The 2021 NBA Draft is almost here, set for Thursday, July 29.
As the big day approaches, which prospects have improved their stock and made their way up the draft board? Which prospects have taken a slide, falling further into the first round? We've already seen one trade shake up the lottery, but will there be more prior to the first selection?
Below, NBA.com draft expert Kyle Irving gives insight on where each prospect could be selected, along with profiles, measurements, player comparisons and how they fit with their projected team. For reference on where prospects stood following the NBA Draft Lottery, you can find his first Mock Draft here.
Note: Measurements are per the NBA Combine. If a player was not measured at the combine, their wingspan is not included.
Without further ado, with the first pick of the 2021 NBA Draft, the Detroit Pistons select...
1. Detroit Pistons – Cade Cunningham, Oklahoma State
Position: Guard
Age: 19
Measurements: 6-foot-8, 220 lbs.
Plays like: Luka Doncic, Jimmy Butler
The rundown: Although there have been rumblings that the Pistons are still weighing their options with this pick, it will almost certainly be Cunningham who hears his name called first on draft night. If so, Detroit will get a franchise cornerstone to build around, as Cunningham can fit a variety of needs from a playmaking offensive initiator to a go-to scoring option.
Profile: Cunningham is a franchise-altering talent with elite playmaking skills. He commands the pace of the game as a jumbo guard who can score with ease from all three levels. A versatile defender with a high motor and a knack for making winning plays.
MORE: Cunningham scouting report: Strengths, weaknesses and more
2. Houston Rockets – Jalen Green, G League Ignite
Position: Guard
Age: 19
Measurements: 6-foot-5, 180 lbs.
Plays like: Zach LaVine, Kelly Oubre Jr.
The rundown: Green gives the Rockets a primary scorer who they can run their offence through. If he reaches his ceiling, he could have scoring titles in his future.
Profile: Green is a fluid scorer who can get a bucket in a variety of ways. Explosive athlete with electrifying leaping ability. Confident but streaky shooter who has an arsenal of moves to create his own shot. A primary scorer at the NBA level.
MORE: Green scouting report: Strengths, weaknesses and more
3. Cleveland Cavaliers – Evan Mobley, USC
Position: Center
Age: 19
Measurements: 7-foot, 215 lbs.
Plays like: Chris Bosh, Deandre Ayton
The rundown: Mobley's versatility makes this work, even if the Cavaliers bring back restricted free agent Jarrett Allen. He can play power forward or center, giving Cleveland a number of options for lineups with other forwards like Larry Nance Jr. and Kevin Love.
Profile: Mobley is the best two-way big man in this draft class. A versatile defender and rim protector who has a polished offensive skill set. He has smooth footwork, a high defensive IQ and great timing for blocking shots. He has potential to be a reliable scoring big at the next level. Solid touch in the post or as a face-up shooter, sees floor well as a passer from the elbows and the block.
MORE: Mobley scouting report: Strengths, weaknesses and more
4. Toronto Raptors – Jalen Suggs, Gonzaga
Position: Guard
Age: 19
Plays like: John Wall, Dejounte Murray
Measurements: 6-foot-4, 205 lbs.
The rundown: With Kyle Lowry's pending unrestricted free agency, Suggs would give the Raptors the security blanket they need. Suggs carries a similar winning mentality to Lowry and the transition would be as seamless as possible in a potential successor for the long-time floor general.
Profile: Suggs is the definition of a leader. He's constantly looking to push the pace and is at his best in transition or when he gets downhill in the halfcourt. Keen and unselfish passer who makes everyone around him better. Tough on-ball defender with quick hands and stealthy anticipation skills off-ball. A true franchise floor general.
MORE: Suggs scouting report: Strengths, weaknesses and more
5. Orlando Magic – Scottie Barnes, Florida State
Position: Forward
Age: 19
Measurements: 6-foot-8, 225 lbs., 7-foot-2 wingspan
Plays like: Draymond Green, Boris Diaw
The rundown: The Magic have a history of drafting versatile wings, but they could use some additional playmaking on their current roster. Enter Barnes, who kills two birds with one stone. His skill set makes this a perfect match and his intangibles as a vocal leader, hard worker and high-energy guy gives Orlando exactly what it's looking for as it begins to revamp its roster for the future.
