2018 NBA Mock Draft: If need were all that mattered
2. player. 67. . G/F. Real Madrid. Luka Doncic
Comfort is one of the most important factors international players discuss when they make the leap to the NBA, and it’s tough to imagine a more comfortable environment for Doncic than Sacramento.
From Giannis Antetokounmpo to Dirk Nowitzki, young players coming from overseas must be surrounded by helpful coworkers and a team that complements their skill. Doncic has roots in both Slovenia and Serbia, making the Vlade Divac factor enormous for the Kings. Divac and assistant general manager Peja Stojakovic were each born in Serbia, and therefore likely have access to more information from those watching Doncic the past two years than any other team.
Ultimately, it won’t matter where Doncic prefers to go, but more importantly, landing in a comfortable situation could help maximize his growth in the NBA.
The Kings’ roster also needs Doncic, a playmaker to balance De’Aaron Fox’s weaknesses and provide a cornerstone on the wing. Draft Doncic, and suddenly Sacramento is looking at a core that includes Fox, Justin Jackson, Doncic, Buddy Hield and Bogdan Bogdanovic, a versatile unit that could lead an efficient offense as soon as next season.