2018 NBA Mock Draft: A way-too-early look ahead

Mar 29, 2017; Chicago, IL, USA; McDonalds All-American West forward Michael Porter Jr. (1) poses with the trophy after winning the John Wooden Award as the most valuable player for the 40th Annual McDonald's High School All-American Game at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /

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Mar 29, 2017; Chicago, IL, USA; McDonalds All-American East center Mitchell Robinson (22) dunks during the 40th Annual McDonald’s High School All-American Game at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /

Mitchell Robinson has the tools and high school track record to become the most dominant rebounder in this draft class. He’s in need of fundamental polish in multiple phases of the game, but he can be a dominant force on the boards.

Robinson spurned major programs in favor of a chance to elevate the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers, and succeeding in doing so would make him a lottery pick.

Standing at a height between 6’11” and 7’0″ with a 7’3″ wingspan and high-level athleticism, Robinson has the size, length, and mobility to play center at the next level. He puts those skills to use by attacking the glass with a ferocity that’s rarely seen.

Robinson still has work to do on the offensive end of the court, but he moves well and should find early success as a rim runner, and pick and roll big.

For perspective, at the vaunted Nike Elite Youth Basketball League, Robinson averaged a record-setting 8.0 offensive rebounds per 40 minutes. He also posted the second-best blocks per-40 average—ever—after current NBA big man and former Top 10 pick Nerlens Noel.

With the ability to run the floor, dominate the boards, and block shots at a high level, Robinson will be a coveted prospect off of upside and defensive value alone.