Way-too-early 2023 NBA Re-draft: Where do Scoot Henderson and Toumani Camara end up?
By Reese Kunz
No. 7: Washington Wizards select Dereck Lively II
Original pick: Bilal Coulibaly
The Washington Wizards found a gem in their French prospect, Bilal Coulibaly. They are among the few teams in this exercise where their original pick is taken before they are on the clock, which is a great sign for them. But in this scenario, the Wizards have multiple needs and can afford to select the best available prospect.
After trading away Daniel Gafford and Kristaps Porzingis to both teams that wound up making the NBA Finals, Washington desperately needs a long-term center. Duke big man Dereck Lively II would fill the void at pick No. 7 for Washington.
Lively's numbers with Dallas this season weren't jaw-dropping. He averaged 8.8 points, 6.9 rebounds, 1.1 assists, and 1.4 blocks. However, he's the type of player that impacts winning, even if it doesn't necessarily translate to the box score. Defensively, Lively is an excellent rebounder who can protect the paint. He also has the length and agility to hold his own out on the perimeter. Offensively, Lively will never be a go-to player, which limits his upside. However, he's still an elite lob threat, solid screener, and underrated passer.
Lively, 20, would be an excellent addition as an elite role piece to complement any future assets they add to their rebuild.