It’s officially NBA draft workout season. Prospects have started flying around auditioning, while agents do their best to put their clients in position to make impressions with teams that suit them.
With workouts also comes gossip. Buzz circulates about one player outperforming another. We start to hear about invitations to come back for second looks. Teams try to read others’ intentions by bringing in certain players.
Enough new intel came in for Bleacher Report to adjust the mock draft board. And changes were made close to the top, resulting in a domino effect of updated projections.
International players still have until June 16 to withdraw their names.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 1
Team: JL Bourg-en-Bresse
Position: SG/SF
Size: 6’8″, 204 lbs
Age/Year: 19
Nationality: French
Pro Comparison: Harrison Barnes
Every Zaccharie Risacher playoff possession was monitored under the microscope of the Atlanta Hawks and other lottery teams. He wound up averaging 15.1 points with 14 threes in those seven games, delivering just enough flashes of step-backs or dribble moves to generate more hope around his on-ball development.
He still scored mostly with off-ball shotmaking and athleticism in transition, a combination that screams translatable and plug-and-play, fitting for a lineup like Atlanta’s that already has two creators in Trae Young and Dejounte Murray.
Alex Sarr may offer more theoretical upside with his defensive versatility and face-up flashes at 7’1″. Donovan Clingan could come off as more of an impact presence with his rim protection.
While scouts continue to debate the height of Risacher’s ceiling, there is also a perceived level of certainty tied to his positional size, shooting and defensive tools/quickness.
In a draft where there isn’t an obvious, sure-thing All-Star at the top, Risacher’s floor and valued three-and-D archetype could give him an edge with a team that saw AJ Griffin struggle with injuries and Saddiq Bey go down late to an ACL tear.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 2
Team: Perth Wildcats
Position: PF/C
Size: 7’0″, 224 lbs
Age/Year: 19
Nationality: French
Pro Comparison: Evan Mobley
With the Washington Wizards expected to be patient during their rebuild, they should be fitting suitors for Alex Sarr.
Some scouts and executives have questioned his offensive polish for a potential No. 1 overall pick, but the Wizards’ timeline and roster needs point to a match.
The rise and success of defensive bigs with perimeter skill sets—Evan Mobley, Jaren Jackson Jr., Chet Holmgren, Victor Wembanyama—also adds to the allure of Sarr.
He measured well in Chicago, coming in at just under 7’0″ in socks, 224 pounds with a 7’4″ wingspan. At that size, the ability to slide his feet, handle in the open floor and shoot off the dribble really separates him from other centers.
The Wizards will eventually need to find a point guard, but at No. 2, Sarr’s physical talent, evolving skill versatility and defense create visions of upside that could be difficult to resist.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 3
Team: Kentucky
Position: PG/SG
Size: 6’2″, 182 lbs
Age/Year: 19, Freshman
Nationality: American
Pro Comparison: Donte DiVincenzo
Fit could play a bigger role than usual this year during a draft where it’s difficult to identify sure-fire stars or the best player available.
The Houston Rockets should love what Reed Sheppard brings to their rotation: Elite shooting, passing and intangibles/character that scouts and executives praised after interviewing him at the NBA combine.
For Sheppard, an undersized 2 who’s more limited off the dribble, Amen Thompson would also be the ideal backcourt partner with his creation/playmaking and ability to defend bigger guards.
And Sheppard feels perfect for Thompson with his ability to stretch the floor and create space for a limited shooter and shifty ball-handler.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 11
Team: G League Ignite
Position: SF
Size: 6’9″, 197 lbs
Age: 19
Nationality: American/Lithuanian
Pro Comparison: Lamar Odom
There has been positive chatter from different circles around Matas Buzelis during the predraft process.
Teams are expecting him to go before Ignite teammate Ron Holland, and it feels like the intrigue around his athleticism and scoring versatility—and the upside it theoretically creates—continues to grow among teams trying to determine their top prospects during this final evaluation period.
We’re hearing he’s being considered in the top five. The San Antonio Spurs should be able to guarantee themselves one of Nikola Topic, Rob Dillingham or Devin Carter at No. 8. Stephon Castle figures to be in play at No. 4, but Buzelis offers superior positional size and athleticism, better shooting and more flashes of shotmaking diversity.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 6
Team: Connecticut
Position: C
Size: 7’2″, 282 lbs
Age/Year: 20, Sophomore
Nationality: American
Pro Comparison: Roy Hibbert
Donovan Clingan figures to be a trade-up target for defensive-needy teams that see a sure-fire anchor in the 7’2″ center.
