2020 NBA Mock Draft: 4.0 halfway through the NBA season
43
Charles Bassey Center, Western Kentucky
15.3 points, 9.2 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 0.8 steals, 1.6 blocks, 53% fg, 58% 3pt, 28 mpg
Pick Via Phoenix Suns
For whatever reason, there is absolutely no draft hype around Western Kentucky’s Charles Bassey. Last year, I believed Bassey was a first round-level talent, but he decided to remain in college for another season.
This year, Bassey has not taken a step forward, but rather has taken a small step back. This coupled with his old-school style of play has lead Bassey to become an afterthought in the draft conversation, which is mind boggling.
If Bassey does decide to enter the draft this year, Memphis would be making a great pick in taking him at 43. The sophomore big man fits the traditional ‘grit and grind’ spirit of the Memphis Grizzlies and could serve as a very good backup to Jaren Jackson. His rebounding, defense, and athleticism absolutely should have a place in the NBA, and Memphis is a great fit.
Draft Stock Trend: -19
44
Lamar Stevens Forward, Penn State
16.3 points, 7.3 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 1.3 steals, 1.3 blocks, 46% fg, 23% 3pt, 30 mpg
Lamar Stevens is a name that is starting to gain some momentum in NBA Draft conversations, as his three-and-d potential could catch the eye of scouts in the NBA. Stevens does a bit of everything for the Penn State Nittany Lions, as he is a very good defender, rebounder, and slasher. The three pointer is not where it needs to be yet, but his mechanics show promise of expanded range in the future.
San Antonio would be wise to buy cheap on Stevens in the second round, as he is getting closer and closer to becoming a fringe-first round talent in the 2020 group, especially considering the lack of forward depth this season. Improved three point shooting for the rest of the season could help solidify himself as one of the better forwards in his class.
Draft Stock Trend: n/a
45
Saddiq Bey Forward, Villanova
15.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 0.7 steals, 0.7 blocks, 51% fg, 45% 3pt, 32 mpg
Pick Via Memphis Grizzlies
Using the selection that the Bulls received in exchange for forward Justin Holiday last season, Chicago will opt for Villanova shooter Saddiq Bey. The Bulls have struggled with the small forward position since the departure of Jimmy Butler, and Chandler Hutchison is already beginning to look like a dud. By taking Bey, the Bulls would get a knockdown shooter who fits the NBA mold much better than Hutchison.
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Bey could be another player who shoots up draft boards during the latter half of the season, as shooting and length are always going to be in demand in the NBA. Even if some fans are not in agreement about the play of Hutchison and his future as a Bull, shooting is absolutely needed and Bey fits the bill.