Potential options at No. 54
Jordan Bone, Tennessee
After an under-the-radar season at Tennessee, Bone performed historically well in the combine’s athletic testing. A dynamic lead guard who can weave through traffic and find his spots on offense, Bone has the tool kit to become a useful lead guard in the NBA. His athleticism is worth banking on.
Jalen Lecque, Brewster Academy
Perhaps the best athlete at the combine not named Zion Williamson. Lecque decided to forego college in favor of entering the NBA Draft, which appears to have rubbed some teams the wrong way. He’s still raw, but has first-rate explosiveness to lean — a valuable tool at the lead guard spot. He’s a worthy flyer in the 50s.
Ignas Brazdeikis, Michigan (DRAFT PROFILE)
A breakout freshman season landed Brazdeikis firmly on draft radars. He needs to improve his decision-making and defense in the NBA, but his shooting and hard-nosed approach should offer value at the next level.
Alen Smailagic, Santa Cruz Warriors
The youngest player in the G-League last season, Smailagic is an intriguing option at center — a position of need for Philadelphia. He can space the floor, facilitate in the post and score with touch inside. He played staunch professional competition at 18 years old and was productive when given playing time.
DaQuan Jeffries, Tulsa
Jeffries has considerable intrigue due to his physical tools. He’s 6-foot-5, but has a 6-foot-11 wingspan and ample bulk. He’s a potential three to four-position defender in the NBA, as well as a high-I.Q. role player on offense. He checks a lot of boxes in the late second round.
Tremont Waters, LSU
It’s difficult for 5-foot-11 guards to survive in the NBA. But Waters has the skill level to make it work, pairing a deadly pull-up game with excellent vision as a passer. He can manipulate defenses with his handle before whipping on-target passes or nailing step-back jumpers. Even with unavoidable defensive flaws, Waters is worth a look at 54.
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