A fresh look at the 2020 NBA Draft class.
The 2020 NBA Draft is officially scheduled for October 16, which accounts for the protracted NBA season in Orlando. It does help to have a date marked on the calendar, but the murkiness around the pre-draft process still exists. Teams are largely in the dark due to coronavirus.
An obvious side effect of this pandemic will be a greater reliance on game tape, as opposed to individual workouts and interviews. That could lead NBA scouts to align more with draftniks from the media, who draw opinions from the same games on TV (and, in some cases, the same NBA intel). The ratio of hits to misses in this year’s draft is worth monitoring.
For this big board, I have expanded my analysis to include the top 50 prospects. This is, of course, not a mock draft. This board takes into account the landscape of NBA basketball as a whole and the context that provides. It does not take into account team-specific needs. If you want to check out my latest mock draft, you can click here.
Here are the top 50 prospects in the 2020 NBA Draft.
50. MALACHI FLYNN / GUARD / SAN DIEGO STATE
A smaller lead guard at 6-foot-1, Malachi Flynn has the basic toolkit of a successful backup point guard. He’s a heady passer, a three-level scorer, and a solid on-ball defender, even if his size presents unavoidable limitations. He tries hard on every possession, and he’s smart enough to lead a professional offense.
49. VERNON CAREY JR. / BIG / DUKE
One of college basketball’s most productive centers, Vernon Carey Jr. dominated in his freshman season at Duke. He’s a brawny scorer in the post and has even shown flashes of a workable three-point stroke, but his defense is a major drawback.
48. UDOKA AZUBUIKE / BIG / KANSAS
A powerful athlete, Udoka Azubuike is a 7-footer with the wingspan for a pterodactyl. He can bully his way to points at the rim, and he’ll prove formidable as a post defender. He will need to prove he can survive in a modern NBA landscape that is unfriendly to centers of his ilk.
47. ISAIAH JOE / WING / ARKANSAS
Injuries are a major concern for Isaiah Joe, who missed a large chunk of this season. When healthy, however, he’s one of the best shooters on the board. In a league driven by perimeter scorers, there is inherent value in a rangy wing who can scorch nylon.
46. DANIEL OTURU / BIG / MINNESOTA
A nimble scorer who can effectively space the floor, there is a lot to like about Daniel Oturu. He will need to improve his awareness to thrive at the next level — he has serious black-hole tendencies when he receives the ball inside — but the path to success is visible.
45. ZEKE NNAJI / BIG / ARIZONA
A skilled athlete and efficient scorer who runs the floor hard, Zeke Nnaji brings a lot to the table. He’s wildly inconsistent as a defender, but his work ethic and energy level are infectious, and should breed confidence about his ability to improve down the road.
44. JORDAN NWORA / WING / ARIZONA
At 6-foot-7, Jordan Nwora is a productive shooter with soft touch and some intriguing bursts of athleticism. He’s not much of a defender, which hurts his stock, but Nwora has the offensive firepower to carve out a niche in the NBA.
43. PAYTON PRITCHARD / GUARD / OREGON
Payton Pritchard was one of college basketball’s most pleasurable watches. He plays hard from the tip to the final buzzer, whether it’s diving for loose balls, embracing contact at the rim, or rabidly containing the point of attack. He’s small and he’s not a great athlete, but Pritchard is too dynamic a shooter, too strong a leader, and too smart a player to fall any further than this.
42. GRANT RILLER / GUARD / CHARLESTON
A diminutive 6-foot-3 scorer, Grant Riller had little trouble pouring in points against mid-major competition. And while his lack of exposure to collegiate powerhouses is a concern, Riller’s quick-twitch athleticism and silky three-point stroke — combined with a mean competitive streak — should generate enough confidence for NBA talent evaluators.
41. COREY KISPERT / WING / GONZAGA
Few individual skills carry more weight than shooting, a skill Corey Kispert happens to have a very strong grasp on. Whether on the move or standing still, Kispert has compact mechanics and a clean stroke. He brings good size to the wing at 6-foot-7, and it’s always beneficial to have an immediately useful NBA skill.
40. JARED BUTLER / GUARD / BAYLOR
Though far from an elite athlete at 6-foot-3, Jared Butler is the type of smart and measured playmaker who should have no trouble adjusting to the pace of NBA basketball. He defends hard on the perimeter, is crafty in the pick-and-roll, and has all the hallmarks of an effective backup guard.
