2020 NBA Mock Draft Version 5.0: Post trade deadline
5
Precious Achiuwa Forward, Memphis
15.1 points, 10.1 rebounds, 0.9 assists, 1.1 steals, 2.0 blocks, 52% fg, 41% 3pt, 29 mpg
Precious Achiuwa made one of the biggest jumps from mock 4.0 to 5.0, as he has propelled himself from outside of the lottery to a top-five pick. After acquiring D’Angelo Russell, the team find themselves in need of a small forward and a true defensive presence.
Although he is probably not worthy of being selected this high, the fit between Achiuwa and the Wolves is too good to pass on. Achiuwa is a lockdown defender who is hyper-athletic and can rebound at a high level. His scoring is limited to drives to the basket for now, but the potential for a jumper is certainly there.
In Minnesota, Achiuwa could focus on doing what he does best, while leaving the floor spacing and primary scoring to Karl-Anthony Towns and D’Angelo Russell. Achiuwa would have time to develop in Minnesota, as he is still very much a product on the offensive end.
He can still contribute to wins right now with his defense, rebounding, and athletic finishing, but if he finds some kind of range with his shot he could develop into a star.
Draft Stock Trend: +13
6
Cole Anthony Guard, North Carolina
19.5 points, 6.4 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 1.7 steals, 0.4 blocks, 53% fg, 34% 3pt, 33 mpg
Once thought of as a potential first overall pick, injuries and poor team play by UNC have slid him back some in the lottery. Anthony is a scoring-minded one who possesses a very complete scoring arsenal. His three point shot has improved in his freshman season, but his gift still lies in his ability to finish in traffic.
Anthony has also been disruptive in passing lanes this season, something NBA scouts were hoping he would begin to do.
With no franchise piece in Charlotte yet, the Hornets would have to go with the best player available in Anthony. The fit is not necessarily as important, with Terry Rozier and Devonte’ Graham in the backcourt, but rather Michael Jordan should focus on landing a star, which Cole Anthony could possibly be. This Charlotte rebuild is going to be a long and slow one, but nailing this pick could expedite it exponentially.