2021 NBA Mock Draft — 3. Jalen Green, Cleveland Cavaliers
In the opinion of this author, Jalen Green rounds out a pretty firm top-3 in this year’s class. Green has unmatched upside as a go-to perimeter scorer, with an elite first step, crisp handles, and impressive instincts with the ball in hand. He can create his own offense at every level, or operate effectively off the ball, making timely cuts and playing within the offense.
Just about every contender has an elite perimeter creator. Those who don’t — looking at you, Philly — are proven false every damn time. The Cavaliers already have Darius Garland and Collin Sexton, but Green is the perfect excuse to sell high on Sexton before his extension strikes.
A backcourt of Garland and Green is a compelling offensive duo, while Jarrett Allen, Larry Nance Jr., and Isaac Okoro form the foundation of a versatile modern defense. Cleveland is on the precipice of a leap, and Green would surely help facilitate it.