Profile: Barnes is a point guard in a forward's body, acting as a floor general in his one season at Florida State. He has above-average ball handling and playmaking skills for a player at his position – a true point forward in every sense of the term. Prototypical defensive-minded forward for the modern NBA. Size and strength with a 7-foot-2 wingspan make him a small-ball center option at the next level. Scoring ability still needs work. A raw but promising prospect who could flourish with proper development.
MORE: Barnes scouting report: Strengths, weaknesses and more
6. Oklahoma City Thunder – James Bouknight, UConn
Position: Guard
Age: 20
Measurements: 6-foot-4, 190 lbs., 6-foot-8 wingspan
Plays like: Jordan Clarkson, Coby White
The rundown: According to ESPN's Jonathan Givony, the Thunder have been interested in Bouknight dating back to last year's draft process. Bouknight has seen his draft stock rise as much as anyone in this class, showcasing his top-tier athleticism and sharpshooting potential during pre-draft workouts. If Oklahoma City wants the player it has seeked out for over a year, this will be the spot to get him.
Profile: Bouknight is one of the best pure scorers in this draft class. Quick and explosive first step off the bounce, shifty dribbler with tight handle. Jaw-dropping athleticism, elevating off the floor in no-time. Already has step-backs and hesitations in his shot-creating bag, leaving opposing defenders on their heels with how he'll choose to beat you. Tough shot maker, but a streaky shooter both off the dribble and off the catch. Speedy defender but not a physical defensive stopper. Playmaking needs to improve to be anything more than a spark-plug scorer at the next level.
7. Golden State Warriors (via MIN) – Jonathan Kuminga, G League Ignite
Position: Forward
Age: 19
Plays like: OG Anunoby, Jaylen Brown
Measurements: 6-foot-6, 210 lbs.
The rundown: Kuminga's draft stock has taken a bit of a slide since the start of this process, but the Warriors would be lucky to land the top-five talent at this spot in the draft. His defensive prowess could contribute to Golden State's win-now timeline, while his offensive tools would have plenty of time to develop. This would be a steal for the Warriors, and it just might be the best place for Kuminga to maximize his full potential down the line.
Profile: Kuminga is the most versatile defender in this draft class. His strength and quickness paired with his 7-foot wingspan gives him the ability to lock down any perimeter players while also being able to punch up a weight class and defend bigs. Offensive game needs polishing but strong, athletic finisher when attacking the basket. A primary defender and secondary scorer in the NBA.
MORE: Kuminga scouting report: Strengths, weaknesses and more
8. Orlando Magic (via CHI) – Moses Moody, Arkansas
Position: Guard
Age: 18
Measurements: 6-foot-6, 210 lbs., 7-foot-1 wingspan
Plays like: Andrew Wiggins, Caris LeVert
The rundown: The second of two top-10 picks for the Magic, they could use the sharp perimeter shooting of Moody. As one of the best 3-and-D prospects in this draft class, Moody would give Orlando an NBA-ready skill set that could pair nicely alongside the talent already in place and its projected No. 5 overall pick in Barnes. If things shape out this way, the Magic will have a scary amount of versatility and length on defence.
Profile: Moody's measurables are the first thing that will jump out at you, as 6-foot-6 guards with 7-foot-1 wingspans aren't exactly common. Those physical attributes along with his speed project Moody to be a successful defender at the next level. On-ball, his length disrupts opposing guards on the perimeter. Off-ball, he uses that wingspan with keen anticipation skills to fill passing lanes. With that being said, offence is Moody's strong-suit. Confident shooter off the bounce from 3-point and midrange. Comfortable coming off of screens to catch and shoot. Needs to develop as shot creator and find different ways to finish inside. A 3-and-D gem.
9. Sacramento Kings – Franz Wagner, Michigan
Position: Forward
Age: 19
Measurements: 6-foot-9, 220 lbs.
Plays like: Gordon Hayward, Nicolas Batum
The rundown: The Kings would fill a need for wing depth and defence with this selection here, as Wagner gives them a starting-calibre small forward to fit alongside their backcourt of the future in De'Aaron Fox and Tyrese Haliburton, as well as 3-point sniper Buddy Hield. His size and length would give them a primary wing defender, while his offensive skill set would complement their two playmakers in Fox and Haliburton nicely.
