FanSided Editors NBA Mock Draft 2014

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Feb 1, 2014; Wichita, KS, USA; Wichita State Shockers forward Cleanthony Early (11) shoots against the Evansville Aces during the first half at Charles Koch Arena. Mandatory Credit: Peter G. Aiken-USA TODAY Sports

21. Oklahoma City Thunder – Clint Capela, Switzerland Picked by Mark Bruty at Thunderous Intentions

Big athletic front court guy who can play a valuable role. Will likely be a draft and stash at least for a year while he develops. Is very raw but will give the Thunder some much needed depth (we all saw what happened when Serge went down) and plays both sides of the ball. Still quite raw, but all the tools to be a great NBA player. With the uncertain futures surrounding Perk and Collison moving forward – it’s a smart move.

22. Memphis Grizzlies – Cleanthony Early, Wichita State Picked by Xan Nikchevich at Beale Street Bears

Some might consider it a reach, but he could be a great fit in Memphis. His athleticism and ability to shoot the three while playing both small and power forward are things the Grizzlies would love to have. He will have to improve defensively a bit to defend star players at the NBA level, but all things considered Early is a really solid pickup.

23. Utah Jazz – Glenn Robinson III, Michigan Picked by Cody Powers, Purple and Blues

The Jazz have a bit of a dilemma on their hands with the unknown status of restricted free agent, Gordon Hayward. From all the Jazz rumors thus far, it seems like the Jazz will do all they can to bring Hayward back. However, they need to be looking at a wing player here or in free agency. Robinson is a very athletic and explosive wing player who runs the court really well. He needs to improve his shot a little bit, but his chemistry with current Jazz point guard, and former Michigan standout, Trey Burke, could help elevate his game. Robinson could be a great role player off the bench for this young Jazz team.

24. Charlotte Hornets – P.J. Hairston, UNC/Texas Legends Picked by Reece Helms, Swarm and Sting

I didn’t think PJ would fall to 24th overall, but he did. Despite picking another guard with the 9th overall pick (Nik Stauskas) the Hornets are in need of some wing players who can shoot, and PJ fits the bill. Shabazz Napier would be another option for Charlotte if PJ is unavailable at 24.

25. Houston Rockets – Shabazz Napier, UConn Picked by Brett Roberts at Space City Scoop

While Patrick Beverley has been impressive defensively, the Rockets still have Jeremy Lin under contract for one more season. Acquiring a third-string point like Shabazz Napier makes a lot of sense moving forward, especially since neither Beverley nor Lin have been overwhelmingly good. Both are serviceable as starters, but neither offer the hope of becoming All-Star caliber.

Napier may be lacking defensively, but that only makes him a better fit in Houston, where he will be able to flourish in the high octane offense. Adding a power forward makes a lot of sense, but there is a dearth of 4-men in this draft class, and none of the options available this late in the draft offer the hope of an immediate starter. Napier, meanwhile, could eventually evolve into a starting NBA point guard.