For the Detroit Pistons, drafting the best player available will be the priority, particularly with Trajon Langdon taking over, considering the current rosters’ young prospects aren’t “his guys.”
Clingan would give Detroit a surefire defensive anchor and some potential trade flexibility with Jalen Duren, who’s been up and down to start his career.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 8
Team: Connecticut
Position: SG
Size: 6’6″, 210 lbs
Age/Year: 19, Freshman
Nationality: American
Pro Comparison: Anthony Black
Every team in the lottery will discuss Stephon Castle. They’re all going to covet the idea of a 6’6″ defensive stopper who handles the ball and passes, possesses unique positional strength and just needs some improved shooting touch to unlock a unique potential trajectory and archetype.
He’s a strong fit between shotmakers LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller. The Hornets would value his ball-moving, defense and winning intangibles.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 7
Team: Tennessee
Position: SG/SF
Size: 6’5″, 212 lbs
Age/Year: 23, Senior
Nationality: American
Pro Comparison: Wally Szczerbiak
The Portland Trail Blazers seem unlikely to draft another guard like Rob Dillingham. And the timelines of Ron Holland and Matas Buzelis may make them less attractive to a team that will be looking to give Scoot Henderson more help.
At 23 years old with a strong frame, outstanding shotmaking ability and a competitive edge, Dalton Knecht could look like a sure thing worth adding at No. 7. He comes with a level of skill, polish and professionalism that Portland could value over the perceived upside of bigger projects like Cody Williams and the Ignite teenagers.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 13
Team: Providence
Position: PG/SG
Size: 6’2″, 193 lbs
Age/Year: 22, Junior
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Derrick White
Sources say the San Antonio Spurs are high on Devin Carter, who just completed workouts with the Sacramento Kings and Chicago Bulls.
Nikola Topic’s ACL tear could give Carter an extra edge at No. 10.
One of the top perimeter defenders in the draft with a 6’9″ wingspan and unique 77 career blocks at 6’2″ in socks, he also developed into one of the nation’s best pick-and-roll ball-handlers and a much improve shotmaker this season at Providence.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 10
Team: G League Ignite
Position: SF
Size: 6’7″, 197 lbs
Age: 18
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Cam Whitmore
Ron Holland is a candidate to slide with scouts feeling comfortable about Dalton Knecht’s shooting and more compelled by Matas Buzelis’ shotmaking and versatility, and Stephon Castle’s playmaking, defense and impact on winning.
This still feels late and like good value for an explosive, 18-year-old wing who averaged 19.5 points in the G League.
The losses, poor shooting and suspect decision-making have turned certain scouts off, but even without a reliable jump shot or high-level creation, he still put up big numbers using his speed, improved ball-handling, athleticism around the basket and streak shotmaking.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 9
Team: Kentucky
Position: PG/SG
Size: 6’1″, 164 lbs
Age/Year: 19, Freshman
Nationality: American
Pro Comparison: Darius Garland
Rob Dillingham figures to be in play for the San Antonio Spurs, the Charlotte Hornets at No. 6 and the Memphis Grizzlies at No. 9.
However, the Spurs typically like size and length, the Hornets could decide they can’t afford another negative defender, and the Grizzlies may hesitate on taking a ball-dominant guard with Ja Morant and Desmond Bane.
At No. 10, the Utah Jazz would see a best player available and a high-powered backcourt to build with in Dillingham and Keyonte George. No player in the draft is as dangerous creating and making plays with his dribble, pull-up and floater. It’s that 164-pound frame that teams may be scared of.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 4
Team: KK Crvena Zvezda
Position: PG
Size: 6’6″, 198 lbs
Age/Year: 18
Nationality: Serbian
Pro Comparison: Goran Dragić
Teams were informed of Nikola Topić’s torn ACL at the NBA’s combine in Treviso, held for those who missed out on Chicago. The diagnosis obviously won’t help teams that were previously hesitant on the fence.
