Now that the lottery is behind us we have a much better idea of how things will shape out on draft night. While just one pick or trade could drastically change the order the draftees are selected, we have a pretty good idea that Cunnigham, Mobley, Green, Suggs, and Kumming will be the top five selected. Bellow, I predict the order these athletes will be drafted as well as their strengths, weaknesses and fit with the projected organization.
Pistons Pick 1
The Pistons franchise now has the number one in their hands to hopefully jumpstart the organization. Cade Cunningham, a PG from Oklahoma State is the consensus number 1 player in the draft class, and it is extremely likely if not certain Detroit will select him on draft night. Cade is an incredible passer and very unselfish when it comes to sharing the ball. He shot 40 percent from three. Cade averaged 20 points per game, 6.2 rebounds, and 3.5 assists. On the defensive end, Cade at 6 foot 8 is a very hands-on impact defender. Cade is an all-around amazing player although he can work on his quickness to minimize the unnecessary turnovers and fouls he commits at times. Cunningham proved to be a successful court general and leader for the Cowboys and it is easy to believe he will do the same for the pistons alongside Killian Hayes.
Rockets Pick 2
Rockets fans are very split when it comes to who they should draft with the second pick in the draft, and I can only imagine management is having these same discussions. Both Evan Mobley, a C out of USC, and Jalen Green, a SG from the G League Ignite have great potential and could both make a big impact on this developing Rockets team. It is interesting to see the overlap between Christian Wood and Mobley as well as KPJ and Green. I think it will come down to whoever the Rockets believe in more as they are both good fits for the team. While Mobley is a big defensive threat, something the Rockets have not found in Christan Wood. If the Rockets plan to keep Wood around, a star-studded guard would be a smart move to help further build the team. Jalen Green, an excellent scorer averaged 17.9 points per game, shot 52.9 percent on two-pointers, and 35.6 percent from three. Green’s playmaking improved into the season, but working to create more offense around him would be necessary to complete the offensive look. Green struggles defensively, but hopefully, with more build and aggression he can become a better defender. KPJ would have to become more of a point guard and be willing to share the ball with Green for this to work in favor of this young Rocket’s team.
Cavs Pick 3
The Cavs will most likely take whoever the Rockets pass up a number two. Based on my assumption that the Rockets will take Green, Mobley would be a good fight for this Cavs team. Although the Cavs currently have Jarrett Allen, he is hitting the free-agent market and will likely want big money. The Cavs could have Mobley at center to accompany the Garland and Sexton backcourt duo. Mobley stands 7 feet tall and is a game-changing defender. He is extremely good at blocking shots and is very strategic when it comes to keeping the blocked balls in play. Additionally, he defends the pick-and-roll well. The fact that he offers such strong rim protection, as well as good perimeter defense already at such a young age, is a promising sign for a big man in today's NBA. He also is a developing offensive player and has several desirable traits. At USC he averaged 16.4 points per game alongside 8.7 rebounds. He moves well for someone his size and has great touch. Mobley will need to grow into his frame more if he wants to be a strong center. Although he is a similar size to both Anthony Davis and Chris Bosh coming college who both clearly made their size work in the league. Mobley has a lot of potential and would be great for the Cavs.
Raptors Pick 4
Surprisingly the Raptors secured a top-four pick after having the 6th best odds in the lottery. Jalen Suggs, PG out of Gonzaga will likely be the best available at number four. Suggs is a true leader, someone who makes everyone around him perform better. He fits the quick pace of the Raptors and is a very good half-court playmaker. He is very powerful and often is said to have explosive athleticism. At Gonzaga, he averaged 14.4 points per game 5.3 rebounds, and 4.5 assists. Although He will need to become a better shot creator and more consistent from both three and the free-throw line if he wants to be a lead scoring option in the NBA. Defensively Suggs has a lot of versatility. He can play either guard spot due to his size and strength. He has shown he has the potential to be a great next step for the Raptors as the Kyle Lowery era comes to a close.
Magic Pick 5
The Magic should be in the perfect position to draft Jonathan Kuminga, a PF from the G League Ignite. Kuminga is the biggest project at the top of this draft class. Fortunately, he fits the Magic’s system well. In the past, we have seen the Magic value sheer athleticism over a refined game. Kumiga has a very good build for the NBA measuring 6 foot 8 220 pounds with a 7-foot wingspan. He averaged 15.8 points per game 7.2 rebounds 2.7 assists during his tenure with the Ignite. He has proven to be a versatile defender and can guard any position effectively. He is a good finisher yet he rarely sees a shot he doesn’t like. He is therefore shooting 38.7% from the field and 24.6% from three in the G League bubble. He definitely will need to further develop his court vision and his handle to be effective on the offensive end of the floor, but he has great potential if the Magic approach him with the right mindset and patience.
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