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Mock Draft 4.0: Is LaMelo Ball sliding down the rankings?

By Corey Rausch

AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND - NOVEMBER 30: LaMelo Ball of the Hawks looks on during the round 9 NBL match between the New Zealand Breakers and the Illawarra Hawks at Spark Arena on November 30, 2019 in Auckland, New Zealand. (Photo by Anthony Au-Yeung/Getty Images)
AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND - NOVEMBER 30: LaMelo Ball of the Hawks looks on during the round 9 NBL match between the New Zealand Breakers and the Illawarra Hawks at Spark Arena on November 30, 2019 in Auckland, New Zealand. (Photo by Anthony Au-Yeung/Getty Images) /
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NBA draft (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images)
NBA draft (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images) /

Center. Portland Trail Blazers. Jalen Smith. 16. player. 34.

Jalen Smith brings plenty to the table for the Portland Trailblazer and fits their offense perfectly. He was a lethal threat from outside for a center (36.8 percent) and is a fantastic shot blocker. He replaces Hassan Whiteside easily while actually playing within the offensive game plan. His presence would also make trading Zach Collins palatable should they choose to go down that path.

17. player. 86. . Forward. Minnesota Timberwolves. Saddiq Bey

Given the current legal troubles of Malik Beasley and the ever present need to have a collection of wings on the roster, Saddiq Bey makes total sense for the Timberwolves. He is a smart defender (Minnesota needs more of those) and would provide even more floor spacing (something Anthony Edwards lacks).

player. 79. . Guard. Dallas Mavericks. Kira Lewis, Jr.. 18

Giving the Dallas Mavericks the opportunity to play more dual ball-handler offense would add another dimension to an already historic unit. He is a solid defender despite his size and would be lightning quick in transition, playing well alongside Luka Doncic. Just for the sake of fun basketball this should happen.

147. . Guard. Brooklyn Nets. Tyrese Maxey. 19. player

If the Brooklyn Nets move on from some of their guard depth in pursuit of a star to pair with Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving then Tyrese Maxey would slide into the lineup perfectly. He is a phenomenal defender and will only get better with experience. He is also a smart shot maker. If he can improve his decision making this is a steal.

Forward. Miami Heat. Desmond Bane. 20. player. 110.

Desmond Bane is a walking embodiment of Miami Heat culture. He will be ready to compete from day one, is a dogged defender and is a smart player. He is a lethal shooter from distance and would add another threat to an increasingly potent offense. This team is ready to compete and Bane will be capable immediately.