[h=2]Chad Ford Mock Draft 7.0[/h][h=3]Elfrid Payton becomes a new name to watch; is Andrew Wiggins dropping?[/h]
We are down to the final stretch. Draft workouts are in full swing with just 16 days to go before the draft.
Believe it or not, draft boards are still far from set. Last year the Cleveland Cavaliers didn't finally decide to select UNLV forward Anthony Bennett until the afternoon of the draft. So whoever claims they know what's happening, take it with a grain of salt.
Most of the top players in the draft have just begun the workout process. None of the top four players in the draft -- Andrew Wiggins, Joel Embiid, Jabari Parker or Dante Exum -- have worked out for any team.
While workouts probably are overrated, they are part of the process, psychologically, for teams. Until those visits are done, we're still working on incomplete information. But for now, after talking to numerous NBA team sources, here's our best stab about how the draft might play out June 26.
Remember our Mock Draft is not a ranking of who we think the top players are. Instead, it's a reporting tool to convey our latest intel from NBA scouts and general managers on what each time might do in the draft. Here we go:
1
Joel Embiid
Cleveland Cavaliers (33 - 49)
COLLEGE: Kansas
HT: 7-0
WT: 250
POS: C
Wiggins, Parker and Embiid all are in the mix here. On lottery night, a Cavs source told me that they had Parker ranked highest on their board all year because of his ability to come in and make an immediate impact, and they believe Embiid has the most upside of anyone in the draft and fits a long-term need for them. However, the source felt that Wiggins in the end would be the compromise pick -- someone who has both elite upside, and who can play (especially defensively) impactful minutes right out of the gate.
That said, if Embiid is cleared by the Cavs' doctors, and if GM David Griffin can persuade owner Dan Gilbert to be patient and wait on Embiid, I think he gets the nod here. But those are still two big ifs. While Embiid certainly looked healthy enough during a workout in Santa Monica, California, a few weeks ago, until the Cavs' doctors green light him, we just don't know. And Gilbert is anxious for the Cavs to be a playoff team. Drafting the guy who's likely to have the least impact next season is going to be a tough sell. At the end of the day, I think the Cavs would prefer to trade the pick, but unless they are getting someone like Kevin Love or LaMarcus Aldridge in return, I don't think they pull the trigger.
2
Jabari Parker
Milwaukee Bucks (15 - 67)
COLLEGE: Duke
HT: 6-8
WT: 241
POS: SF
The Bucks appear to be intrigued with all four players here: Embiid, Parker, Wiggins and Australian point guard Dante Exum.
If Embiid goes No. 1, I think Parker will likely get the nod here. While new ownership has made it clear that they are OK with GM John Hammond fully engaging the rebuilding process, the reality is that the team needs to draft a player who can help now. Parker is the most NBA-ready of the group and gives them a go-to scorer who likely would be slotted to play the 4 between Larry Sanders and Giannis Antetokounmpo.
If Parker isn't on the board, Embiid has intrigued the team for a while. Given his offensive prowess (and Sanders' utter lack thereof), they feel he's a good fit. Of course, as the Bucks keep breaking down tape, they keep getting more excited about Wiggins. They fly to Santa Barbara, California, this week to watch Wiggins work out. It will be interesting to see if that sells the Bucks on him. Exum is the wild card. The team gets him in for a workout this weekend. They'd really like to upgrade the point and move Brandon Knight to the 2. If Exum wows in the workout, he could move to the top of their board. I think he fits their biggest need.
3
Andrew Wiggins
Philadelphia 76ers (19 - 63)
COLLEGE: Kansas
HT: 6-8
WT: 200
POS: SG
This is a dream scenario for the 76ers. They would take Wiggins at No. 1 if they could, and having him fall to No. 3 would be a godsend. The Sixers actually have engaged the Cavs about moving to No. 1. They aren't willing to give up both the Nos. 3 and 10 picks, but a combination of No. 3 and Thaddeus Young is a possibility. And it's a great scenario for Wiggins, as well. Of the three top teams, his camp prefers the Sixers as the best possible fit. This could be a win-win for both. If Wiggins isn't on the board for the Sixers, I'm told they'll take whoever is left between Embiid and Parker. Dante Exum also isn't out of the question here, but I hear he'll need to wow them when he rolls into Philadelphia next week for his workout with them.
4
Noah Vonleh
Orlando Magic (23 - 59)
COLLEGE: Indiana
HT: 6-10
WT: 247
POS: PF
We've consistently had the Magic taking a point guard at No. 4. They've been high on both Exum and Marcus Smart all year. Smart already has come in for a workout, and Exum is scheduled to arrive next week for his. But the Magic might end up opting to go another route.
The team really needs a power forward, and Vonleh looks like a great fit next to Nikola Vucevic on the front line. His shot-blocking on the defensive end, plus his ability to stretch the floor on the other end, is a perfect complement to Vucevic. With the several interesting point guards likely to be available at No. 12, the Magic might be able to get the best of both worlds.
