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New NBA Mock Draft After Shocking Lottery Removals
The NBA draft date has officially been set for June 23 and 24 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, and now the lottery odds are locked in as well. With the conclusion of the Play-in Tournament, the odds of landing the No. 1 pick are now set:
| 1 | WAS | 14.0% |
| 2 | IND | 14.0% |
| 3 | BKN | 14.0% |
| 4 | UTA | 11.5% |
| 5 | SAC | 11.5% |
| 6 | MEM | 9.0% |
| 7 | DAL | 6.8% |
| 8 | ATL | 6.7% |
| 9 | CHI | 4.5% |
| 10 | MIL | 3.0% |
| 11 | GSW | 2.0% |
| 12 | OKC | 1.5% |
| 13 | MIA | 1.0% |
| 14 | CHA | 0.5% |
With the league's worst record, the Wizards can't fall below No. 5, a pick they have a 47.9 percent chance of landing.
Underclassmen will now gather as much information as possible regarding draft stock and NIL opportunities. G League Elite Camp and NBA combine invitations go out in the next few weeks.
We've already removed multiple surprising prospects from this week's updated board, including Connecticut's Braylon Mullins and Duke's Patrick Ngongba, after announcing they'd return to school.
NCAA players have until May 27 to withdraw from the draft and maintain their eligibility for next season.
1. Washington Wizards: AJ Dybantsa (BYU)
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Position: SF | Size: 6'9", 210 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: Jaylen Brown
AJ Dybantsa, Darryn Peterson and Cameron Boozer are each No. 1 on various scouts' boards. But there is still some hesitation around Peterson's shot difficulty and lack of playmaking evidence at Kansas. And a fraction of NBA staff still believe Boozer's lack of explosion/quickness will restrict his advantage-creation, limit his defensive effectiveness and consequently block roads to upside.
Nobody seems to have serious worries about Dybantsa. It's obviously easy to project upside around a powerful, 6'9" wing with elite footwork for creation, high-level shotmaking skill, some passing smarts and an NCAA-leading 25.5-point-per-game scoring average at 19 years old. His intangibles appear to be pluses, specifically his intensity, alpha mindset and rumored professionalism. His 33.1 three-point percentage isn't setting off alarms, just based on the eye test, his 49 makes and touch indicators: 77.4 percent free throws, 44.4 percent on floaters and 47.2 percent mark on mid-range jumpers.
While Peterson and Boozer will remain in the No. 1 overall conversation, Dybantsa's case right now has the fewest holes.
*Check out AJ Dybantsa's full scouting report here.
2. Indiana Pacers: Darryn Peterson (Kansas)
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Position: SG | Size: 6'6", 205 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: Anthony Edwards
Unless something shows up during medical reports, Darryn Peterson will be evaluated strictly on his on-court development and predraft interviews. Most have seemingly disregarded the negative narratives around his injuries and mixed availability. There are scouts who still see a No. 1 overall talent whose creation and explosion will shine more with better spacing and healthier legs. The consensus deems his shotmaking skill as special and even more diverse than Dybantsa's, given Peterson's three-point volume and outstanding off-ball, spot-up and movement shooting numbers.
If he drops to No. 2, 3 or even 4, one reason will be because of his mere 2.2 assists per 40 minutes, a number that paints an archetype—perimeter-scoring, non-playmaking guard—that's seemingly lost value in recent years. However, there's plenty of evidence of front offices factoring in context with freshmen and putting stock into high school tape, which shows Peterson thriving as a primary ball-handler, creating rim pressure and shots for teammates.
*Check out Darryn Peterson's full scouting report here.
3. Brooklyn Nets: Cameron Boozer (Duke)
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Position: PF | Size: 6'9", 250 lbs | Age: 18
Pro Comp: Kevin Love
Cameron Boozer's 27 points weren't enough to hold off a historic Connecticut comeback in the NCAA tournament. Now the question entering the draft process is whether his production, skill level, versatility and intangibles will be enough to ease concerns over his athletic or defensive limitations when AJ Dybantsa, Darryn Peterson and Caleb Wilson may be on the board.
At this stage, there isn't anything left for Boozer to show during workouts to change the minds of scouts who visualize more upside with Dybantsa, Peterson or Wilson.
He shot better from three (39.1 percent) on higher volume than Dybantsa. He has a 26.0 assist percentage that double's Peterson's, Dybantsa's and lottery guards like Keaton Wagler and Brayden Burries. He grades in Synergy Sports' 90th percentile or better in ball‑screen and isolation possessions. Even with that profile, there is still lingering concern about his lack of quickness, vertical pop and defensive projection.
The 18-year-old with two FIBA MVPs and Gold Medals, four high school state championships and three EYBL Peach Jam titles could have led Duke to a national championship, and there will still be evaluators who'll worry that he'll lack the height or athleticism to continue creating advantages in the NBA.
