Duke’s big man Jahlil Okafor is the jewel of this year’s draft class as the youngster has a rare combination of size, speed, and athleticism. The seven-footer can dominate at both ends of the floor and is likely headed to Philadelphia as the 76ers are having a disastrous season.
The LA Lakers are another squad struggling to win basketball games this season and several roster changes will happen before the start of next season. Los Angeles needs a new point guard, but Mitch Kupchak will likely fill this void through free agency. The next priority is finding a small forward with scoring abilities. The latest mocks from several experts have UCLA’s Kevon Looney as the projected pick for the Purple and Gold, a move that makes sense with his 6’9″ frame.
Indiana might be the biggest surprise of the year as the Pacers are not having the type of year expected from such a talented side, but one bad year could get this team some great young talent and a quick turnaround. This franchise is hurting with size in the paint, especially depth at power forward and that could lead to a tall youngster being the top choice for this team.
Two players that fit their needs are Trey Lyles of Kentucky and Montrezl Harrell of Louisville. Both of these young men have tremendous upside and have improved their rankings with strong play this season.
Several NBA teams will try to use free agency this summer to make changes that will excite the fans, but for those who use the draft, quality talent is available and with some luck, maybe the type of player that could lead a team to a championship before his career is finished.