5
Dante Exum
Utah Jazz (25 - 57)
COLLEGE: Australia
HT: 6-6
WT: 196
POS: PG
This might be a dream scenario for the Jazz. While Exum could go to the Bucks, Sixers or Magic (in fact, those are the only teams for whom he's scheduled to work out), there is also a chance he slides. The Bucks and Sixers both have players higher than him on their boards (though workouts might change that), and the Magic are seriously looking at Vonleh at 4.
This is a no-brainer for the Jazz, even if he refuses to come work out. The team doesn't really need another big. They need size at the PG position, and Exum also can play off the ball with Trey Burke, as well. The team could obviously take Marcus Smart here, but I've heard they aren't as high on him as some other teams.
If Exum is gone, Vonleh probably has a small edge over Aaron Gordon and Julius Randle right now.
6
Aaron Gordon
Boston Celtics (25 - 57)
COLLEGE: Arizona
HT: 6-9
WT: 220
POS: PF
The Celtics continue to explore all options, and after panning the draft most of the year, Celtics boss Danny Ainge now likes several players. I think Gordon and Marcus Smart are the top two contenders for this pick of the remaining players on the board, with the edge right now toward Gordon. Both Gary Harris and Doug McDermott will get looks here, as well.
Trades always remain an option for Boston. If they can move this pick for a young impact player, they won't hesitate.
7
Julius Randle
Los Angeles Lakers (27 - 55)
COLLEGE: Kentucky
HT: 6-9
WT: 234
POS: PF
The Lakers keep shopping this pick but are struggling to find an All-Star caliber big in return. If the Cavs can't get that type of player with the No. 1 overall pick, the Lakers are probably not getting it at pick No. 7. If the Lakers keep it, they'll want a player who can come in and contribute from Day 1, and three players -- Randle, Smart and Doug McDermott -- seem to be the targets.
Randle, along with Parker, might be the most NBA-ready freshman in the draft. With the Lakers' entire front line heading into free agency this summer (including Pau Gasol, Chris Kaman and Jordan Hill), the Lakers are going to have a lot of needs up front. Smart could give them size and toughness at point guard, and he has garnered buzz since his strong workout in L.A. But don't completely count out McDermott. The Lakers loved his workout in L.A. and know his shooting would be an immediate asset on the team. If Kobe Bryant is going to pass the ball, he'll want to pass it to someone who is going to make his shots.
8
Marcus Smart
Sacramento Kings (28 - 54)
COLLEGE: Oklahoma State
HT: 6-3
WT: 227
POS: PG
The Kings also are listening to offers for their pick (apparently no one shops their picks anymore, they just listen). If they can get someone who can play right now, they'll likely go that direction. They've shown interest in Minnesota's Kevin Love, but they have also lowered their sights for players like Atlanta's Dennis Schroeder, and I'm told they also like Milwaukee's Brandon Knight.
However, if Smart is on the board here, he'll be tough to pass. He's the perfect fit for a coach like Mike Malone. And don't count out Elfrid Payton here; he's coming off a terrific workout in Sacramento. If Smart is off the board, he's a possibility.
9
Doug McDermott
Charlotte Hornets (43 - 39)
COLLEGE: Creighton
HT: 6-8
WT: 218
POS: SF
McDermott seems to be a perfect fit for any team that needs shooting, offense from the small forward position, and someone who can step on the court and contribute right now. He checks all of those boxes. McDermott has just three workouts scheduled as of now, and he has already worked out with the Lakers and Celtics. It looks as though he might not be getting out of the top 10. Gary Harris, Nik Stauskas and Elfrid Payton are the other players getting long looks here.
10
Dario Saric
Philadelphia 76ers (19 - 63)
COLLEGE: Croatia
HT: 6-10
WT: 223
POS: PF
This is Philly's second lottery pick, so they can afford to gamble a little bit here. Saric's situation remains cloudy. Will he be coming to the NBA next season, or is he staying in Europe for a few more years? If he can assure teams he's coming to the NBA next season, he could go this high or higher. He's an amazing talent, and with so many athletes on the roster already, getting someone as skilled as Saric to help facilitate things would be a terrific fit in Philly. A combo of Michael Carter-Williams, Nerlens Noel, Wiggins and Saric would be a terrific core. All they would need is a lights-out shooter. Gary Harris and Nik Stauskas are other possibilities with this pick.