But there's also a bandwagon of Boozer believers who simply buy the results, character, in-game problem-solving and expanding versatility with his ball-handling and shooting.
Boozer could go No. 1, 2, 3 or even 4 depending on how each of those drafting teams' general managers define and prioritize upside.
*Check out Cameron Boozer's full scouting report here.
4. Utah Jazz: Caleb Wilson (North Carolina)
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Position: PF | Size: 6'10", 215 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: Jermaine O'Neal
An injury cut Caleb Wilson's season short and eliminated opportunities to build a case over the draft's perceived Big Three.
Still, there are NBA front office members who actually prefer Wilson to Cameron Boozer, whose athletic limitations have raised some skepticism. Certain scouts sound willing to bet on Wilson's open-floor ball-handling, shotmaking flashes and passing continuing to improve to complement the quickness, explosion and defensive range that Boozer lacks.
Scouts on the fence will turn to workouts to get a better feel for Wilson's shooting stroke, which only connected on 7-of-27 threes (to Boozer's 54-of-138). Though No. 4 still seems like a safer projection, the predraft process should offer a favorable setting to sell his exciting athletic traits and shooting potential.
*Check out Caleb Wilson's full scouting report here.
5. Sacramento Kings: Darius Acuff Jr. (Arkansas)
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Position: PG/SG | Size: 6'3", 190 lbs | Age: 18
Pro Comp: Stephon Marbury
Perceptions of Darius Acuff Jr. have shifted over the season's final two months, when he averaged 27.8 points and 6.7 assists while consistently carrying Arkansas during important stretches. With diverse, accurate shotmaking, advantage-creating handles and quickness, finishing craft and convincing playmaking IQ, he's poked enough holes in the belief that limited size, athleticism and defensive resistance cap his ceiling.
NBA teams will still be eager to learn Acuff's official measurements, given the ongoing conversations around the value of small guards who can be targeted defensively. The current widespread love for Acuff figures to stand if his 6'3", 190-pound listing winds up being confirmed.
*Check out Darius Acuff Jr.'s full scouting report here.
6. Memphis Grizzlies: Keaton Wagler (Illinois)
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Position: PG/SG | Size: 6'6", 180 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: Jamal Murray
Support for Keaton Wagler has grown steadily since early in the season when scouts were mostly unfamiliar with his game. His credibility only improved during the NCAA tournament after he led Illinois to a Final Four appearance after scoring 25 points against Iowa.
Despite the loss to Connecticut, he impressed again with 20 points, making five of his six two-point attempts.
His shooting at this stage is well documented and highly convincing. If there is a concern with Wagler, it's the lack of strength and explosion inside the arc, but he compensated effectively against the Huskies using his signature change of pace, deceleration and a crafty layup package on his drives.
The athletic and physical limitations could keep Wagler out of the top five, but it's become easier and easier to bet on him problem-solving stronger defenders with potent shotmaking, quick processing and IQ/maturity.
7. Atlanta Hawks (via Pelicans): Kingston Flemings (Houston)
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Position: PG | Size: 6'4", 190 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: De'Aaron Fox
Kingston Flemings has become a very popular prospect with a comforting mix of physical tools, burst, pull-up shooting, playmaking IQ and late clock/game maturity.
If there are concerns, they're mostly about his ceiling—there isn't a long list of first-round success stories of prospects who shoot fewer than 6.0 threes per 100 possessions and have a free-throw rate under 30.0. He struggled late in the season against Illinois, Arizona and Kansas settling for contested two-point jumpers.
Still, it sounds like he's locked into the top-10 mix, with scouts confident in a 6'4" ball-handler with a pro-level mid-range game, a 38.8 percent three-point shot, an 84.3 free-throw percentage, an outstanding assist-to-turnover ratio and promising defensive tools.
8. Dallas Mavericks: Mikel Brown Jr. (Louisville)
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Position: PG/SG | Size: 6'5", 180 lbs | Age: 18
Pro Comp: Tyler Herro
Mikel Brown Jr.'s season ended early, and teams will have to investigate the back injury that has kept him out.
Just evaluating his play alone this season, the results were mixed, though he showcased clear NBA type shotmaking and creativity behind the 18.2 points and 4.7 assists per game.
The ability to explode for 45 points in a game really highlights his lightning-rod style offense and confidence. But consistency was a problem for Brown. In eight of 21 games, he shot under 35.0 percent.
Between a shot diet consisting of a lot of rushed deep or contested jump shots, and a poor assist-to-turnover ratio, he may have teams picturing more of offensive spark or specialist, rather than a lead guard/decision-maker.
9. Chicago Bulls: Brayden Burries (Arizona)
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Position: SG | Size: 6'4", 205 lbs | Age: 20
Pro Comp: Derrick White
Brayden Burries' first four NCAA tournament performances felt on brand. He efficiently combined for 71 points on just 38 shots, scoring opportunistically within Arizona's offense, aside from a deep, iso three-pointer that sunk Utah State late in Sunday's game.
