The Sixer Sense
Fansided

2018 NBA Mock Draft 4.0

By Christopher Kline

TUCSON, AZ - MARCH 01: Deandre Ayton #13 of the Arizona Wildcats reacts to a foul call during the second half of the college basketball game against the Stanford Cardinal at McKale Center on March 1, 2018 in Tucson, Arizona. The Wildcats beat the Cardinal 75-67. (Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images)
TUCSON, AZ - MARCH 01: Deandre Ayton #13 of the Arizona Wildcats reacts to a foul call during the second half of the college basketball game against the Stanford Cardinal at McKale Center on March 1, 2018 in Tucson, Arizona. The Wildcats beat the Cardinal 75-67. (Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images) /
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2018 NBA Draft
TUCSON, AZ – MARCH 01: Deandre Ayton #13 of the Arizona Wildcats reacts to a foul call during the second half of the college basketball game against the Stanford Cardinal at McKale Center on March 1, 2018 in Tucson, Arizona. The Wildcats beat the Cardinal 75-67. (Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images) /

Arizona. DeAndre Ayton. 1. player. 211. . C

Doncic held onto the No. 1 spot for most the season, but Ayton has become too good to refute at this point. Not only is he a physical freak, but he’s one of the most polished, well-rounded offensive centers since Karl-Anthony Towns entered the league.

At 7-1 with a 7-5 wingspan, his combination of length and strength is unparalleled. He has drawn comparisons to Joel Embiid physically, and he moves better than the Sixers’ big man. His defensive instincts need to improve, but NBA coaching should get him there. He’s already a much-improved rebounder, skilled passer, capable shooter, and well-versed post scorer.

The Grizzlies need to start their rebuild, and center seems like a good place to start. Marc Gasol is falling off, and Ayton has the upside of somebody who can carry a team on both sides of the ball. Memphis has been lacking young talent in recent years, so this is a rare opportunity to add an elite, potentially transcendent 19-year-old.