6. Oklahoma City Thunder
Scottie Barnes, SF, Florida State
Size, athleticism, versatility. Scottie Barnes checks all the boxes here for the Oklahoma City Thunder. If there is a player that can jump Kuminga into that fifth spot, it is Barnes. Here, he will fall into the laps of the Thunder. Barnes has a chance to be an elite defender right away. He can guard multiple positions which gives him a chance to be a two-way star. Even at No. 6, Barnes could be one of the steals of the draft.
READ MORE: Predictions for Latest 2021 NBA Draft Rumors: Pistons, Rockets, Knicks & Cavs
7. Golden State Warriors (from Minnesota Timberwolves)
Davion Mitchell, PG, Baylor
Davion Mitchell turns 23 in September. There have been some concerns about his age but not from the Golden State Warriors. This is a win-now team that should be interested in a polished player like Mitchell. He is the best perimeter defender in the 2021 NBA Draft and showed an ability to score at all three levels during the NCAA Tournament. He shot 44.7% from three-point range last season and that fits right into the game plan for Golden State. His defensive and playmaking ability will instantly translate to the NBA.
8. Orlando Magic (from Chicago Bulls)
Keon Johnson, SG, Tennessee
Keon Johnson has turned into a solid top-10 pick in the draft. He has a wide skill set that has shown great versatility on both ends of the floor. If the Magic land a strong wing with Kuminga at No. 5, they can continue to improve the backcourt with Johnson. Orlando had a fire sale at the NBA trade deadline and this is a chance for them to replenish with some elite prospects. Johnson has a chance to be one of the best in the class right away.
9. Sacramento Kings
Moses Moody, SG, Arkansas
Will the Sacramento Kings keep the pick? Will they move it for a star? There are rumors out there but Moses Moody could end those rumors. He is a player who struggled during the NCAA Tournament but was named the SEC Freshman of the Year after leading Arkansas. He scored 16.8 points per contest and was a force defensively. Moody is a true three-and-D player who can create an intriguing backcourt with De’Aaron Fox in Sacramento.
10. New Orleans Pelicans
Jaden Springer, PG, Tennessee
Jaden Springer could go as high as top 10 or he could fall into the late first round. Here, the New Orleans Pelicans look to land their next franchise point guard to pair with Zion Williamson. Springer did not shoot much from deep but he finished 43.8% from deep. That will continue at the next level. He is a quick guard with the ball in his hands. Springer can run the break well in transition and that fits in well with a team like the Pelicans.