11
Gary Harris
Denver Nuggets (36 - 46)
COLLEGE: Michigan State
HT: 6-5
WT: 205
POS: SG
Sources say the Nuggets have had serious discussions with the Bulls about swapping No. 11 for Nos. 16 and 19. If the Bulls get this pick, they'll grab either Harris or Stauskas here. If the Nuggets keep their pick, look for them to focus on their back court. Ty Lawson is the only real foundation piece they have. Nik Stauskas and a host of other wings are all possibilities here, but the word is that Harris was a wow for them in workouts. Now that he's fully healthy and explosive again (Harris measured a 40-inch max vertical in his Lakers workout), he's another guy who could start rising.
12
Elfrid Payton
Orlando Magic (23 - 59)
COLLEGE: Louisiana Lafayette
HT: 6-4
WT: 185
POS: PG
If the Magic decide to go big with their first pick and draft Vonleh, then look for them to address point guard with their second pick. Payton, Tyler Ennis and Zach LaVine are all possibilities here. Ennis is the purest point guard of the group. LaVine offers the most size and athleticism. But Payton is a great blend of the two. He's long, athletic and gets to the line. He defends and has such a dynamic game. He's now in play as high as the Lakers at No. 7.
13
Nik Stauskas
Minnesota Timberwolves (40 - 42)
COLLEGE: Michigan
HT: 6-7
WT: 207
POS: SG
The Wolves always are looking for shooters, and if Stauskas is on the board here, I'm not sure Minnesota can pass him up. But it's possible. He sprained his shoulder a week ago and had to cancel workouts last week. He won't have his first workout until Tuesday in Boston, followed by the Lakers later in the week. I think this is really his floor. If the Lakers and Celtics pass (he's in the mix there, but I don't think he's likely to go either team), Charlotte, Philly, Denver and Orlando are all possible landing spots, too. If Stauskas is gone, James Young and Adreian Payne are two other players who will get long looks here.
14
James Young
Phoenix Suns (48 - 34)
COLLEGE: Kentucky
HT: 6-8
WT: 213
POS: SF
The Suns' biggest need is probably at wing. Young has the ability to play both the 2 and 3 with his 7-foot wingspan. He's one of the youngest players in the draft and projects as a potent shooter down the road. I think this is a nice value pick for the Suns if he's still here.
15
Zach LaVine
Atlanta Hawks (38 - 44)
COLLEGE: UCLA
HT: 6-6
WT: 181
POS: PG
The Hawks' biggest need is shooting, especially from the 2. While LaVine is trying to show everyone that he's a point guard and might be down the road, most teams think that, at least at the beginning of his career, he's more likely to be a 2. His athleticism and shooting ability, along with terrific upside, make him a very intriguing prospect. Two other players to watch here are Bosnia's Jusuf Nurkic and Latvia's Kristaps Porzingis. The Hawks have spent a lot of time scouting both players and have been fearless in taking international prospects in the past. Both possess major upside.
16
Tyler Ennis
Chicago Bulls (48 - 34)
COLLEGE: Syracuse
HT: 6-3
WT: 182
POS: PG
The Bulls have been trying to move up in the draft to get an elite shooter. Their target has been Denver with an offer of the 16th and 19th pick for 11. If they get there, Gary Harris or Nik Stauskas will be the guy with them, likely leaning toward Stauskas. If they keep the pick, with Derrick Rose returning from his second ACL surgery and D.J. Augustin a free agent, the Bulls need a reliable point guard as his backup. Ennis doesn't quite have the same appeal as some of the other point guards in the draft, which has hurt his stock a little. Still, it's hard to see him slipping past the Bulls here or at No. 19. He's the sort of steady point guard who would be perfect coming off the bench for the Bulls.
17
Kristaps Porzingis
Boston Celtics (25 - 57)
COLLEGE: Latvia
HT: 6-11
WT: 220
POS: PF
Porzingis is the hot name right now. He surprised everyone when he declared for the draft, and the more due diligence teams have done on him, the more they have fallen in love with him. He could now go as high as No. 14 to the Magic, and the Hawks at No. 15 are looking at him, as well. Porzingis won't slide past the Thunder at No. 21. GM Danny Ainge has two picks and can afford to gamble on one of them. At 7 feet with both athleticism and a nice shooting touch, there's a lot of upside for Porzingis. He's just a couple of years away.
18
T.J. Warren
Phoenix Suns (48 - 34)
COLLEGE: NC State
HT: 6-8
WT: 220
POS: SF
With the Suns having shored up their wings, they'll add another forward here. Next to Parker and McDermott, Warren might be the best scorer in this draft. He's not a great shooter, but he's got a unique ability to get to the rim. The Suns are loaded with 4s who can shoot the ball, which opens up some unique space for Warren.
19
Rodney Hood
Chicago Bulls (48 - 34)
COLLEGE: Duke
HT: 6-9
WT: 208
POS: SG
The Bulls need shooting in the worst way, and Hood shot a red-hot 42 percent from 3 this season. He has elite size for his position and the maturity to step in and play meaningful minutes from Day 1 for the Bulls. While the Bulls still have some frontcourt issues to address, this draft really should shore up their backcourt challenges.