He had a rare off game against Michigan, where he simply struggled to convert jumpers that appeared to be in his wheelhouse.
Though not super creative, he's the type of guard who doesn't need flash to get to the rim or hit pull-ups, floaters and threes. He has been super efficient in ball-screen situations getting downhill and shooting in the mid-range. He's had lots of success attacking closeouts and space in transition, using his frame well to shield defenders and create easy finishing angles.
Certain evaluators just may have a difficult time picturing upside in a 6'4", limited playmaker.
10. Milwaukee Bucks: Labaron Philon Jr. (Alabama)
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Position: PG | Size: 6'4", 185 lbs | Age: 20
Pro Comp: Dejounte Murray
Labaron Philon gave Michigan 35 points in his final game, capping off a breakout season fueled by improved shooting and finishing.
His identity still revolves around dribble creativity and getting to spots. Philon has dangerous change of speed, deceleration ability and handles, and now he's more advanced isolation and ball-screen scorer with his pull-up game and craft around the rim.
11. Golden State Warriors: Karim Lopez (New Zealand Breakers)
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Position: PF | Size: 6'8", 225 lbs | Age: 18 | Country: Mexico
Pro Comp: Franz Wagner
Karim Lopez had a productive season in the NBL, building on last year's flashes with more signs of expanding scoring versatility and physical growth.
He's being discussed in the same range/tier as NCAA prospects expected to compete for looks in the late lottery.
Though not the most convincing creator or shooter, he's had encouraging sequences in the NBL (before turning 20) making rhythm threes, handling the ball, passing it and using tools/toughness through contact inside.
12. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Clippers): Yaxel Lendeborg (Michigan)
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Position: PF | Size: 6'9", 240 lbs | Age: 23
Pro Comp: Aaron Gordon
NBA teams weren't going to learn anything new about a healthy Yaxel Lendeborg in the Final Four. If anything, he may have earned bonus points for competitiveness, playing 36 minutes on a bad knee.
His offensive versatility has been on NBA radars for years; after starring at UAB, he transferred to Michigan and helped the Wolverines win a national title, validating his production against the highest level of competition.
An improved shooter and defender who passes and rebounds, Lendeborg should look highly adaptable and easy to fit for most NBA teams.
13. Miami Heat: Nate Ament (Tennessee)
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Position: SF | Size: 6'10", 207 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: Will Riley
Nate Ament had a mixed postseason, highlighted by shotmaking flashes, creativity, issues converting drives and struggles against physical defense.
There will always be demand and patience when it comes to 6'10" wings with shoot-dribble-pass skill sets, and Ament has at least 19 made field goals in ball-screen, isolation, spot-up and movement off-screen situations. He's getting to the line at a strong rate, yet he isn't a black hole, averaging 2.3 assists.
The case against Ament questions if the shooting will be good enough to offset projected issues around a lack of explosion and strength for turning the corner and finishing.
The case for him shows a mismatch and three-level scorer who can get his shot off cleanly at will due to positional height and release point.
14. Charlotte Hornets: Aday Mara (Michigan)
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Position: C | Size: 7'3", 255 lbs | Age: 20 | Country: Spain
Pro Comp: Andrew Bogut
Michigan's NCAA tournament run shined light on Aday Mara's defensive impact, advantageous finishing tools and unique skill level. Aside from the constant shot-contesting around the paint and rim, he gave the lineup significant offense as a lob target, low-post player and passer.
Turnovers, limited switchability and dreadful free-throw shooting will turn teams off, but he's established himself as too rare of a player, even if he winds up being more of a situational center.
15. Chicago Bulls (via Blazers): Jayden Quaintance (Kentucky)
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Position: PF | Size: 6'10", 255 lbs | Age: 18
Pro Comp: Derrick Favors
Jayden Quaintance lasted four games for Kentucky after trying to return 10 months after last year's torn ACL. Scouts aren't banking on seeing him again this year, which creates a tricky evaluation and draft decision for a sophomore who's still younger than most freshmen.
The long-term ceiling that looked so appealing at Arizona State hasn't changed. But with questions around his availability, health and current stage of development, it's becoming more likely that he could lose support from certain teams desperate for a sure thing.
At full strength, Quaintance looks like an outstanding defensive prospect due to his frame, length and shot-blocking rate. He was always behind offensively, but he's delivered enough flashes of low-post touch, driving ability and shotmaking for scouts to picture some long-term scoring potential to unlock.
16. Memphis Grizzlies (via Suns): Cameron Carr (Baylor)
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Position: SG | Size: 6'5", 175 lbs | Age: 20
Pro Comp: Devin Vassell
Consistency and a high release have helped Cameron Carr's shotmaking look very persuasive. With 37 dunks and 31 blocks at 6'5", the combination of shooting skills and athleticism should help Carr appear very safe and easy to project.
