Discussions about prospect targets and trades intensify heading into NBA draft day.
There is still an unusual amount of guessing going on about how the top of the board will play out.
The Atlanta Hawks have multiple options with players and trades. The Houston Rockets are talking to teams about No. 3. The San Antonio Spurs are in trade discussions, potentially with both No. 4 and No. 8.
The interest in Donovan Clingan, who isn’t the easiest fit for teams near the top of the draft, has become the biggest storyline heading into Wednesday.
We’ll continue to keep our ear on the NBA door in the hours leading up until the Hawks make their decision.
Some of the analysis is repeated from our previous mock draft published on June 19.
June 19 Mock Draft Spot: No. 1
Team: JL Bourg-en-Bresse
Position: SG/SF
Size: 6’8″, 204 lbs
Age: 19
Nationality: French
Pro Comparison: Harrison Barnes
The Atlanta Hawks have worked out Donovan Clingan and Matas Buzelis. And despite failing to get Alex Sarr in the building, sources tell Bleacher Report that Sarr is higher on Atlanta’s board than both.
Still, Zaccharie Risacher remains the projected pick at No. 1 if the Hawks stick.
While scouts continue to debate the height of his ceiling, there is a perceived level of certainty tied to his positional size, shooting and defensive tools/quickness. That could sway the Hawks to lean Risacher’s way without a sure-thing star at the top. Injury problems with Saddiq Bey and AJ Griffin could also help the case for Risacher to Atlanta.
June 19 Mock Draft Spot: No. 2
Team: Perth Wildcats
Position: PF/C
Size: 7’0″, 224 lbs
Age: 19
Nationality: French
Pro Comparison: Evan Mobley
Teams and agents believe that if the Atlanta Hawks don’t draft Alex Sarr, the Washington Wizards will take him at No. 2. Washington has also shown interest in Matas Buzelis.
Though some scouts and executives have questioned Sarr’s offensive polish for a top pick, the Wizards are expected to be patient during its rebuild.
The rise and success of defensive bigs with perimeter skill sets—Evan Mobley, Jaren Jackson Jr., Chet Holmgren, Victor Wembanyama—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 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.
June 19 Mock Draft Spot: No. 3
Team: Kentucky
Position: PG/SG
Size: 6’2″, 182 lbs
Age/Year: 20, Freshman
Nationality: American
Pro Comparison: Donte DiVincenzo
League sources say the No. 3 pick continues to be shopped. It just may be challenging to find a trade partner with the perceived difference between No. 3 and the late lottery being minimal.
If the Rockets stick, they 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.
June 19 Mock Draft Spot: No. 4
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 great positional strength and just needs some improved shooting touch to unlock a unique potential trajectory and archetype.
His camp has gone dark since the NBA combine. There’s no indication that he’s worked out for anyone, and if he has, it’s been kept quiet. It’s possible Castle has some assurance about where he’ll be taken. San Antonio figures to be a desirable destination for any prospect, particularly Castle, who’ll get to play more on the ball for a Spurs team lacking a cornerstone point guard.
June 19 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, specifically for the Memphis Grizzlies who pick at No. 9.
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.
June 19 Mock Draft Spot: No. 10
Team: Tennessee
Position: SG/SF
Size: 6’5″, 212 lbs
Age/Year: 23, Senior
Nationality: American
Pro Comparison: Wally Szczerbiak
Sources say the Charlotte Hornets have been high on Dalton Knecht for weeks. He’s not in play for the Detroit Pistons at No. 5.
There’s a sure-thing aspect that comes with drafting Knecht, a special shotmaker with three-level scoring skills, maturity and toughness.
The Hornets may prefer to grab Stephon Castle or Donovan Clingan, but that could also require moving up.
