25. Patrick Williams, Bulls
At 6-foot-7, Patrick Williams has shown flashes of real potential, but being stuck on the Chicago Bulls has stunted any significant growth as a scorer. He’s been stuck at the bottom at the barrage when it comes to scoring importance, but his defensive versatility and 3-point shooting make him a solid power forward.
24. Jarred Vanderbilt, Lakers
This spot could easily be occupied by Rui Hachimura, but for the sake of argument let’s say the Los Angeles Lakers go with Jarred Vanderbilt based on total starts last season. The 6-foot-9 defensive forward is a force on the defense end, but his main issue is a lack of a consistent outside shot. If he could get that, he’d be one of the better 3-and-D bigs in the NBA.
23. Obi Toppin, Pacers
After being stuck on the bench behind Julius Randle of the New York Knicks for all of his young career, Obi Toppin will finally get a chance to shine as a member of the Indiana Pacers. The 6-foot-9 power forward flashed elite offensive talent when he did start in New York. He might make the biggest leap on this list moving forward.
22. Al Horford, Celtics
Honestly, this could be filled by Al Horford or Kristaps Porzingis because it’s all semantics based on how they will play with each other as members of the Boston Celtics. However, for the sake of time, let’s put the 6-foot-9 Horford based on the fact that he’s significantly shorter than Porzingis. It will be interesting to see how the former Philadelphia 76ers big man plays with this new frontcourt partner as both floor-spacing bigs.
21. Saddiq Bey, Hawks
The Atlanta Hawks have options at this spot between Saddiq Bey and Jalen Johnson, but for now, let’s say Bey’s experience earns him this spot. Bey has good size at 6-foot-7 to be able to switch defense. As long as Bey’s 3-point shot can stay consistent, he fits into the mold of a 3-and-D forward.