16. Utah Jazz (via Timberwolves) take Keyonte George
The Jazz have three first-round picks in the 2023 NBA Draft, and they are rumored to be looking to package 16 and 28 to move up into the lottery to target a point guard. Utah may not have to as a handful figure to be available here, but they could have their eye on someone specific.
Rumors suggest they want George, and the 6’4 guard could be a lottery pick on June 22. There are a group of prospects from 12 to 20 that are similar. Teams will be drafting on personal preference and need. The Jazz want George because he can score, handle the ball, and get into the paint.
Utah is in the early stages of a rebuild, and they would love to see George fall to 16. There are questions about the 19-year-old’s defense and high turnover rate, but he will get time and opportunity to develop in Salt Lake City. George could be a starting point guard in the NBA for the next 15 years if he reaches his ceiling. He must add some bulk and cut down on his risky plays, but the potential exists.
The Jazz could still look to move up to avoid having three first-round picks on their roster to find playing time for next season, but they could gamble that Keyonte George falls to 16. Having three talented prospects to go with Lauri Markkanen and Walker Kessler could be the start of something special in Utah. They selected Bilal Coulibaly at nine in this mock draft, and now pair him with George at 16.