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2018 NBA Mock Draft: What’s in store for the second round?

By Brendon Kleen

CHICAGO, IL - MAY 17: Grayson Allen #23 speaks with reporters during Day One of the NBA Draft Combine at Quest MultiSport Complex on May 17, 2018 in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
CHICAGO, IL - MAY 17: Grayson Allen #23 speaks with reporters during Day One of the NBA Draft Combine at Quest MultiSport Complex on May 17, 2018 in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) /
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SAN ANTONIO, TX – APRIL 02: Omari Spellman #14 of the Villanova Wildcats drives to the basket against the Michigan Wolverines during the first half of the 2018 NCAA Men’s Final Four National Championship game at the Alamodome on April 2, 2018 in San Antonio, Texas. (Photo by Brett Wilhelm/NCAA Photos via Getty Images)
SAN ANTONIO, TX – APRIL 02: Omari Spellman #14 of the Villanova Wildcats drives to the basket against the Michigan Wolverines during the first half of the 2018 NCAA Men’s Final Four National Championship game at the Alamodome on April 2, 2018 in San Antonio, Texas. (Photo by Brett Wilhelm/NCAA Photos via Getty Images) /

player. 73. . F/C. Villanova. Omari Spellman. 43

Spellman turned some eyes during this year’s NCAA tournament, looking every bit the part of a 3-and-D big man. The Nuggets are known for their creativity when it comes to lineups and schemes, so pairing Spellman with Nikola Jokic could work for them.

The freshman came out of anonymity to become an anchor for Villanova on both ends and win a national championship in his first college season. Spellman shot 43 percent from 3 and blocked over two shots per 40 minutes. His quick trigger from the perimeter exists in hilarious opposition to his barricading blocks, and somehow those skills became vital to the identity of the Wildcats. Jay Wright’s system works best with a stretch big (think Kris Jenkins in 2016), and Spellman fit that role beautifully.

Denver is locked in with Paul Millsap for the next two seasons, after which point they will have to consider the best type of big man to pair with Jokic. Maybe they keep the unique combo big Millsap, or turn the position over to someone younger. If Spellman can run around with smaller players on defense, his offensive game (shoot when open and scoop offensive rebounds) would translate nicely onto Denver’s roster.

The Nuggets also have their own first-round pick, which will give them an opportunity to swipe a versatile wing or combo guard. With this pick, they should go for a big man to develop opposite Jokic.