NBA Draft 2019: Projecting both rounds in post-NCAA Tournament mock

First Round

1) New York Knicks – Zion Williamson, PF, Duke

There is no doubt who the No. 1 pick will be in this draft. Williamson combines once-in-a-generation physical gifts with elite touch around the rim and feel for the game. His shooting is his biggest weaknesses, but he improved as the season went on and, while he won’t be a knockdown shooter, he should become respectable.

2) Cleveland Cavaliers – R.J. Barrett, SF, Duke

Cleveland drafted their point guard of the future in the lottery last year in Collin Sexton but still need a star player and help on the wing. Barrett, one of the most productive freshmen in college basketball history, would fill that need while giving the Cavs a legitimate future star.

3) Phoenix Suns – Ja Morant, PG, Murray State

Morant’s highlight-reel dunks were all over social media during the college basketball season, yet that might not even be the best part of his game. The 6-3 point guard has elite vision and a knack for coming up with steals on the defensive end. Like Williamson, Morant needs to become more consistent with his jumper, but he has all the skills you look for in a starting point guard.

4) Chicago Bulls – De’Andre Hunter, SF, Virginia

Chicago already has two solid wing players in Zach LaVine and Otto Porter Jr., but Hunter’s defense and ability to play the four in smaller lineups makes him an intriguing fit in Chicago. There’s a bit of a dropoff between No. 3 and No. 4 in this draft but, as Hunter showed in the national championship game, he’s no slouch. He might also be the best defender in this class.

5) Atlanta Hawks – Jarrett Culver, SG, Texas Tech

The Hawks would be ecstatic if Culver feel to them at No. 5. They’re building their team around three-point shooting, a box Culver checks. However, he also would provide the perimeter defensive stopper they need while being an excellent backcourt-mate to Trae Young because of his ability to play off the ball.