39. TYLER BEY / FORWARD / COLORADO
Tyler Bey played the part of undersized power forward in college. At 6-foot-7, he will need to adjust to a role on the perimeter in the NBA — always a significant change. Even so, his versatile defense and core skill set on offense should prove productive, even if he’s positionally an awkward fit.
38. DESMOND BANE / WING / TCU
At 6-foot-5, Desmond Bane is one of the best shooters on the board. Despite unconventional mechanics, he’s a flamethrower both on the move and standing still. He can aptly create off the dribble, he’s intuitive as a passer, and he plays hard on defense. His tools are limited — he’s 6-foot-5 with a 6-foot-6 wingspan — but Bane should produce on offense.
37. PAUL REED / FORWARD / DEPAUL
He still has a lot of room left to grow on offense, but Paul Reed is a springy athlete and versatile defender who could sneak into the first-round discussion. At 6-foot-9, he’s quick enough to guard the perimeter and strong enough to battle inside. He’s active all over the court, will create his fair share of turnovers, and should contribute enough on offense due to his athleticism.
36. DEVON DOTSON / GUARD / KANSAS
A certified bucket, Devon Dotson is a lightning-quick 6-foot-2 guard who makes up for his small stature with supreme confidence and skill. He’s still somewhat erratic as a three-point shooter, but the natural touch is there. His craft as a finisher at the rim, not to mention his upside as a playmaker, project well at the next level.
35. ISAIAH STEWART / BIG / WASHINGTON
Isaiah Stewart has a hulking 6-foot-10 frame, he plays hard every night, and his offensive repertoire is as polished as any big in this class. He can score efficiently at the rim, keep pace with an up-tempo offense, and even hit the occasional three-pointer. He will need to prove his defense can translate to the NBA.
34. JALEN SMITH / BIG / MARYLAND
One of college basketball’s most impressive centers last season, Jalen Smith’s sophomore campaign was a breakout affair. He emerged as the kind of floor-spacing and shot-blocking big who’s bound to command attention from NBA scouts. He’s a rigid athlete and still has development ahead of him, but it’s difficult to deny the production.
33. JADEN MCDANIELS / WING / WASHINGTON
Frankly, Jaden McDaniels’ freshman season was a bust. Once a top-10 recruit, McDaniels struggled to maintain any semblance of consistency at Washington. He has intriguing tools as a smooth 6-foot-10 scorer who can face-up and create his own shot. In the end, he’s simply too far away to crack the top-30.
32. XAVIER TILLMAN SR. / BIG / MICHIGAN STATE
An excellent complementary talent in the frontcourt, Xavier Tillman Sr. deserves more hype than he’s currently receiving. He’s not the most exciting talent, but Tillman anchored a sturdy Michigan State program for multiple seasons. A smooth pick-and-roll operator, not to mention a clever scorer in the post, Tillman should stick. Not to mention, he’s a hard-working and versatile defender at the five.
31. ROBERT WOODARD II / WING / MISSISSIPPI STATE
The appeal for Robert Woodard lies in his athleticism. At 6-foot-7, he’s one of the more explosive players on the board — not to mention his impressive 7-foot-1 wingspan. He covers a lot of ground defensively, he plays hard every possession, and he has shown immense growth on offense. While far from perfect, he’s the kind of two-way wing teams tend to bank on.
30. CASSIUS STANLEY / WING / DUKE
It’s not hard to picture Cassius Stanley grinding his way to a rotation spot in the NBA. He’s the consummate glue guy — a high-powered athlete who competes on defense and does the little things on offense. He’s not the most remarkably skilled wing, but he tends to put his imprint on a game.
Stanley is quietly one of the best athletes on the board. He hasn’t gotten the same air as Josh Green or even the aforementioned Woodard in draft circles, but Stanley is a regular highlight machine when afforded the opportunities. He can finish emphatically in traffic, and he’s a treat to watch in the open court.
Though his three-point shot needs work, Stanley managed to hit open jumpers at Duke. He’s unselfish as a passer and helps the offense run smoothly, playing mostly unselfish basketball. Stanley will need to prove he can space the floor, and he’s not one to create his own shots, but the athleticism and the base tool kit is enough to keep teams invested.
29. IMMANUEL QUICKLEY / GUARD / KENTUCKY
The rare blue-blood, high-level recruit who simply doesn’t get enough attention. Immanuel Quickley put together a strong sophomore campaign in Lexington and he figures to get some early second-round attention, even if he doesn’t quite reach this high on most big boards.
