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2017 NBA Mock Draft, Week 26: The Timberwolves’ young core improves

By Chris Stone

Jan 14, 2017; Stanford, CA, USA; Washington Huskies guard Markelle Fultz (20) gets the rebound against the Stanford Cardinal in the first half at Maples Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: John Hefti-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 14, 2017; Stanford, CA, USA; Washington Huskies guard Markelle Fultz (20) gets the rebound against the Stanford Cardinal in the first half at Maples Pavilion. Mandatory Credit: John Hefti-USA TODAY Sports /
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Feb 16, 2017; Spokane, WA, USA; Gonzaga Bulldogs forward Zach Collins (32) attempts a free throw against the San Francisco Dons during the first half at McCarthey Athletic Center. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 16, 2017; Spokane, WA, USA; Gonzaga Bulldogs forward Zach Collins (32) attempts a free throw against the San Francisco Dons during the first half at McCarthey Athletic Center. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports /
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Zach Collins

C, Gonzaga

Lottery odds: 0.8 percent

Draft status: In with an agent

One of the better late lottery fits in my opinion is Zach Collins to the Charlotte Hornets. While Charlotte has Cody Zeller under contract through the 2020-21 season, Collins is a center with a higher upside who could ultimately supplant Zeller in the starting role.

Offensively, Collins should fit well in modern NBA offenses because of his skills in pick-and-roll. He rim runs well and has a post game that can punish smaller players should they switch onto him. Collins is also a developing outside shooter, which would open up some intriguing options for his offensive game and put defenses in tougher spots on ball screens. The one area Collins struggles on offense is as a passer. He needs more court time to figure out how to handle double teams, in particular.

The 7-footer should be able to make a big impact defensively in the NBA. At 4.1 blocks per 40 minutes, Collins is probably the best rim protector in the 2017 draft class. He has a great understanding of verticality and is willing to challenge shots from every direction. Collins also has the lateral mobility to handle cutting off penetration from guards. Zeller is a good player, but Collins could end up being the best center prospect in this class.