2020 NBA Mock Draft Version 5.0: Post trade deadline
3
Anthony Edwards Guard, Georgia
19.9 points, 5.2 rebounds, 2.9 assists, 1.4 steals, 0.5 blocks, 42% FG, 33% 3pt, 32 mpg
Once again, the Atlanta Hawks find themselves extremely fortunate and are able to select arguably the best player in this draft with the 3rd pick. Anthony Edwards is a phenomenal athlete with a knack for scoring and defense.
His athleticism and two-way promise make him a near ideal backcourt partner for Trae Young. The two could form the future top backcourt in basketball, and this combined with the rest of the impressive Atlanta core could lead to massive amounts of success for the Hawks down the road.
Efficiency will be the name of the game for Edwards, who has put up spotty shooting numbers at UGA. This should change at the professional level, however, all signs point to him being able to clean things up. His frame and athleticism are what make him truly gifted, along with a legitimately complete game that can help Atlanta win now.
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4
LaMelo Ball Guard, United States
17.0 points, 7.6 rebounds, 6.8 assists, 1.6 steals, 0.1 blocks, 38% fg, 25% 3pt, 31 mpg
As a team with a need at just about every position on the floor, the New York Knicks select LaMelo Ball. His offensive game is extremely exciting, as Ball has the ability to score from every level, create his own shot, and find shots for his teammates. Standing at a whopping 6ft 7, Ball’s natural position is the point, but teams could utilize him at the two or even on the wing when needed.
Defensively, however, Ball is certainly a liability. His frame and athleticism should make him a good defender, yet he is lackluster on that end to put it. lightly. Additionally, his shot selection and efficiency is questionable, making scouts wonder how mature he can be on the floor as a pro.
Regardless of questions about his effort, Ball probably has the highest ceiling of anyone on the board, as evident in his talented offensive game. Melo would immediately take over at the point for the Knicks and provide them with another potential franchise cornerstone to pair with R.J. Barrett. Many argue that Ball will be in the running to be picked first overall, and although I do not agree, grabbing him at four has to be seen as a decent value for New York.