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2019 NBA Draft: R.J. Barrett headlines first top 30 big board

By Connor Harr

PORTLAND, OR - APRIL 13: R.J. Barrett #5 of Team World claps from the bench during the game against Team USA during the Nike Hoop Summit on April 13, 2018 at the MODA Center Arena in Portland, Oregon. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Sam Forencich/NBAE via Getty Images)
PORTLAND, OR - APRIL 13: R.J. Barrett #5 of Team World claps from the bench during the game against Team USA during the Nike Hoop Summit on April 13, 2018 at the MODA Center Arena in Portland, Oregon. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Sam Forencich/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images
Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images /

30. Nickeil Alexander-Walker, SG/PG — Virginia Tech

Nickeil Alexander-Walker had an extremely underwhelming year after being considered a one-and-done candidate in preseason. Walker was billed as an NBA combo guard with secondary handling ability. Early on in the season, it became very clear that this perception was too much to expect. Alexander-Walker still is very much an NBA prospect and will likely be relied upon to handle major scoring duties with Ahmed Hill and Justin Bibbs graduating.

29. Lamar Peters, PG — Mississippi State 

After going to the Hornets in the late second round in my last mock, Lamar Peters has elected to return to school. The 6’0″ point guard made tremendous strides as a playmaker late in the season. He has lightning speed and is the most creative ball-handler on this board. If Peters shoots even slightly more consistent this season, he should draw first round interest.

28. Lindell Wigginton, PG/SG — Iowa State 

Lindell Wigginton quietly put together a very impressive freshman season. Unfortunately, he was overshadowed by Iowa State’s abysmal record and Trae Young mania across the Big 12. Wigginton is an extremely fit-dependent prospect. His best projected fit is being paired up as a secondary ball-handler with a wing or forward to take on primary handling duties. He is a quality shooter and an underrated leaper who can explode and finish at the rim when given the opportunity.

27. Kenny Wooten, PF/C — Oregon 

I am extremely excited to see how Kenny Wooten will improve in the offseason. Wooten is only 6’8″ but has a 7’2″ wingspan to combine with explosive leaping ability. Even though Wooten was extremely raw last season, he still averaged 2.6 blocks in only 20 minutes per game. If Wooten adds an offensive game, strength or both he will be an exciting prospect.

26.  Kris Wilkes, SG/SF — UCLA 

Kris Wilkes was another freshman the NBA scouts had high hopes for this season. Unfortunately, Wilkes proved to be a little more raw than most teams would like. With a lighting quick shot release and quality leaping ability, I want to see Wilkes add some speed, strength and work on his handle in the offseason. The most important facet is his speed though. If Wilkes can get faster laterally, he’s a viable 3-and-D option.