Prospects who have easily marketable and NBA-ready skills are often underrated. Quickley is a proven shooter who can fly around screens, function effectively off-ball, and hit large quantities of shots. The NBA values that. He’s also an atypically long guard — 6-foot-3, but with a 6-foot-10 wingspan — and he’s lightning quick on his feet. There’s a lot to like.
As a secondary creator and floor-spacer, Quickley should fit on just about any team at the next level. He catches flack for not being a “true point guard,” but given his length, it’s not difficult to pair Quickly with another ball-handler without sacrificing a ton on defense. He’s more than good enough as a two-guard.
28. CASSIUS WINSTON / GUARD / MICHIGAN STATE
A highly accomplished career at Michigan State should thoroughly establish Cassius Winston as a first-round prospect. He carried the Spartans’ offense on multiple occasions, both as a playmaker and a shot creator. No, he’s not much of an athlete, but skill and heart should leave Winston with a path to NBA success.
Winston is a lights-out three-point shooter and a wickedly smart passer in the pick-and-roll. He checks a thousand boxes in that space alone — NBA offenses need floor-spacing pick-and-roll guards now more than ever. Winston can work off-ball and do the dirty work next to more established stars, or he can provide relief as a go-to creator in the second unit.
He is limited due to his short stature, but Winston also competes on defense. He will defend his position well, even if he’s restrained to one position. If he gets suckered into a switch, you can at least count on a hard-fought loss. Winston is the kind of four-year college superstar who’s too good to overlook at the next level.
27. JAHMI’US RAMSEY / GUARD / TEXAS TECH
If nothing else, Jahmi’us Ramsey is a confident scorer on the perimeter. He hit a solid volume of spot-up jumpers in his lone season at Texas Tech, and he’s adept at attacking closeouts and using sly dribble moves to create space.
Streakiness is a concern for Ramsey. He only recently burst onto the scene, and his track record as a shooter isn’t a particularly long one. But his fearlessness is hard to deny. Ramsey is more than happy to take (and often make) difficult shots, even if it’s sometimes to his detriment.
As a shooter who can hit spot-up jumpers, beat closeouts, and provide a spark on the perimeter, it’s not difficult to envision a role for Ramsey at the next level. He’s also an intriguing athlete at 6-foot-4, and he could effectively defend a couple positions. There is still much to prove on defense, though.
26. TRE JONES / GUARD / DUKE
One of college basketball’s foremost point guards, Tre Jones was loosely in the discussion for Player of the Year this season. Both a formidable defender and a high-I.Q. playmaker, Jones limits mistakes, possesses all the intangibles, and has two strong seasons at Duke under his belt.
Expect Jones to carve out a role at the next level. He’s smart beyond his years, and his intensity as a defender should win over coaches. He’s not an especially grand athlete at 6-foot-3, but he has quick hands and even quicker instincts at the point of attack. He will defend his position well.
Jones still needs to prove himself as a shooter offensively, but his mechanics are smooth and show promise. He calmly probes the pick-and-roll and seldom presses. He’s not one to turn the ball over, and he’s more than capable of scoring his own points when the opportunities arise.
25. NICO MANNION / GUARD / ARIZONA
A rocky freshman season has bumped Nico Mannion out of the lottery discussion, but he’s still a prospect to watch. There are serious and valid concerns over his athleticism (or lack thereof), but Mannion’s skill level and intelligence is difficult to find at 19 years old.
Mannion is one of the best passers on the board. He can read just about every angle, and he’s comfortable manipulating defenses in the pick-and-roll. Crafty handles and great change-of-pace ability help offset Mannion’s lack of burst, even if he struggles to finish against length at the rim.
While his shooting mechanics aren’t perfect, Mannion is a proven threat from deep. He can hit pull-up jumpers, but he’s also comfortable off-ball, which is important. He may not survive as the only ball-handler on the floor due to his inability to pressure the rim.
24. PRECIOUS ACHIUWA / BIG / MEMPHIS
At 6-foot-9, Precious Achiuwa is one of the most impressive athletes in the draft. He has the strength to battle centers in the post, the lateral quickness to contain wings on the perimeter, and a 7-foot-2 wingspan for good measure. He has a ways to go, but Achiuwa’s defensive ceiling is monstrously high.
The offensive end is more of a question mark. While Achiuwa can feast in transition, he’s a limited scorer who doesn’t yet space the floor. He shot around 60 percent from the charity stripe, he’s an erratic ball-handler, and his post repertoire isn’t polished. He can manufacture points via athleticism at the moment, but he will need to expand his skill set to thrive in the NBA.
