2016 NBA Mock Draft: Who will teams be tanking for next year?

7. Malik Newman – Mississippi State – SG

Malik Newman is the first guard off of the board and there’s a reason why he’s tops for guards. When you think of big-time scorers at the guard position, Newman is a player who looks to fit the bill. He can attack well, but his true strength lies in his shooting ability and range as a shooter. He can absolutely put the ball in the cup.

Perhaps the biggest challenge for Newman as he enters college, though, is honing his abilities as a ball-handler. At 6’3”, he’s a bit small for a wing at the NBA level, which means his skills as a ball-handler and decision-maker need to be sound for him to be an effective combo-guard in the pros. As for now, though, his scoring ability alone will make him a highly coveted commodity in the 2016 NBA Draft.

8. Cheick Diallo – Kansas – PF/C

Heading to Kansas, Cheick Diallo is cut in the mold of many big men taken in the lottery in recent years. He’s a competitor when he’s on the floor, never taking plays off on either end. Beyond that, Diallo already has the look of an elite defender and shot-blocker, no matter what level he’s playing at, given his motor and length.

His motor and length also make him a fantastic rebounder on both ends of the floor. What makes him like many prospects from recent years, though, is that his offensive game is where the work needs to be put in. He doesn’t have consistent touch and has a limited arsenal of moves as a post player. His defense will make him a lottery pick, but he could vault into the top five if he makes a big leap offensively in college.

9. Henry Ellenson – Marquette – PF/C

Henry Ellenson plays in the style of Ryan Anderson stretch big man. He has the ability to step out and knock down shots from the perimeter, but also has a nose for the ball on the glass and can rebound well even when pulled out of the interior. His skill at his size is undeniably impressive.

What Ellenson needs to improve upon, though, is filling out his frame. While he has a big body, he needs to strengthen it to better help him with his game in the post. Adding some post-moves would also aid him in that cause.

Ellenson has work and growing to do before he’ll be able to succeed in the NBA, but the potential is clearly there. If his game continues to evolve all around, he’ll be a valuable asset for NBA teams.

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