2018 NBA Mock Draft: Deandre Ayton could revitalize the Phoenix Suns’ offense
As we ramp up toward the conference tournaments in early March, we are becoming more familiar with this year’s draft prospects. Here is what we’ve learned, in the latest edition of our 2018 NBA mock draft.
The order for this mock draft is based upon 538’s CARM-Elo projections as of Feb. 19. For each pick, team needs are taken into consideration, as well as fit.
I see no reason why Hawks coach Mike Budenholzer will play a non-shooting big any time soon. Porter could be the guy who provides the other requisite big man skills that make his shooting an advantage rather than an experiment.
The freshman big is shooting 34 percent from distance this season, filling his role very nicely for a surprising Tigers squad. Against Ole Miss on Tuesday night, Porter shot 3-of-5 from deep and scored 17 points. Returning to the bench got Porter back into his early-season groove, and though he hasn’t touched 20 points this season, he is good for consistent scoring production every night.
Using speed and strength to offset his shooting ability, Porter is able to overcome nearly any matchup. He will have to become a better rim protector to play the five in the NBA, but the Hawks are a team that always seems to get more out of limited defenders.