2023 NBA Mock Draft 8.0: Spurs win Wembanyama sweepstakes
118. . G, Arkansas. Utah Jazz. Anthony Black. 9. player
The Jazz essentially remake their backcourt with Anthony Black and Kobe Bufkin. Black doesn’t share the traits of your traditional Danny Ainge star guard (Isaiah Thomas, Kyrie Irving, etc.), but he’s the perfect playmaking engine for Will Hardy’s balanced, movement-driven offense.
Utah likes to spread the wealth and get everyone involved. Black is the classic modern combo guard: a jumbo-sized playmaker who processes the game at a high level and who loves to play set-up man. Black can pressure the rim and he’s capable of explosive finishes, but he’s not a prolific self-creator. He’s geared toward elevating teammates.
Black’s limited shooting is the primary hang-up right now. He’s inconsistent from deep and he doesn’t have a pull-up game to speak of. Defenders will sag off and make it difficult for Black to find open lanes to the rim. Utah, for the short term, has enough shooting dynamism to offset Black’s weaknesses. Lauri Markkanen, Jordan Clarkson, and Collin Sexton can help shoulder the load.
At 6-foot-7, Black’s defense is another highlight of his draft profile. He’s rugged at the point of attack and always tuned in off the ball. He makes plays, and Utah already has a terrific young backstop in Walker Kessler to empower Black.
Check out our full scouting report on Anthony Black.