NBA Draft 2018: Mock First Round Projections 1.0

14. Denver: Zhaire Smith, SG

The Nuggets actually didn’t have a horrible season, and very quietly, they have a lot of the right pieces in place. This is why drafting Smith, a young sharp shooter who helped lead the Red Raiders to the elite eight in this past NCAA tournament, is a logical choice.

Smith is not a natural leader, but he’s an essential piece for a Nuggets team who needs shooting. He can also provide a spark defensively with his explosive ability to jump passing lanes and get out in transition. He is also an underrated rebounder. With Smith being able to do so much under the radar, he is a perfect fit in Denver.

13. LA Clippers: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, PG

As always, John Calipari’s Wildcats are well represented in this year’s first round draft class. Gilgeous-Alexander is a strong leader who is going to help the Clippers immensely in the revamping of their roster. With two consecutive first round selection, Los Angeles can address two very different issues.

The 19-year-old was impressive late in the season, helping propel Kentucky to the sweet sixteen. With a late season surge, yet another Kentucky underclassmen enters the NBA with a lot of upside yet still a good amount of uncertainty.