Profile: Wagner is a jack-of-all-trades on offence and a perceptive defender. He's a consistent shooter from 3-point range and midrange with the ability to knock down shots off the catch or dribble. A savvy playmaker and reliable option to facilitate a team's offence. Can make an impact with or without the ball in his hands. Exceptional anticipation and active hands make him an effective defender on or off-ball. Not explosive or shifty, playing below the rim. Brother of NBA player Moritz Wagner.
10. Memphis Grizzlies (via NOP) – Josh Giddey, Adelaide 36ers (NBL, Australia)
Position: Guard
Age: 18
Measurements: 6-foot-8, 205 lbs.
Plays like: Evan Turner, Ricky Rubio
The rundown: Following the trade between the Grizzlies and Pelicans, ESPN's Jonathan Givony immediately linked Giddey to Memphis as a potential reason for it moving up in the draft. While the fit alongside Ja Morant would be interesting, as both players are at their best with the ball in their hands, we did see how important it is to have two primary ball handlers during the 2021 NBA Playoffs. The Grizzlies would certainly have that covered if they went with Giddey here.
Profile: Giddey is a gifted playmaker who can do a little bit of everything on the offensive end. He's a pick-and-roll maestro and a flashy passer in the open floor, making every player around him better. An intelligent decision-maker and confident floor general. A streaky shooter, which will have to improve to truly be effective at the next level. He lacks burst and athleticism, failing to create separation off the bounce. Yet, still a sound defender with a nose for the ball. He'll be a crafty offensive initiator in the NBA.
MORE: Giddey scouting report: Strengths, weaknesses and more
11. Charlotte Hornets – Kai Jones, Texas
Position: Center
Age: 19
Measurements: 6-foot-11, 221 lbs., 7-foot-2 wingspan
Plays like: Myles Turner, Chris Boucher
The rundown: This has been one of my favourite fits since my first Mock Draft. A big man with the mobility, athleticism and skill of Jones running alongside LaMelo Ball is a joy to think about, and he would fill the Hornets' dire need for a rim protector in the middle.
Profile: Jones will surprise you with his quickness and coordination as a near-7-footer. Mobile rim-runner as a leaping lob threat on offence and pogo stick shot blocker on defence. Excellent ball-handling skills for a big man who's not afraid to put the ball on the floor and attack the basket. Swift footwork makes him a switchy defender on the perimeter in pick-and-rolls. Hands, post moves and jump shot could use a tune-up, and defensive IQ is still developing. A project to start, but his high ceiling is undeniable.
12. San Antonio Spurs – Alperen Sengün, Besiktas (TSL, Turkey)
Position: Forward/Center
Age: 18
Measurements: 6-foot-10, 243 lbs.
Plays like: Nikola Vucevic, Al Horford
The rundown: Sengün would give the Spurs a young big man they could develop in their system as they continue to try and build the franchise back up to contender-level. He was the MVP of the Turkish league this past season, already proving he can keep up with the physicality of professional basketball. He would be the perfect interior big next to promising pieces in Dejounte Murray and Keldon Johnson, among others.
Profile: Sengün is more of a traditional big man with exceptional playmaking skills for his position. Physical on the glass and comfortable initiating in transition off of defensive rebounds. Back-to-the-basket scorer on offence with great footwork and a handful of post moves to get a bucket inside. Great court vision as a passer out of the post. Multi-faceted threat as a roll-man. A bit undersized to defend NBA-level bigs but not quite quick enough to defend wings – will have to find his sweet spot on defence. Jump shot confidence needs improvement but touch is there.
MORE: Get to know Turkey's Alperen Sengun
13. Indiana Pacers – Corey Kispert, Gonzaga
Position: Forward
Age: 22
Measurements: 6-foot-7, 224 lbs., 6-foot-7 wingspan
Plays like: Joe Harris, Danny Green
The rundown: Kispert would be the perfect floor spacer to make teams pay if there's too much attention on Malcom Brogdon-Domantas Sabonis two-man sets. His NBA-readiness would give the Pacers a player who can help them get back to the playoffs after falling in the Play-In Tournament last season.