17. Oklahoma City Thunder (via 76ers): Hannes Steinbach (Washington)
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Position: C | Size: 6'11" | Age: 19 | Country: Germany
Pro Comp: Zach Collins
Hannes Steinbach's freshman year ended after he averaged 21.1 points and 12.9 rebounds over Washington's final eight games.
There will be teams uninterested in a center who doesn't offer added rim protection. But Steinbach's skill, hands, nose for the ball and IQ are advanced for a 6'11" teenager. And there have been enough signs of athleticism/footwork in the open floor and shotmaking for scouts to picture another level of offensive upside.
18. Charlotte Hornets (via Magic): Amari Allen (Alabama)
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Position: SF/PF | Size: 6'8", 205 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: Wilson Chandler
Teams are taking Amari Allen seriously. Scouts expect he'll test the draft process, and with 6'8" size, a 38.5 three-point percentage, 7.3 boards and 3.3 assists per game, there are bound to be first-round suitors coveting a big wing with a shoot-dribble-pass skill set.
19. Toronto Raptors: Christian Anderson (Texas Tech)
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Position: PG | Size: 6'3", 178 lbs | Age: 19
Country: USA/Germany
Pro Comp: Darius Garland
An outstanding sophomore year for Christian Anderson ended on a poor note. But overall, he's become a first-round worthy name after maintaining his shooting efficiency on greater volume while making a big jump as a playmaker.
Scouts do sound hesitant when projecting his thin frame and lack of explosion. But he has a case as the draft's most advanced pick-and-roll ball-handler with his pacing, pull-up shooting and sound passing reads. Consecutive years of 40.0 percent catch-and-shoot threes adds a bonus layer of cushion.
20. San Antonio Spurs (via Hawks): Chris Cenac Jr. (Houston)
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Position: PF | Size: 6'11", 240 lbs | Age: 18
Pro Comp: Bobby Portis
A mixed finish for Chris Cenac Jr. didn't alter any scouting reports or projections. It was already clear what he does well, where he's limited and what role he projects to play at the next level.
Where he'll wind up on boards will come down to teams' belief in his shooting. When he's scoring, he's making catch-and-shoot jumpers around the key and behind the arc. The shotmaking combined with his finishing tools, rebounding and defensive motor creates a stretch 4 archetype that's often in demand and easy to fit.
Cenac just doesn't create or pass, so his margin for error is limited. And he shot just 30-of-90 on threes and 62.1 percent from the free-throw line at Houston.
21. Detroit Pistons (via Timberwolves): Bennett Stirtz (Iowa)
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Position: PG | Size: 6'4", 190 lbs | Age: 22
Pro Comp: Malcolm Brogdon
Bennett Stirtz's college career is over after guiding Iowa to a surprise Elite Eight appearance.
Scouts have to decide how much the advanced shotmaking and touch can offset some of the struggles he has creating easy separation against length.
Stirtz was forced to take some difficult shots against Florida, but he's also converted 90 dribble jumpers on the year and 70.2 percent of his rim finishes. And he's one of the class' most accurate catch-and-shoot guards at 50.8 percent.
22. Philadelphia 76ers (via Rockets): Koa Peat (Arizona)
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Position: PF | Size: 6'8", 235 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: Rui Hachimura
Koa Peat helped Arizona reach the Final Four with consecutive 20-point games against Arkansas and Purdue.
He was less effective against Connecticut, a game that shined light on Peat's lack of explosion and size when going up against Michigan's NBA-sized frontcourt.
At this stage, his strength and weaknesses are well-defined, with Peat producing mostly off play-finishing, strength, short fallaways and the occasional line-drive. His passing and defensive versatility can make him a more well-rounded player.
However, the lack of shooting range, creativity and height have made scouts question his NBA ceiling.
23. Atlanta Hawks (via Cavaliers): Juke Harris (Wake Forest)
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Position: SF | Size: 6'7", 200 lbs | Age: 20
Pro Comp: Aaron Wiggins
Interest in Juke Harris has gradually grown with the consistent shotmaking and frequent trips to the free-throw line. He's averaged 21.4 points, scoring efficiently with spot-up and movement shooting and aggressive transition and dribble handoff drives that showcase his long strides, length and paint touch.
The unpredictable breakout had scouts hesitant to buy in early in the season, but Harris has performed well against top-50 teams (11.3 BPM).
He's now generating first-round buzz as teams begin to buy the NBA wing physical profile, off-ball scoring, defensive playmaking tools and fearless energy.
24. New York Knicks: Morez Johnson Jr. (Michigan)
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Position: PF | Size: 6'9", 250 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: Montrezl Harrell
Morez Johnson Jr. will have a very clear, defined job in the NBA, and he easily has the tools, athleticism and motor to execute in that role.
