NBA Draft 2019: Mock Draft 5.0

The Cavaliers, having already addressed frontcourt needs at No. 5, can take an upside swing on one of the draft’s most intriguing forwards. KZ Okpala, despite some deeply-rooted flaws, made significant progress as a sophomore. He struggled down the stretch of the season but still earned first-round looks.

Despite his shooting percentages tanking toward the end of the season, Okpala showed major growth overall as a three-point shooter this season. His volume and efficiency increased, all while showing potential off the dribble. He’s 6-foot-9, boasting a 7-foot-2 wingspan, and has legitimate creation skills. That’s something NBA teams will want to cultivate.

While not a great defender, Okpala has the tools to develop into a valuable multi-position defender at the next level. He needs to add strength and work on fundamentals, but the Cavs would make this pick with a long-term rebuild in mind. There’s time.