Profile: Kispert is the best shooter in this draft class. Can knock down 3s coming off screens, in transition, on the move or with very little space. High offensive IQ, knowing exactly where to cut and move to get his shots off. Confident dribbler and passer, making the right reads often. Rarely forces offence. Not the quickest defender but his size, smarts and effort make up for what he lacks in athleticism. A pure 3-point shooter at the next level.
MORE: Kispert scouting report: Strengths, weaknesses and more
14. Golden State Warriors – Davion Mitchell, Baylor
Position: Guard
Age: 22
Measurements: 6-foot-1, 202 lbs., 6-foot-4 wingspan
Plays like: Jrue Holiday, George Hill
The rundown: It will be interesting to see if the Warriors make both of their lottery selections, but if they do, look for Mitchell to come off the board here. His experience fits Golden State's win-now timeline and his hard-nosed defence and ability to initiate offence would give it a leader for its second unit.
Profile: Mitchell's draft stock skyrocketed following an impressive run in leading Baylor to the National Championship. Two-way combo guard who can score from all three levels with or without the ball in his hands. Sound playmaker with a solid handle and a clean pull-up jumper. A pesky and gritty on-ball defender who takes pride on that end of the floor. Game should translate perfectly to today's NBA.
MORE: Mitchell scouting report: Strengths, weaknesses and more
15. Washington Wizards – Trey Murphy III, Virginia
Position: Forward
Age: 21
Measurements: 6-foot-9, 206 lbs., 7-foot wingspan
Plays like: Jonathan Isaac, Mikal Bridges
The rundown: With the uncertainty surrounding the future of backcourt tandem Russell Westbrook and Bradley Beal, the Wizards could go in a different direction to try and find a playmaking guard here. But given their current roster, Murphy would be a great get as his size, length and sharpshooting ability is everything this version of Washington needs.
Profile: Murphy was a standout at the 2021 NBA Combine as a long and rangey wing with 3-and-D potential. Measuring at 6-foot-9 with a 7-foot wingspan, he has the length to be an elite defender, both on- and off-ball, and his quick lateral movement gives him the versatility every NBA team is looking for in today's game. With a high defensive IQ, he's always in position to make a play, using his anticipation to come up with steals and deflections. He's a strong spot-up 3-point shooter with a quick release and the size to shoot over the top of defenders. He has a knack for knowing when to stay put on the perimeter and space the floor or cut toward the basket and find soft spots in the defence for easy dunks and layups. His age works in his favour to contribute right away at the next level.
16. Oklahoma City Thunder (via BOS) – Ziaire Williams, Stanford
Position: Forward
Age: 19
Measurements: 6-foot-9, 188 lbs., 6-foot-10 wingspan
Plays like: Michael Porter Jr., Terance Mann
The rundown: The Thunder have more draft picks than they know what to do with, so why not take a few high-risk, high-reward home run swings? Despite an up-and-down freshman season at Stanford, Williams was a top-10, five-star recruit coming out of high school. The shot creation skills he possesses at his size is uncanny and he could end up being the steal of the draft if he pans out. Oklahoma City would be wise to roll the dice on him here.
Profile: Williams is a fluid, long and athletic wing with real two-way potential. Confident shot creator with smooth ball-handling to generate space from his defender. Jump shot consistency wasn't there as a freshman and will have to iron it out to be a productive scorer at the next level. At his peak, could be a go-to scoring option. Uses length to his advantage defensively with great anticipation for steals or help-side blocks. A possible home run swing for a team willing to be patient with his development.
17. New Orleans Pelicans (via MEM) – Chris Duarte, Oregon
Position: Forward/Guard
Age: 24
Measurements: 6-foot-6, 190 lbs.
Plays like: Dillon Brooks, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope
The rundown: The Pelicans-Grizzlies deal moved New Orleans back to this spot in the draft, but it may get lucky if things pan out the way it has in this Mock Draft. Duarte would give the Pelicans the knockdown 3-point shooter and perimeter defender they need to space the floor for Zion Williamson, and his age, 24, fits the timeline of a team in a rush to make the postseason.
