NBA Draft 2020: Anthony Edwards tops way-too-early two-round mock draft

Picks No. 1-5

1) Phoenix Suns – Anthony Edwards, PG/SG, Georgia

Edwards is an ultra-explosive combo guard who, at 6-5 and 215 pounds, already has ideal size for the NBA. He will have the ball in his hands more often than not at Georgia but he can play off the ball as well, something that would be key for the Suns as they look to continue to add depth to their backcourt. Edwards has the kind of athleticism, strength, and quickness that make him nearly impossible to pass on.

2) Washington Wizards – James Wiseman, C, Memphis

The No. 1 overall recruit in the 2019 class, Wiseman is an athletic and skilled seven-footer who possesses all the tools of a modern NBA big man. He’s a great athlete who is extremely quick for someone his size and excels in transition. Wiseman also has good touch around the rim and has developed a reliable mid-range jumper, something that could easily be stretched out to the three-point line. Adding strength and becoming more consistent defensively are the areas he needs to improve in, but it’s easy to see his star potential.

3) Minnesota Timberwolves – Cole Anthony, PG/SG, North Carolina

The Timberwolves need scoring and a more explosive backcourt, both needs that Anthony fills as a combo guard. He has good size at 6-3 and 185 pounds and an extremely quick first step that allows him to blow past defenders and get to the rim whenever he wants. Throw in a reliable jumper from distance and he’s an all-around offensive weapon. Oh, he’s one of the better defenders in this class, too.

Anthony needs to work on his decision-making and shot selection while at North Carolina. If he improves in those areas, there’s a chance he could end up being the top pick.

4) Miami Heat – Deni Avdija, PG/SG/SF, Maccabi Tel Aviv

Miami needs to find a franchise cornerstone or two and Avdija has All-Star potential with a very high floor. At 6-8, his playmaking ability allows him to run point and serve as an initiator, which is his best skill right now. He also excels at using his length to attack the paint and finish around the rim. The Heat love smart, savvy players and Avdija fits the bill.

5) Detroit Pistons – Nico Mannion, PG, Arizona

Simply put, Mannion is a fantastic all-around point guard. He doesn’t have the upside of Edwards and Anthony because he won’t be anymore than an average NBA athlete, but he has all the skills and tools you want in a point guard – a consistent perimeter jumper, high basketball IQ, good vision and passing, elite ball-handling, and can finish around the rim. Reggie Jackson is not the long-term answer in Detroit, so this pick makes sense.