2023 NBA Mock Draft: Trail Blazers get future star, Magic surprise at 6
By Tyler Watts
29. Indiana Pacers (via Celtics) acquire Dariq Whitehead
Whitehead was the number one prospect in the 2022 high school class and a projected top-five coming into the season, but injuries limited him and a recent second foot surgery has him as a questionable first round choice.
The Pacers want to improve quickly and are likely to make a trade. They cannot fit all five draft picks they currently hold onto their roster, so a move is coming. Will they package picks to move up or trade for future selections? That is an unknown, but fans can be sure they are exploring their options.
Whitehead is the perfect high-upside pick for a team looking to get out of a rebuild. If he can get healthy and return to his high school production, the 6’6 wing could be a top-five player in this class. There is massive bust potential because of his recent injuries, but one worth taking at 29.
Dariq Whitehead has a 6’10 wingspan and excelled on both ends of the floor in high school. He was an elite scorer and a tough versatile defender. Can he get back to that? Health is the key, but the Indiana Pacers have no issues taking a big swing in hopes of knocking one out of the park.