NBA Mock Draft 3.0: Post-lottery predictions and shockers in the first-round
Michigan. 9. Scouting Report. player. 84. Pick Analysis. SF. Franz Wagner
NBA Mock Draft 9th Pick: Sacramento Kings
Another season, another missed playoffs for the Sacramento Kings. Owners of the NBA’s longest active playoff drought, the team remains stuck as prey for the beasts in the West. However, with a young core starting to round into form, there is some hope for the franchise as they move forward next season.
In last year’s draft, Sac Town made a major steal by drafting All-Rookie First Team member Tyrese Haliburton with the 12th overall pick. This year, they may be inching towards another high-upside talent with Michigan’s Franz Wagner who should be readily available with the ninth overall pick.
Last season’s anticlimactic lottery finish was self-inflicted. After all, Sacramento recorded the worst defensive rating in history in the campaign. Franz Wagner, with his versatility and activity on defense, should plug a lot of holes in a Kings team seemingly content on outscoring their opponents to win, which doesn’t happen much. Alas, he brings ample offensive firepower with his three-point stroke and subtle court vision.