20
Adreian Payne
Toronto Raptors (48 - 34)
COLLEGE: Michigan State
HT: 6-10
WT: 239
POS: PF
Payne would be a great get for the Raptors if he's still on the board. He could go as high as No. 13 to the Wolves, but I doubt he slips past the Raptors. With Patrick Patterson a free agent and Tyler Hansbrough unlikely to have his option picked up, the Raptors are left with only Amir Johnson. Payne's ability to stretch the floor and play inside are a great fit in Toronto.
21
Jusuf Nurkic
Oklahoma City Thunder (59 - 23)
COLLEGE: Bosnia
HT: 6-11
WT: 280
POS: C
The Thunder have been in hot pursuit of Kristaps Porzingis, but it looks as though he's quickly rising out of their draft range. Nurkic has fans as high as the late lottery thanks to his NBA size and soft hands to play the center position, and let's face it, in a draft devoid of bigs, that's a commodity. However, his lack of elite athleticism and some conditioning issues mean he's a nice draft-and-stash candidate for the Thunder.
22
Cleanthony Early
Memphis Grizzlies (50 - 32)
COLLEGE: Wichita State
HT: 6-7
WT: 210
POS: SF
Tayshaun Prince is in the last year of his contract. Small forward is a need, as is shooting. Early has great size for his position, shot the ball well as a senior, is a good athlete and is ready to make an impact right away. K.J. McDaniels and Jerami Grant are other possible fits here.
23
K.J. McDaniels
Utah Jazz (25 - 57)
COLLEGE: Clemson
HT: 6-6
WT: 195
POS: SF
McDaniels gives the Jazz an athletic forward who should bring defensive toughness right away. Many scouts feel he's one of the more underrated players in the draft -- someone who's a jump shot away from being a dominant wing. UCLA's Kyle Anderson is another real possibility here at No. 23. The Jazz are fans.
24
P.J. Hairston
Charlotte Hornets (43 - 39)
COLLEGE: North Carolina
HT: 6-5
WT: 229
POS: SG
The Hornets also need more shooting at the shooting guard position, and like McDermott, Hairston will be ready to go from Day 1. For a team that really wasn't great at shooting the ball from the wing last year, adding McDermott and Hairston would be a major upgrade.
25
Jerami Grant
Houston Rockets (54 - 28)
COLLEGE: Syracuse
HT: 6-8
WT: 214
POS: SF
The Rockets could use more length and athleticism at the wing position. While Grant isn't a great shooter, he has the potential to be a defensive stopper at multiple positions. Glenn Robinson III is another option for them here.
26
Shabazz Napier
Miami Heat (54 - 28)
COLLEGE: Connecticut
HT: 6-1
WT: 175
POS: PG
Napier has played well enough in workouts in Phoenix, Chicago and Oklahoma City to perhaps move up above this spot. He has both Memphis and Boston this week, as well. He's a "veteran"-type point guard who can help a team right away. If he gets this far, it's hard to see the Heat passing on him. With Mario Chalmers hitting free agency, they might need the help.
27
Clint Capela
Phoenix Suns (48 - 34)
COLLEGE: Switzerland
HT: 6-11
WT: 222
POS: PF
Capela's stock is all over the place. He's getting looks in the late lottery all through the draft. He's so raw, but his length and shot-blocking abilities appeal to every team looking for a rim protector. If he's gone, other international players such as Walter Tavares or Artem Klimenko could go in his place. The Suns have three first-round picks, so I don't think there's any way they're bringing three rookies to their roster next year.
28
Jordan Clarkson
Los Angeles Clippers (57 - 25)
COLLEGE: Missouri
HT: 6-5
WT: 186
POS: PG
Clarkson has been helping himself as much as any player in the draft with strong workouts. He has great size for his position, and he's been shooting the ball much better. With Darren Collison hitting the free-agent market, Clarkson could be a nice replacement.
29
Jordan Adams
Oklahoma City Thunder (59 - 23)
COLLEGE: UCLA
HT: 6-5
WT: 209
POS: SG
Adams might be the most unathletic guard in the draft, but he really knows how to score the basketball and could be a spark plug off the bench for OKC next year.
30
Kyle Anderson
San Antonio Spurs (62 - 20)
COLLEGE: UCLA
HT: 6-9
WT: 230
POS: PF
Anderson's stock remains the toughest to determine. There are teams all over the first round giving him a look, but no one that seems to have him as one of their top options. If he gets this low, an opportunistic GM such as RC Buford could jump. He has the chance to be their next Boris Diaw.
We are down to the final stretch. Draft workouts are in full swing with just 16 days to go before the draft.
Believe it or not, draft boards are still far from set. Last year the Cleveland Cavaliers didn't finally decide to select UNLV forward Anthony Bennett until the afternoon of the draft. So whoever claims they know what's happening, take it with a grain of salt.
