2019 NBA Mock Draft 2.0

Derrick Favors will hit free agency this summer, so the Utah Jazz may be in the market for a power forward. Brandon Clarke has impressive athleticism, play recognition, and work ethic. His jump shot is still a work in progress (28.6% from three), but he can finish inside and beat defenders off of the dribble. He also projects to be a very good rim protector. He is averaging 3 blocks per game and the Jazz could stagger his minutes with Rudy Gobert.

The Spurs will likely move on from Paul Gasol after this season. Only $6.7 million of his $16 million salary is guaranteed if they choose to waive him. As a result, the Spurs could be interested in drafting another big man. Jontay Porter would be a good fit. He does not have elite explosiveness or speed, but he is a fundamentally sound player who can shoot, pass, and handle the basketball.

The Boston Celtics will receive this pick via the Los Angeles Clippers. Jaxson Hayes has shot up draft boards in recent months due to this shot blocking and rebounding ability. The Celtics do not have an elite rim protector right now. They did draft Robert Williams, but there are not many roster needs for the Celtics to address. I expect the Celtics to try to package their three first round picks to move up.

KZ Okapala has grown into one of the best scorers in college basketball during his sophomore season. The main reason for his growth has been the rapid improvement of his three-point shooting. He is shooting 44.8% from deep this season after shooting only 22.6% last season. However, the huge jump and his 69.4% free throw shooting raise serious questions about the sustainability of his current pace. Nevertheless, Okpala can still score in a variety of other ways, and if his newfound shooting is for real, then the Nets could have a steal at this point in the draft.

This might be a little early to draft PJ Washington, but the Miami Heat are committed to Bam Adebayo at center and do not need another small forward. Washington could be a nice fit alongside Adebayo or Hassan Whiteside due to his ability to space the floor.