NBA Draft 2018: Mock Draft 8.0

2018 NBA Mock Draft 8.0

CHICAGO, IL - MAY 15: NBA Draft Prospect, Marvin Bagley poses for a portrait before the NBA Draft Lottery on May 15, 2018 at The Palmer House Hilton in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by David Sherman/NBAE via Getty Images) /

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16. player. 66. . SG. Texas Tech. Zhaire Smith

Smith rivals Miles Bridges for the title of best pure athlete in the draft. That helps on both ends, whether it be defensive versatility or offensive upside. The Suns could be getting a long-term steal outside the lottery.

It will take a few years for Smith to peak in the NBA. Still, his length should allow him to defend multiple positions at a high level. He’ll chase down several steals and the occasional weak-side block as well.

Offensively, Smith projects as a capable spot-up shooter. His rocky handles and slow release limit his ability to create against high-pressure defenses, though, which could in turn limit his production. His high-I.Q. approach and athleticism hints at some upside worth rolling the dice on, though.