NBA Draft 2020: Best-case scenarios for all 30 franchises

Atlanta Hawks – Draft either Devin Vassell or Tyrese Haliburton at No. 6

With Trae Young and John Collins cemented as cornerstones of the franchises, the Hawks will be looking to see which position could use most improvement. They’ll experiment with Clint Capella at center (his three years left on his deal makes him hard to move) next season, while wing forwards Cam Reddish and DeAndre Hunter showed flashes as a rookie.

Considering that this is the worst defensive unit in the league this past season, it makes sense to get the best available defender in the draft, which would be Vassell from Florida State. But he may compliment things for both Reddish and Hunter on the wings.

The other option is Haliburton, who would take needed pressure for the 6’1 Young at point and leading the offense. The Cyclone guard is big enough to defend bigger guards and can play off-ball as well. Either one would make great sense at No. 6.

Boston Celtics – Trade up to land Vernon Carey Jr.

After hoarding a ton of draft picks over the years, the Celtics have three in the first round this time (14, 26, and 30). That No. 14 pick was supposed to be in the top-5 but Memphis, the original owner of that pick had a better than expected campaign. Still, Boston has some needs to address despite proven to be a title contender, including finding a backup point guard, as well as a true center to compete with the top bigs in the East.

In the teens, there aren’t many centers you’d want to take without reaching. One exception is ACC Player of the Year Carey, who could be gone by then. In that case, Boston should use one of the late-round picks to guarantee to land him, which also helps them by not adding another young player who likely won’t be able to make the rotation. They can land a future 1st, where they’ll have more options.