Teams are still waiting for US doctors to examine Topic’s knee, but as long as they don’t throw red flags at results that hint at long-term vulnerability, a lottery team may be willing to wait on a 6’6″ point guard who’s had success creating, playmaking for teammates and attacking in pro leagues overseas.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 12
Team: Cholet
Position: PF
Size: 6’9″, 212 lbs
Age: 18
Nationality: French
Pro comparison: Obi Toppin
Sources indicate that Tijane Salaun will work out for the Oklahoma City Thunder, though he also has big workouts scheduled with top-10 teams, including the San Antonio Spurs, Detroit Pistons and Portland Trail Blazers.
He’ll have a chance to rise higher over the next few weeks with a tempting combo of big-man size, shotmaking and athleticism for defense and finishing.
Salaun, who made an impressive 74 threes as a 6’9″ 18-year-old, continued to show NBA teams his shooting range. Though his handle and self-creation remain limited, he’s still finding ways to earn easy baskets from off the ball, tapping into his size and motor.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 5
Team: Colorado
Position: SF/PF
Size: 6’7″, 178 lbs
Age/Year: 19, Freshman
Nationality: American
Pro Comparison: Jaden McDaniels
While scouts do believe a team could reach on Cody Williams early, we’re hearing that most still prefer Matas Buzelis and Stephon Castle. Tijane Salaun and Kyshawn George have also popped up as names who could leapfrog Williams.
However, without an advanced handle or perimeter game, he still averaged 11.9 points, shot 58.8 percent inside the arc and 41.5 percent from three. And at 6’6.5″ in socks with a giant 7’1″ wingspan, his defensive tools remain outstanding.
Even a worst-case outcome for Williams can contribute with his efficient off-ball scoring and ability to guard wings and forwards. But given his age (19) and reported character—plus the fact that his brother, Jalen, appears on track toward blossoming into an All-Star—teams could talk themselves into his upside.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 24
Team: Miami
Position: SG/SF
Size: 6’7″, 209 lbs
Age/Year: 20, Freshman
Nationality: American
Pro Comparison: Dalano Banton
Kyshawn George visits the Portland Trail Blazers on Tuesday, and he’ll be working out for most teams in the late-lottery to mid-first round.
Scouts have been drawn to his size for a guard, shooting and ball-handling, a combination that created an enticing archetype. His lack of strength and explosion inside the arc does hint at risk, but if Portland gets a big like Clingan at No. 7, the Blazers may want to swing bigger on a 6’7″ 20-year-old, live-dribble passer who shot 40.8 percent from three.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 15
Team: Duke
Position: PG/SG
Size: 6’2″, 203 lbs
Age/Year: 20, Freshman
Nationality: American
Pro Comparison: Immanuel Quickley
Jared McCain put on some impressive shooting displays during drills at the combine, showing textbook repetition of form. Shotmaking has and will always be what powers his offense and value, but McCain’s effectiveness this year in ball-screen situations, using change of speed, footwork, crafty finishing and vision, point to more on-ball upside with his creativity and feel.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 16
Team: USC
Position: PG
Size: 6’3″, 205 lbs
Age/Year: 19, Freshman
Nationality: American
Pro Comparison: Tyreke Evans
Listed as 6’5″ by USC, Isaiah Collier measured 6’2.5″ (socks) with a near 6’5″ wingspan at the NBA combine. He also didn’t shoot that well during drills, and teams will be looking closely into his almost set jump shot during workouts.
Still, the draw to Collier is his shiftiness for creativity, physicality attacking and finishing and live-dribble passing skill. Teams that think his jump shot and decision-making should improve will see more upside than those worried about his low-volume three-point numbers and turnovers.
But even teams that have those concerns may be interested in Collier’s ability to break down defenses, make plays off the bounce and put pressure on the rim.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 14
Team: Indiana
Position: C
Size: 7’0″, 230 lbs
Age/Year: 20, Sophomore
Nationality: American
Pro Comparison: Brook Lopez
Kel’el Ware measured well at the NBA combine, even showing a standing reach that was 2.5 inches longer than that of potential No. 1 overall pick Alex Sarr. He was also down 12 pounds from Indiana’s listing.
For Ware to maximize his draft stock, he’ll have to convince teams to buy into his three-point range.
