2017 NBA Mock Draft: The best choice each team can make

This is the first selection that was a bit of a head scratcher as some of the best players available are shooting guards for a Denver Nuggets’ roster that already has plenty of them. Obviously every selection that the Nuggets make should come with Nikola Jokic in mind, which makes Gonzaga’s Zach Collins a potential awkward fit, but it could work.

Playing two big men has gone out of style in the modern NBA, but franchises like the San Antonio Spurs have showed that it can still work with the right game plan. So, let’s not rule out a Collins-Jokic pairing simply on that basis. Offensively, Collins offers enough of a diversified skill set to not cramp the floor spacing wise. Although he didn’t shoot many 3s at Gonzaga, his 3-point shot is projectable and he can likely operate in the mid-range already. Collins also offers a quality pick-and-roll target and solid post up option.

Defensively, the pairing makes more sense as Collins’ rim protection can help cover up for Jokic’s lack of it. The 7-footer is probably the best shot blocker in the class and he does a nice job of both staying vertical and challenging enough shots. Collins is also capable of staying with guards on the perimeter for brief stretches, a skill that can help open up defenses.

There are plenty of arguments for other players at No. 13, but none of them are exactly what the doctor order for the Nuggets. Collins is too talented to let him pass and it’s possible that his pairing with Jokic will pan out.