by 8. Orlando Magic: Moses Moody (Arkansas, Freshman, Guard)
Standing 6’5” with a monstrous 7’0” wingspan, Moses Moody projects to be a dangerous 3 and D player that the Magic will seek to pair with their 5th overall pick Jonathan Kuminga.
Moody’s range and shooting ability whether he is spotting up or on the move will translate immediately to the NBA, also allowing him to also beome a decoy and open the lanes up for guys like Cole Anthony, Jonathan Kuminga, and Terrence Ross to slash and make plays in the lane.
Possessing a silky smooth jump shot with a high release, Moody is able to get shots off in a myriad of ways using a blend of jab steps and pump fakes to create separation for himself. He isn’t the most explosive athlete which limits his blow by ability and finishing at the rim consistently.
Moody also doesn’t possess great lateral quickness, however he uses his length to compensate for these weaknesses as it allows him to finish over smaller defenders and be disruptive in the passing lanes. Picking up Kuminga at #5 and Moody here at #8 gives the Magic a satisfying lottery haul.
9. Sacramento Kings: Jalen Johnson (Duke, Freshman, Forward)
Jalen Johnson did not have the type of year many expected during his freshman season at Duke due to a foot injury and his eventual withdrawal from the program after just 13 games. In that small sample size however, Johnson displayed a nice blend of size and athleticism with potential as a high scoring combo forward.
Johnson is very effective rolling off of screens and could make himself a reliable target for Tyrese Haliburton and De’Aaron Fox. As a shooter, he’s shown some ability to spot up, knocking down 44% of his threes this past season as well as creating his own shot in the mid range although a slight hitch in his jumper may need to be ironed out for a faster release.
At a solid 6’9”, 220lbs, Johnson doesn’t only project as an offensive talent as he’s also able to rebound on both ends, defend multiple positions comfortably and is a willing passer. His lack of experience at the college level may scare some teams, but the Kings will seek Johnson to possibly replace a disgruntled Marvin Bagley with a game that projects to be more well rounded.