He still has a very high skill level for a center who’s above average athletically and nearly 7’0″ in socks. And the big increase in scoring production helped validate the effectiveness of his tools, movement and shotmaking.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 18
Team: Baylor
Position: SG/SF
Size: 6’4″, 198 lbs
Age/Year: 19, Freshman
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Kentavious Caldwell-Pope
No new updates were made to Ja’Kobe Walter’s scouting report after the NBA combine. His measurements, middle-of-the-pack athletic tests and promising shotmaking sequences were all expected.
He’s going to get pegged with a safe label that sees a three-and-D 2-guard who can defend both wing positions. The lack of creation and playmaking may just make it tougher for teams to picture upside worth a top-10 pick.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 19
School/Team: Purdue
Position: C
Size: 7’4″, 299 lbs
Age: 22, Senior
Nationality: Canadian
Pro comparison: Jonas Valančiūnas
At the least, Zach Edey may have opened scouts’ imaginations at the combine with the comfort level he demonstrated making jump shots during drills.
Regardless, for a center who measures just under 7’4″ in socks with a near 7’11” wingspan, his touch and footwork have gotten sharp enough for scouts to picture a useful low-post scorer and offensive rebounder.
Teams deeper up front will look elsewhere. So will those who question how playable he’ll be defensively in the playoffs. He’ll be enticing to teams looking to add more size, physicality around the basket and interior offense.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 20
School/team: Colorado
Position: SF/PF
Size: 6’8″, 217 lbs
Age/Year: 23, Senior
Nationality: German/Brazilian
Pro comparison: Trey Lyles
Tristan da Silva had a quiet NBA combine, measuring as expected and finishing middle of the pack during athletic tests before skipping scrimmages.
Teams will start to think about Da Silva in the mid-to-late first round, with the idea that he can provide plug-and-play shotmaking and complementary, spot-up scoring.
Though not overly explosive off the dribble, a high skill level (at 6’8″) and basketball IQ will have some teams willing to look past the athletic limitations.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 17
School: Baylor
Position: C
Size: 6’11”, 229 lbs
Age/Year: 20, Freshman
Nationality: Cameroon
Pro comparison: Nic Claxton
Yves Missi measured well at nearly 6’11” in socks with a 7’2″ wingspan. He should start to draw mid-to-late first-round interest from teams that covet his defensive upside as a rim protector and his ability to move his feet around the perimeter and recover in pick-and-roll coverage.
The offense is a bonus, but Baylor ran plenty of actions for Missi around the top of the key, where he showed he can face up, put the ball down and attack opposing bigs.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 22
Team: Duke
Position: PF/C
Size: 6’11”, 230 lbs
Age/Year: 20, Sophomore
Nationality: American
Pro Comparison: Moritz Wagner
Measurements and athletic testing results from the NBA combine won’t do Kyle Filipowski any favors. With shoes on, (6’10.75″ in socks), he’ll wind up with a negative wingspan (6’10.5″). And he finished in the bottom half of the foot speed and leaping tests.
His draft stock has mostly remained unchanged for the past few months, though pre-draft risers could push him down boards. His shooting range, post skill, improved finishing and passing and defensive mobility create versatility that should lock Filipowski into the late lottery/mid-first round.
While he doesn’t project as a top option like he was at Duke, he checks the right complementary boxes to make a quick transition to a supporting stretch 4 or 5 role.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 26
School/team: Pittsburgh
Position: PG/SG
Size: 6’4″, 195 lbs
Age: 18, Freshman
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Nickeil Alexander-Walker
Carlton Carrington shot extremely well during shooting drills after measuring just under 6’4″ in socks with a 6’8″ wingspan. He’s one of the draft’s youngest prospects with positional size, serious shotmaking production and enough passing ability for teams to picture a point guard.
He didn’t get to the rim much, and a 1.0 steal rate highlights some real concerns over his quickness for a guard. But teams won’t overthink athleticism or numbers as much this late in this particular draft.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 36
School/team: Virginia
Position: PF
Size: 6’6″, 214 lbs
Age/Year: 21, Sophomore
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Matisse Thybulle
The Knicks felt the payoff of having a big-wing defender like OG Anubody. Ryan Dunn could give them another one whose court coverage and play-disrupting around the basket led to some wild steal and block rates.
