The Detroit Pistons are another team in need of a franchise point guard. With the departures of Andre Drummond and Reggie Jackson, the Pistons are in full rebuild mode. They have a few young pieces in Sekou Doumbouya and Luke Kennard but require a point guard to open things up for these other players.
In Cole Anthony of the University of North Carolina, the Pistons would get a high character guy who could be their point guard for the next 10 years.
Anthony is six-foot-three but plays tough and is an excellent rebounder. He could lead an NBA offense while also being an excellent shooter.
Though he isn’t huge, he is a strong on-ball defender who projects as a good team defender. Anthony is likely to be the best point guard available when the Pistons pick at seven.
The New York Knicks still don’t have an offensive lynchpin to build around but have made moves in the front office and scouting departments that suggest they may have turned the corner as an organization. Though they have multiple big men on the roster, none project as positives on offense.
If Obi Toppin was available at eight, not only would he be the best player available, but he would be a nice fit next to defensive big man Mitchell Robinson.
Toppin is a six-foot-nine wrecking ball that is devastating in the open court. He was the most accomplished player in college basketball this season, winning six awards, including the National Player of the year.
Toppin has drawn comparisons to Amar’e Stoudemire with his dunking ability and massive six-nine frame. Unlike Amar’e, Toppin has great passing vision while also adding a three-point shot to his game this year.
With his excellent transition play and skill for his size, he is likely to be a plus in the NBA right away. The Knicks could use him instantly while also being one of their clear building blocks.