The Sixer Sense
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2018 NBA Mock Draft 9.0

By Christopher Kline

TUCSON, AZ - DECEMBER 21: Arizona Wildcats forward Deandre Ayton (13) during the a college basketball game between Connecticut Huskies and Arizona Wildcats on December 21, 2017, at McKale Center in Tucson, AZ. Arizona leads at half over Connecticut 30-24. (Photo by Jacob Snow/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
TUCSON, AZ - DECEMBER 21: Arizona Wildcats forward Deandre Ayton (13) during the a college basketball game between Connecticut Huskies and Arizona Wildcats on December 21, 2017, at McKale Center in Tucson, AZ. Arizona leads at half over Connecticut 30-24. (Photo by Jacob Snow/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /
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156. . PG. Oklahoma. Trae Young. 8. player

Young seems to be slipping down draft boards, with ESPN’s recent projections slotting him 12th. He reportedly had a secret workout with the Cavs on Saturday, though, with Cleveland deciding between Young and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander if Michael Porter Jr. is no longer available.

Defense is a major concern with Young, but his offensive upside should persuade the Cavs. His game-breaking range would work wonders with or without LeBron James, while his impressive playmaking chops would give the Cavs somebody to build around if the King inevitably leaves.

The reason for the decline in Young’s stock is understandable, but it’s difficult to imagine 11 teams passing on a generational shooter and passer who put up historic numbers all season long. There were rough patches, sure, but Young is arguably the best offensive prospect in the draft outside of Doncic.