The New York native already worked out for the Knicks and has a big workout next week in Portland against projected first-rounders Ron Holland, Tijane Salaun and Keyshawn George.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 25
Team: Marquette
Position: PG
Size: 6’1″, 197 lbs
Age/Year: 23, Senior
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Jason Preston
Miles McBride became a key member of New York’s rotation, but Tyler Kolek would give it some needed playmaking/facilitating behind Jalen Brunson.
Underwhelming measurements (6’1″, 6’3″ wingspan) and athletic testing will keep teams’ vision of Kolek as a backup. But that could still be enough to draw first-round interest, particularly from playoff teams that will see a guard who can instantly provide pick-and-roll offense, spot-up shooting and toughness.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 23
Team: Ignite
Position: PF
Size: 6’9″, 224 lbs
Age: 19
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Channing Frye
Tyler Smith didn’t shoot as well at the combine as the Ignite highlights and numbers suggest he could. It won’t mean much unless he struggles through workouts.
Shotmaking is the main draw to Smith, who measured 6’9″ with a 7’1″ wingspan.
Limited evidence of him putting the ball down may keep teams from seeing paths to upside. Regardless, midway through the first round, interest will start to build in a stretch big with strong tools and athleticism for play-finishing around the basket.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 27
Team: California
Position: SF/PF
Size: 6’6″, 218 lbs
Age/Year: 21, Junior
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Caleb Martin
Jaylon Tyson figures to get looks from teams starting in the mid-to-late first round after a breakout season averaging 19.6 points and 3.5 assists.
A 30.1 percent usage on a 13-19 California team does cast a cloud over his statistical production. But the eye test clearly shows a scorer with NBA traits and skills, including 6’6″ size, ball-handling for creation/playmaking and tough shotmaking.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 29
Team: Kansas
Position: SF
Size: 6’8″, 189 lbs
Age/Year: 19, Freshman
Nationality: Australian
Pro Comparison: Cam Johnson
Johnny Furphy’s fairly simplistic and translatable combination of positional size, shooting and play-finishing could be enough for a team in the 20s.
But his athletic-test results were disappointing at the combine, and a 189-pound frame at his size suggests he’s at least a year from being physically ready for NBA minutes.
May 21 Mock Draft Spot: No. 34
Team: Ratiopharm Ulm
Position: SF/PF
Size: 6’8″, 210 lbs
Age/Year: 18
Nationality: French
Pro comparison: Wilson Chandler
Still playing overseas, Pacome Dadiet has gradually put himself in the first-round discussion with shooting versatility, play-finishing and brief on-ball flashes for a 6’8″, 18-year-old wing.
Between his age, efficient production in the German League and EuroCup and an adaptable, off-ball game, he seems to have a high floor with a path to upside if his creation evolves.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 30
School/team: Dayton
Position: C
Size: 6’9″, 236 lbs
Age: 21, Junior
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Trayce Jackson-Davis
There is first-round interest in DaRon Holmes, who’s being selective with his workouts.
He made plenty of jump shots during shooting drills at the combine. And more strong shooting during workouts will continue to help, as scouts have been debating how much to buy this year’s 38.6 percent mark from three.
He entered this pre-draft process with more momentum than he had last year. Improved range, handles/body control attacking the basket and passing have raised his draft stock, and he’s coming off a 23-point, 11-rebound, three-assist, four-stock game with a pair of threes against Arizona in the NCAA tournament.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 31
Team: Cairns Taipans
Position: SF/PF
Size: 6’9″, 212 lbs
Age: 21
Nationality: Swedish
Pro Comparison: De’Andre Hunter
Bobi Klintman leaves NBA combine week as a classic fringe first-rounder—interesting enough to go in the 20s to a team that loves the big-wing archetype and two-way versatility, but not sharp enough in any one area for teams to confidently project what strengths/skills will translate.
He looked comfortable shooting in Chicago, and teams that ultimately buy his three-ball carrying over and improving could deem Klintman worth taking in the first round.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 28
School/team: Creighton
Position: SF
Size: 6’6″, 202 lbs
Age: 23, Senior
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Joe Ingles
Scouts left the NBA combine more confident in Baylor Scheierman. He looked like a pro during shooting drills and scrimmages.
Aside from his shotmaking, he brought in boards, made plays in ball-screen situations, scored with craft and footwork inside the arc and demonstrated vocal leadership.
