2018 NBA Mock Draft: What’s in store for the second round?
100. . G. Duke. Trevon Duval. 50. player
Duval was projected to be in the lottery early in the season after joining Duke’s superhero rotation, but he was underwhelming, even losing his spot in the starting lineup at one point in the year. Because of an inconsistent jump shot and a long adjustment period finding room to operate within Duke’s big lineup, Duval was ineffective for much of the season. If he were to fall all the way to 50, the Pacers would be spoiled.
By the end of the year, the potential was obvious. Even with playmakers Grayson Allen and Wendell Carter Jr. on the court, the offense ran most smoothly focused around Duval’s drive-and-kick style. The freshman posted over two assists per turnover, with an assist percentage over 30, and a steal percentage near 3.0. He would be a fantastic option at the point of attack on both ends for the Pacers next to Victor Oladipo.
With their own pick in each round, the Pacers have an opportunity to add legitimate talent around Oladipo, Domantas Sabonis and Myles Turner. With a high-usage star like Oladipo in place, Indiana simply needs to focus on defense and shooting to fill the roster out. Duval’s shot is a work in progress, ending at .290 on the year thanks to an inconsistent release, but his defense is solid and he’s willing to take open shots.
The Pacers need someone like Duval opposite Oladipo.