13th pick: Pelicans- Deni Avdija
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It’s surprising Avdija fell this far. He’s one of the best players in the draft and has incredible upside. Many have him projected as a top-5 pick so grabbing him at 13 is an absolute steal. He’s not the perfect fit for New Orleans but he’s simply too good to pass up.
He’s drawn comparisons to Luka Doncic which, personally, I don’t see. He’s a creative offensive player who thrives off the bounce. His 3-point shot is shaky, but if that becomes consistent Avdija will be a star in the league.
14th pick: Blazers- Patrick Williams
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I love this pick for the Portland Trail Blazers. This is a team with a dynamic backcourt and an array of individual talent at the center position in Jusuf Nurkic and Hassan Whiteside. They are a starting stretch four away from being a complete team. Carmelo Anthony was a great pick up this year, but he is only getting older and his role should therefore eventually be reduced to a scorer off the bench if he decides to re-sign. Insert Patrick Williams out of Florida State University.
Williams averaged 9.2 points and 4.0 rebounds while shooting 45.9 percent from the field in his freshman campaign. The numbers don’t jump off the page, but the skills are there. He is an athletic defender with the ability to guard in the post and out to the 3-point line.
Williams has a little bit of a handle, rebounds well, can finish around the rim, and has a jump shot. That last part is crucial. He can stretch out to the 3-point line and knock down an open look. That’s why you can’t pass on Patrick Williams as the Blazers. He can grow into the stretch four of the future.