At 6'9", 250 pounds, his combination of strength, leaping and coordination should continue to work well finishing rim runs, lobs, putbacks and low-post opportunities.
And there should be equal expected value (or more) tied to his defensive projection, given his toughness inside and foot speed away from the basket.
25. Los Angeles Lakers: Ebuka Okorie (Stanford)
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Position: PG | Size: 6'2", 185 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: Dennis Schroder
A loaded point guard class gets even deeper if Ebuka Okorie declares.
Teams have begun to take the 6'2" guard seriously now that we're entering March and he's still fifth in the country in scoring.
His range sounds wide, a reflection of the divide among scouts who either see too much production, creativity and shotmaking to write off, or an undersized, ball-dominant scorer in a draft saturated with quality ball-handlers.
If he does stay in, it will likely be because he'll hear enough teams willing to buy the effectiveness of his ball-handling quickness for creating advantages and rim pressure, plus a confident pull-up game, soft floater touch and flashes of below-the-rim finishing craft.
His assist numbers don't pop the way scouts may want them to, but he's carrying a major workload as a No. 1 option, and an 8.1 turnover percentage on 31.0 percent usage is outstanding.
26. Denver Nuggets: Dailyn Swain (Texas)
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Position: PG | Size: 6'8", 220 lbs | Age: 20
Pro Comp: Herb Jones
There's been a brighter spotlight on Dailyn Swain, particularly after Texas won three NCAA tournament games.
His NBA role will likely differ from the one he plays now, where he's often handling the ball in ball screen and transition situations. But he'll certainly be able to use the skills he's developed to become a more well-rounded Swiss Army knife, specifically his improved creation, pull-up game, floater and passing.
Between his explosiveness for finishing, 3.5 assists per game, scoring off the dribble and defensive playmaking, scouts are taking Swain seriously.
27. Boston Celtics: Isaiah Evans (Duke)
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Position: SF | Size: 6'6", 180 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: Jordan Hawkins
There have been signs of Isaiah Evans' improved burst for slashing to the rim. Regardless, he'll be eyed by teams for his off-ball shooting, which has looked similar to last year, only with double the minutes and shots.
28. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Pistons): Motiejus Krivas (Arizona)
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Position: C | Size: 7'2", 260 lbs | Age: 21
Country: Lithuania
Pro Comp: Ivica Zubac
Motiejus Krivas would draw NBA interest if he declared or have a clean path to the 2027 first round if he returned. A tough decision will await the 7'2", 260-pound anchor who's given up just five field goals around Arizona's basket all year.
Krivas possesses massive size and strength for rim protection, while his 80.9 free-throw percentage indicates unique paint touch for a player with such overwhelming physical tools.
29. Cleveland Cavaliers (via Spurs): Meleek Thomas (Arkansas)
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Position: PG/SG | Size: 6'5", 185 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: Jordan Clarkson
Meleek Thomas got off to an excellent start in the NCAA tournament with his shotmaking and efficiency. He's played with confidence easy to see just by watching his shot diet and how decisive he looks rising up into jumpers.
Though there would be more interest in Thomas if he was able to showcase some playmaking, NBA teams could see late first-round value around his potential to provide instant offense, spot-up shooting and active defense off the bench.
30. Dallas Mavericks (via Thunder): Tounde Yessoufou (Baylor)
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Position: SG/SF | Size: 6'5", 215 lbs | Age: 19
Country: USA/Benin
Pro Comp: Cam Whitmore
Even with his shooting on and off throughout the season, Tounde Yessoufou remained consistently productive tapping into his physical tools and athleticism for driving, transition finishing, offensive rebounding and defensive playmaking.
But there have been enough flashes of shotmaking—like during his 37-point eruption against BYU—for NBA teams to feel optimistic about his perimeter development.
Non-playmaking wings typically need to be threatening or reliable shooters, making Yessoufou's three-point stroke an important swing skill.
31. New York Knicks: Joshua Jefferson (Iowa State)
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Position: PF | Size: 6'9", 240 lbs | Age: 22
Pro Comp: Kyle Anderson
Improved shooting and a new playmaking role have turned Joshua Jefferson into a complete player and believable NBA prospect. Aside from the improved three-point efficiency, his passing has really popped the most, particularly for a 6'9", 240-pound forward. But he's tough around the basket with strength and touch, and he's quick and smart defensively.
There will be NBA teams that would rather target youth and upside, but Jefferson has turned himself into a popular name with so much versatility and adaptability.
32. Memphis Grizzlies (via Pacers): Allen Graves (Santa Clara)
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Position: PF | Size: 6'9", 225 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: Boris Diaw
Scouts started to pick up on Allen Graves midway through the year due to his unique statistical profile that includes three-point shooting (41.9 percent) and unique steal (4.9 percent), block (4.9 percent) and offensive rebounding (13.8 percent) rates.
