NBA Mock Draft 3.0: Post-lottery predictions and shockers in the first-round

NBA Draft, Jalen Suggs - Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
NBA Draft, Jalen Suggs - Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
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NBA Mock Draft, Kai Jones
NBA Mock Draft, Kai Jones – Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports

NBA Mock Draft 15th Pick: Washington Wizards

While the Washington Wizards managed to will themselves into a playoff berth before quickly losing in the first-round, the team should not look at their roster and think of bannering it next season to carry their postseason hopes alive, especially with the East getting stronger every season.

One department where Washington urgently needs help is in the center position, where the Wizards are currently utilizing their limited options in prominent roles. While Daniel Gafford has been a wonderful addition, he may be better as a hybrid power forward. Meanwhile, Robin Lopez shouldn’t be playing exhaustive minutes anymore whereas Thomas Bryant is coming off a major injury.

Texas’ Kai Jones seems to be a perfect fit with his explosiveness, mobility and athleticism from the center position. Aside from that, he possesses an intriguing offensive arsenal, capable of playing above the rim or shooting from the perimeter to complement Russell Westbrook and Bradley Beal’s shot creation and playmaking.