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