Most of the top players in the draft have just begun the workout process. None of the top four players in the draft -- Andrew Wiggins, Joel Embiid, Jabari Parker or Dante Exum -- have worked out for any team.
While workouts probably are overrated, they are part of the process, psychologically, for teams. Until those visits are done, we're still working on incomplete information. But for now, after talking to numerous NBA team sources, here's our best stab about how the draft might play out June 26.
Remember our Mock Draft is not a ranking of who we think the top players are. Instead, it's a reporting tool to convey our latest intel from NBA scouts and general managers on what each time might do in the draft. Here we go:
1
Joel Embiid
Cleveland Cavaliers (33 - 49)
COLLEGE: Kansas
HT: 7-0
WT: 250
POS: C
Wiggins, Parker and Embiid all are in the mix here. On lottery night, a Cavs source told me that they had Parker ranked highest on their board all year because of his ability to come in and make an immediate impact, and they believe Embiid has the most upside of anyone in the draft and fits a long-term need for them. However, the source felt that Wiggins in the end would be the compromise pick -- someone who has both elite upside, and who can play (especially defensively) impactful minutes right out of the gate.
That said, if Embiid is cleared by the Cavs' doctors, and if GM David Griffin can persuade owner Dan Gilbert to be patient and wait on Embiid, I think he gets the nod here. But those are still two big ifs. While Embiid certainly looked healthy enough during a workout in Santa Monica, California, a few weeks ago, until the Cavs' doctors green light him, we just don't know. And Gilbert is anxious for the Cavs to be a playoff team. Drafting the guy who's likely to have the least impact next season is going to be a tough sell. At the end of the day, I think the Cavs would prefer to trade the pick, but unless they are getting someone like Kevin Love or LaMarcus Aldridge in return, I don't think they pull the trigger.
PLAYER CARD
2
Jabari Parker
Milwaukee Bucks (15 - 67)
COLLEGE: Duke
HT: 6-8
WT: 241
POS: SF
The Bucks appear to be intrigued with all four players here: Embiid, Parker, Wiggins and Australian point guard Dante Exum.
If Embiid goes No. 1, I think Parker will likely get the nod here. While new ownership has made it clear that they are OK with GM John Hammond fully engaging the rebuilding process, the reality is that the team needs to draft a player who can help now. Parker is the most NBA-ready of the group and gives them a go-to scorer who likely would be slotted to play the 4 between Larry Sanders and Giannis Antetokounmpo.
If Parker isn't on the board, Embiid has intrigued the team for a while. Given his offensive prowess (and Sanders' utter lack thereof), they feel he's a good fit. Of course, as the Bucks keep breaking down tape, they keep getting more excited about Wiggins. They fly to Santa Barbara, California, this week to watch Wiggins work out. It will be interesting to see if that sells the Bucks on him. Exum is the wild card. The team gets him in for a workout this weekend. They'd really like to upgrade the point and move Brandon Knight to the 2. If Exum wows in the workout, he could move to the top of their board. I think he fits their biggest need.
PLAYER CARD
3
Andrew Wiggins
Philadelphia 76ers (19 - 63)
COLLEGE: Kansas
HT: 6-8
WT: 200
POS: SG
This is a dream scenario for the 76ers. They would take Wiggins at No. 1 if they could, and having him fall to No. 3 would be a godsend. The Sixers actually have engaged the Cavs about moving to No. 1. They aren't willing to give up both the Nos. 3 and 10 picks, but a combination of No. 3 and Thaddeus Young is a possibility. And it's a great scenario for Wiggins, as well. Of the three top teams, his camp prefers the Sixers as the best possible fit. This could be a win-win for both. If Wiggins isn't on the board for the Sixers, I'm told they'll take whoever is left between Embiid and Parker. Dante Exum also isn't out of the question here, but I hear he'll need to wow them when he rolls into Philadelphia next week for his workout with them.
PLAYER CARD
4
Noah Vonleh
Orlando Magic (23 - 59)
COLLEGE: Indiana
HT: 6-10
WT: 247
POS: PF
We've consistently had the Magic taking a point guard at No. 4. They've been high on both Exum and Marcus Smart all year. Smart already has come in for a workout, and Exum is scheduled to arrive next week for his. But the Magic might end up opting to go another route.
The team really needs a power forward, and Vonleh looks like a great fit next to Nikola Vucevic on the front line. His shot-blocking on the defensive end, plus his ability to stretch the floor on the other end, is a perfect complement to Vucevic. With the several interesting point guards likely to be available at No. 12, the Magic might be able to get the best of both worlds.
