What is the value of a future first-round pick in the NBA? 

Well, perhaps that’s the wrong way to frame the question. First-round picks are among the most valuable commodities in the league. The question is, why are they so valuable? 

Well, of course, you can use them to select young players. That’s the simple explanation. The draft is one of the most reliable sources of talent that an NBA general manager can rely on. 

Alternatively, you can also trade those picks for a star player. Look at a team like the Utah Jazz.

They’ve got one of the most impressive collections of draft capital in the league, and they’re already fairly competitive. 

Could they trade for Damian Lillard this summer?