Blazers mock draft roundup: Rip City addresses shooting need at pick No. 14

The Portland Trail Blazers were last in the league in three-point percentage this season. Mock drafts have them tackling that weakness at pick No. 14.

Mar 24, 2024; Memphis, TN, USA; Baylor Bears guard Ja'Kobe Walter (4) reacts in the second half against the Clemson Tigers in the second round of the 2024 NCAA Tournament at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 24, 2024; Memphis, TN, USA; Baylor Bears guard Ja'Kobe Walter (4) reacts in the second half against the Clemson Tigers in the second round of the 2024 NCAA Tournament at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports | Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports
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CBS Sports: Ja'Kobe Walter, Guard, Baylor

CBS Sports writer Kyle Boone also has Portland selecting Ja'Kobe Walter at No. 14. In the mock draft roundup for pick No. 7, Connecticut center Donovan Clingan was the only repeat. This time around, it's the Baylor guard.

Coming out of the draft with Clingan and Walter would be an excellent pairing for the Blazers, as both would instantly help their defense. In the short term, Walter would contribute as a three-and-D role player, which is his floor. But he has the upside of contributing more on offense if he can improve his ballhandling and tap into his shot-creating potential.

"Walter showed all the tools that made him a five-star prospect during his one season at Baylor with an array of athleticism and quick-trigger shooting that makes for an easy NBA projection."
Kyle Boone

At Baylor, Walter averaged 14.5 points, 4.4 rebounds, 1.4 assists, and 1.1 steals on 38/34/79 shooting splits. He needs to improve his efficiency and playmaking, but is worth the Blazers taking a flyer on in a weak draft class.

The good news is that the aspects of Walter's game that he excels at—his spot-up shooting, ability to get to the free-throw line, and on-ball defense—is precisely what his role would be with Portland. Shooting is a premium in the NBA, and Walter is worth the value here for the Blazers if he's available at pick No. 14.

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