PLAYER CARD
5
Dante Exum
Utah Jazz (25 - 57)
COLLEGE: Australia
HT: 6-6
WT: 196
POS: PG
This might be a dream scenario for the Jazz. While Exum could go to the Bucks, Sixers or Magic (in fact, those are the only teams for whom he's scheduled to work out), there is also a chance he slides. The Bucks and Sixers both have players higher than him on their boards (though workouts might change that), and the Magic are seriously looking at Vonleh at 4.
This is a no-brainer for the Jazz, even if he refuses to come work out. The team doesn't really need another big. They need size at the PG position, and Exum also can play off the ball with Trey Burke, as well. The team could obviously take Marcus Smart here, but I've heard they aren't as high on him as some other teams.
If Exum is gone, Vonleh probably has a small edge over Aaron Gordon and Julius Randle right now.
PLAYER CARD
6
Aaron Gordon
Boston Celtics (25 - 57)
COLLEGE: Arizona
HT: 6-9
WT: 220
POS: PF
The Celtics continue to explore all options, and after panning the draft most of the year, Celtics boss Danny Ainge now likes several players. I think Gordon and Marcus Smart are the top two contenders for this pick of the remaining players on the board, with the edge right now toward Gordon. Both Gary Harris and Doug McDermott will get looks here, as well.
Trades always remain an option for Boston. If they can move this pick for a young impact player, they won't hesitate.
PLAYER CARD
7
Julius Randle
Los Angeles Lakers (27 - 55)
COLLEGE: Kentucky
HT: 6-9
WT: 234
POS: PF
The Lakers keep shopping this pick but are struggling to find an All-Star caliber big in return. If the Cavs can't get that type of player with the No. 1 overall pick, the Lakers are probably not getting it at pick No. 7. If the Lakers keep it, they'll want a player who can come in and contribute from Day 1, and three players -- Randle, Smart and Doug McDermott -- seem to be the targets.
Randle, along with Parker, might be the most NBA-ready freshman in the draft. With the Lakers' entire front line heading into free agency this summer (including Pau Gasol, Chris Kaman and Jordan Hill), the Lakers are going to have a lot of needs up front. Smart could give them size and toughness at point guard, and he has garnered buzz since his strong workout in L.A. But don't completely count out McDermott. The Lakers loved his workout in L.A. and know his shooting would be an immediate asset on the team. If Kobe Bryant is going to pass the ball, he'll want to pass it to someone who is going to make his shots.
PLAYER CARD
8
Marcus Smart
Sacramento Kings (28 - 54)
COLLEGE: Oklahoma State
HT: 6-3
WT: 227
POS: PG
The Kings also are listening to offers for their pick (apparently no one shops their picks anymore, they just listen). If they can get someone who can play right now, they'll likely go that direction. They've shown interest in Minnesota's Kevin Love, but they have also lowered their sights for players like Atlanta's Dennis Schroeder, and I'm told they also like Milwaukee's Brandon Knight.
However, if Smart is on the board here, he'll be tough to pass. He's the perfect fit for a coach like Mike Malone. And don't count out Elfrid Payton here; he's coming off a terrific workout in Sacramento. If Smart is off the board, he's a possibility.
PLAYER CARD
9
Doug McDermott
Charlotte Hornets (43 - 39)
COLLEGE: Creighton
HT: 6-8
WT: 218
POS: SF
McDermott seems to be a perfect fit for any team that needs shooting, offense from the small forward position, and someone who can step on the court and contribute right now. He checks all of those boxes. McDermott has just three workouts scheduled as of now, and he has already worked out with the Lakers and Celtics. It looks as though he might not be getting out of the top 10. Gary Harris, Nik Stauskas and Elfrid Payton are the other players getting long looks here.
PLAYER CARD
10
Dario Saric
Philadelphia 76ers (19 - 63)
COLLEGE: Croatia
HT: 6-10
WT: 223
POS: PF
This is Philly's second lottery pick, so they can afford to gamble a little bit here. Saric's situation remains cloudy. Will he be coming to the NBA next season, or is he staying in Europe for a few more years? If he can assure teams he's coming to the NBA next season, he could go this high or higher. He's an amazing talent, and with so many athletes on the roster already, getting someone as skilled as Saric to help facilitate things would be a terrific fit in Philly. A combo of Michael Carter-Williams, Nerlens Noel, Wiggins and Saric would be a terrific core. All they would need is a lights-out shooter. Gary Harris and Nik Stauskas are other possibilities with this pick.
PLAYER CARD
11
Gary Harris
Denver Nuggets (36 - 46)
COLLEGE: Michigan State
HT: 6-5
WT: 205
POS: SG
Sources say the Nuggets have had serious discussions with the Bulls about swapping No. 11 for Nos. 16 and 19. If the Bulls get this pick, they'll grab either Harris or Stauskas here. If the Nuggets keep their pick, look for them to focus on their back court. Ty Lawson is the only real foundation piece they have. Nik Stauskas and a host of other wings are all possibilities here, but the word is that Harris was a wow for them in workouts. Now that he's fully healthy and explosive again (Harris measured a 40-inch max vertical in his Lakers workout), he's another guy who could start rising.
