Round 1 – Picks 24 through 26
The Boston Celtics can draft Kai Jones and solve a lot of their problems. The Celtics do not have a primary power forward, which has led to them starting Jayson Tatum at the four-spot. Jones would finally give them some depth at this position.
Jones has not had a lot of time to shine because of his counterpart at the power forward who starts over him. He can score and rebound the basketball efficiently. However, he needs to work on defending without fouling.
Matthew Hurt is a good option for the Utah Jazz. The Jazz have been getting better each season, and they could get even better by selecting a power forward in the first round.
Hurt has been outstanding this season for Duke. He’s averaged 18.0 points and 7.0 rebounds per game. The only negative to his game is his ability to defend. Hurt needs to work on being a better defender, and the Jazz, who are a good defensive team, could really help him prove this part of his game.
The Brooklyn Nets gave away many draft picks to get James Harden this season. Luckily for them, they still have a pick for this year’s draft. With this pick, I see them getting someone for the four-spot. Isaiah Jackson could be a safe and developable pick.
Jackson has received limited playing time with Kentucky, but he’s proven to be a consistent shot blocker. He’s averaged 2.8 blocks per game while also averaging 6.7 rebounds. The Nets don’t have a lot of depth in the frontcourt, so this selection makes the most sense for them.