Profile: Duarte is your typical 3-and-D prospect. Knockdown shooter off the catch, whether it be spot-up or coming off of screens. Size and length allows him to shoot over the top of defenders. Not a dynamic shot creator but can put the ball on the floor and finish strong around the rim against aggressive closeouts. Sound defender on the perimeter and versatile enough to hold his own against forwards inside. He is one of the oldest prospects in this draft class, which could work to his advantage for contenders looking for an immediate impact player.
18. Oklahoma City Thunder (via MIA) – Jalen Johnson, Duke
Position: Forward
Age: 19
Measurements: 6-foot-9, 220 lbs.
Plays like: Luol Deng, Justise Winslow
The rundown: Another potential high-reward pick for the Thunder. Johnson would give Oklahoma City an athletic and mobile scoring power forward who would slot nicely next to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Luguentz Dort, as well as the other prospects pegged in this draft (Bouknight, Williams).
Profile: Johnson is an offensive-minded forward who can score, facilitate and handle the ball. Likes to push the pace in transition off of defensive rebounds. His passing is advanced compared to others at his position. Effective as a roll-man and cutter, making plays for his teammates out of a short roll or diving to the rim for a bucket. Halfcourt offensive arsenal needs improvement – shooting is stiff, lacks array of post moves. Lengthy and versatile, making him a capable defender. He'll be a scoring four in the NBA.
19. New York Knicks – Cameron Thomas, LSU
Position: Guard
Age: 19
Measurements: 6-foot-4, 210 lbs.
Plays like: Tim Hardaway Jr., Jamal Crawford
The rundown: With two first-round picks, it will be interesting to see if the Knicks make both selections. ESPN's Givony reported that New York may look to package these picks to move up in the draft or out of the draft completely to add a more established talent after a promising push to the playoffs last season. If the Knicks do pick here, Thomas would give them the prolific scorer and shot creator they so desperately need.
Profile: Thomas is a flat out bucket-getter. His shifty handle allows him to create space and get to his spots to pull up and knock down shots. Confident from beyond the arc and even further back from there. Makes a killing in the midrange and will take advantage of those free throw line soft spots in NBA defences. Operates just as well, if not better, as an off-ball scorer, slithering around screens to get set and fire away. Not a known passer or defender but isn't a minus defensively, either.
20. Atlanta Hawks – Keon Johnson, Tennessee
Position: Guard
Age: 19
Measurements: 6-foot-5, 185 lbs., 6-foot-7 wingspan
Plays like: Victor Oladipo, Tony Allen
The rundown: Reports have surfaced about the Hawks looking to restart the cycle on their rookie scale contracts, making them an intriguing team to try and package this pick with a young player to move up in the draft. However, they could use a defensive-minded wing and athletic freak like Johnson, who would bolster the team's backcourt depth and could complement All-Star guard Trae Young nicely down the line.
Profile: Johnson is elite on the defensive end, bringing toughness, high energy, active hands and great instincts. Raw scorer with an explosive first step, doing the majority of his damage at the rim. Guard skills need developing and jump shot consistency needs improvement but the potential is there to one day be a true two-way wing in the NBA.
MORE: Johnson scouting report: Strengths, weaknesses and more
21. New York Knicks (via DAL) – Usman Garuba, Real Madrid (Liga ACB, Spain)
Position: Forward/Center
Age: 19
Measurements: 6-foot-8, 229 lbs.
Plays like: Bobby Portis, Bruno Fernando
The rundown: Garuba would flourish under head coach Tom Thibodeau, giving the Knicks another relentless defender while bringing a hard-working energy that would be loved in New York.
Profile: Garuba is a high-energy power forward who makes his biggest impact on the defensive end. Versatile defender - can switch on the perimeter or body up in the paint. Good instincts to come away with steals and block shots. Aggressive and physical on the glass. Raw offensive skill set, needing to develop post moves and a touch outside the key to elevate his ceiling. Good but not elite athlete.