While he still has a lot of developmental ground to cover, Achiuwa’s effort level and work ethic are easy to bank on in the end. He needs to smooth out the fundamentals, but he brings an undeniable energy to the floor. He’s bouncy, explosive, and fun to watch.
23. THEO MALEDON / GUARD / ASVEL
One of the more promising floor generals on the board, Theo Maledon has been hailed by some as the next great French point guard. He’s a smart and methodical playmaker who, at 6-foot-5, is comfortable navigating the pick-and-roll. His handles are advanced, he makes quick reads on the move, and he has the distinguished honor of training under the Tony Parker.
The issue for Maledon is similar to Nico Mannion — he’s not a great athlete. While he has the advantage of size and a 6-foot-8 wingspan, Maledon still struggles to beat quality defenders off the dribble. His lack of a strong first step is a concern and could limit his upside in a lead ball-handling role.
Maledon luckily makes up for his shortcomings as a shooter. He should have no trouble in a secondary role, as he’s adept running around screens and operating as a floor spacer. He’s also a solid defender who could eventually defend up a position or two as his frame fills out.
22. LEANDRO BOLMARO / WING / BARCELONA
Few prospects are more divisive than Leandro Bolmaro, who is ranked as high as the lottery or as low as the second round depending on which expert you ask. From a skill perspective, it’s difficult to discredit Bolmaro. He simply has one glaring flaw — his jump shot.
At this stage, Bolmaro is an unproven shooter with shaky mechanics and even shakier percentages. He’s an advanced 6-foot-8 playmaker who can run the pick-and-roll, make a variety of passes, and break down defenders off the dribble, but that doesn’t matter much if defenses ignore him on the perimeter.
In the best-case scenario, Bolmaro is a go-to playmaker and scorer who can run an offense and capably defend multiple positions on the wing. He’s a fluid athlete and far lighter on his feet than he’s often given credit for. It all comes down to his shooting. If you buy it, he’s hard to deny in the first round.
21. KILLIAN TILLIE / BIG / GONZAGA
There’s a real chance Killian Tillie is available late in the second round. If things break right, he could emerge as the biggest steal of this draft class. From a pure talent perspective, Tillie is a lottery prospect. He checks a lot of boxes in the modern NBA. The big question for him is health.
Tillie has missed extended time on multiple occasions over his four-year stay at Gonzaga. While he has proven himself as a cornerstone of (arguably) college basketball’s most consistent program during that span, his inability to stay on the court is a red flag. There’s a non-zero chance he’s never healthy enough to play in the NBA.
When healthy, however, Tillie is a truly special talent. He’s one of the best shooters on the board at 6-foot-10, he’s light on his feet, and he’s supremely skilled. He’s a whip-smart passer from the five spot, and he plays an unselfish brand of basketball that tends to benefit those around him. Teams should take the risk, because the potential reward is very, very high.
20. JOSH GREEN / WING / ARIZONA
Josh Green is one of the best pure athletes on the board. He’s a shredded 6-foot-6 with a wingspan a shade over 6-foot-10. He’s also a smart, court-aware player who benefits those around him. He’s much more than a springy athlete who dunks well.
Green does have some holes in his game that need filling. His jumper is a work in progress, even if the percentages at Arizona show promise. He has natural touch, but his mechanics are exaggerated and inconsistent. Handles are another weak point. While he’s normally a quick decision-maker, Green can become turnover prone when forced to put the ball on the floor.
If the jumper pans out, however, Green has all the hallmarks of an effective 3-and-D wing. He competes hard, he has the physical tools to make things happen all over the court, and his intelligence is not to be overlooked. He could very well get some lottery buzz.
19. R.J. HAMPTON / GUARD / NEW ZEALAND
A season hampered by injuries and inconsistency in Australia wasn’t the biggest help to R.J. Hampton’s draft stock. Even so, he’s a fringe lottery talent to some and a near-lock for the first round. Unfortunately for him, he’s a gifted point guard in a guard-heavy class.
From an athletic perspective, there’s a lot to like about Hampton on the perimeter. He’s a slippery 6-foot-5, using a quick first step and sly handles to break down defenders and get to the rim. With a 6-foot-7 wingspan, he has plenty of size to play next to other point guards, which may be necessary — at least, until he can smooth over his playmaking chops.