He’ll generate first-round consideration from multiple teams, particularly those more interested in adding a good-bet role player than chasing longer-term upside.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 21
Team: Illinois
Position: SG/SF
Size: 6’6″, 219 lbs
Age/Year: 23, Senior
Nationality: American
Pro Comparison: Kelly Oubre Jr.
An injury kept Terrence Shannon Jr. from drilling or testing at the NBA combine.
Right now, the focus from NBA teams will be on his June 10 court date that was set after a May 10 hearing for rape allegations made against Shannon.
A cloud remains over his breakout season and the type of speed, athleticism, shotmaking improvement and defensive tools that would normally generate plenty of NBA interest.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 35
School/team: Kansas
Position: SG/SF
Size: 6’5″, 206 lbs
Age: 23, Senior
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Josh Hart
Kevin McCullar Jr. continues to sit with a knee injury that kept him out of the NCAA tournament. He skipped drills, athletic testing and scrimmages at the combine, though it was unlikely scouts would learn anything new about the 23-year-old who attended the same event last year.
The Jayhawks ultimately looked like a different team without him, which speaks to his impact and wide-ranging contributions getting Kansas into offense, finishing plays, making shots and defending opponents’ top wings.
Scouts buy his versatility and defense for a supporting NBA role, though he’ll have to avoid any medical-report concerns.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 39
School/team: Minnesota
Position: SG
Size: 6’5″, 190 lbs
Age: 18, Freshman
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Allen Crabbe
Cam Christie had a quiet NBA combine after choosing to skip scrimmaging.
There is a certain lens that some scouts can look through and see upside based on his age, size, shotmaking and passing flashes. But he’s being seen as a project who’ll spend next year in the G League, regardless of where he’s drafted.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 33
School/team: North Carolina
Position: SF/PF
Size: 6’5″, 234 lbs
Age: 21, Junior
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Naji Marshall
Harrison Ingram showed off his shotmaking in one scrimmage and passing with six assists in the other game. He’s earned fans with his connector skill set and strength and 7’0″ wingspan for rebounding and defensive activity.
Scouts don’t see a likely first-round pick, with questions about his burst for blowing by or explosion at the rim. But his two-way versatility and maturity are strong enough draws to earn consideration in the 30s.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 32
School: Colorado
Nationality: American
Position: Guard
Size: 6’0″, 187 lbs
Age/Year: 21, Junior
Pro comparison: Cole Anthony
KJ Simpson backed up the big stat lines at Colorado with a handful of blow-by drives, tough finishes and shotmaking during NBA combine scrimmages.
He also got up for a 40.5-inch max vertical, which could help make up for the fact that he only measured 6’0″ without shoes.
Production, creation skill, touch, range, energy and confidence could potentially sway a team to look past the underwhelming measurements.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 38
School/team: UCLA
Position: C
Size: 6’8″, 243 lbs
Age: 21, Sophomore
Nationality: Turkish/Nigerian
Pro comparison: Daniel Gafford
Adem Bona measured a 7’4″ wingspan, tied for the highest standing vertical and then showcased that length and athleticism on big finishes and blocks during scrimmages.
The extra scoring this year at UCLA won’t do much for his stock. But he still has the tools, motor, feet and leaping ability to continue making plays around the rim at both ends.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 37
School/Team: Arizona
Position: SF/PF
Age/Year: 22, Senior
Size: 6’6″, 224 lbs
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Robert Covington
Keshad Johnson popped numerous times in Chicago during scrimmages with his shooting, defensive playmaking and foot speed around the perimeter. He also tied for the highest max vertical at 42 inches, and he measured two of the biggest hands at the combine.
Interesting physical tools, athleticism, movement and shotmaking development should earn Johnson plenty of workouts and second-round consideration.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 40
School/Team: Weber State
Position: SF
Age/Year: 22, Junior
Size: 6’5″, 237 lbs
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: David Roddy
Ball-dominant at Weber State, Dillon Jones had trouble standing out in a different role at the NBA combine. On the bright side, he improved his athletic-test results across the board since last year, specifically his foot-speed times and vertical jumps.
