8p9s Mock Draft 3.0: Trying to keep up with rumors
89. . PF/C. Wake Forest. John Collins. 17. player
John Collins is perhaps the most efficient low post scorer in this draft class. His footwork is very advanced for a college sophomore, and he can play the pick-and-roll with Malcolm Brogdon as well. While his offensive game is similar to that of a traditional five, Collins is capable of guarding fours on the perimeter. His lack of 3-point shooting shouldn’t be too much of an issue if Thon Maker’s stroke is legit.
Collins very well might have been born a few years too late. His destiny seems to be a backup big who functions a bit more traditionally, in the mode of Enes Kanter or Al Jefferson. At the 17th pick, however, that’s nothing to sneeze at. Collins will be an asset wherever he goes.
100. . SF. Indiana. OG Anunoby. 18. player
OG Anunoby is yet another prospect who has built his reputation upon impeccable defense. He has the upside to become a lockdown perimeter defender in the mold of Paul George, Jimmy Butler and even Kawhi Leonard, and he could potentially be able to guard every position in a pinch. That’s no small feat.
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On offense, he could be a sneaky good rebounder as a forward, but the rest of his game needs a bit of work. He’s a streaky shooter with bad footwork down low, and his handle is loose, to put it gently. Moreover, his ACL history is worrisome, and he might not be eligible for very many games next season.
With Paul George basically out the door, the Pacers need a three of the future, and Anunoby would be a huge value at No. 18. He doesn’t need to do everything right away, just stand in the corner and shoot. Hopefully he can handle that and make his money on the other end. The Pacers would be in a great spot if a defensive talent like Anunoby were to fall to them on draft night.