The 2020-21 NBA season concluded just last week with the Milwaukee Bucks defeating the Phoenix Suns to claim their second NBA Championship, their first since 1971. Now, we move to the offseason and the first order of business for NBA teams is the NBA Draft.
The Charlotte Hornets and other teams will be looking to find the league’s next young stars as they look to make their run at the NBA title. For Charlotte specifically, they’ll be looking at adding young depth around their Rookie of the Year award winner, LaMelo Ball. The Hornets must take advantage of their lottery pick to try and add another stud to the roster.
Swarm and Sting has been bringing you all draft content for quite some time now and we’re going to cap it off with our team’s 2021 first-round mock draft. Participating in this mock draft are co-site experts Shawn Simmons and Stephen Sears, and contributors Josh Flenniken, Filippo Barresi, Evan Birchmore, Jason Hubler, and Michael Wylie.
The NBA Draft is July 29 at 8 p.m.
This mock was done before the completion of the trade involving Memphis and New Orleans.
The Detroit Pistons have finally struck some lottery luck, and what a great year to do so. Cade Cunningham possesses every trait a team could ask for while looking for the future face of the franchise. Already being an elite playmaker, Cunningham gets to his spots and has true go-to scorer potential. Detroit gets the NBA’s next big superstar. -Stephen Sears
It’s hard to imagine Green’s elite athleticism and the scoring acumen he showcased in his lone G-League season (to the tune of a 61.3% true shooting mark) won’t at least make him a high-end starter in the league. Mobley’s unique skills at his size are intriguing, but year after year, we see teams make deep playoff runs with the kind of scoring wing Green projects to be. If he can develop his playmaking, pack on some muscle, and leverage his elite quickness on the defensive end the way he does on offense, he has the chance to be much more. -Josh Flenniken
With the Rockets passing on Evan Mobley in this scenario, Cleveland should take full advantage of the opportunity to add a player like Mobley to their team to fit with their young core. Collin Sexton, Darius Garland, Issac Okoro, and Mobley could grow all together in the future and guarantee Cleveland with a competitive team for many years. This selection could also allow the Cavs to avoid overpaying Jarrett Allen this summer. -Filippo Barresi
Jalen Suggs perfectly fits Toronto’s current situation as a high-upside guard who can score in transition and bring a defensive intensity on the perimeter. With Kyle Lowry’s reign in Toronto possibly coming to an end, Suggs would walk into a vacant role in a better-than-usual destination for a top-five pick. -Michael Wylie
The choice between Kuminga and Scottie Barnes is a tough one but Kuminga is more of a project and with the Magic going full rebuild, the higher potential might be too high to pass on. Kuminga’s stock fell after he struggled some offensively with the G-League Ignite but he’s only 18 and at least has experience playing against pro-level players. His shooting is streaky but he’s proven to have good basketball instincts, has a 7-foot wingspan and he can develop into a star at the pace Orlando needs him to so they can figure out its rebuild. -Jason Hubler
An NBA-ready frame with tremendous versatility has made Scottie Barnes a hot commodity in pre-draft circles. His enormous wingspan (nearly 7-foot-3) and hard-nosed style of play have drawn comparisons to Draymond Green. To reach his ceiling his shooting will need to improve, but the upside is undeniable. -Evan Birchmore
The Golden State Warriors have been battling a rash of injuries the past few seasons. Klay Thompson has missed significant time, as well as Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. Even when healthy, the Warriors have lacked depth on the roster to return to championship contention. With two picks in the first 14 selections, the Warriors look to solve this issue, plus add pieces to the roster that can eventually replace their aging stars.
With the seventh overall selection, Golden State selects a player that’s been rising up draft boards at the right time, Baylor’s Davion Mitchell. The Naismith and Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year is the perfect, experienced prospect to add to the Warriors’ roster. He’s a national champion that will fit into the Warriors’ championship culture. Mitchell is a reliable player on both ends of the floor that the Warriors can count on when Curry goes to the bench. Curry turned 33 this year; Mitchell has the potential to take over the reins of the team when Curry decides to either hang it up or move on. -Shawn Simmons
Despite being a bit undersized for a center, Alperen Sengun is extremely skilled offensively for a big-man and can prove to be another European big-man that can play all over the floor. Orlando desperately needs a new big man after trading Nikola Vucevic this season and Mo Bama doesn’t seem like he is the guy. Sengun can shoot, pass and attack the basket, making him a potentially dominant player in the league. He might be used as a power forward more but for an Orlando team that needs almost everything, their interest in the Turkish big-man seems high. -Jason Hubler
For better or worse, the Kings seem intent to keep plucking away with their current core to snap the 15-year playoff drought haunting the franchise. Tyrese Haliburton looks like a great long-term piece for them, but their average offense still isn’t doing enough to make up for their historically awful league-worst defense. Franz Wagner is the kind of versatile forward the Kings are rumored to be targeting, and his impeccable off-ball defense could help plug their many leaks. Plus, he still has some offensive upside as a tertiary ball-handler, developing shooter, and efficient scorer who can thrive in a lower-usage role next to Fox and Haliburton. -Josh Flenniken
The Pelicans need to start building a better team around Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram, the best way to do it is with shooters. Corey Kispert displayed that he could really open the floor for his team thanks to his elite shooting ability during his Gonzaga years. He could also be one of the most pro-ready prospects to select in this range as the Pelicans should hurry to create a competitive team. -Filippo Barresi
There are several different ways Charlotte can go this year in the draft. The glaring need for a rim-protecting center has received plenty of shouts so I feel the need to explain why I didn’t go that direction before people show up with pitchforks in my Twitter mentions.
