NBA Draft 2019: Best draft picks from No. 1-30 since 2000

By Joey Loose | Jun 4, 2019

NEW YORK, NY - JUNE 21: Picks one through 30 are seen on the board at the conclusion of the first round during the 2018 NBA Draft at the Barclays Center on June 21, 2018 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images) /

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PORTLAND, OR – APRIL 16: Paul George #13 of the Oklahoma City Thunder reacts to an officials call during the second half of Game Two of the Western Conference quarterfinals against the Portland Trail Blazers during the 2019 NBA Playoffs Moda Center on April 16, 2019 in Portland, Oregon. The Blazers won 114-94. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Steve Dykes/Getty Images) (Photo by Steve Dykes/Getty Images) /

10. Paul George (2010)

Following success at Fresno State, George was taken by the Pacers and soon became a superstar. He’s been on six All-Star teams, four All-Defensive teams, and has shined at guard and forward throughout his career. He was traded to the Thunder in 2017 and just had his best season, averaging greater than 28 ppg while leading the league in steals. George is truly an elite star and a consistent scorer, with 20 ppg each of the last four years.

With respect to John Wall and DeMarcus Cousins, George might be the best player drafted in 2010. The next two picks were Cole Aldrich and Xavier Henry who never developed into consistent players. When he was drafted nine years ago, the Pacers couldn’t know the type of player that George would develop into, but they certainly made the best selection that any team has with the 10th pick.

Honorable mentions: CJ McCollum (POR – 2013), Brook Lopez (NJN – 2008), Joe Johnson (BOS – 2001)

9. Andre Iguodala (2004)

The former Arizona Wildcat has found continued success in the NBA, with his career already spanning 15 seasons since the 76ers drafted him with the 9th pick. He would make an All-Star game and shine in Philadelphia. Iguodala averaged double digits in nearly all of his first nine seasons while putting up decent shooting numbers. In 2013, he became a Warrior and has since won three NBA titles, 2015 Finals MVP, and has twice been on the NBA’s All-Defensive teams.

The shooting guard/small forward has seen his usage change since coming to Golden State, but his longevity really stands out. Luke Jackson and Robert Swift, who had very brief NBA careers, were taken in the following three selections, while other talented players taken in 2004 have already seen their careers come to an end. He’s no Steph Curry, but he’s been a vital piece to the Warriors’ title-winning puzzle.

Honorable mentions: DeMar DeRozan (TOR – 2009), Joakim Noah (CHI – 2007), Amar’e Stoudemire (PHO – 2002)

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