Philadelphia 76ers roundtable: Pre-lottery 2020 NBA mock draft
1st pick: Warriors- James Wiseman
Gilbert-
Most mock drafts have Anthony Edwards going first overall, so this is a bit of an untraditional pick. I like what Edwards brings to the table as the best scorer in college basketball at such a young age, but I’m in love with the mystery and physical gifts of James Wiseman. I selected him first overall not because of what he is, but of what I believe he can become.
Wiseman has size and basketball ability that reminds me of Joel Embiid at Kansas. He is bigger than everyone on the court, demonstrates advanced footwork from the post, has shown touch from the outside, and is a gifted rebounder. With the addition of some muscle and years developing his game at the next level, there is no reason to believe Wiseman can’t become as dominant as Embiid.
It is important to take the Warriors position in the league into consideration as well. They will likely strongly consider trading the first overall pick to reload with proven talent. Tack another borderline star onto a team with the greatest shooting backcourt in NBA history, and Golden State will once again be a frontrunner to win the NBA title.
However, if they choose to keep the pick the same logic makes Wiseman the logical selection. Curry and Thompson have the backcourt locked down. The Warriors need young talent in their frontcourt, and that’s exactly what Wiseman would provide.
2nd pick: Calavliers- Anthony Edwards
Plesco-
The decision for the second pick was an easy one. If the Warriors take James Wiseman, the Cleveland Cavaliers take Anthony Edwards and vice versa. Despite having Colin Sexton and Darius Garland, the Edwards decision is a no brainer. The Cavs are in desperate need of talent and that’s what Edwards provides.
The “Ant-Man” is a 6-foot-5 bruiser who is able to create his own shot whenever he wants. Edwards is young and raw and has the potential to be a star player in the league for years to come. Think Dwyane Wade, Victor Oladipo, and Donavon Mitchell. Edwards will be an impact player for years to come.