NBA Draft 2019: Barrett, Williamson battle for top pick in mock draft
By Brian Rauf
No. 16-20
16) Orlando Magic – Nickeil Alexander-Walker, PG/SG, Virginia Tech
Orlando has been better than expected this year but still need a long-term point guard. Alexander-Walker is having a breakthrough sophomore campaign and is someone scouts love because of his all-around game at 6-5.
17) Portland Trail Blazers – Daniel Gafford, PF/C, Arkansas
Portland’s backcourt is set and appear to have a long-term answer in the frontcourt with Zach Collins. Why not add a super athletic rim-protector (something they don’t currently have) who would be an excellent pair with him?
18) Atlanta Hawks (via Dallas Mavericks) – Jarrett Culver, SG, Texas Tech
Culver may very well go higher than this as he projects to be an excellent 3-&-D player on the next level. He has taken over as Texas Tech’s go-to guy this year and, if he continues to play at such a high level, may end up being a lottery pick.
19) Boston Celtics – Louis King, SF/SG, Oregon
Boston has four first-round picks in this scenario and I doubt they’d keep them all. However, King’s upside as a versatile scorer and perimeter defender at 6-7 make him a good value at this position.
20) Indiana Pacers – Coby White, PG, North Carolina
Darren Collison is 31 and won’t (or shouldn’t) be Indiana’s starting point guard in two or three years. That may cause the Pacers to reach a bit for White, who has proven to be an elite scorer and shooter who can create for himself. The freshman has also displayed good vision while playing for the Heels and is still just scratching the surface of how good he can be.