2017 FanSided NBA Network Mock Draft: Let the experts decide
By Staff
Harry Giles
Center, Duke
Although with Jabari Parker’s current injury status, there’s good reason for trepidation at the thought of the Bucks taking another player with significant knee problems, Harry Giles would also represent a continuation of a strategy they’ve had so much success with up to this point.
With all obvious guard and wing targets off the board at 17, it makes sense to revert to a best player available strategy. In Milwaukee’s case, best player available has always been about taking the long view and projecting the best player in terms of potential, and Giles certainly fits that mold.
Long, athletic and intelligent with a very positive attitude, Giles should fit perfectly alongside the likes of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Thon Maker. At the very least, Giles should be able to develop into a defensive playmaker. Even if injury prevents him from reaching his full potential, a backup big with the former Blue Devil’s size, skill and athleticism would chaos for opposing offenses paired alongside Milwaukee’s existing long-armed defenders.
On the other hand, maybe Giles can put his injuries behind him and realize the potential that once had him projected as a top pick. For a team on the rise like the Bucks, Giles has the tools to be a trajectory changing star in the mid-first round. Without a more obvious fit available before him, it makes sense to gamble on Giles.
— Adam McGee, Behind the Buck Pass, @BehindTheBucks