NBA Draft 2020: Anthony Edwards tops way-too-early two-round mock draft
By Brian Rauf
Picks No. 6-10
6) Cleveland Cavaliers – Scottie Lewis, SG/SF, Florida
Lewis is a prototypical wing at 6-6 and 185 pounds and will immediately be one of the best athletes in the NBA. That athleticism, coupled with his high motor and dedicated work ethic help make him a high-level defender. An inconsistent jumper keeps Lewis from meeting the “3-and-D” mold, but his elite athleticism makes him unstoppable in transition. He’s also a good, unselfish passer.
7) Charlotte Hornets – RJ Hampton, PG, New Zealand Breakers
Hampton made waves a few weeks ago when he opted to play in the Australian NBL rather than attend college, yet that decision isn’t going to do anything to detract from his draft stock. His 6-5 size is a major plus and has an overall skill set (passing, quickness, scoring, defense) that makes him a tantalizing prospect. If he can prove he can handle the physicality of the NBL, he could find himself in the top five.
8) Atlanta Hawks – Matthew Hurt, PF, Duke
Atlanta continues to build their roster based on perimeter shooting, making the versatile Hurt a good fit for the Hawks. Along with being a knockdown perimeter shooter, Hurt has the ability to handle the ball and attack the basket. There are questions about how he’ll hold up defensively at the NBA level but he’s the kind of versatile offensive weapon that’s hard to pass up on.
9) Boston Celtics (via Memphis Grizzlies) – Theo Maledon, PG, Villeurbanne
Boston’s point guard situation continues to be up in the air and Maledon has the potential to be a productive starter in the NBA. His craftiness and skill set allow him to get by defenders whenever he wants despite not being a spectacular athlete, and he’s great at finishing at the rim or creating shots for others once he gets into the paint. The Frenchman needs to become a more consistent shooter but he has the tools of a quality NBA player.
10) Orlando Magic – Josh Green, SG, Arizona
The second Arizona player to fall in our top 10, Green has the potential to end up being selected higher than this. He’s a high-level athlete at 6-6 and 190 pounds and is one of the best slashers in this class. Green isn’t reliable as a ball-handler or shooter yet, but he has shown improvement in both areas. For an Orlando team that needs more backcourt scoring, Green would fill a major need as a dynamic scoring threat.