NBA Draft 2019: Mock Draft 6.0
10. player. 125. . Big, Fr.. Texas. Jaxson Hayes
The Hawks have a solid young core in Trae Young, John Collins and Kevin Huerter. One central component that’s currently missing, however, is a low-post staple — someone who can protect the rim behind Collins in the starting five. Jaxson Hayes in the best option to fill that void.
An unheralded recruit coming into the season, Hayes was quick to cement himself in the first-round discussion. He’s far from perfect, but makes up for several flaws with his athleticism and physical tools. He’s a fluid, explosive 7-footer, boasting a wingspan in the 7-foot-4 range.
Hayes can offer Atlanta another prime lob threat who runs the court and thrives in the pick-and-roll. The spacing next to Collins isn’t ideal, but the latter seems to be improving his three-point stroke. Hayes also has mobility to defend switches on the perimeter, as well as some long, long-term shooting upside.