The first round feels far-fetched, but he should get looks in the 30s and 40s from teams drawn to his unique versatility as a 237-pound playmaker, excellent rebounder and improved shooter.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 41
School/team: San Francisco
Position: PF
Size: 6’6″, 217 lbs
Age: 22, Junior
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Kenneth Faried
Jonathan Mogbo helped his stock in Chicago, showing how he can fit without a jumper at just 6’6″ in socks. He plays much bigger than his measurements around the basket. But he also showed how well he can handle in the open floor and process quickly as a passer.
The tools/athleticism for scoring around the basket and playmaking ability create a unique archetype that teams will find enticing in the second round.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 42
School/team: Mega MIS
Position: SF
Size: 6’7″, 209 lbs
Age: 20
Nationality: Belgian/Serbian
Pro comparison: Deni Avdija
After playing well at the NBA combine, Nikola Djurisic won MVP at Eurocamp. It looked easy for him against younger competition, though he had some difficulty getting good looks in the championship game against a more competitive roster.
He still has until June 16 to withdraw from the draft, but his positional size, shotmaking and passing should result in plenty of second-round interest if he stays.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 43
School/Team: Arizona
Position: SF
Size: 6’5″, 212 lbs
Age/Year: 23, Senior
Nationality: Swedish
Pro comparison: Christian Braun
Pelle Larsson’s impressive frame and versatility stood out more than his scoring in Chicago. His game feels very adaptable to the next level, even if he’s missing one specialty skill.
Teams should see a high-floor second-round pick who can make plays out of pick-and-rolls, threaten as a catch-and-shooter and generally make the right plays within an offense.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 44
Team/nationality: Saint-Quentin
Position: SG/SF
Size: 6’7″
Age: 19
Nationality: French
Pro comparison: Evan Fournier
Melvin Ajinça met with teams in Treviso after missing the NBA combine for the LNB Pro A playoffs.
His shotmaking has been a draw since FIBA over the summer. Teams will be trying to decide if he’s a sharp-enough shooter to compensate for his lack of creation and quickness.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 45
Team: Clemson
Position: PF/C
Size: 6’8″, 240 lbs
Age: 22, Senior
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Jeremiah Robinson-Earl
PJ Hall didn’t scrimmage in Chicago after participating last year. There is ultimately enough game film of the senior playing against NBA-caliber bigs from the ACC.
Hall will still have to sell teams on his shooting during workouts, but he’s consistently improved his range. And between his physical profile and fundamentals around the post, his post scoring feels translatable.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 46
School/Team: Kentucky
Position: SF
Size: 6’6″, 209 lbs
Age/Year: 20, Freshman
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: James Young
Justin Edwards hit mid-range jumpers and a step-back three in the combine’s opening scrimmage before missing his outside shots and struggling on Wednesday.
He isn’t advanced enough in any one offensive area for teams to confidently draft him with a first-round pick. He’ll remain in the second-round conversation for teams willing to bet on shotmaking improvement to complement his athleticism and defensive tools.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 47
School/team: Houston
Position: PG
Size: 6’0″, 201 lbs
Age: 21, Senior
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Jevon Carter
Jamal Shead combined for 27 points and 10 assists in the two combine scrimmages, delivering the signature rim pressure, defensive toughness and playmaking we saw at Houston.
Questions about his height and shooting may limit his first-round interest, but there are sure to be teams that see second-round value based on the likelihood that his physical driving, passing instincts and relentless ball pressure translate.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 48
School/team: Illawara Hawks
Position: PG/SG
Size: 6’4″, 167 lbs
Age: 19
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Jamal Crawford
AJ Johnson’s ball-handling and shiftiness, passing reads, athleticism at the rim and shooting range popped at the NBA combine. His on-ball creation, scoring and playmaking flashes looked enticing for a 6’4″ (in socks) 19-year-old with a 6’8″ wingspan.
He’ll spend next season in the G League at just 167 pounds and coming off limited minutes in Australia.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 49
School/team: UC Santa Barbara
Position: PG
Size: 6’3″, 187 lbs
Age: 21, Junior
Nationality: Belgian
Pro comparison: Andrew Nembhard
The most impressive plays at the combine from Ajay Mitchell highlighted his playmaking, which was good to see considering he’s more known for scoring.
Scouts still have too many questions about his shooting and quickness/burst to give a first-round grade. But he should be on plenty of second-round boards for teams that could use another ball-handler and extra creation.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 50
School/team: Washington State
Position: SF
Size: 6’7″, 206 lbs
Age: 20, Junior
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Duncan Robinson
From Division II to Washington State and the NBA combine, Jaylen Wells has become a second-round name for teams to consider.
