With two picks in the opening round, including the ninth overall selection, the front office should be able to add some good young talent.
Bleacher Reports Jonathan Wasserman has released his latest mock and has the team taking Gonzaga big man Domantas Sabonis. The youngster had two successful years with the Zags’, but his best days of basketball are still ahead.
At 6’10” and 240 pounds, the youngster has the size to bang bodies in the paint and the game at both ends of the court to become an immediate contributor. Sabonis learned his craft from his dad, who played for the Russian National team before finishing his career in the NBA and that education will benefit this youngster, especially early in his career.
Jakob Poeltl of Utah is another option. The seven-footer from Utah is terrific on the glass and with blocking shots, but would need help with his moves in the post at the next level. Size isn’t something that can be taught and with good athleticism, Poeltl could add depth to the bench and eventually takeover the starting job in the paint.
With the teams other pick, things could get interesting. Rumors of DeMar DeRozan opting-out of his deal and becoming a free agent would leave a big hole at shooting guard and with little success of getting big name talent to play in Canada, they could use this selection as an insurance policy.
Timothe Luwawu of France is one of the better International players available and a solid option late in round one. At 6’7″ he has great size for a number two guard and the range to become a solid three point threat, but its a big leap from playing in Europe to the best league in the game, but a gamble that could be worth taking.
DeAndre Bembry of St Joe’s is another option. The 6’5″ youngster can play either spot in the back court, which wouldn’t hurt if DeRozan stays with the Toronto Raptors.
This team has enjoyed terrific results the past two years and for this franchise to continue their winning ways, they must continue to be proactive in adding talent, both through the draft and in free agency and if they have a strong summer, another top-3 finish in the Eastern Conference next year is a legitimate goal.