June 19 Mock Draft Spot: No. 7
Team: Colorado
Position: SF/PF
Size: 6’7″, 178 lbs
Age/Year: 19, Freshman
Nationality: American
Pro Comparison: Jaden McDaniels
Rival teams continue to predict that Cody Williams will be picked earlier than most expect, potentially by the Detroit Pistons at No. 5 or the San Antonio Spurs.
The pitch to Williams revolves around a coveted, big-wing archetype, his efficiency at Colorado and the belief that he has the mentality and blueprint (being Jalen’s brother) to continue improving and maximize his potential.
June 19 Mock Draft Spot: No. 5
Team: G League Ignite
Position: SF
Size: 6’9″, 197 lbs
Age: 19
Nationality: American/Lithuanian
Pro Comparison: Lamar Odom
Each of the top six teams except for the Houston Rockets have worked out Matas Buzelis.
We’re told he had his best workout for the San Antonio Spurs, but getting more of a playmaker in Stephon Castle could be their priority.
Sources also say the Spurs may look to move this pick for a veteran, but assuming they’ve considered him at No. 4, they’d like be happy to grab him at No. 8 if they stick.
June 19 Mock Draft Spot: No. 9
Team: G League Ignite
Position: SF
Size: 6’7″, 197 lbs
Age: 18
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Cam Whitmore
Ron Holland didn’t win over NBA teams with his jumper during his pro day. He’s 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.
Ahead of the draft, Holland remains No. 1 on Bleacher Report’s Big Board Top 75 Prospect Ranking.
June 19 Mock Draft Spot: No. 8
Team: Providence
Position: PG/SG
Size: 6’2″, 193 lbs
Age/Year: 22, Junior
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Derrick White
Sources tell Bleacher Report that Devin Carter is dealing with a shoulder injury, though it’s unclear how much it will affect his stock.
If it’s not red-flagged, he should be in play in the Nos. 8-13 range. The Utah Jazz finished with the league’s worst defense, and Carter has a case for the draft’s top perimeter defender.
However, Carter flew up draft boards due to his improvement as a shotmaker and pick-and-roll ball-handler.
June 19 Mock Draft Spot: No. 11
Team: Kentucky
Position: PG/SG
Size: 6’1″, 164 lbs
Age/Year: 19, Freshman
Nationality: American
Pro Comparison: Lou Williams
Rob Dillingham could fall out of the top 10.
The Detroit Pistons and Portland Trail Blazers seem unlikely to target him based on their current backcourts. The Charlotte Hornets could be an option, although they finished No. 29 in defense. League sources believe the San Antonio Spurs aren’t likely based on what they’re signaling to agents. We’re hearing teams prefer bigger positional prospects.
At No. 11, the Chicago Bulls may see too good of a buy-low opportunity on Dillingham, who could either provide instant offense off the bench or insurance/depth in case of any tempting Zach LaVine deals.
June 19 Draft Spot: No. 12
Team: Cholet
Position: PF
Size: 6’9″, 212 lbs
Age: 18
Nationality: French
Pro comparison: Obi Toppin
Tidjane Salaun has earned workouts with top-10 teams, including the San Antonio Spurs and Detroit Pistons. The late lottery is now seen as the floor for the 18-year-old forward who made 75 total threes in 54 total games with Cholet.
Though the Thunder are officially in win-now mode for a title run, Salaun started playoff games in LNB Pro A. He could be ready for a smaller role, but the same one he had with Cholet, playing to his strength as a rim-runner, finisher and spot-up shooter.
June 19 Mock Draft Spot: No. 17
School/Team: Purdue
Position: C
Size: 7’4″, 299 lbs
Age: 22, Senior
Nationality: Canadian
Pro comparison: Jonas Valančiūnas
Rival teams believe Zach Edey could go in the lottery. While there are still skeptics, it also sounds like some teams will be willing to take a chance that 7’4″ size, improved mobility and inside touch could translate to effective offensive rebounding, post scoring, rim protection and adequate enough defensive foot speed in space.
