NBA Mock Draft 2016: Pro Comparisons for Top 30 Prospects

First Five Out

31. Paul Zipser, Bayern Munich

• A number of international prospects are working their way up draft boards. Few have experienced as meteoric a rise as Bayern Munich small forward Paul Zipser. The German wing stands at 6’8″ with an NBA frame and the explosiveness to be a force in both the half court and transition. He looks like more of a role player than a future star, but the upside is very clearly attainable. In a perfect world, Zipser can live up to the standard of a Danilo Gallinari type.

32. Juan Hernangomez, Estudiantes

• Much like Paul Zipser, Juan Hernangomez is an international prospect who’s skyrocketing up draft boards. He’s having a prolific season in Liga ACB, achieving more at 20 years of age than is expected under the Spanish standards. While most 20-year-old players struggle to find playing time behind the veterans, Hernangomez has carved out a big role for Estudiantes. The results have been intriguing, as he shows the potential to be a genuine force as a face-up power forward. Overall, Hernangomez has a game comparable to a young Donyell Marshall.

33. Monte Morris, Iowa State Cyclones

• One year after sending Cameron Payne to the NBA, Iowa State Cyclones head coach Steve Prohm is attempting to do the same with Monte Morris. Morris and Payne aren’t exactly identical prospects, but both have the ability to make it at the next level. Morris’ appeal comes in his possession of the traditional point guard skills. He has good size at 6’3″ with a 6’5″ wingspan, displays brilliant court vision, and is a terror in the passing lanes. Coupled with a solid jump shot, Morris’ best upside comparison is Memphis Grizzlies floor general Mike Conley.

34.  Chinanu Onuaku, Louisville Cardinals

• If there’s one thing that Rick Pitino and the Louisville Cardinals do well, it’s develop defensive-minded players. Louisville isn’t exactly a haven for NBA prospects, but when Pitino hits, he produces quality players. In the mod of Gorgui Dieng, another rim protecting big man could soon emerge: Chinanu Onuaku. Onuaku—6’10” and a muscular 246 pounds with a near 7’3″ wingspan—is impressive enough from a physical perspective. The fact that his offensive fundamentals are progressing as rapidly as they are makes his upside all the more intriguing. With an uptick in shot-blocking, the best comparison for Onuaku may be Amir Johnson.

35. Wayne Selden, Kansas Jayhawks

• As far as upside comparisons go, the best answer for Wayne Selden is J.R. Smith. When he gets hot, there’s absolutely nothing that you can do to stop him; a barrage of 3-point field goals and a high point total is on the horizon. When he goes cold, he’ll do everything he can to shoot his way out of it. That makes him a polarizing player, but when that upside is channeled, Selden can be of sensational value.