2018 NBA Mock Draft: Way too early edition

Jan 5, 2016; Providence, RI, USA; Boston Celtics president of basketball operations Danny Ainge (left) speaks to fans during the first half of a game between the Providence Friars and the Marquette Golden Eagles at Dunkin Donuts Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark L. Baer-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 5, 2016; Providence, RI, USA; Boston Celtics president of basketball operations Danny Ainge (left) speaks to fans during the first half of a game between the Providence Friars and the Marquette Golden Eagles at Dunkin Donuts Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark L. Baer-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 26, 2017; Chicago, IL, USA; McDonalds High School All-American forward Lonnie Walker IV (14) poses for a photo during the 2017 McDonalds All American Game Portrait Day at Chicago Marriott. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 26, 2017; Chicago, IL, USA; McDonalds High School All-American forward Lonnie Walker IV (14) poses for a photo during the 2017 McDonalds All American Game Portrait Day at Chicago Marriott. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /
14

Lonnie Walker

SG, Miami

The Miami Hurricanes will be a squad to watch for those interested in the 2018 NBA Draft. 5-star recruit Lonnie Walker joins returning sophomore Bruce Brown in the backcourt to form a potent duo who should deliver excitement on a nightly basis.

Walker is a 6-foot-5 shooting guard with plenty of point guard skills. He handles well, can make plays for his teammates on the move and is very good finishing around the basket where he can use his strength or body control to attack longer defenders. Walker is also a capable jump shooter who can get buckets off the dribble, a near priority for any player who hopes to be a high level scorer in the NBA.

Walker is the type of guy who could be a two-way wing at the next level. He has a very nice 6-foot-10 wingspan, moves well laterally and can challenge opposing perimeter players. How well his frame fills out will determine how many positions he can guard, but even if he mostly handles both guard spots and the occasional small forward, that should still be incredibly valuable.

The 18-year old will need to show a willingness to be more assertive in Miami, which could prove difficult with Brown on the floor as well. However, it’s the thing that will most convince NBA teams of his offensive potential.