1. Minnesota Timberwolves
Cade Cunningham, G Oklahoma State | Freshman
This is as close to a no-brainer as it gets. Standing at 6-foot-8 with a complete offensive game, there’s a lot to like about what Cade Cunningham brings to the NBA level. He’s a rare prospect in a perimeter oriented league and that reflects in his NBA Draft projection as the No. 1 pick. Cunningham’s elite playmaking skills will thrive with NBA spacing, his size makes him a threat in switch-everything defensive schemes, and he has everything you’d want in a perimeter player’s scoring arsenal.
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2. Detroit Pistons
Evan Mobley, C, USC | Freshman
It would be a tough choice for the Detroit Pistons to make after Cade Cunningham comes off the board. Evan Mobley has a real chance to be one of the more unique big man talents that has come through the NBA Draft in quite some time. He’s got an incredible 7-foot-5 wingspan and can raise the floor of a defense with his playmaking. He’s got a layered interior offensive skill-set with the ability to step out and shoot.
3. Houston Rockets
Jalen Suggs, G, Gonzaga | Freshman
After moving on from James Harden and already Victor Oladipo, too, the Houston Rockets will be in need of more starpower on the perimeter. Kevin Porter Jr. has shown some intriguing signs but adding Jalen Suggs into the mix could be an intriguing option as well. He’s a reliable pick-and-roll ball handler that excels at creating his shot off-the-dribble along with having defensive prowess.
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4. Cleveland Cavaliers
Jalen Green, G, G League Ignite
There were some intriguing flashes that Jalen Green showed while playing for the G League Ignite team, but overall, he wasn’t as efficient as an initiator within the half-court as one would have liked. However, he’s got real potential in such areas and will be better off for having faced professional competition as opposed to being in his comfort zone in the NCAA. He’s an explosive guard with real potential.
5. Orlando Magic
Jonathan Kuminga, F, G League Ignite
The offensive skill-set that Jonathan Kuminga brings to the table is raw but there’s a lot to like about his long-term potential. His jump shot needs work and his handle could use some improvement, but he’s a legitimately impactful defender that can make plays for teammates. If a team can develop his lesser areas, he could be a special talent. This is a risk worth taking for a rebuilding Orlando Magic squad.