Scouts have started to picture a shotmaking specialist with his wing size and outstanding spot-up and pull-up shooting accuracy.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 51
School/team: Ratiopharm Ulm
Position: PG
Size: 6’3″, 180 lbs
Age: 20
Nationality: Spain
Pro comparison: Facundo Campazzo
NBA teams will have Juan Nunez on their radar for his crafty playmaking and elite passing skills. His modest improvement as a shooter has been promising, but he’ll draw looks for his ability to set up teammates and make plays with his dribble.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 54
School/team: Akron
Position: PF
Size: 6’7″, 212 lbs
Age/Year: 23, Senior
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Joel Bolomboy
The biggest riser of the predraft process so far, Enrique Freeman turned his Portsmouth Invitational play into a G League Elite Camp invite, where he earned a call-up to the NBA combine.
He wound up being one of the most productive players during scrimmages against projected second-round picks, impressing with his shooting range, post skill, finishing activity and rebounding.
Scouts believe he got himself drafted in Chicago. A second-round team will be willing to bet on his versatility, production at Akron and the story of a former walk-on.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 53
School/Team: Kentucky
Position: SG
Size: 6’5″, 187 lbs
Age/Year: 23, Senior
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Alec Burks
Antonio Reeves looked like the same scoring weapon during scrimmages that he was at Kentucky. He’s clearly one of the class’ top shotmakers who also has a good feel for how to get himself those catch-and-shoot, pull-up and floater chances within an offense’s flow.
Age and athletic limitations won’t feel alarming enough for teams to keep passing on him in the second round.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 52
School/team: Connecticut
Position: PG
Size: 6’3″, 192 lbs
Age: 23, Senior
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Terance Mann
Tristen Newton surprised scouts when he opted to skip scrimmaging. Teams should ultimately have a confident feel for the 23-year-old’s game, which played a key role during Connecticut’s repeat championships.
Newton should draw second-round interest and two-way offers from teams who see a Swiss Army knife guard who can make plays for teammates, knock down shots and adapt to different roles and situations.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 55
School/team: USC
Position: SG
Size: 6’2″, 210 lbs
Age: 19, Freshman
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Miles McBride
Rival teams sound uncertain about Bronny James’ chances of getting drafted, though the Los Angeles Lakers remain the popular guess as to his most likely destination.
If he’s still on the board deep into the second round, L.A.’s front office could feel pressure to select him, considering it’s essentially a risk-free pick that late, and passing at No. 55 would signal to LeBron how little the team thinks of Bronny.
However, he impressed with his shooting at the NBA combine, while James’ defensive quickness popped at USC. Though he’d likely spend next year earning G League reps and the South Bay Lakers’ extra attention, his shotmaking, foot speed and IQ do create a viable three-and-D archetype and path to NBA success in the long term.
His draft stock and debated potential have ultimately become some of the most unique and tricky storylines of the modern NBA draft era.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 56
Team: Marquette
Position: PF/C
Size: 6’10”, 222 lbs
Age/Year: 21, Senior
Nationality: American
Pro Comparison: Brandon Clarke
On a positive note, Oso Ighodaro tied for the highest standing vertical at the combine (35″) and was able to showcase the handle and passing that separates him from bigs. But he also measured just a 6’11” wingspan, easily the shortest among projected centers.
No shooting range and questionable tools for rim protection could raise some red flags, but teams could see a place for his playmaking, signature touch shots and play-finishing from his position.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: No. 57
School/team: Washington State
Position: PF
Size: 6’8″, 235 lbs
Age: 23, Senior
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Precious Achuiwa
The clear standout at the Portsmouth Invitational, Isaac Jones moved his way up to G League Elite Camp and the NBA combine.
His pitch to teams is built around his ability to guard bigs and wings and make plays with his athleticism and motor. But he also flashed enough post skill and shooting potential to possibly provide some complementary offense.
May 30 Mock Draft Spot: Off the board
School/team: USC
Position: SG
Size: 6’1″, 185lbs
Age: 23, Senior
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Isaiah Joe
After making 313 career threes, Boogie Ellis shot well at the combine, and late second-round teams will make two-way contract offers for a proven shooter who can also handle the ball.