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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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Jan 8, 2017; Charlottesville, VA, USA; Wake Forest Demon Deacons forward John Collins (20) dunks the ball against the Virginia Cavaliers in the first half during a game at John Paul Jones Arena. Mandatory Credit: Patrick McDermott-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 8, 2017; Charlottesville, VA, USA; Wake Forest Demon Deacons forward John Collins (20) dunks the ball against the Virginia Cavaliers in the first half during a game at John Paul Jones Arena. Mandatory Credit: Patrick McDermott-USA TODAY Sports /
Learn more about John Collins at The Step Back.

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19

John Collins

PF/C, Wake Forest

With Paul Millsap reportedly planning to opt out of his contract this offseason, the Atlanta Hawks could be in the market for a power forward sooner rather than later. Wake Forest sophomore John Collins may not be ready to fill that role next season, but he could eventually develop into a long-term solutions for Atlanta at the positions.

Collins was tremendously productive in his second season, averaging 28.8 points and 14.4 rebounds per 40 minutes. His offense stills needs to stretch out into the mid-range, but he has a bevy of post moves to attack on the low block, dives well out of the pick-and-roll and is an excellent offensive rebounder. Collins may not be able to create much offense off the dribble, but his energy should produce enough points to make him a positive player on that end.

Collins has further to go on defense where his lack of length and feel for the game is more obvious. The 6-foot-10 big man isn’t great defending in space and doesn’t do much protecting the rim, but he does rebound well and can help his team end opponents’ possessions.

Collins could end up at his best as a backup leading a second unit, but he has the potential to be a starter because of his offensive production. He just needs the defense to come along.

Learn more about John Collins at The Step Back.