NBA Mock Draft 2017, Week 19: March Madness edition

The Wake Forest Demon Deacons didn’t last long in the NCAA Tournament, losing to the Kansas State Wildcats in the First Four on Tuesday night. First round prospect John Collins didn’t play his best game and still delivered 26 points and five rebounds in 25 minutes of the loss. Collins will not likely turn his attention towards the NBA Draft and raising his potential to ensure a late lottery or mid-first round selection.

Collins has been incredibly productive in his minutes this season. He’s averaging 28.8 points, 14.8 rebounds and 2.4 blocks per 40 minutes this season. He’s got a good collection of post moves, can attack off the dribble and has some developing range on his jump shot. Collins needs to work on his pick-and-roll finishing and passing to become a more effective offensive player. On defense, Collins struggles significantly with mental lapses despite averaging a decent number of blocked shots.

The biggest concern with the sophomore forward is where he fits in the NBA. At 6-foot-10, he’s a frontcourt tweener who may ultimately end up as a small ball center, but bringing some added athleticism to the Denver Nuggets’ frontline would be valuable. At worst, Collins seems like a prospect who can come of the bench and score.

Learn more about John Collins at The Step Back.