by 6. Oklahoma City Thunder: Davion Mitchell (Baylor, Junior, Guard)
Although OKC recently made a trade to acquire Boston Celtics point guard Kemba Walker, we can expect this to be short lived as Walker does not fit the Thunder’s future and could be used in another trade for a younger piece. Because of this Oklahoma City will look to point guard Davion Mitchell who just led Baylor University to their first ever NCAA Championship.
A hard nosed defender with great passing and driving ability, Mitchell can line up perfectly alongside sophomore combo guard Theo Maledon and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander who saw a lot of playing time at the SF spot last season. The competitive edge and effort he brings night in and night out will easily win over that rabid Thunder fan base.
Although he doesn’t project as a big time scorer at the next level, Mitchell shot 44.7% from the three-point line last season which was a huge step up from the 32.4% mark the season prior.
Maintaining his shooting accuracy will be pivotal at the next level as his ability to get to the rim may be slightly limited at 6’2” with only a 6’4” wingspan. However, his unselfishness, poise in the clutch and energy combined with an all around style of play makes him a very solid pick by the Thunder.
7. Golden State Warriors: Scottie Barnes (Florida State, Freshman, Forward)
Along with the number 7 pick, the Golden State Warriors pick again at number 14 so they have some flexibility with this selection. The Dubs could be attracted to the athletic Florida State big man Scottie Barnes who shows a wide range of skills reminiscent of their very own Draymond Green.
Much like Green, Barnes is at his best when he is able to grab rebounds and push the ball in transition, either taking it full court himself and finishing with force or making a crisp pass to teammates up ahead which is rare for someone who is 6’9”, 225ibs.
An Inconsistent jump shot and limited ability to create in the half court limits Barnes’ offensive game to scoring off of putbacks, rolls and in transition for the time being. However, his minutes will be earned with his endless motor, passion and intensity on the defensive end..
At Florida State, Barnes spent a considerable amount of time playing at the point guard position which helped his development as a playmaker.
This also allowed him to spend plenty of time defending guards and wings on the perimeter, using his 7’2” Wingspan along with active hands to bother ball handlers and disrupt passing lanes. Offensively, Barnes is still a project but the Warriors may find his positional versatility, athleticism and passion for the game too hard to pass on.
