2021 NBA Mock Draft 2.0: Pistons get bold, Warriors make blockbuster trade

2021 NBA Mock Draft — 7. Davion Mitchell, Oklahoma City Thunder

There’s no definitive reason to expect OKC to trade Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and frankly, they shouldn’t. That said, it has been the talk of the town lately, with multiple insiders speculating on the subject. If OKC’s timeline doesn’t match up with Gilgeous-Alexander’s inevitable max extension, then maybe — just maybe — the Thunder listen to offers. No team is better equipped to throw everything and the kitchen sink at OKC than Golden State.

The Warriors are noted big-move makers, and with the sun setting on Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green, there’s a desperation to compete. Golden State is more than capable of winning another championship with this core, health permitting. Gilgeous-Alexander immediately bolsters that opportunity, while also providing a bridge to the future.

At just 22 years old, Gilgeous-Alexander averaged roughly 24 points and six assists per game on 50.8 percent shooting last season. He’s a remarkably efficient scorer, with great playmaking instincts and a proven track record next to another elite guard in Chris Paul. He’s 6-foot-6, so playing next to Curry and Thompson on defense is no concern. Offensively, there’s no better place for most players than next to Curry and Thompson — not to mention Draymond Green, who can lead and orchestrate an offense like no other.

As for the pick, OKC can replace Gilgeous-Alexander’s shot-making and playmaking void with Davion Mitchell, who was arguably the best player in college basketball last season. He led Baylor to the championship and plays with unshakable confidence. He’s a strong building block. And, with James Wiseman, OKC gets a big-upside player while kicking the “potential big extension” a few years down the road.