2023 NBA Draft: Complete draft grades for all 58 picks
NBA Draft Picks 21-25
21. Brooklyn Nets (via Suns): Noah Clowney (PF/C, Alabama)
Another long, switchable defender who can stretch the floor, Noah Clowney is a bit more raw as a prospect than Jarace Walker or Taylor Hendricks. In time, he can grow into a more than capable starter who would fit like a glove alongside Nets’ center Nic Claxton. There’s a bit of a two-way Christian Wood to his game; however, he needs to find consistency on both ends if he’s to carve out a true role for himself.
Grade B-
22. Brooklyn Nets: Dariq Whitehead (SG/SF, Duke)
Like Noah Clowney, Dariq Whitehead is a pick based on potential. Before a foot fracture last summer derailed the start of his season at Duke, Whitehead looked the part of a lottery pick, if not better. A strong and highly-competitive athlete, Dariq Whitehead will have a place in the league for years to come. What his role will be is yet to be decided, but with a full offseason to continue recovering from his injury, Dariq Whitehead could surprise some people next season.
Grade: A-
23. Portland Trail Blazers (via Knicks): Kris Murray (PF, Iowa)
Like his twin brother Keegan, Kris Murray is a more than competent two-way forward who can provide some legitimate minutes for a team looking to contend. A long defender who can thrive spotting up in the corner, the selection of Kris Murray will be a success for Portland regardless of what happens with Damian Lillard.
Grade: A
24. Dallas Mavericks (via Kings): Olivier-Maxence Prosper (SF, Marquette)
The Sacramento Kings regrettably were unable to reunite the Murray twins, but they were able to dump Richaun Holmes’ salary on the Dallas Mavericks, who could potentially even use a player like Holmes. In addition, the Mavericks received the 24th pick in the draft selecting forward Olivier-Maxenece Prosper.
A versatile defender, OMax has the potential to grow into a 3&D role for the Mavericks and could have a role for years to come in Dallas.
Grade: B-
25. Detroit Pistons (via Grizzlies): Marcus Sasser (PG, Houston)
Marcus Sasser is a quality NBA prospect. He has the potential to grow into a serviceable two-way combo guard. With that being said, 25 is a bit higher than most had projected him. While the Pistons held the 31st pick, a strong argument could have been made that Sasser would not have made it past the Denver Nuggets or the Los Angeles Clippers.
A talented catch-and-shoot specialist, Sasser will look to impact the game on both ends. Despite his 6’2″ frame, he boasts a 6’7″ wingspan which allows him to disrupt opponents. Sasser could grow into a De’Anthony Melton-type role in Detroit.
Grade: C