June 19 Mock Draft Spot: No. 14
School/team: Colorado
Position: SF/PF
Size: 6’8″, 217 lbs
Age/Year: 23, Senior
Nationality: German/Brazilian
Pro comparison: Kyle Kuzma
Tristan da Silva has visited mid-first-round teams on his workout tour. Teams all seem to like his positional size, shooting versatility and all-around polish, on and off the floor. The question is how much a team loves him.
His athletic limitations could restrict him at both ends of the floor, getting to and finishing at the rim or stopping quicker wings and stronger 4s.
Teams valuing safety and shooting over upside could be drawn to da Silva in the late lottery or teens.
June 19 Mock Draft Spot: No. 20
School/team: Pittsburgh
Position: PG/SG
Size: 6’4″, 195 lbs
Age: 18, Freshman
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Tyrese Maxey
Bub Carrington’s stock feels hot right now, with teams questioning if he has a promise, and others asking if he’ll be there for them in the 20s.
He’s one of the draft’s youngest prospects, and he has 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.
June 19 Mock Draft Spot: No. 18
Team: Duke
Position: PG/SG
Size: 6’2″, 203 lbs
Age/Year: 20, Freshman
Nationality: American
Pro Comparison: Immanuel Quickley
Shotmaking has and will always be what powers Jared McCain’s offense and value, but his 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.
The buzz on McCain has been quiet, but most expect he’ll go somewhere in the late lottery or teens.
June 19 Mock Draft Spot: No. 16
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 will 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 make it tougher for teams to picture upside worth a top-10 pick.
June 19 Mock Draft Spot: No. 15
Team: KK Crvena Zvezda
Position: PG
Size: 6’6″, 198 lbs
Age: 18
Nationality: Serbian
Pro Comparison: Goran Dragić
Nikola Topić is still drawing first-round consideration, but a torn ACL could break ties in other prospects’ favor. It’s difficult to imagine him falling further than No. 18, where the Orlando Magic await without a lead ball-handler.
June 19 Mock Draft Spot: No. 13
Team: Indiana
Position: C
Size: 7’0″, 230 lbs
Age/Year: 20, Sophomore
Nationality: American
Pro Comparison: Brook Lopez
An impressive pro day of shooting has had teams buzzing about Kel’el Ware. Sources say he’s generating consideration in the late lottery.
His draft range seems wide, with teams seeing underrated upside and others worried about his toughness. The late teens to early 20s feels like a realistic landing spot for a team that could use more frontcourt depth.
June 19 Mock Draft Spot: No. 19
Team: Miami
Position: SG/SF
Size: 6’7″, 209 lbs
Age/Year: 20, Freshman
Nationality: American
Pro Comparison: Dalano Banton
Kyshawn George received a green-room invite, an indication that the late-season and predraft buzz is valid.
Scouts have been drawn to his size for a guard, shooting and ball-handling, a combination that creates an enticing archetype. His lack of strength and explosion inside the arc does hint at risk, but he’ll receive interest in the teens as a 6’7″ live-dribble passer who shot 40.8 percent from three.
June 19 Mock Draft Spot: No. 21
School: Baylor
Position: C
Size: 6’11”, 229 lbs
Age/Year: 20, Freshman
Nationality: Cameroonian
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.
June 19 Mock Draft Spot: No. 24
School/team: Virginia
Position: PF
Size: 6’6″, 214 lbs
Age/Year: 21, Sophomore
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Matisse Thybulle
Teams have been asking about Ryan Dunn and whether he’d be there for them in the second round. Interest has built over the last several weeks, as the the draft’s most dynamic defensive playmaker has shown more offensive skill than he did at Virginia.
June 19 Mock Draft Spot: No. 23
Team: California
Position: SF/PF
Size: 6’6″, 218 lbs
Age/Year: 21, Junior
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Caleb Martin
Jaylon Tyson is top 20 on some team boards. He 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.