He finished sixth in the country in box plus-minus behind Cameron Boozer, Yaxel Lendeborg, Zuby Ejiofor, Aday Mara and Caleb Wilson. An analytical standout, Graves has also flashed coveted, two-way versatility for a 6'9" freshman. Scouts will be discussing how much his shotmaking, instincts and impact should outweigh his limited explosion and impressive numbers against a weaker strength of schedule.
Scouts expected he'd be back as a transfer-up candidate to a power conference school, where he'd be able to prove himself against more credible opponents. He could also stand to improve his body and various athletic traits. But Graves has declared for the draft, and now he'll become one of the more interesting prospects to evaluate during through the NBA combine, workouts and interviews.
33. Brooklyn Nets: Luigi Suigo (Mega)
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Position: C | Size: 7'2", 250 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: Ryan Kalkbrenner
NBA teams are always monitoring Mega, and this year they'll be considering Luigi Suigo with one of their late first or second-round picks.
A season-high 23 points against KK Crvena Zvezda highlighted his 7'2" size and mobility for finishing lobs and putting back misses. But he also hit three three-pointers, and if NBA teams think there may be something there with Suigo's shooting potential, he figures to draw serious consideration in the 40s and 50s.
34. Sacramento Kings: Zuby Ejiofor (St. John's)
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Position: PF/C | Size: 6'9", 245 lbs | Age: 21
Pro Comp: Jonathan Mogbo
Zuby Ejiofor's production has remained consistent and powered by quickness, strength and effort.
He's going to mainly earn NBA looks for a team that values his energy, physicality and defensive activity. But Ejiofor has flashed enough shotmaking, face-up drives and post moves to potentially provide bonus offense at the next level.
NBA teams will ultimately pay close attention to his pre-draft measurements.
35. San Antonio Spurs (via Jazz): Tarris Reed Jr. (Connecticut)
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Position: C | Size: 6'11", 265 lbs | Age: 22
Pro Comp: Day'Ron Sharpe
Tarris Reed Jr. dominated stretches of games to the Final Four with his 265-pound frame, paint footwork and rim protection.
Though more of an old-school big, he's put himself in the draft discussion with production generated from NBA tools for finishing and shot-blocking, low-post skill, offensive instincts and passing IQ.
36. Los Angeles Clippers (via Grizzlies): Sergio de Larrea (Valencia)
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Position: SG | Size: 6'5", 175 lbs | Age: 19
Country: Spain
Pro Comp: Bogdan Bogdanovic
Sergio de Larrea's role and production aren't up much from last year, but he's received some newer experience in EuroLeague, and he's maintained the same, strong three-point and assist percentages that put him on the radar last year.
There will be second-round interest in a 6'5" combo guard who can make plays with the ball and shoot.
37. Oklahoma City Thunder (via Mavericks): Alex Karaban (Connecticut)
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Position: SF/PF | Size: 6'8", 230 lbs | Age: 22
Pro Comp: Sam Hauser
NBA teams will eye Alex Karaban for the same role he played during Connecticut's three Final Four runs. He has some fans for his ability to make spot-up and movement threes, cut through defenses and play mistake-free ball.
38. Chicago Bulls (via Pelicans): Henri Veesaar (North Carolina)
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Position: C | Size: 7'0", 225 lbs | Age: 21
Country: Estonia
Pro Comp: Nikola Vucevic
Henri Veesaar became one of the draft's top play-finishers who also hit 40 three-pointers.
He doesn't block many shots for a 7-footer, but offensively, he has become incredibly productive and efficient with a translatable and coveted inside-out scoring package.
39. Houston Rockets (via Bulls): Alijah Arenas (USC)
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Position: SG | Size: 6'6", 199 lbs | Age: 19
Pro Comp: Jalen Green
Considering Alijah Arenas' offseason injury and delayed start to the season, scouts will forgive the shooting percentages. He scored 29 points in his fifth game and then 24 points, including a game-winning drive at Penn State to follow up.
Still, most of his performances were inefficient due to reckless shot selection and poor shooting.
The tape shows eye-opening self-creation with sharp handles, shiftiness and footwork. He has joystick movement, getting to spots and keeping defenders off balance. But he also looks far from NBA-ready, which is to be expected, and if he does declare this June, he'd need a patient team willing to wait longer for results.
40. Boston Celtics (via Bucks): Adam Atamna (ASVEL)
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Position: SG | Size: 6'5", 197 lbs | Age: 18 | Country: France
Pro Comp: Quenten Grimes
Adam Atamna had a strong Nik Hoop Summit week that should have helped eased concerns after a mixed year with ASVEL.
He was far better this year in France's LNB Élite play than Euroleague, understandable for a guard who won't turn 19 until December. NBA teams will covet his shotmaking first and put some bonus stock into the flashes of self-creation and passing.
Should he be available for the NBA combine, scrimmages in Chicago will represent a key opportunity for Atamna to continue strengthening his stock.