There’s a lot to like about Hampton’s offensive repertoire as well. He can create his own shot and he’s fairly comfortable in the pick-and-roll. He even has solid vision as a passer, with some advanced passes up his sleeve. On the whole, however, he’s a wildly inconsistent shooter who is prone to the common mistakes of youthful guards. He needs time to mature in the NBA.
18. SADDIQ BEY / WING / VILLANOVA
Few players fit the traditional 3-and-D mold better than Saddiq Bey, a rangy 6-foot-8 wing who thrived on both sides of the ball for Villanova this season. Bey can aptly defend multiple positions, whether he’s bodying bigger players in the post or sliding his feet on the perimeter. He was also one of college basketball’s most efficient three-point shooters.
Bey doesn’t have a ton of variety on offense, but his remarkable 45 percent mark from deep is the sign of an NBA-ready skill. He isn’t totally useless elsewhere either. He can attack closeouts, make unselfish reads as a passer, and handle the ball fairly well in low-pressure situations.
There are concerns about Bey’s athleticism at the next level. His versatility relies more on intelligence and positioning than sheer athletic prowess. He’s not explosive, nor is he particularly fleet of foot. Regardless, he fills too valuable a role to drop much lower than this.
17. PATRICK WILLIAMS / FORWARD / FLORIDA STATE
Another versatile wing/forward from the Florida State ranks, Patrick Williams is deserving of legitimate lottery buzz. He’s a unique talent on offense, possessing an impressive mix of skills at 6-foot-8. He was a tad inconsistent as a freshman — at least early on — but such is the way of youth.
Williams is built like a tank. Just look at his thighs in the photo above. I mean, wow! He’s not explosive in the traditional sense, but he’s a powerful athlete who can absorb contact and finish effectively inside. Add in a silky in-between game, some nice handles, and upside as a playmaker, and there’s a lot to like about Williams.
Concerns for Williams, again, stem from his youth. He was turnover prone this season and his jumper lacks a degree of consistency, especially from beyond the arc. He will need to iron out his kinks, but the core package is both intriguing and useful by NBA standards.
16. TYRELL TERRY / GUARD / STANFORD
A bit of surprise this season was Tyrell Terry, who many expected to stay another year at Stanford. He now plans to enter the draft, and many seem to be catching up on his well-deserved hype. In my book, he’s someone who top-20 teams should jump all over.
Terry is an elite shooter — maybe even the best shooter in the draft. Whether it’s standing still or on the move, he’s a threat to pull the trigger at any range. His mechanics are sweet and compact, and his percentages (on impressively high volume) indicate an elite shooting presence. That skill alone should have NBA teams salivating.
In addition to his shot-making prowess, Terry is also a talented playmaker with real point guard flashes. He can create in the pick-and-roll, break down defenses, and effectively leverage his threat as a pull-up shooter. A 160-pound frame is a major red flag — he’ll need to bulk up — but Terry is a borderline lottery talent.
15. KIRA LEWIS JR. / GUARD / ALABAMA
Kira Lewis Jr. was quietly one of the most productive guards in college basketball this season. He has been a steady riser all year, and the lottery now seems like a legitimate possibility. And deservedly so. He’s more well-rounded than most give him credit for.
At 6-foot-3, Lewis is maybe the fastest end-to-end player in this class. He’s a lightning bolt in transition and a shifty scorer in the halfcourt. He combines an elite first step with a deep bag. He has no trouble keeping a defender off balance, and he excels at creating his own looks. Lewis also thrives as a playmaker, especially in the pick-and-roll. He takes advantage of his athletic gifts.
A thin frame is a concern, and Lewis doesn’t provide a ton of value on defense. But even so, his speediness — as well as great feel and instincts at the lead guard spot — should prove fruitful at the next level.
14. ALEKSEJ POKUSEVSKI / BIG / OLYMPIACOS B
I’ve become quite smitten with Aleksej Pokusevski as a prospect in recent weeks. He’s by no means a low-risk candidate at this spot on my board — and very few give him a lottery-type grade — but Pokusevski’s skill set and athletic profile are of a rare variety. He’s a truly special player.
A true 7-footer, Pokusevki is simultaneously one of the tallest players on the board and one of the best shooters. That is an inherently rare combination. He moves more like a wing than a center, curling around screens, sprinting to open space, and comfortably drilling shots on the move. He’s a thrill to watch, and he can even break down smaller players off the bounce.
