NBA Draft 2021: Grades for all 30 draft picks from the first round
7. Golden State Warriors: Jonathan Kuminga, Forward, G-League Ignite
Grade: C+
Kuminga was No. 5 on my board, but I actually didn’t love this pick for the Warriors, who clearly took a “best player available” approach here. He’s got a ton of upside, but I’m not exactly sure he fits their timeline. Kuminga is a strong, explosive wing, but he needs to shoot it better. The Warriors want to compete for a title next year, and I’m not totally sure he’ll be ready for that. Franz Wagner would have fit both the “youth” and “win-now” aspect and would have been my pick here
8. Orlando Magic: Franz Wagner, Forward, Michigan
Grade: A
What a haul for the Orlando Magic. Wagner was No. 6 on my board and fits in really well with the roster. He’s got a malleable skillset and will be able to play off of Suggs. After snagging a plus defender in Suggs, Wagner only adds to that with his length and team defense.
Paired with Chuma Okeke on the wing and Jonathan Isaac and Mo Bamba upfront, the Magic possess a ton of length. They have youth across all positions. Wagner will need to shoot it more consistently, especially given Orlando’s lack of shooting, but I buy the progression.
9. Sacramento Kings: Davion Mitchell, Guard, Baylor
Grade: D
The Kings were in a tough spot with Kuminga and Wagner off the board. They’d been linked to Alperen Sengun to add depth up-front but went with Mitchell instead. From a fit and timeline perspective, this move perplexed me. The Kings seem to have their backcourt of the future in De’Aaron Fox and Tyrese Haliburton, and Mitchell is another player who is best with the ball in his hands. Mitchell is already 23 years old, signaling he’s got a bit of a lower ceiling.
The Kings are a ways away from the playoffs and should have gone upside here. Even if Buddy Hield does leave, I thought James Bouknight or Moses Moody would have been better replacements. I don’t think Mitchell will be a bad player or a “bust”. His defense will be valuable for them immediately, I just don’t think it made sense for Sacramento.