Mock NBA Draft 3.0: Where does Cade Cunningham end up in final standings?
By Corey Rausch
11. Charlotte Hornets – Alperen Sengun, Besiktas
With the Charlotte Hornets summarily dismissed from the postseason, the best may be yet to come with them able to pick up Alperen Sengun. The young big man has been one of the most dominant overseas prospects this season and fits the Hornet’s desperate need for a traditional big man on the same timeline as likely rookie of the year LaMelo Ball. He has the instinct to be an exceptional defender, albeit slightly undersized.
12. San Antonio Spurs – Usman Garuba, Real Madrid
The San Antonio Spurs have a young prospect at every position but center. Usman Garuba would be a perfect fit. His offensive game has a lot of room for improvement, but he is an exceptional defensive talent and passes the ball perfectly for the free-flowing offense the Spurs are known for. He could be brought along being Jakob Poeltl and demolish bench units for the time being.
13. Indiana Pacers – Davion Mitchell, Baylor
The Indiana Pacers could use a culture changer after the mismatched season they had. Davion Mitchell developed his offensive game this year impeccably while being named the Defensive Player of the Year for the eventual national champions. He is ready to step in right away and make an impact.
14. Golden State Warriors – Franz Wagner, University of Michigan
With their second pick in the first round, the Warriors can play things a little safer and pick up Franz Wagner. He is an elite shooter and plays lock-down defense, He will not be yelled out by Draymond Green. The pairing of Wagner and Bouknight would make the Warriors immediately deep again.
15. Washington Wizards – Josh Giddey, Adelaide
Josh Giddey is one of those players skyrocketing up draft boards after the conclusion of the NCAA season as he has continued to dominate professional play in Australia. He has already shown the ability as a bigger guard to rack up triple-doubles, something the Washington Wizard’s faithful are getting used to.