For Pokusevski, his frame is the biggest concern. He’s frail to a concerning degree — to a degree where complete unplayability in the NBA is a feasible outcome. It may then seem a bit wild for me to grade him as a top-14 prospect, but his blend of size and skill is simply too appealing. Any team with a strong strength and conditioning program should take the plunge.
13. AARON NESMITH / WING / VANDERBILT
Aaron Nesmith only played 14 games this season due to a foot injury, which is an unavoidable concern. In those 14 games, however, he shot over 52 percent (!!!) from deep on a healthy volume. He’s a lights-out shooter, and as I’ve stated multiple times in this article, a rock-solid jump is typically a one-way ticket to effective NBA basketball.
Shooting versatility alone should ensure Nesmith a role at the next level. He’s comfortable curling around screens, hitting off-balance shots, and doing his darnedest to lose defenders on the move. He can also create his own shots occasionally, with a nice step-back in his arsenal.
Nesmith won’t do a ton on-ball. He can attack closeouts, which is handy given the attention he commands as a shooter, but he’s not an advanced playmaker. Beyond shooting — which again, is enough value to earn him a lottery grade — it’s fairly mundane. But man, can he shoot the basketball.
12. JAMES WISEMAN / BIG / MEMPHIS
Once the consensus No. 1 prospect, James Wiseman played only three games at Memphis before withdrawing from the college basketball scene. There’s a reason he was praised so highly coming out of high school, and while I clearly have my reservations, his raw talent is something to admire.
Wiseman’s physical profile is immaculate. He’s a hulking 7-footer with a 7-foot-6 wingspan, good mobility, and plenty of vertical pop at the rim. He can sprint the floor in transition, survive switches on defense, and bully his way to points at the rim. If everything breaks right, Wiseman could very well live up to the top-five grade most pundits seem to bestow upon him.
The issues for Wiseman revolve around his skill set and his NBA readiness. He’s not a disciplined defender at this stage in his career, and he has a ways to go on offense. He has made an effort to expand his jumper, but it’s a work in progress. Wiseman’s shot selection, proneness to turnovers, and general lack of instincts are all concerns. He needs to make quicker reads and quicker decisions in order to maximize his immense potential.
11. OBI TOPPIN / FORWARD / DAYTON
A unique 6-foot-9 athlete, there’s a lot to like about Obi Toppin. He was the collegiate Player of the Year as a sophomore playing for Dayton — not an easy accomplishment. He’s highly accomplished and boasts a skill set that should, on paper, bode well at the next level.
Toppin is an explosive athlete and, in certain spots, a very graceful one. He’s a fluid rim-runner in transition, a powerful finisher inside, and he packs an impressive all-around punch on offense. He can screen and roll, he can face-up, he can hit spot-up jumpers. As far as offense goes, Toppin should have no trouble fitting in to an NBA system. He should thrive.
The concern is this. Here are his player comps on The Ringer’s NBA Draft Guide: Amar’e Stoudemire (on offense), Jahlil Okafor (on defense). L-O-L. Toppin is not a good defender, and his vertical pop which plays so gracefully on offense simply doesn’t translate to the other side of the floor. He’s a stiff and rigid defender who struggles in space and doesn’t have a comfortable position. It’s a big drawback to an elite offensive package.
10. TYRESE MAXEY / GUARD / KENTUCKY
Frankly, Tyrese Maxey’s freshman campaign at Kentucky was underwhelming. He struggled from the field and never emerged as the consensus top-10 prospect some considered him to be. Yet, here we are — me giving him a top-10 grade. That’s because there’s still a lot to like.
Maxey is a winner. That’s the reputation he has built, and it’s a well deserved one. He’s a tough and gritty presence on the perimeter. On defense, he’s a source of havoc, forcing turnovers and disrupting ball-handlers. On offense, he’s a smooth operator late in games — the kind of player who’s more than happy to take a last-second, game-on-the-line shot.
He gets dirty and is unafraid to make the small but necessary plays on the court. All the cliches — diving for loose balls, etc. — he eagerly fulfills. Though not an elite athlete and a tad undersized for the two-guard spot, Maxey’s shot-making prowess, defensive acumen, and leadership skills are tough to deny. And he brings them to a position and an archetype of particular importance in the modern NBA.
9. ONYEKA OKONGWU / BIG / USC
The No.1-rated big on my board, Onyeka Okongwu surprised many as a freshman. Almost universally considered a multi-year prospect, Okongwu quickly outproduced most collegiate bigs. Now he’s a surefire lottery pick and, according to many, in the top-five conversation.