Looking at who’s been drafted already in the S&S mock, the decision for Charlotte came down to two prospects, Moses Moody and the uber-athletic Keon Johnson. Simply put, they’re just better prospects than Kai Jones or Isaiah Jackson, the two big men who many think fill Charlotte’s center hole.
Both of those centers are very raw and lack much upside. As a big man, the only thing you will likely be getting from them is sporadic shot-blocking, lobs, and rim-running, which is cool and makes for a great YouTube video, but the value just isn’t there at all 11 in this mock.
Especially when looking at who’s available. Guys who have All-Star potential, while realistically Jackson and Jones’s potential is topping out as starters/energy bigs, which isn’t bad, but again, there are better options available.
At just 19 years old Moody already has a refined game and is considered to be one of the safer, high-floor guys in this draft class. However, the only thing really keeping Moody from being a consensus high-ceiling, top-10 pick, is his lack of athleticism and handle that would give him true star potential.
Moody was considered to be one of the best shooters in the NCAA last season, knocking down around 36% of his threes on about 5.1 attempts per game. He also possesses a crafty mid-range game which is needed from your star guys if you’re looking to make a run in the playoffs.
On top of his offensive abilities, Moody is considered to be one of the best defensive prospects in this class. He may not have the flashy blocks that a Jackson or Jones will have, but I would bet that he will be a more impactful defensive player in his career. Perimeter defense matters.
Moody should be able to come into this Charlotte team and immediately be productive. He likely won’t be an immediate starter due to Charlotte’s depth at the guard and forward position, but he’ll be a solid rotation piece and maybe the long-term answer next to LaMelo Ball in the backcourt as Terry Rozier will be a free agent in 2022. – Stephen Sears
Post-Trade Note: Moody would have been the selection at 10 for Memphis, so Keon Johnson would have been selected at 11 for the Hornets.
San Antonio added a lot of good and promising guards in recent years but is still missing a lot of talent in their frontcourt. Selecting Kai Jones could provide a lot of raw talent to a team that has demonstrated how successful they are in developing prospects. -Filippo Barresi
James Bouknight is seen as one of the more intriguing prospects heading into the draft. He has impressed in workouts leading up to the draft and has been linked to teams all around the lottery. With a league trending towards isolation basketball, Bouknight will be able to flourish as a shot-creator with proper floor spacing. With improved shooting from three and defensive work, Bouknight could be the steal of the draft at pick 13. -Michael Wylie
Jalen Johnson is a talented prospect that can handle the ball for a team or play in the forward position. Johnson would immediately upgrade the Warriors in the frontcourt and could eventually replace Draymond Green as Golden State’s starting power forward of the future.
Johnson’s shooting stroke needs work; with Curry as a teammate, that shouldn’t be an issue. He is an extremely explosive athlete and versatile defender. He excels in the open court, is a great passer, and aggressive rebounder on both ends of the court. Johnson is a perfect prospect for Golden State with the 14th pick. -Shawn Simmons
I think Keon Johnson might be drafted before this spot but if he isn’t, the potential that Johnson holds might be too much for Washington to pass on. There are still areas of Johnson’s game such as his 3-point shot and passing ability that need improvement, but those are things that could be fixed with the right team. At 19, Johnson still is explosive, athletic, and can shoot well from mid-range. Washington is in a weird position right now with the uncertainty of Bradley Beal and Russell Westbrook but with a likely rebuild on the horizon, Johnson could be the right guy to come in, improve and eventually be a solid starter in the league. -Jason Hubler
It is unlikely that Josh Giddey will be available this late and if he is, this pick has the potential to be the steal of the draft. His blend of playmaking and passing would pair nicely alongside Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. His shooting and defense will be areas to work on, but Giddey has a gift of court vision that can’t be taught. -Evan Birchmore
Memphis has two cornerstones of the franchise in Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. in place, but they’ve got to improve on the wing and add shooting. Ziaire Williams is very raw but has the potential to be a solid 2-way player in the NBA if he becomes a consistent shooter. – Stephen Sears
Post-Trade Note: At 10, Moses Moody would have been the pick for Memphis
A true defensive big man, Usman Garuba brings rim protection and undeniable hustle when on the floor. The offensive end of the court is where his questions marks lie, but Oklahoma City appears to be willing to be patient as they build toward contention. -Evan Birchmore
The New York Knicks had an unbelievable season this past year but maybe in store for a roster remake this offseason. With several free agents, some who’s performances this past season will likely garner them bigger contracts or better opportunities elsewhere, the Knicks will look to get younger and pre-plug holes prior to free agency.
