2014 NBA Mock Draft: An in-depth look at both rounds
By Joe Nardone
32. Philadelphia 76ers — Cleanthony Early, SF/PF, Wichita State
H: 6′ 7″ W: 209 lbs DOB: 04/17/19
2013-14 NCAA (35 GP) 16.3 PPG 6.0 RPG 0.7 APG 26.7 PER
Holy Cleanthony Early, Batman! I have him graded as a first-round talent. That’s not the issue here. People are, apparently, nervous about him because he isn’t a 19-year-old prospect, which makes no sense — but potential, man.
Early can do pretty much everything. Nothing spectacular, but everything really well. He’s a solid defender, can guard multiple positions, be a stretch-four at the next level, plays with a high basketball IQ and has improved every year he has played the game of basketball. Outside of his ceiling being, apparently, low, there is not a lot to complain about as far as his actual game.
I do expect his stock to continue to rise as we get to the draft. However, some teams are going to talk themselves out of taking him in favor of a younger, international prospect. — Joe