At 6-foot-9, Okongwu lacks a degree of size for a traditional center. But his athleticism helps make up ground, as he’s both an impressive vertical athlete at the rim and a mobile defender on the perimeter. Okongwu can cover a lot of ground, whether it’s weak-side rim protection, switching pick-and-rolls, or competing hard in the post. He’s a hand-in-glove fit for the modern NBA.
On offense, Okongwu is an equally intriguing talent. While he’s not a shooter, his rim-running potential garners immediate intrigue. He excels as an above-the-rim finisher, and his smooth handles are rare for a center. If he ever develops a three-point shot, he could unlock rarely seen versatility as a playmaking valve at the five spot.
8. ISAAC OKORO / WING / AUBURN
Isaac Okoro has earned the label of best wing defender in the 2020 class. He’s a bouncy 6-foot-6 athlete with a 6-foot-9 wingspan. He locks all doors and windows at the point of attack, and he’s equally skilled at bursting into passing lanes and forcing turnovers. He plays hard, he’s all over the place, and he should have no issue translating his versatility to the next level.
For Okoro, his defensive talent alone is deserving of top-10 recognition. But he’s also a solid playmaker on offense, making quick decisions with the ball and filling his role effectively. He’s not much of a shooter — a glaring hole — but as someone who understands his limitations, Okoro is often effective.
He’s not the most exciting talent, but Okoro is a hardcore winner who should provide enough two-way value to live up to his hype. In the right situation, his lack of shooting isn’t a major deal-breaker due to his well-rounded skill set. His defense could totally revamp a middling team in the middle of a rebuild.
7. TYRESE HALIBURTON / GUARD / IOWA STATE
One of the most singularly intelligent players on the board, it’s nearly impossible to envision Tyrese Haliburton not finding his way the next level. While there are valid concerns over his athletic profile, Haliburton boasts a 6-foot-8 wingspan and plenty of skill, even if it comes in an unconventional aesthetic package.
Haliburton was one of the best playmakers in college basketball this season. His assist-to-turnover ratio is a coach’s dream, and he should thrive in just about any offensive construct. He’s not explosive off the dribble, but Haliburton can slyly navigate the pick-and-roll and use changes in speed to break down defenders. He can aptly run an offense. He’s also effective off-ball due to his prowess as a spot-up shooter.
His compete lack of a pull-up jumper is a concern, and it’s not unreasonable to call for a complete overhaul in Haliburton’s mechanics, even if the natural touch is there. But he can certainly spot up, and his long, meandering strides to the basket often prove fruitful. He can score at the rim, he sees the floor better than most veterans, and he’s mistake-averse. Not to mention his excellent defensive tools. Haliburton is someone to bet on.
6. DEVIN VASSELL / WING / FLORIDA STATE
A steady riser throughout his sophomore season, Devin Vassell is thoroughly in the top-10 conversation. He’s another wing who fits snuggly in the 3-and-D archetype, which will automatically pique the interest of most teams. In fact, he’s especially good in both those specific areas.
Vassell was an extremely efficient three-point shooter this season. He has smooth mechanics spotting up, and he’s also capable of attacking closeouts, probing the mid-range, and making passes on the move. He’s far from a go-to scorer, but he can leverage his gravity as a shooter in a variety of ways.
Where Vassell shines the most, however, is defense. As both a turnover magnet and a weak-side rim protector, Vassell has a thirst for defensive counting stats. He patrols large areas of the court and uses his 6-foot-10 wingspan to its fullest potential. Beyond the accumulation of steals and blocks, he’s also great at the point of attack, walling off ball-handlers and using his length as a disruptive force. He’s one of the better defenders on the board, and unlike the aforementioned Okoro, he spaces the floor.
5. COLE ANTHONY / GUARD / NORTH CAROLINA
Cole Anthony’s freshman season was a bumpy ride. Older than most in his class, many expected Anthony to exude a maturity and comfort level beyond his five-star contemporaries. That wasn’t the case, as he struggled from the field, was inconsequential on defense, and found himself plagued by both injury and inconsistency.
In the end, Anthony’s draft stock took a hit. I’m here to advocate for a reevaluation from those who have lost faith. I still believe in Anthony, and you should too. He’s one of the best shot creators on the board, and his quick-twitch athleticism won’t dissipate at the next level. Few players are more comfortable pressing turbo, penetrating defenses, and creating space. Anthony is a special athlete despite a meager 6-foot-3 frame, and his skill level (not to mention pre-UNC tape) transcends his UNC numbers.