MORE: Get to know Spain's Usman Garuba
22. Los Angeles Lakers – Jared Butler, Baylor
Position: Guard
Age: 20
Measurements: 6-foot-3, 193 lbs., 6-foot-4 wingspan
Plays like: Jrue Holiday, Malcolm Brogdon
The rundown: The Lakers are, of course, in win-now mode with LeBron James and Anthony Davis looking to get back to the NBA Finals following a first-round exit last season. They could use a bench playmaker who is ready to contribute immediately, and Baylor's Butler is the perfect player to fit that bill.
Profile: Butler was the floor general for Baylor's National Championship team. Great spot-up shooter and natural scorer whose improvements as a passer allowed him to shoulder the bulk of playmaking duties. Super effective in the pick-and-roll, knowing exactly when to call his own number, feed the roll-man or find an open teammate on the perimeter. Stout and physical on-ball defender. Speed, athleticism and length won't jump off the page but skills are polished and NBA ready.
Butler was recently cleared under the NBA's "Fitness-To-Play" panel due to a physical condition.
23. Houston Rockets (via POR) – Sharife Cooper, Auburn
Position: Guard
Age: 20
Measurements: 6-foot-1, 185 lbs.
Plays like: Rajon Rondo, Kyle Lowry
The rundown: With back-to-back picks here, look for Houston to target two players who would best-suit No. 2 pick Green for the future. Cooper is one of the best passers in this draft and could be the ideal point guard to set the table and make life easier for the elite scoring top prospect.
Profile: Few players in this draft class command an offence like Cooper. A true floor general who can create open looks for his teammates with advanced passing skills. Playmaking thrives in the pick-and-roll with elite court vision and the ability to find passing lanes with either hand. Tight handle and burst of speed allows him to attack the rim if defenders anticipate his unselfishness. Improved jump shot consistency and confidence are the only assets missing from his offensive package. He's undersized, making him a target on defence.
24. Houston Rockets (via MIL) – Isaiah Jackson, Kentucky
Position: Center
Age: 19
Measurements: 6-foot-10, 206 lbs.
Plays like: Robert Williams, Nerlens Noel
The rundown: In this scenario, the Rockets have gotten a premier scorer and keen playmaker. Jackson would round out the first round nicely for Houston as a super athletic big man who could fit next to frontcourt-mate Christian Wood at the four or five.
Profile: Jackson is an athletic rim runner. Leaping lob threat on offence and a shot blocking rim protector on defence. Speed and quickness is above average for his position, making him a capable defender on perimeter switches. Runs the floor well and positions himself for over-the-top finishes. Defensive IQ could improve, too aggressive as a shot blocker at times. Aside from dunks and putbacks, offensive arsenal needs developing as a scorer and passer.
25. LA Clippers – Tre Mann, Florida
Position: Guard
Age: 20
Measurements: 6-foot-4, 178 lbs., 6-foot-4 wingspan
Plays like: Terry Rozier, Tyler Herro
The rundown: Mann would give the Clippers a bench scorer and shot creator who could lighten the load for Paul George as long as Kawhi Leonard is out rehabbing an ACL injury next season.
Profile: Mann is a prolific shot creator and shot maker. His stepback jumper is lethal and his quick change-of-pace dribbling keeps defenders guessing. Great touch from all three levels of the floor and already has the essential floater in his arsenal. Leaping athleticism allows him to finish around the rim with success despite thin frame. Playmaking skills need polishing to become a combo guard at the NBA level. Defence is an afterthought but height and length show upside with increased focus on that end.
26. Denver Nuggets – Joshua Primo, Alabama
Position: G
Age: 18
Measurements: 6-foot-5, 189 lbs., 6-foot-9 wingspan
Plays like: Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Immanuel Quickley
The rundown: The Nuggets are in need of some backcourt depth, which was evident after Jamal Murray went down with a season-ending injury. Denver could be the right franchise to develop the youngest player in this draft class in Primo, a scoring guard with great size and the tools to flourish in the league down the line.
Profile: Primo is another player who saw his draft stock increase at the 2021 NBA Draft Combine. As the youngest player in this class, Primo is seen as a moldable prospect with above-average size for his position. His biggest strength is his perimeter shooting, knocking down shots with confidence from anywhere beyond the arc, flashing some range beyond there as well. He has developed as a shot creator with a raw ability to put the ball on the floor and pull up for jumpers or use his size to finish at the rim. A hard-working defender with the tools to become stout on that end. Progressing as a passer could unlock a higher ceiling as a combo guard.