41. Miami Heat (via Warriors): Izaiyah Nelson (South Florida)
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Position: PF | Size: 6'9", 219 lbs | Age: 22
Pro Comp: Jordan Bell
Izaiyah Nelson made some head-turning athletic, mobility and energy plays at the Portsmouth Invitational. He also measured 6'9" with a 7'3" wingspan, exciting numbers for a potential speciality big who can provide value with play-finishing and defensive playmaking.
Looking back at his season at South Florida, he became the only NCAA player on record with 80 dunks, a 3.0 steal percentage and 5.0 block percentage. Scouts can start to look past the lack of creation or shooting skill, given Nelson's ability top optimize every ounce of athleticism and inch of length at both ends of the floor.
42. San Antonio Spurs (via Blazers): Dash Daniels (Melbourne)
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Position: Combo guard | Size: 6'5", 198 lbs | Age: 18 | Country: Australia
Pro Comp: Dyson Daniels
Dash Daniels' predraft process will hold more weight than other prospects' since the 18-year-old only played 20 minutes in a game once since December.
The pitch to Daniels ultimately revolves around backcourt versatility and perimeter defense. Teams searching for that archetype will show more interest, while teams looking for more creation and offense will likely look elsewhere.
43. Brooklyn Nets (via Clippers): Trevon Brazile (Arkansas)
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Position: PF | Size: 6'10", 230 lbs | Age: 23
Pro Comp: Obi Toppin
Trevon Brazile suddenly looks like a more believable pro prospect with improved shooting and driving to complement the size and athleticism at the rim.
In the second round, a team should see a bet worth making on his three-ball to reach a league-average level. He has an easy-to-project archetype and role as a stretch-4/finisher and threat to attack closeouts.
44. San Antonio Spurs (via Heat): Ryan Conwell (Louisville)
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Position: SG | Size: 6'4", 215 lbs | Age: 21
Pro Comp: Ochai Agbaji
Ryan Conwell could have enough positional size and shotmaking skill for a shooting specialist role. He's been streaky with a green light in a high-powered offense, but over 315 career threes says enough about how potent he can be.
45. Sacramento Kings (via Hornets): Braden Smith (Purdue)
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Position: PG | Size: 6'0", 170 lbs | Age: 22
Pro Comp: Ish Smith
All it takes is one team to believe Braden Smith's pick-and-roll feel and shotmaking are advanced enough for a backup role.
His shooting, playmaking and competitiveness are at levels that can sway one team in the 30s, 40s or 50s to look past his 6'0" size.
46. Phoenix Suns (via 76ers): Baba Miller (Cincinnati)
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Position: PF | Size: 6'11", 220 lbs | Age: 23 | Country: Spain
Pro Comp: Jonathan Isaac
Despite taking a step backward as a shooter, Baba Miller had his best college season with his third school. Averaging a double-double and over three assists per game, he was effective inside and a unique passer as a jumbo forward, though he shined most handling the ball in transition or putting it down in the half court. Scouts will be locked into his shooting stroke during pre-draft workouts.
47. Dallas Mavericks (via Suns): Keyshawn Hall (Auburn)
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Position: SF/PF | Size: 6'7", 240 lbs | Age: 22
Pro Comp: Cleanthony Early
On his fourth school in four years, Keyshawn Hall was an incredibly efficient spot-up scorer with his catch-and-shoot game and slashing. Age and poor defense hold him back, but late in the second round, a team could see a gamble worth taking on a 6'7", 240-pound wing averaging over 20 points in the SEC.
48. Orlando Magic: Mouhamed Faye (Paris)
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Position: C | Size: 6'10", 225 lbs | Age: 21
Country: Senegal
Pro Comp: Moussa Diabate
Momo Faye has been on watch lists the past few years due to his standout physical profile and movement for finishing and rim protection.
He has obvious offensive limitations, but his tools and production suggest the lob-catching, offensive rebounds and shot-contesting can carry over.
49. Toronto Raptors: Rafael Castro (George Washington)
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Position: C | Size: 6'10", 213 lbs | Age: 23
Pro Comp: Brice Johnson
Rafael Castro's standout showing at the Portsmouth Invitational should lead to a G League Elite Camp invite and scouts going back to review more film from George Washington. At 6'10", his quickness and bounce translates to easy baskets off cuts, rolls and offensive boards. His tools, 19.1 rebounding percentage, 3.7 steal percentage and 7.6 block percentage remain promising indicators for defensive upside.
50. Denver Nuggets (via Hawks): Otega Oweh
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Position: SG/SF | Size: 6'4", 220 lbs | Age: 22
Pro Comp: Norman Powell
A strong second half of the season helped revive Otega Oweh's NBA draft chances. He carried Kentucky to its first NCAA tournament win with 35 points against Kentucky. And playing a larger role that allowed for more on-ball reps and shots, he wound up with career-highs of 45 threes and 2.7 assists.
