2016 NBA Mock Draft: What Happens After Simmons and Ingram?

Jun 25, 2015; Brooklyn, NY, USA; General view of the full first round draft board at the conclusion of the first round of the 2015 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 25, 2015; Brooklyn, NY, USA; General view of the full first round draft board at the conclusion of the first round of the 2015 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 18, 2016; St. Louis, MO, USA; Michigan State Spartans forward Deyonta Davis (23) shoots over Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders forward Karl Gamble (25) during the first half of the first round in the 2016 NCAA Tournament at Scottrade Center. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 18, 2016; St. Louis, MO, USA; Michigan State Spartans forward Deyonta Davis (23) shoots over Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders forward Karl Gamble (25) during the first half of the first round in the 2016 NCAA Tournament at Scottrade Center. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports /

15. player. 73. . Forward/Center. Michigan State. Deyonta Davis

The Nuggets posses three first-round picks, so they can afford a big swing here at Deyonta Davis. The 6-11 forward showed himself as a high-level rebounder during his one season at Michigan State, even though he played in limited minutes. Not to mention he was one of the nation’s best shot-blockers in college basketball during the 2015-16 season.

If the Nuggets ever elect to trade Darrell Arthur (if he re-signs in the summer), Davis could be a replacement with his ability to be a difference-maker on the defensive end at the NBA level. Davis is raw, but the combination size and athleticism together makes him worth a swing.

Davis’ stat line at Michigan State, 7.5 ppg, 5.5 rebounds, 1.8 blocks, 18 mpg, is similar to what Steven Adams did his freshman year at Pittsburgh: 7.2 ppg, 6 rebounds, and 2 blocks in 24 minutes per game. Davis has a ton of potential, but could be a few years away from being a consistent contributor. Davis can learn a lot sitting behind Kenneth Faried.

Davis could be another prospect that ends up being a steal of this draft down the road.

Next: No.16