2021 NBA Mock Draft: Picks 5-10
6. Toronto Raptors
Keon Johnson, SG, Tennessee
Johnson is a name that has been climbing up draft boards and he could be as high as this selection. The Raptors will be losing Kyle Lowry this season which means they could be looking for a backcourt mate alongside Fred VanVleet. Johnson is the perfect blend of speed and defensive prowess. He could contribute to the lineup right away and develop on a team where he would not have to be the main option.
READ MORE: 2021 NBA Mock Draft 1.0: Is Evan Mobley a lock to be picked in top two?
7. Golden State Warriors (from Minnesota Timberwolves)
Scottie Barnes, PF, Florida State
Barnes is a bit raw offensively but he would bring some depth and size to the second unit of the Warriors. He can defend all five positions because of his speed and agility. Barnes is long enough to make an impact along the perimeter. As an offensive player, Barnes can use his athleticism to get in the lane. When Klay Thompson returns, the Warriors are expecting to compete for a championship once again. If they keep this pick, they will add a player that can help them get back to the top.
8. Sacramento Kings
Jalen Johnson, PF, Duke
Johnson is the biggest wild card in this draft. He can be taken in the top 10 or fall later into the round. The star power is there. It is the body of work that might push some teams away from the Duke product. He opted out of the season so he could prepare for the draft and it is unknown at this time if it hurt his draft stock. The Kings have been rebuilding for quite some time now and this is a chance to add another prospect to a rotation that features De’Aaron Fox.
9. Orlando Magic (from Chicago Bulls)
Moses Moody, SG, Arkansas
If the Magic are able to land Cunningham with the top overall pick, it is already a successful draft. With their second pick in the top 10, the Magic could completely revamp the backcourt. Moody would bring great speed and shooting ability. He was the leader of a fast-paced Arkansas team this past season. This is an important draft for Orlando because of the direction they are heading. If they want to speed up the rebuilding process, the Magic cannot afford to miss on these picks.
10. New Orleans Pelicans
Davion Mitchell, PG, Baylor
The Pelicans have their dynamic duo in place with Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram. Now, it is time to build around the two. They moved Jrue Holiday last offseason and could be looking for that next franchise point guard. Mitchell showed what he can do during Baylor’s National Championship run. He is the best perimeter defender in the draft and can create his own shot on the offensive end. A true two-way player would help New Orleans right away.
