27. Bojan Bogdanovic & Jarred Vanderbilt & Walker Kessler, Jazz
No one on Utah’s roster is safe right now. Danny Ainge is actively exploring avenues to trade Donovan Mitchell, which by extension means Bojan Bogdanovic could be out the door any day now. Plenty of teams should want him. For now, his 3-point shooting and all-around contributions on offense keep the Jazz semi-respectable in these rankings. Jarred Vanderbilt is a terrific defender and should have a real future with the team, rebuild or no rebuild. Walker Kessler was an excellent pick-up on draft night, but you can only expect so much from rookie centers.
26. Chris Duarte & Jalen Smith & Myles Turner, Pacers
The Pacers are in the early stages of a major rebuild. Myles Turner is by no means guaranteed to be on the roster when the season starts, and especially not past the trade deadline. He’s the main draw here, though. The list of superior rim protectors in the league right now is exceedingly short. Chris Duarte earned All-Rookie honors with impressive scoring bursts last season. Jalen Smith arrived at the trade deadline and immediately showcased two-way potential that was never evident in Phoenix. His mobility and shot-blocking instincts are big draws.
25. Devin Vassell & Keldon Johnson & Jakob Poeltl, Spurs
The Spurs are going to lose a lot of games next season. With Dejounte Murray out the door, Keldon Johnson figures to take an even more central role in the offense. He’s the centerpiece of that roster for the time being. Devin Vassell should also blossom with increased reps offensively. His size, shooting touch, and defensive versatility make him a severely underrated prospect long-term. Jakob Poeltl is a prime trade target for contenders, but the Spurs can still use him in the short term. It always pays to have a high-level rim protector manning the middle.