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2017 NBA Draft: First Round Mock 1.0

By Tyler Watts

Feb 4, 2017; Seattle, WA, USA; Washington Huskies guard Markelle Fultz (20) dribbles against UCLA Bruins guard Lonzo Ball (2) during the first half at Alaska Airlines Arena at Hec Edmundson Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 4, 2017; Seattle, WA, USA; Washington Huskies guard Markelle Fultz (20) dribbles against UCLA Bruins guard Lonzo Ball (2) during the first half at Alaska Airlines Arena at Hec Edmundson Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 4, 2017; Blacksburg, VA, USA; Wake Forest Demon Deacons forward John Collins (20) shoots while being defended by Virginia Tech Hokies forward Zach LeDay (32) in the first half at Cassell Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Michael Shroyer-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 4, 2017; Blacksburg, VA, USA; Wake Forest Demon Deacons forward John Collins (20) shoots while being defended by Virginia Tech Hokies forward Zach LeDay (32) in the first half at Cassell Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Michael Shroyer-USA TODAY Sports /

19. Atlanta Hawks- John Collins- PF- Wake Forest

The big question mark for the Atlanta Hawks is whether they can keep All-Star Paul Millsap or if he heads to greener pastures like former teammate Al Horford?  Millsap has a player option for next season that he will most likely decline to become an unrestricted free agent.  The open market will have plenty of suitors for his services, so stay tuned to this developing story.

The other power forwards on the roster are all free agents as well.  Ersan Ilyasova, Kris Humphries, and Mike Muscala will all be hitting the market, so even if Millsap stays the Hawks will be searching for a reserve at that position.

Why John Collins?

John Collins‘ best NBA position may be a center, but I am a fan of his game.  A more traditional big, Collison scored 19.2 points per game last season on 62.4% from the field.  He added in 9.8 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game.  Undoubtedly great college numbers and he has some skills that should translate well to the NBA.

Draft Express questions his defense, and that is fair, but I think Collins has potential.  He makes a great fit for the Hawks at pick 19.

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