1. Houston Rockets
Cade Cunningham, PG, Oklahoma State
This pick is a no-brainer. Cunningham entered Oklahoma State as the top prospect and solidified it with his play in the Big 12. Cunningham has the size, athleticism, and play-making ability to become a star at the next level. With James Harden now in Brooklyn, the Rockets need to be looking for their next franchise player. That is what Cunningham could become on draft night.
2. Detroit Pistons
Evan Mobley, C, USC
There has been some speculation with this spot but with Cunningham off the board, there is only one player who is the clear-cut best. Mobley is perfect for the NBA game today. He is a defensive star that can create his own shot on the offensive end of the floor. As a true seven-footer, Mobley can shoot from deep or off the dribble. Detroit has guards like Killian Hayes and Saddiq Bey in place. Now, it is time for them to get their big man of the future.
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3. Orlando Magic
Jalen Green, SG, G-League Ignite
Green bypassed college and went right to the G-League. He showed his ability to be strong shooter with an extremely high ceiling. His decision to play for Ignite did not hurt his draft stock and he will continue to be a top-five prospect. The Magic have some guards in place with Markelle Fultz and Cole Anthony but Green’s size and versatility makes him a fit for any team.
4. Oklahoma City Thunder
Jalen Suggs, PG, Gonzaga
Suggs showed a fire and passion for the game during his one year at Gonzaga. This is something that any team in the league will welcome. The Thunder know the importance of having a franchise point guard on the roster. That is what Suggs could turn into. A backcourt of Suggs and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is something for Thunder fans to be excited about moving forward. If Suggs makes it to them at four, the Thunder cannot pass up on this pick.
READ MORE: NBA Mock Draft 2021: 3 key draft picks to keep an eye on in this year’s NBA Draft Lottery
5. Cleveland Cavaliers
Jonathan Kuminga, SF, G-League Ignite
The top five in this draft seems to be solidified. Kuminga is the fifth member and could have one of the highest ceilings. There is legitimate star capability from Kuminga. Cleveland is going to re-sign Jarrett Allen. Collin Sexton and Darius Garland look like the real deal in the backcourt. Adding a scorer and playmaker like Kuminga will benefit the Cavaliers in the long run. He has great size at 6’8 and will continue to improve from three-point range. If Kuminga is available here, Cleveland will have to make the safe pick.
