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2017 NBA Mock Draft, Week 23: The NBA Playoffs are upon us

By Chris Stone

Feb 9, 2017; Boulder, CO, USA; Washington Huskies guard Markelle Fultz (20) before the game against the Colorado Buffaloes at the Coors Events Center. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 9, 2017; Boulder, CO, USA; Washington Huskies guard Markelle Fultz (20) before the game against the Colorado Buffaloes at the Coors Events Center. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports /
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Rodions Kurucs

SF, Barcelona II

Draft status: Undecided, but expected to enter

This is the second of two first round picks for the Portland Trail Blazers and having so many selections give them the opportunity to take some risks that other teams don’t have. Rodions Kurucs is that type of risk. A 6-foot-8 wing who currently plays for Barcelona’s second team, Kurucs might be a perfect draft-and-stash candidate or development project who could ultimately be a nice wing creator.

In 20.9 minutes per game this season, he is averaging 9.2 points on a 55.8 true shooting percentage. The 19-year old has an impressive ability to get to the rim off the bounce, allowing him to attack from the perimeter with a quick first step. He isn’t a good 3-point shooter yet — he’s made just 30.8 percent of his 3s this season — but could develop into one, which would significantly expand his offensive arsenal. Kurucs has also posted a solid 12.8 percent assist rate this season.

Kurucs also has nice size for a wing defensively. He’s posted a 3.6 percent block rate and 2.0 percent steal rate this season. Assuming those defensive numbers will translate, Kurucs should be a useful defensive player at the next level.