NBA Draft 2020: Mock Draft 4.0

A fresh look at the 2020 NBA Draft class.

The 2020 NBA Draft is scheduled for October 16. For the first time since this pandemic began, there’s some normalcy — some certainty — around the pre-draft process. A date. We know — at least we think we know — when the whole shebang will happen.

Of course, every team is already months (or more accurately, years) into scouting these prospects. Teams can interview remotely and, at some point, players are bound to come in for individual workouts. The NBA seems to have the testing capacity, even if workouts are fewer and farther between than we’re used to. Safety remains paramount, but there’s a lot of money tied to the draft. Teams will want to have the fullest picture possible.

This year’s class is an enigma. There’s no Zion Williamson or Ben Simmons. No prospect who screams No. 1 pick, nor even a clear top-2 or top-3. Who goes first overall could come down to which team wins the lottery.

Naturally, we have conducted our own lottery simulation using Tankathon. The No. 1 pick goes to… the Cleveland Cavaliers.

This is not a big board. This is not who I believe each team should pick. It is a projection — a series of picks based on team needs, insight from other reporters, and general expectations. Of course, my personal opinion does factor in as well.

The Philadelphia 76ers currently possess the 22nd overall pick, but change is inevitable once the season resumes in Orlando. The Sixers own OKC’s first-round pick, which is top-20 protected. So fans have a vested interest in the Thunder’s Disney World success.

For prospect rankings and more analysis, you can read our latest big board.