2021 NBA Draft Big Board — 24. Isaiah Todd, G-League Ignite
Isaiah Todd spent last season in the shadow of Jalen Green and Jonathan Kuminga, for better and worse. He was not perfect — far from it — but Todd showed flashes of what earned him five stars in high school, and more than enough to warrant a first-round investment in this year’s draft.
At 6-foot-10, Todd is a springboard athlete with a smooth jump shot and fairly dynamic scoring repertoire. He doesn’t always play within himself or the offense, but he has the upside of a consistent three-level scorer, with the size and length to one day become a versatile defensive weapon. There’s a lot to like once the 20s roll around, especially for a team that can afford to be patient.
2021 NBA Draft Big Board — 23. Chris Duarte, Oregon
Chris Duarte is 24 years old, which will make him the oldest player selected on July 29. That should not dissuade any of the contenders in range of drafting him, who will reap the immediate benefits of Duarte’s heady play and confident 3-point stroke.
Age is a drawback, yes, but Durate plays with the requisite poise and veteran’s spirit of an older prospect. He understands his role and how to contribute on the floor. He is a nuanced and effective off-ball scorer, with timely cuts and screens all over the place, and a 3-point stroke that will demand defensive attention. At 6-foot-6, he’s big enough to guard a couple positions. He will help a team from day one.