NBA Mock Draft 2.0: Post March Madness overreactions
By Corey Rausch
18. . Forward. Boston Celtics. Jalen Johnson. 16. player
There are plenty of personality concerns for Jalen Johnson but betting on one of the best high school prospects to figure things out in a situation where there is already a system in place. He is an elite perimeter defender, at least in theory, which is exactly what the Boston Celtics have been looking for all season.
Isaiah Jackson. 17. player. 170. . Center. Charlotte Hornets
Isaiah Jackson could be the perfect big man prospect to pair with LaMelo Ball. He blocked 2.6 shots per game in just 20.7 minutes. There is already plenty of scoring with the Charlotte Hornets. Adding a defensive anchor down low to a team relying far too much on Bismack Biyombo could be huge.
Memphis Grizzlies. Chris Duarte. 18. player. 211. . Guard
Another late riser, Chris Duarte is the exact type of player that the Memphis Grizzlies have prioritized. He is a little older than the lottery consensus (finishing his senior season) and does so many winning things. He would step into the team as the best shooter on the team and would fit the hardworking mentality to a tee.
19. player. 125. . Guard. Atlanta Hawks. Jaden Springer
Slowly but surely the Atlanta Hawks are committing to both sides of the basketball and Jaden Springer is further doing so. He is an energetic defender and driver who could learn from the collection of shooters on the roster how to make sure his shot translates.
20. player. 149. . Center. Oklahoma City Thunder. Alperen Sengun
Alperen Sengun has the talent of a lottery pick but plays the position of a mid-first-round selection in a draft littered with strong wing prospects. His potential is clear and, with work, could make teams regret passing on him. Given that this is the Thunder’s second selection in the draft it is worth taking the chance.