2018 NBA Mock Draft: The standings are set

Hunter is another guy, like Kevin Knox, whose most interesting moments this summer will come at the combine, when we can stop oohing and aahing about his length and get some firm numbers to analyze. He is not quite as long or tall as the freakiest players in the league, but he makes up for it with feel.

Within Virginia’s clickety-clack offense, Hunter’s intelligence shone through. He moved the ball, attacked closeouts and finished with strength. It’s incredible when you consider how many fun, athletic highlights we got from him this year despite the Cavaliers’ lethargic offensive style. He made the most of transition opportunities and individual advantages against bench players — imagine what he’ll do within the quicker, freer NBA game.

The biggest value in Hunter’s game will be his defense, and that’s what Denver needs to take a chance on. It’s tough to find a perfect partner for Nikola Jokic, because he needs the floor spaced around him on offense and a rim protector next to him on defense. Hunter has unicorn potential in that regard, making him a logical fit to join the Nuggets and save Jokic from attack by opposing scorers.

Hunter may not rise this high, but Denver should look long and hard at him.