing in Lexington and is asked to create offense in the half court, Whitney might end up spending more time in the collegiate ranks than originally anticipated. -- Schmitz

 

[Da_Eggman]

2019 NFL draft grades: Kiper on all 32 classes, best picks and steals