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8P9S NBA Mock Draft 1.0: With the 26th pick, the Indiana Pacers select…

By Ben Gibson

DURHAM, NC - FEBRUARY 16: Zion Williamson #1 of the Duke Blue Devils reacts during their game against the North Carolina State Wolfpack at Cameron Indoor Stadium on February 16, 2019 in Durham, North Carolina. Duke won 94-78. (Photo by Lance King/Getty Images)
DURHAM, NC - FEBRUARY 16: Zion Williamson #1 of the Duke Blue Devils reacts during their game against the North Carolina State Wolfpack at Cameron Indoor Stadium on February 16, 2019 in Durham, North Carolina. Duke won 94-78. (Photo by Lance King/Getty Images) /
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Brandon Clarke #15 of the Gonzaga Bulldogs
SPOKANE, WA – FEBRUARY 21: Brandon Clarke #15 of the Gonzaga Bulldogs looks on from the bench in the second half against the Pepperdine Waves at McCarthey Athletic Center on February 21, 2019 in Spokane, Washington. Gonzaga defeated Pepperdine 92-64. (Photo by William Mancebo/Getty Images) /

No. 10 — Atlanta Hawks (via Dallas Mavericks): Brandon Clarke, F/C

School: Gonzaga | Class: Junior | Height: 6’8” | Weight: 215 | Age: 22

I disputed between Brandon Clarke and Jontay Porter on this pick and ended up with Clarke. While Jontay is the better prospect to me, Clarke’s defensive dominance fits more of what Atlanta needs. Brandon Clarke has emerged as Gonzaga’s best player, best prospect and one of the nation’s best players. His numbers are off of the charts and his impact is undeniable.

Clarke’s elite athleticism, defensive ability and touch around the rim make him an ideal small-ball modern big. His elite touch gives me the inclination that he will eventually shoot threes at a decent clip, a mark that could take his game to elite levels.

Clarke would help compensate for John Collins’ woeful defense, providing the rim protection and help defense that Collins cannot. Stacking Hunter and Clarke would undoubtedly be a massive success for Atlanta, setting them up for future success nicely. — Ben Pfeifer

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