Dallas is one team in need of help as owner Mark Cuban has had little effect in getting big name free agents to play for his team, but with the right picks next summer, the help the Mavericks need could be on the way.
The latest mocks have Washington’s freshman sensation Markelle Fultz as the best option. The 6’5″ do-everything point guard is terrific on both ends of the floor and has the ability to make those around him play better, something this franchise needs to start competing in the tough Western Conference.
Every team is always looking for the next dominant big man and this year’s class of talent has some good options. The top-ranked center is Lauri Markkanen of Arizona. The seven-footer is having a terrific year with the Wildcats, averaging 17 points and seven rebounds, but he will need to add some weight to handle the long grind of an NBA season.
Josh Jackson has emerged as the top wing player through mid-December and his 6’8″ frame is perfect for the next level.The Kansas star is a jack of all trades and perhaps the best two-way player available next year. Jackson is averaging 15 points, six rebounds, and nearly four assists on the year and many NBA experts believe his game is a good fit with Philadelphia or Minnesota.
This year’s class is deep at the guard position, especially at the point and for those franchises looking for more depth or perhaps a new floor leader, could have several quality players to choose from. Dennis Smith of NC State and Lonzo Ball of UCLA are both ranked in the top-5 overall for 2017 and great options for any team with depth issues. Both of these youngsters have star potential and with the right team, could become the next face of a franchise and possibly lead a team to a title before their time as professional basketball players are finished.
