3. Cavaliers- R.J. Barrett, F, Duke
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Like the Knicks, the Cavs are searching for their franchise cornerstone. Barrett may be the most NBA-ready player in the draft while also having one of the highest ceilings. Barrett screams future all-star, and the Cavs jump on him with their first of two first-rounders to slide in the backcourt of their future with Collin Sexton.
4. Bulls- Darius Garland, G, Vanderbilt
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Garland is the right pick in multiple ways for the Bulls. Garland’s ability to shoot, dribble, and play off ball fit the mold of a modern NBA point guard. His size has been brought up as a concern, but with Trae Young and Steph Curry finding success at smaller heights, this shouldn’t be too much of an issue. His passing will inevitably improve, which likely would have been observed if he were able to play a full season in Nashville.
In a few years, NBA general managers may look back and kick themselves for passing on Garland, as he certainly has the ability to be as good, if not better than Morant. Point guard is the positional need, and the talent is there. Chicago shouldn’t worry about him being drafted “too high”, as making the right pick for the team is more important.