PLAYER CARD
12
Elfrid Payton
Orlando Magic (23 - 59)
COLLEGE: Louisiana Lafayette
HT: 6-4
WT: 185
POS: PG
If the Magic decide to go big with their first pick and draft Vonleh, then look for them to address point guard with their second pick. Payton, Tyler Ennis and Zach LaVine are all possibilities here. Ennis is the purest point guard of the group. LaVine offers the most size and athleticism. But Payton is a great blend of the two. He's long, athletic and gets to the line. He defends and has such a dynamic game. He's now in play as high as the Lakers at No. 7.
PLAYER CARD
13
Nik Stauskas
Minnesota Timberwolves (40 - 42)
COLLEGE: Michigan
HT: 6-7
WT: 207
POS: SG
The Wolves always are looking for shooters, and if Stauskas is on the board here, I'm not sure Minnesota can pass him up. But it's possible. He sprained his shoulder a week ago and had to cancel workouts last week. He won't have his first workout until Tuesday in Boston, followed by the Lakers later in the week. I think this is really his floor. If the Lakers and Celtics pass (he's in the mix there, but I don't think he's likely to go either team), Charlotte, Philly, Denver and Orlando are all possible landing spots, too. If Stauskas is gone, James Young and Adreian Payne are two other players who will get long looks here.
PLAYER CARD
14
James Young
Phoenix Suns (48 - 34)
COLLEGE: Kentucky
HT: 6-8
WT: 213
POS: SF
The Suns' biggest need is probably at wing. Young has the ability to play both the 2 and 3 with his 7-foot wingspan. He's one of the youngest players in the draft and projects as a potent shooter down the road. I think this is a nice value pick for the Suns if he's still here.
PLAYER CARD
15
Zach LaVine
Atlanta Hawks (38 - 44)
COLLEGE: UCLA
HT: 6-6
WT: 181
POS: PG
The Hawks' biggest need is shooting, especially from the 2. While LaVine is trying to show everyone that he's a point guard and might be down the road, most teams think that, at least at the beginning of his career, he's more likely to be a 2. His athleticism and shooting ability, along with terrific upside, make him a very intriguing prospect. Two other players to watch here are Bosnia's Jusuf Nurkic and Latvia's Kristaps Porzingis. The Hawks have spent a lot of time scouting both players and have been fearless in taking international prospects in the past. Both possess major upside.
PLAYER CARD
16
Tyler Ennis
Chicago Bulls (48 - 34)
COLLEGE: Syracuse
HT: 6-3
WT: 182
POS: PG
The Bulls have been trying to move up in the draft to get an elite shooter. Their target has been Denver with an offer of the 16th and 19th pick for 11. If they get there, Gary Harris or Nik Stauskas will be the guy with them, likely leaning toward Stauskas. If they keep the pick, with Derrick Rose returning from his second ACL surgery and D.J. Augustin a free agent, the Bulls need a reliable point guard as his backup. Ennis doesn't quite have the same appeal as some of the other point guards in the draft, which has hurt his stock a little. Still, it's hard to see him slipping past the Bulls here or at No. 19. He's the sort of steady point guard who would be perfect coming off the bench for the Bulls.
PLAYER CARD
17
Kristaps Porzingis
Boston Celtics (25 - 57)
COLLEGE: Latvia
HT: 6-11
WT: 220
POS: PF
Porzingis is the hot name right now. He surprised everyone when he declared for the draft, and the more due diligence teams have done on him, the more they have fallen in love with him. He could now go as high as No. 14 to the Magic, and the Hawks at No. 15 are looking at him, as well. Porzingis won't slide past the Thunder at No. 21. GM Danny Ainge has two picks and can afford to gamble on one of them. At 7 feet with both athleticism and a nice shooting touch, there's a lot of upside for Porzingis. He's just a couple of years away.
PLAYER CARD
18
T.J. Warren
Phoenix Suns (48 - 34)
COLLEGE: NC State
HT: 6-8
WT: 220
POS: SF
With the Suns having shored up their wings, they'll add another forward here. Next to Parker and McDermott, Warren might be the best scorer in this draft. He's not a great shooter, but he's got a unique ability to get to the rim. The Suns are loaded with 4s who can shoot the ball, which opens up some unique space for Warren.
PLAYER CARD
19
Rodney Hood
Chicago Bulls (48 - 34)
COLLEGE: Duke
HT: 6-9
WT: 208
POS: SG
The Bulls need shooting in the worst way, and Hood shot a red-hot 42 percent from 3 this season. He has elite size for his position and the maturity to step in and play meaningful minutes from Day 1 for the Bulls. While the Bulls still have some frontcourt issues to address, this draft really should shore up their backcourt challenges.
