NBA Mock Draft: Who could go No. 1 besides Victor Wembanyama?

1. Scoot Henderson

If anyone is going to leapfrog Wembanyama, Scoot Henderson has the best chance. He’s a 6-foot-2 point guard with a powerful frame and explosive athleticism who has already drawn comparisons to Derrick Rose and Russell Westbrook. Those comparisons are flattering if you use them to think about his potential ceiling, but Henderson is arguably more advanced right now.

Henderson is playing for the G League Ignite team, averaging 18.9 points, 5.8 assists, 4.5 rebounds and 1.3 steals per game, shooting 46.5 percent from the field and 35.7 percent from beyond the arc. He can get to the rim at will and complements his power and speed with a strong handle. He’s an excellent passer and should have no problem functioning as a full-time point guard but he also has the jumper to work as an efficient and high-volume, three-level scorer. His 3-point percentage will benefit from some improved shot selection but he has the touch to be an excellent finisher and he’s already a strong pull-up shooter inside the arc.

Again, Wembanyama is probably going to be the No. 1 pick. But teams like the Magic (with Bol Bol) or Thunder (Chet Holmgren) and others may decide they prefer the backcourt upside of Henderson or the Thompson twins, either trading back or making an unexpected pick at No. 1.

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