NBA Draft 2019: Zion, Ja Morant and RJ Barrett top new post-lottery mock draft

First Round

1) New Orleans Pelicans – Zion Williamson, PF, Duke

What a surprise this was, huh? Williamson is built like a defensive end while possessing other-worldly athleticism to go along with a soft touch around the rim and solid guard skills. He’s a once-in-a-decade kind of prospect and would’ve gone No. 1 overall no matter who got this pick. New Orleans is hoping they can convince Anthony Davis to stay in town, and this will go a long way in that regard.

2) Memphis Grizzlies – Ja Morant, PG, Murray State

Mike Conley is still Memphis’ starting point guard, but the Grizzlies have been shopping him for a year and know it’s time to go all-in on a rebuild. Drafting Morant not only gives them a long-term replacement for Conley, but also a potential superstar. The Murray State product became an internet sensation this season with his highlight-reel dunks, but his passing might be his best asset.

3) New York Knicks – R.J. Barrett, SF, Duke

Barrett was the consensus No. 1 pick before the season started but fell due to some inefficiencies and the emergence of Williamson. Still, Barrett is an elite scorer (he led the ACC in that category) and an alpha dog built-in the Kobe Bryant mode. The Knicks may still try to flip this pick for Anthony Davis or another superstar, but if they go into the year with a young rebuilding roster, Barrett would be a phenomenal centerpiece.

4) Los Angeles Lakers – Cam Reddish, SG/SF, Duke

This is where things could get interesting. I don’t expect the Lakers to keep this pick given their desire to win now with LeBron James on the roster but, if they keep it, Reddish is a good option for them. He has the physical tools and skill to develop into a star, yet is also comfortable (perhaps more so) being a secondary option. The Lakers might gamble on his upside and the Paul George comparisons.

5) Cleveland Cavaliers – De’Andre Hunter, SF, Virginia

I expect the first pick of the John Beilein era to lay the foundation for the culture he wants to establish in Cleveland. Hunter is a hard worker who comes from a winning program and is excellent on both ends of the court. We saw what he can do offensively in the national championship game and he has been one of the nation’s best defenders for two years now. He’s got a bit of Kawhi Leonard in his game in terms of style.