21. Willie Cauley-Stein, Sacramento Kings
It’s do-or-die time for WCS, with Harry Giles looking pleasantly competent during the Kings’ Summer League run. With that said, the upside is still there. His defensive versatility at the five spot is unique, while his athleticism leaves some upside on offense.
20. Hassan Whiteside, Miami Heat
Whiteside’s future in Miami is uncertain. He laid an egg in the playoffs, virtually working his way out of the rotation with lazy defense and an overwhelming since of unreadiness. He just wasn’t ready to battle, and the Sixers torched him at every possible opportunity.
Nobody is denying Whiteisde’s talent. He’s an impact defender and capable low-post scorer when he wants to be. It’s just a matter of putting in the work and keeping his game relevant in a rapidly evolving NBA.
19. Brook Lopez, Milwaukee Bucks
Lopez will be a sizable upgrade over John Henson for the Bucks, largely due to his shooting touch. Milwaukee desperately needs spacing around Giannis Antetokounmpo and Lopez provides just that, hitting 34.5 percent of his 4.4 three-point attempts per game last season.
With a more consistent role than he had in L.A., it’s reasonable to expect some degree of improvement from Lopez. He looked like a fringe All-Star not too long ago in Brooklyn.