June 19 Mock Draft Spot: No. 32
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.
June 19 Mock Draft Spot: No. 30
Team: Marquette
Position: PG
Size: 6’1″, 197 lbs
Age/Year: 23, Senior
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Jason Preston
Underwhelming measurements (6’1″, 6’3″ wingspan) and athletic testing will make teams view Tyler 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.
June 19 Mock Draft Spot: No. 22
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 with those concerns may be interested in Collier’s ability to break down defenses, make plays off the bounce and put pressure on the rim.
June 19 Mock Draft Spot: No. 27
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.
June 19 Mock Draft Spot: No. 25
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 II, who seemingly has a wide draft range and teams mystified about his stock.
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.
June 19 Mock Draft Spot: No. 29
Team: Ratiopharm Ulm
Position: SF/PF
Size: 6’8″, 210 lbs
Age/Year: 18
Nationality: French
Pro comparison: Wilson Chandler
Scouts think Pacome Dadiet will go earlier than expected, with a lot of interest around an 18-year-old with his body, shotmaking and mature game.
Between his age, efficient production in the German League and EuroCup and an adaptable style, he seems to have a high floor with a path to upside if his creation evolves.
June 19 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 could target at the end of the first round.
June 19 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.
June 19 Mock Draft Spot: No. 28
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 teams should covet.
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.
June 19 Mock Draft Spot: No. 33
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. He was also left off the green-room list, which means he’s likely closer to falling to the second round than climbing toward the lottery.
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.
June 19 Mock Draft Spot: No. 26
Team: Illinois
Position: SG/SF
Size: 6’6″, 219 lbs
Age/Year: 23, Senior
Nationality: American
Pro Comparison: Kelly Oubre Jr.
Terrence Shannon Jr. was found not guilty of rape and aggravated sexual battery on June 13.
Teams can now focus their evaluation strictly on basketball, a big deal for Shannon given the strides he made this year. Despite already being 23, his 2023-24 breakout season showed the speed, athleticism, shotmaking improvement and defensive tools that generate first-round interest.
June 19 Draft Spot: No. 51
School/team: Ratiopharm Ulm
Position: PG
Size: 6’3″, 180 lbs
Age: 20
Nationality: Spain
Pro comparison: Facundo Campazzo
Juan Nunez kept his name in the draft at the deadline, a potential sign he may have some assurance about getting picked. NBA teams will have him 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.
June 19 Mock Draft Spot: No. 35
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 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.
June 19 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 left 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.
June 19 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.
June 19 Mock Draft Spot: No. 34
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.
June 19 Mock Draft Spot: No. 36
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.
June 19 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.
June 19 Mock Draft Spot: No. 39
School/Team: Arizona
Position: SF/PF
Age/Year: 23, 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.
June 19 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.
June 19 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.
June 19 Mock Draft Spot: No. 37
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 sway a team to look past the underwhelming measurements.
June 19 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.
June 19 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.
June 19 Mock Draft Spot: No. 49
School/team: UC Santa Barbara
Position: PG
Size: 6’3″, 187 lbs
Age: 22, 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.
June 19 Mock Draft Spot: No. 52
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.
June 19 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 in the second scrimmage.
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.
June 19 Mock Draft Spot: No. 44
Team/nationality: Saint-Quentin
Position: SG/SF
Size: 6’7″
Age: 20
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.
June 19 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.
June 19 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.
His positional size, shotmaking and passing should result in plenty of second-round interest.
June 19 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.
June 19 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.
June 19 Mock Draft Spot: No. 54
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.
June 19 Mock Draft Spot: No. 57
School/team: Washington State
Position: PF
Size: 6’8″, 235 lbs
Age: 23, Senior
Nationality: American
Pro comparison: Precious Achiuwa
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.
June 19 Mock Draft Spot: No. 58
School/team: USC
Position: SG
Size: 6’1″, 185 lbs
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.