NBA Mock Draft 2.0: Kings take a risk, Magic win with two studs
By Logan Struck
25. Memphis Grizzlies: Olivier-Maxence Prosper, PF, Marquette
With the Ja Morant suspension being 25 games and not longer, the Grizzlies do not need to focus on guard play in the draft. Instead, they can focus on gaining wing depth, especially with Dillion Brooks hitting free agency. Prosper is a 6’7″ forward with a great defensive game and the tools to be an impressive two-way player.
26. Indiana Pacers (via CLE): Colby Jones, SG, Xavier
After drafting Jarace Walker with the 7th overall pick, the Pacers can target some backcourt depth at pick 26. Colby Jones is an NBA-ready guard with an all-around game. He is an impressive shooter with playmaking qualities that will complement the Indiana lineup well. A high-energy player with all the right tools is exactly what a young Pacers team needs.
27. Charlotte Hornets (via DEN): Rayan Rupert, SG, France
With their starting backcourt now cemented with Scoot Henderson and Lamelo Ball, the Hornets take a lock-down defender who should fit right into the Charlotte lineup. His offensive flashes prove him to be more than a defender, but his tenacious defense will allow him to contribute immediately on a young Hornets squad.
28. Utah Jazz (via PHI): Dariq Whitehead, SG, Duke
With their third first-round pick of the draft, the Jazz take a chance on a high-upside prospect like Dariq Whitehead. Going into last season, Whitehead was regarded as a top-five NBA prospect. Due to injuries, his stock has plummeted, but Whitehead still has the potential to be great. If he can get into a groove in Utah and stay healthy, the Jazz might be getting the steal of the draft.
29. Indiana Pacers (via BOS): Sidy Cissoko, SG, G League Ignite
The Pacers have three first-round picks, and after playing it safe with NBA-ready prospects Jarace Walker and Colby Jones, they can take a risk with Sidy Cissoko. The 19-year-old is an impressive defender with elite athleticism and playmaking ability. He has the tools to become an impactful two-way presence but needs time to develop.
30. Los Angeles Clippers (via MIL): Trayce Jackson-Davis, PF, Indiana
With the last pick of the first round, the Clippers get a proven NCAA star in Jackson-Davis. The versatile 6’8″ forward has elite athleticism and is a force on both ends of the court. While he struggles to find an outside shot, the Clippers could use some interior presence on offense and defense.