There are areas in which Anthony must prove himself. He must check his shot selection at the next level. And, while he can thrive as a scorer out of the pick-and-roll, he needs to lean into the point guard nature of his role more often. He’s not a bad passer, but in comparison to others in this range, he could be a more fruitful playmaker for others. In the end, his scoring talent and upside as an offensive spearhead is enough for a top-five grade.
4. DENI AVDIJA / WING / MACCABI TEL AVIV
A 6-foot-9 forward whose skill set at times mirrors a point guard, Deni Avdija should have a prominent spot in the NBA. He has carved out a meaningful role for Maccabi Tel Aviv as a teenager, and his accomplishments to date are thoroughly impressive. He has long dominated the youth scene overseas.
Avdija has a couple major red flags, the main one being his jumper. While his three-point percentages have improved of late, he’s not a great free throw shooter and it’s natural to therefore question his touch. While his talent as a playmaker — either in a guard-type role, or out of the post — carries immense value, it’s limited if defenses ignore him behind the arc.
If the shooting comes around in a convincing way, it becomes difficult to detract from Avdija has a prospect. He’s not a great athlete, but he’s plenty mobile and he’s a smart, hard-nosed defender. He has filled out his frame nicely this season. Avdija competes, he’s not prone to mistakes, and he’s a proven asset in a professional league. He’s easy to bet on in a somewhat unpredictable rookie class.
3. ANTHONY EDWARDS / WING / GEORGIA
It has been strange to see the dialogue around Anthony Edwards fluctuate the way it has. While he’s still the tentative favorite to go No. 1 in October, the focus in draft circles seems to have shifted elsewhere. Edwards is certainly flawed — and UGA isn’t a program that garners much attention — but as a powerhouse athlete and high-octane scorer, one would think Edwards is a more attractive topic in the media.
He’s a lot of fun to watch, if nothing else. Edwards is a confident shot-maker, and he pulls no punches on that front. He can bulldoze his way to the rim against weaker defenders, or he can use step-backs and crossovers to generate space along the perimeter. Edwards’ shot selection was a bit erratic this season, but UGA’s lack of guard talent is partially to blame.
Edwards uses his tank-like build to his advantage, and his shot-making should translate pretty quickly in the NBA — especially if he’s in an environment where a more efficient approach is encouraged. He’s not the most consistent defender, but the tools are there. He could become a genuine two-way star if things break right.
2. KILLIAN HAYES / GUARD / ULM
It’s remarkable how such little attention has been paid to Killian Hayes up to this point in the pre-draft process. Most mocks still have him as a fringe top-10 pick. He should have a spot in the top-five cemented. Hayes fits the mold of a game-changing NBA point guard better than perhaps anyone in this class. He’s a twitchy athlete, a dynamic passer, and a talented live-dribble scorer.
Hayes has great size for his position at 6-foot-5. He’s in the mix for best passer in this class, and his ability to slash inside and locate open teammates on the perimeter is almost unrivaled. He’s great on the move and in those live-dribble situations. Whether it’s creating space with a sweeping step-back or whipping a cross-court pass, Hayes knows how to utilize his available tools.
Of course, Hayes has his flaws. He is much more comfortable shooting step-backs than he is spotting up. He also favors his left hand more than he should, which will have to be improved at the next level. This is a class of imperfect prospects, however, and Hayes’ skill set is one of the easiest to project stardom onto.
1. LAMELO BALL / GUARD / ILLAWARRA
I’m a firmer believe in star power. In prospects who simply have it. LaMelo Ball has star power. He’s the most naturally gifted player on the board, and while it’s impossible to deny the strangeness of the circumstances around Ball’s development, he’s too talented to ignore. He’s the clear No. 1 prospect.
Ball is a long 6-foot-7 guard who can make every pass in the book. Cross-court skip passes, pinpoint bounce passes, high-arching full-court outlet passes — he can do it all. He has a special talent for locating teammates and leading them to open shots. His feel for the game is similarly special to his brother Lonzo.
Where Ball’s skill set breaks from his brother is his jump shot. LaMelo is a genuinely gifted shooter who, despite his wonky mechanics, accompanies every shot with a feathery touch. He has limitless range, much shiftier handles than his brother, and a real in-between game. Defense is a major sticking point for his critics, but I.Q. and length should help LaMelo come around when the games start to count for something.