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2018 NBA Mock Draft: Promises, promises

By Brendon Kleen

LAS VEGAS, NV - MARCH 10: Deandre Ayton
LAS VEGAS, NV - MARCH 10: Deandre Ayton /
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BOISE, ID – MARCH 15: Keita Bates-Diop #33 of the Ohio State Buckeyes reacts against the South Dakota State Jackrabbits during the first round of the 2018 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at Taco Bell Arena on March 15, 2018 in Boise, Idaho. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
BOISE, ID – MARCH 15: Keita Bates-Diop #33 of the Ohio State Buckeyes reacts against the South Dakota State Jackrabbits during the first round of the 2018 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at Taco Bell Arena on March 15, 2018 in Boise, Idaho. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /

Keita Bates-Diop. 28. player. 41. . F. Ohio State

If rumors from the last week or so are to be believed, Bates-Diop is at risk of falling out of the top 30 completely, losing the salary and security implications of being a first-round pick. Considering that could end with him falling to the Warriors, one can’t imagine Bates-Diop should be all that worried.

The redshirt senior played incredibly well in his final college season, rising to become the fulcrum of a surprising Ohio State offense that made noise in the NCAA tournament. He was an efficient, dynamic scorer who understood his game and made use of his body like a veteran. Golden State’s need for instant contributors could lead them to Bates-Diop.

Look no further than the Omri Casspi signing last summer. The Warriors, in need of a wing who could slide up a position in smaller lineups, found Casspi in the bargain bin and were lauded immediately. The problem became Casspi not filling the need he was brought in to address. The Israeli forward did not shoot.

Bates-Diop fits the mold of a Jordan Bell type in terms of his readiness to contribute instantly. At age 22, he should be able to guard his man and make shots. The Warriors, restricted by the luxury tax as they are, need young guys who can play.

The senior shot 35 percent from NBA 3-range in college, according to he Stepien, and could grow into a more balanced offensive player in time.

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