Alec Burks is a player that could bolt in free agency, but the Knicks can use the 19th selection to replace his offensive contributions with Oregon guard Chris Duarte. Durate is one of the best shooters in the draft, shooting 42% from three on 5.5 attempts per game last season for the Ducks. He’s 24 years old, New York would be bringing in a player who can immediately contribute and help to get the Knicks back into the playoffs in 2022. -Shawn Simmons
Jared Butler is an NBA-ready guard with the ability to play both on and off the ball. His shooting and shot-creating ability can fit as a bench piece that can play alongside Trae Young along with running the point when young is off the floor. Butler’s consistent shooting will help space the floor and give the Hawks more threats off the bench. -Michael Wylie
With the potential departure of Nerlens Noel, the uncertain future of Mitchell Robinson, and an aging Taj Gibson, the Knicks look to Kentucky center Isaiah Jackson as their big man of the future.
Jackson can be a difference-maker on the defensive end. He has the potential to be an elite shot-blocker and rebounder. He’s not a scorer right now but shows flashes of potential with his ability to pass and shoot the ball. -Shawn Simmons
A true scoring specialist, Cameron Thomas would be a solid immediate-impact selection for the Lakers. With Dennis Schroder appearing likely to depart, Thomas could help alleviate some of the scoring burdens from LeBron James and Anthony Davis. His playmaking and decision-making could stand to improve, but Thomas projects to at least be a serviceable scorer from the beginning. -Evan Birchmore
Jaden Springer isn’t a standout athlete, but as an 18-year-old who scored efficiently, shot well, and played outstanding defense, he’s a good upside pick at this spot in the draft. He has a great motor and the savvy of a much older player. I see a middle-of-the-road outcome for him as similar to fellow Tennessee alumnus Josh Richardson, but he’s still young enough to grow. It’s not unreasonable to think he could become a reliable, big-bodied starter at combo guard in the vein of Malcolm Brogdon or Marcus Smart. -Josh Flenniken
Joshua Primo is another upside pick with a relatively high floor thanks to his ability to hit movement threes on high volume. He compares favorably to the 76ers rookie sharpshooter Isaiah Joe, but his solid wingspan and good quickness make him a 3 and D candidate who might have a little more to give on offense. He wasn’t terrifying SEC defenses off the dribble, but he showcased enough that it’s worth seeing what he can do with more development and opportunity. Plus, he’s another 18-year-old with plenty of room for growth—both physically and fundamentally. -Josh Flenniken
The Clippers are still in search of a true lead guard to organize the sometimes chaotic and isolation-heavy offense centered around Paul George and Kawhi Leonard. While Cooper is currently a deficient jump-shooter, his free throw numbers are an encouraging sign he’ll develop there over time. He’s undersized, which negatively impacts his ability to finish through contact, especially his defensive potential. However, Cooper’s ability and confidence as a passer and floor general might be the best in this class, and just what the Clippers need to create easier offense and take some of the scoring burdens off of George and Leonard if it translates. His quickness and creativity give him potential as a scorer off the bench next to Terrance Mann as well. -Josh Flenniken
The Denver Nuggets hands down were the best team in the NBA until Jamal Murray tore the ACL in his left knee in April. Murray missed the rest of the season and hopes of winning an NBA Championship. Although the Nuggets beat the Portland Trail Blazers 4-2 in the first round, Denver was no match for the eventual Western Conference Champion Phoenix Suns in the second round, getting swept 4-0.
This pick is all about adding depth at the point guard position as Murray battles back from a major injury. Florida’s Tre Mann is a shot-making point guard who can contribute immediately in a backup role. He has a good shooting touch from all over the floor, and this past season improved as a passer. He has the size, shooting touch, and passing ability that will fit perfectly in the Nuggets’ offense. -Shawn Simmons
Brooklyn will be looking to compete for the title next season and will likely try to bring in a more experienced rookie with a defined role. Enter Trey Murphy III, a junior from Virginia known for his shooting, posting splits of 50/43/93, and his defensive play. -Stephen Sears
The 76ers need shooting badly and Quentin Grimes could instantly provide that as his stock rises into the first round. Grimes was an excellent 3-point shooter in college, helping lead Houston to the Final Four, he’s experienced and his stock has been on the rise since the combine. A team like the Sixers which is already a contender would allow Grimes to improve on his game as an all-around player as he has relied a lot on his shooting in college. -Jason Hubler
Miles McBride is your stereotypical scrappy guard. He is an amazing and fearless defender that can pester the opposing team’s guards during his time on the floor. Along with his defensive ability, he can shoot and would work well along with a dominant big in the pick and roll. If Chris Paul chooses to stay in Phoneix, he could be a perfect mentor to help McBride mold into an NBA guard. -Michael Wylie
Utah really suffered defending perimeter players during their recent playoff run and this is a problem they need to address during this offseason. One way to solve it is by drafting Pepperdine’s Kessler Edwards, one of the better 3&D prospects in this draft. His size and IQ are a perfect skillset for a competitive team like Utah. -Filippo Barresi