PLAYER CARD
20
Adreian Payne
Toronto Raptors (48 - 34)
COLLEGE: Michigan State
HT: 6-10
WT: 239
POS: PF
Payne would be a great get for the Raptors if he's still on the board. He could go as high as No. 13 to the Wolves, but I doubt he slips past the Raptors. With Patrick Patterson a free agent and Tyler Hansbrough unlikely to have his option picked up, the Raptors are left with only Amir Johnson. Payne's ability to stretch the floor and play inside are a great fit in Toronto.
PLAYER CARD
21
Jusuf Nurkic
Oklahoma City Thunder (59 - 23)
COLLEGE: Bosnia
HT: 6-11
WT: 280
POS: C
The Thunder have been in hot pursuit of Kristaps Porzingis, but it looks as though he's quickly rising out of their draft range. Nurkic has fans as high as the late lottery thanks to his NBA size and soft hands to play the center position, and let's face it, in a draft devoid of bigs, that's a commodity. However, his lack of elite athleticism and some conditioning issues mean he's a nice draft-and-stash candidate for the Thunder.
PLAYER CARD
22
Cleanthony Early
Memphis Grizzlies (50 - 32)
COLLEGE: Wichita State
HT: 6-7
WT: 210
POS: SF
Tayshaun Prince is in the last year of his contract. Small forward is a need, as is shooting. Early has great size for his position, shot the ball well as a senior, is a good athlete and is ready to make an impact right away. K.J. McDaniels and Jerami Grant are other possible fits here.
PLAYER CARD
23
K.J. McDaniels
Utah Jazz (25 - 57)
COLLEGE: Clemson
HT: 6-6
WT: 195
POS: SF
McDaniels gives the Jazz an athletic forward who should bring defensive toughness right away. Many scouts feel he's one of the more underrated players in the draft -- someone who's a jump shot away from being a dominant wing. UCLA's Kyle Anderson is another real possibility here at No. 23. The Jazz are fans.
PLAYER CARD
24
P.J. Hairston
Charlotte Hornets (43 - 39)
COLLEGE: North Carolina
HT: 6-5
WT: 229
POS: SG
The Hornets also need more shooting at the shooting guard position, and like McDermott, Hairston will be ready to go from Day 1. For a team that really wasn't great at shooting the ball from the wing last year, adding McDermott and Hairston would be a major upgrade.
PLAYER CARD
25
Jerami Grant
Houston Rockets (54 - 28)
COLLEGE: Syracuse
HT: 6-8
WT: 214
POS: SF
The Rockets could use more length and athleticism at the wing position. While Grant isn't a great shooter, he has the potential to be a defensive stopper at multiple positions. Glenn Robinson III is another option for them here.
PLAYER CARD
26
Shabazz Napier
Miami Heat (54 - 28)
COLLEGE: Connecticut
HT: 6-1
WT: 175
POS: PG
Napier has played well enough in workouts in Phoenix, Chicago and Oklahoma City to perhaps move up above this spot. He has both Memphis and Boston this week, as well. He's a "veteran"-type point guard who can help a team right away. If he gets this far, it's hard to see the Heat passing on him. With Mario Chalmers hitting free agency, they might need the help.
PLAYER CARD
27
Clint Capela
Phoenix Suns (48 - 34)
COLLEGE: Switzerland
HT: 6-11
WT: 222
POS: PF
Capela's stock is all over the place. He's getting looks in the late lottery all through the draft. He's so raw, but his length and shot-blocking abilities appeal to every team looking for a rim protector. If he's gone, other international players such as Walter Tavares or Artem Klimenko could go in his place. The Suns have three first-round picks, so I don't think there's any way they're bringing three rookies to their roster next year.
PLAYER CARD
28
Jordan Clarkson
Los Angeles Clippers (57 - 25)
COLLEGE: Missouri
HT: 6-5
WT: 186
POS: PG
Clarkson has been helping himself as much as any player in the draft with strong workouts. He has great size for his position, and he's been shooting the ball much better. With Darren Collison hitting the free-agent market, Clarkson could be a nice replacement.
PLAYER CARD
29
Jordan Adams
Oklahoma City Thunder (59 - 23)
COLLEGE: UCLA
HT: 6-5
WT: 209
POS: SG
Adams might be the most unathletic guard in the draft, but he really knows how to score the basketball and could be a spark plug off the bench for OKC next year.
PLAYER CARD
30
Kyle Anderson
San Antonio Spurs (62 - 20)
COLLEGE: UCLA
HT: 6-9
WT: 230
POS: PF
Anderson's stock remains the toughest to determine. There are teams all over the first round giving him a look, but no one that seems to have him as one of their top options. If he gets this low, an opportunistic GM such as RC Buford could jump. He has the chance to be their next Boris Diaw.
PLAYER CARD