MORE: Evaluating Canadian Joshua Primo as NBA prospect
27. Brooklyn Nets – Jeremiah Robinson-Earl, Villanova
Position: Forward
Age: 20
Measurements: 6-foot-9, 230 lbs.
Plays like: Jeff Green, Larry Nance Jr.
The rundown: The Nets will be looking for someone who can immediately contribute to winning and Robinson-Earl is exactly that. He would give Brooklyn an NBA-ready versatile forward with a winning attitude.
Profile: Robinson-Earl is exactly what every NBA team is looking for in a stretch-four or small-ball five. He's a versatile and intelligent defender with the size to mark bigs and the lateral quickness to guard on the perimeter. Although he doesn't particularly excel in specific areas as a scorer, he can do a little bit of everything. He's comfortable creating his own shot, he's a threat to score as a roll-man with good hands, but can also put the ball on the floor on a short roll and get a bucket. He attacks the glass with high energy for putbacks and is coordinated with good footwork with his back to the basket. His 3-point jumper needs improvement to truly thrive in the NBA but his mechanics are smooth. Like the majority of Villanova products, he's NBA ready from Day 1.
28. Philadelphia 76ers – Jaden Springer, Tennessee
Position: Guard
Age: 18
Measurements: 6-foot-4, 202 lbs., 6-foot-7 wingspan
Plays like: Marcus Smart, Luguentz Dort
The rundown: The 76ers need guard depth and Springer would provide a defensive-minded two-guard who can also score the rock. He's a moldable prospect who could make a defensive impact immediately while fine-tuning his offensive game patiently.
Profile: Springer's calling card is his defence, where he frustrates his opponents with his tough, in-your-face mentality. His energy is contagious on that end of the floor with active hands and quick feet to lock down on the perimeter. Offensively, he showcased a quality 3-point and pull-up jumper with solid playmaking skills that suggests some potential as a combo guard. He attacks the rim aggressively and invites contact once he gets into the paint. Not extremely explosive or athletic, and his ball handling needs developing. One of the youngest players in this draft class.
29. Phoenix Suns – Miles McBride, West Virginia
Position: Guard
Age: 20
Measurements: 6-foot-2, 195, 6-foot-8 wingspan
Plays like: Fred VanVleet, Mike Conley
The rundown: Depending on what happens with unrestricted free agent Cameron Payne, the Suns could be in search of a backup guard to Chris Paul and Devin Booker. McBride would be a great fit for a team that just fell short in the NBA Finals, as the 20-year-old's game is polished well beyond his age.
Profile: McBride is a sound playmaker, a hard-nosed defender and smooth scorer — quite the trio for a floor general. Following a strong second season at West Virginia, McBride flashed his ability to score from all three levels of the floor with a confident 3-point jumper, a reliable pull-up or floater from midrange and strong, below-the-rim finishing around the basket as an undersized guard. He makes all the right reads as a passer and plays stingy on-ball defence with the will-to-win that any team would look for in a leader.
30. Utah Jazz – Ayo Dosunmu, Illinois
Position: Guard
Age: 21
Measurements: 6-foot-5, 194 lbs., 6-foot-10 wingspan
Plays like: Dennis Schroder, Reggie Jackson
The rundown: Mike Conley is an unrestricted free agent and even if he re-signs, the Jazz could use a point guard for their second unit, taking some pressure off of Donovan Mitchell as a playmaker. Dosunmu was one of the best guards in college basketball last year and he would be a strong culture fit with Utah's current roster.
Profile: Dosunmu is a pure leader. An offensive initiator who knows exactly when to set up his teammates or create his own shot. In transition, he gets downhill to put pressure on the rim while his exceptional court vision allows him to spot open teammates on the perimeter if the defence collapses on his attack. In the halfcourt, he's a smooth pick-and-roll ball handler who can change speeds and direction to make the defence move to create passing or driving lanes. His size, physicality and effort makes him a strong on-ball defender. Doesn't rely on his jump shot, although he showed improvement throughout his career at Illinois.
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