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2017 NBA Mock Draft: What if the Lakers don’t take Lonzo Ball?

By Chris Stone

Jan 25, 2017; Tempe, AZ, USA; Washington Huskies guard Markelle Fultz (20) dribbles the ball against the Arizona State Sun Devils during the second half at Wells-Fargo Arena. The Sun Devils won 86-75. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 25, 2017; Tempe, AZ, USA; Washington Huskies guard Markelle Fultz (20) dribbles the ball against the Arizona State Sun Devils during the second half at Wells-Fargo Arena. The Sun Devils won 86-75. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports /
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Apr 3, 2017; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Gonzaga Bulldogs forward Zach Collins (32) dunks the ball against North Carolina Tar Heels guard Nate Britt (0) during the first half in the championship game of the 2017 NCAA Men’s Final Four at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 3, 2017; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Gonzaga Bulldogs forward Zach Collins (32) dunks the ball against North Carolina Tar Heels guard Nate Britt (0) during the first half in the championship game of the 2017 NCAA Men’s Final Four at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports /
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Zach Collins

C, Gonzaga

Earlier in this mock, the Detroit Pistons passed on Gonzaga’s Zach Collins because drafting a backup big man for their roster didn’t make sense, but here the Miami Heat take Collins despite having Hassan Whiteside on board already. However, remember that Whiteside is four years older than Andre Drummond and lacks the kind of upside that the Pistons’ center has. Bringing in Collins to be a backup in the early stages of his career while preparing him to takeover the starting spot in his prime is something that makes sense.

Collins has some really nice upside for a center prospect because of his defensive potential and developing offense. The 7-footer is the top rim protecting center in this class as he averaged 4.1 blocks per 40 minutes last season. Collins has a nice understanding of verticality and good instincts for challenging shots. He also has the potential to stay with guards for a few slides on the perimeter, opening up some options for defending pick-and-roll.

Collins’ offensive upside revolves around his potential to develop his 3-point shot. He took them at a low volume this season, but made 10 of his 21 attempts. He already has a solid roll game and can play well out of the post.