Darius Bazley’s draft stock will be interesting to monitor. He originally skipped out on college basketball to play in the G-League, but he then changed his mind again and accepted an internship at New Balance where he will be paid approximately one million dollars.
Bazley is extremely talented. He was a five-star recruit in high school and can defend all five positions. He has a relatively complete offensive game, as well, being able to pass, shoot, and handle the ball. Bazley should be a steal for the Milwaukee Bucks at the end of the first round.
Jalen McDaniels was Portland’s selection in our first mock draft. He is a physical specimen at 6’10” and with a wingspan of 7′. He will probably play both forward spots in the NBA. McDaniels can defend and is a strong finisher in the paint, but his three-point shooting will determine how high his ceiling truly is.
The Spurs will receive this pick from the Raptors as part of the Kawhi Leonard trade. Admiral Schofield plays both the shooting guard and small forward positions at Tennessee. Now in his senior season, Schofield has raised his scoring average and three-point percentage each season that he has been at Tennessee. He is shooting 40.9% from three this year, but his true value comes from his tough brand of defense. Schofield is one of the most fearless players in college basketball and has proved himself to be an exceptional defender. If his offensive improvement is for real, the Spurs could have a really good two way player on their hands.
The Nets will receive this pick from the Nuggets as part of the Kenneth Faried trade. The Nets have their center of the future in Jarrett Allen, but Daniel Gafford is too good to pass up at pick 27. Gafford is a great finisher around the rim and excels in the post. He can protect the rim, as well. However, Gafford cannot shoot the ball, and his 56.7% shooting from the free throw line does not inspire a lot of hope. Nevertheless, the Nets grab a quality backup center here at the end of the first round.
Coby White is a good ball handler and has the quickness to catch defends off balance. He is a good mid-range scorer, and his 36.3% three-point shooting is promising for a freshman. White can play both the point guard and shooting guard positions, which makes him a possible future starter alongside Victor Oladipo.