2021 NBA Mock Draft 4.0: Detroit Pistons land the draft’s biggest prize

The Warriors did end up getting the Minnesota Timberwolves’ top-three protected pick (more on that later) so they have the luxury of making two lottery selections in this draft as they look to reload for another title run. Assuming a trade doesn’t materialize they’ll likely be hoping for players who can augment what their stars do without taking much off the table. Barnes certainly fits the bill, although the inevitable Draymond Green comparisons he’ll get are probably a bridge too far.

At 6-foot-9, Barnes essentially functioned as Florida State’s point guard last season and his ball-handling and special passing ability made it work. But he has the size and strength to defend 4s and bigger 3s and the quickness and length to stay in front of smaller wings at the next level. That will let him slot in as a versatile hybrid role player, filling different niches at both ends depending on the matchups. His shooting is very much a work in progress but the Warriors hopefully won’t need him to score points next year, just help on defense and keep the ball moving.