With the 2021 NBA Draft only hours away, here is E2G Sports’ Ryan Beatty with his final NBA Mock Draft.
ESPN Sources: The Detroit Pistons have landed on a decision to select Oklahoma State’s Cade Cunningham with the No. 1 pick in tonight’s NBA Draft (ESPN and ABC at 8 PM ET). — Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 29, 2021
1. Detroit Pistons – Cade Cunningham, Oklahoma State (G/F, 6’8″, 220 lbs.)
Although I am very optimistic about Evan Mobley it seems it is clear that Cade Cunningham will be the consensus #1 overall pick. A franchise that has made the wrong choice one too many times will go along with the majority and select Cunningham. He has the ability to take over games. I want to see him become more energetic defensively and change the fortune of this Pistons franchise.
2. Houston Rockets – Evan Mobley, USC (PF/C, 7’0″, 215 lbs.)
It took me all of 5 minutes of watching Evan at USC to realize he will be an NBA star. I believe he is the best player in this draft. He has a 7’4 wingspan but plays like a guard. I see a lot of Kevin Durant and a young Kevin Garnett in his game. Mobley is part of the new NBA evolution of big men. I expect him to make an instant impact on a struggling Rockets franchise.
"I had one scout tell me the other night that Mobley is Chris Bosh on offense and Anthony Davis on defense. That’s an NBA superstar. That’s crazy." 🤯 – @chadfordinsider on Evan Mobley (Via @ChrisFedor ) pic.twitter.com/5HxCreXNhW — NBA Central (@TheNBACentral) July 26, 2021
3. Cleveland Cavaliers – Jalen Green, G League Ignite (SG, 6’6″, 178 lbs.)
Green has caught the eyes of NBA scouts since his immaculate New York High School seasons. After an interesting approach, Green is still one of the most respected prospects in this draft.
4. Toronto Raptors – Jalen Suggs, Gonzaga (PG, 6’4″, 205 lbs.)
One of the best athletes in the draft but also brings a lot of skill and ability to break down defenders. It looks like the Raptors are finally ready to part ways with Kyle Lowry. I believe they have found an amazing replacement in Jalen Suggs.
"The player development program is off the charts," says projected top-4 pick Jalen Suggs, who was asked about the Raptors during his pre-draft avail. He mentioned the proximity of the 905 to Toronto as well as the team's success stories: Siakam, Boucher and VanVleet. pic.twitter.com/jOPwgjPEVa — Josh Lewenberg (@JLew1050) July 27, 2021
5. Orlando Magic – Scottie Barnes, Florida State (SF, 6’8″, 225 lbs.)
Barnes has been hyped up a lot in the most recent weeks. The very strong wing has an ability to get in the lane and draw double teams, he is a great passer how can ball hawk defensively and even knock down occasional threes. I always knew his game would translate, seems like NBA scouts have now agreed.
6. Oklahoma City Thunder – Jonathan Kuminga, G League Ignite (SF/PF, 6’8″, 220 lbs.)
Very athletically gifted prospect coming from the G-League is ready for the NBA. He has become a huge attraction because of his potential. I don’t think the Thunder are looking to contend in this next season so I believe he is a great fit.
7. Golden State Warriors (via Timberwolves) – Davion Mitchell, Baylor (PG, 6’1″, 202 lbs.)
One of the best on-ball defenders I have ever seen at the college level. Reigning National Champion Mitchell will take on the role that starter Steph Curry has struggled with. He can guard the best guard on the opposition, let’s not overlook his work ethic, shooting ability, and strength in the paint even at 6’1.
"I wanna be up there with guys like Donovan Mitchell & Damian Lillard" Davion Mitchell is READY to take on the NBA 👀 NEW [NO DAYS OFF] w/ @hoopculture13https://t.co/gJJ5DngqOh pic.twitter.com/1rxhs3mw1I — Whistle (@WhistleSports) July 28, 2021
8. Orlando Magic (via Bulls) – Corey Kispert, Gonzaga (SF, 6’7″, 224 lbs.)
Kispert really blossomed at Gonzaga. I compare him to Kyle Korver. He was an amazing pull-up and spot-up shooter who can really help the Magic late in close games.
9. Sacramento Kings – Keon Johnson, Tennessee (G/F, 6’5″, 186 lbs.)
Johnson is a very talented Defender. I believe 9 might be a little early for him but fitting in what Sacramento is looking to do in the next couple of years I believe he is a fit. Forming a new identity, wearing teams down with consistent hustle, may be the key to success for this team.
10. Memphis Grizzlies (via Pelicans) – James Bouknight, UConn (SG, 6’4″, 190 lbs.)
I can see the Grizzlies using this pick to add to their backcourt. I compare the UConn guard to a young Derrick Rose, yes I said it, he is that good.
🗣️ James Bouknight is ready for what's next! 2021 #NBADraft presented by State Farm Thursday at 8 PM ET on ABC / ESPN pic.twitter.com/EI4zcZ5z5h — NBA (@NBA) July 27, 2021
11. Charlotte Hornets – Franz Wagner, Michigan (SF, 6’9″, 220 lbs.)
Another lights-out shooter gives the Hornets good spacing and lets their dynamic play makes contro