2016 NBA Mock Draft: Timothe Luwawu Breaks into the Top 10

Cheick Diallo. 23. player. 18. <p>Boston has three 1st-round picks in this mock, so any of the multitude of European stash prospects available could fall here. Ante Zizic, Paul Zipser, and Isaia Cordinier could all be options. However, Danny Ainge has a history of avoiding overseas players. The last international Ainge took was Semih Erden, way back in 2008. The idea he would spend two picks on international players (Bender and this pick) is hard to believe.</p> <p>Instead, Ainge likes high-upside and long-term projects when he has the resources to work with them. Here, he’s already taking Skal Labissiere, so why not swing for the fences and grab Diallo as well? The Kansas Jayhawk freshman barely saw the floor for Kansas, averaging 7.5 minutes per game and missing 11 games completely. Diallo’s lack of playing time stemmed from what was likely a poor fit at Kansas, as he struggled with feel for the game, and was ultimately pushed out of the Jayhawks’ big rotation by more experienced players. However, there are still reasons to get excited about the Malian big man. His physical tools are impressive (7’4″ wingspan, excellent leaping ability), and he showed the ability to be a strong finisher and rebounder. As he continues to learn the game, he should become an excellent defensive player, just by virtue of his wingspan and motor.</p> <p>Boston is definitely willing to take on long-term projects; after all, this is the team that drafted Fab Melo in 2012. If Diallo can impress in workouts, he should have a shot at the 1st round, and Boston is a good landing spot for him.</p> <p><em>To learn more about Cheick Diallo, click here. </em></p>. PF. Kansas