Though he's missed a specialty skill, Oweh's on/off-ball versatility and defense could draw second-round interest.
51. Washington Wizards (via Timberwolves): Malik Reneau (Miami)
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Position: PF | Size: 6'9", 238 lbs | Age: 22
Pro Comp: Collin Murray-Boyles
Malik Reneau deserves an NBA Combine invite. He's gradually evolved from old-school, back-to-the-basket forward to one that can make a three and attack off the bounce. But he's still maintained his effectiveness in the paint using his strong frame and obvious scoring instincts.
52. Houston Rockets: Nick Martinelli (Northwestern)
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Position: SF | Size: 6'7", 225 lbs | Age: 21
Pro Comp: Chandler Hutchinson
Seniors and players like Nick Martinelli could benefit from NIL bringing underclassmen back to college. Despite limited athletic ability and an unorthodox game, he was a top-10 scorer and improved shooter (41.7 percent 3PT) at 6'7". Martinelli's scoring versatility should be worth looking into, and a strong Elite Camp and/or NBA combine should give him a good chance to crack top-60 boards.
53. Los Angeles Clippers (via Cavaliers): Richie Saunders (BYU)
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Position: SG | Size: 6'5", 200 lbs | Age: 24
Pro Comp: Ben Sheppard
A torn ACL ends Richie Saunders' career at BYU. From a draft-stock perspective, there wasn't much left for him to sell teams on. The injury shouldn't factor into the equation, with the assumption he wasn't expected to play many NBA minutes next year, anyway. He'll be an option for a team that sees a shooting specialist and value in the second round.
54. Golden State Warriors (via Lakers): Malique Lewis (South East Melbourne)
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Position: SF/PF | Size: 6'8", 195 lbs | Age: 21 | Trinidad and Tobago/Spain
Pro Comp: Jae Crowder
After spending two seasons in the NBL and one in the G League, Malique Lewis could now have an NBA case. It will be worth considering his 6'8" frame, 37.5 three-point percentage and defensive tools/playmaking rates for a three-and-D combo forward role.
55. New Orleans Pelicans (via Knicks): Jaden Bradley (Arizona)
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Position: PG | Size: 6'3", 200 lbs | Age: 22
Pro Comp: Darren Collison
Shooting has always kept interest from building around Jaden Bradley, but as the point guard for a No. 1 seed, he's done too good of a job running offense and applying pressure at both ends.
NBA teams could see an interesting two-way playmaker who can penetrate, make good decisions and cause problems defensively.
56. Chicago Bulls (via Nuggets): JT Toppin (Texas Tech)
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Position: PF | Size: 6'9", 230 lbs | Age: 20
Pro Comp: Brandon Clarke
A torn ACL ends JT Toppin's season, creating an unfortunate draft-stock situation and difficult decision for him this June.
He hadn't changed enough this year to strengthen his first-round case, and even if he returns to college, it's unlikely he'll be at full strength for an entire season.
Toppin could just enter the draft and hope to find his way to an NBA roster through the G League. He'll have the chance to stick as a paint-scoring specialist.
57. Atlanta Hawks (via Celtics): Milos Uzan (Houston)
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Position: PG/SG | Size: 6'4", 195 lbs | Age: 22
Pro Comp: Andrew Nembhard
Milos Uzan hasn't shot well from three this year, but there is enough evidence of shotmaking to look past this season's percentages. His float game, passing IQ and backcourt versatility should have scouts willing to gamble on the possibility that Uzan's jumper will be better than the numbers suggest.
58. New Orleans Pelicans (via Pistons): Kylan Boswell (Illinois)
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Position: PG/SG | Size: 6'2", 205 lbs | Age: 20
Pro Comp: Cory Joseph
Kylan Boswell still doesn't look like a reliable shooter, but he's been a threatening enough for a guard who shoots 61.0 percent inside the arc, makes smart decisions and adds a sense of leadership. He's been one of the nation's top-graded pick-and-roll ball-handlers throughout the season.
59. Minnesota Timberwolves (via Spurs): Duke Miles (Virginia Tech)
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Position: PG | Size: 6'2", 180 lbs | Age: 24
Pro Comp: Miles McBride
Duke Miles should be on teams' second-round radar after a year of improved pull-up shooting and playmaking. He'll earn a chance at the next level with his defensive pressure, but he's become a more well-rounded offensive weapon creating in ball-screen situations and making jumpers off the catch and dribble.
60. Washington Wizards (via OKC): Jaron Pierre Jr. (SMU, SG)
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Position: SG | Size: 6'5", 210 lbs | Age: 23
Pro Comp: Kevin Porter Jr.
Jaron Pierre Jr. turns 24 just after the draft, but his production, three-level scoring flashes and above-the-rim finishes should earn him an NBA combine invite.
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