Previous Rank: No. 4 (-2)
Entering the season, many saw Cole Anthony as the prospect with the highest potential to be drafted No. 1 overall. A rough start to the season may have inspired some doubters in his game, but he had time to turn it around. Now, that clock is officially ticking. Anthony has missed the past several weeks recuperating from a torn right meniscus. While he will return in time before the end of the season, this injury will raise much concern for his draft stock — particularly if he doesn’t come back firing right out of the gate.
Previous Rank: No. 9 (+2)
The New Orleans Pelicans have maximized their return haul for Anthony Davis and quickly built one of the NBA’s most impressive cores. Lonzo Ball, Jrue Holiday, Brandon Ingram and Zion Williamson form an enticing starting lineup, only missing a man to anchor the center position. While we’re not out on Jaxson Hayes this early into his development, a little bit of healthy competition never hurt anyone. Onyeka Okongwu has emerged as this class’ second best big man prospect, averaging 16.9 points, 8.7 rebounds (39 percent of which coming on offense), and 2.9 blocks per game.
Previous Rank: No. 7 (-1)
Similar to the aforementioned Ball, RJ Hampton captured much attention with decision to forego collegiate basketball in favor for playing in the NBL. Hampton has received a smaller role, playing just 20.6 minutes and scoring 8.8 points per contest. His shooting splits aren’t exactly awe-inspiring and there are serious concerns about his playmaking (averaging 2.4 assists and 1.5 turnovers per game), but Hampton does carry the highest perceived ceiling of remaining available guards. Maybe Chicago rolls the dice hoping RJ can finally cure their ailments at point guard.
Previous Rank: No. 8 (-1)
After losing Kemba Walker in free agency, the Charlotte Hornets were probably expecting to select a new floor general in this guard-heavy class. That was before Devonte’ Graham exploded onto our screens, of course. The second-year point guard has impressed many as the runaway favorite for Most Improved Player, so look for Charlotte to adjust their draft gameplan accordingly. Jaden McDaniels appears to be the best true wing player in the NCAA right now. He can shoot, rebound, and most importantly, play stifling defense. His skillset projects to be a real 3-and-D threat that any contending team wants to have around.
Previous Rank: No. 24 (+14)
Isaac Okoro is doing just about everything he can to prove the critics were wrong about him, as he skyrockets up draft boards. He’s been the best player on this 15-0 Auburn team, doing all the little things winning teams want. He plays tough, is an excellent rebounder, and dangerous tool in the fast break. Ideally, we’d like to see him open up his shot some more. But with the shooters Sacramento can surround Okoro with, the Kings could employ a balanced attack on both ends of the court with Isaac filling the role of Swiss Army Knife.