80. SG Luguentz Dort, Thunder
Despite being the fifth option in the Oklahoma City Thunder starting five, Luguentz Dort shouldn’t be overlooked. He’s an elite defender and his offense is slowly improving. If he can become an average 3-point shooter, then the shooting guard can be even higher on this list.
79. PG Fred VanVleet, Rockets
The Toronto Raptors may have dodged a bullet by not overpaying to keep Fred VanVleet this summer who they lost to the Rockets who overpaid for the veteran point guard. VanVleet had the second-worst shooting season of his career, but Houston is hoping VanVleet returns to his All-Star form.
78. G Derrick White, Celtics
Derrick White is a solid two-way guard for the Boston Celtics. Based on the current roster construction, the best role for White would be as a sixth man but it’s yet to be seen if the clubs will use him that way. One thing is clear, he’s one of the better defenders at his position.
77. SF Scottie Barnes, Raptors
After winning Rookie of the Year two years ago, Scottie Barnes had an unimpressive sophomore year last season. Barnes has elite playmaking skills and at his size, he should be able to be an all-star if he becomes a passable shooter. He should get plenty of chances to shine as the Raptors should be entering a rebuild.
76. PF Evan Mobley, Cavaliers
Despite losing to Barnes in the 2021 Rookie of the Year campaign, Evan Mobley is still a very good player for the Cleveland Cavaliers. He’s already an elite defensive big man with rim-running skills. However, he needs to figure out if he’s going to be a center or power forward long term. If he’s going to be a power forward then he needs to expand his game. If he’s going to be a center then he needs to bulk up his frame.