Here is one mock NBA draft, right on the heels of Tuesday night’s lottery in which Cleveland won the top pick, Milwaukee snagged second and the Sixers got the third, which figures to be Jabari Parker, and 10th, which this projection is Gary Harris (above)
3. Jabari Parker Small Forward / 6-8 / Duke / Freshman19.3 ppg, 8.8 rpg
Despite an unimpressive tournament performance, Parker is a lock for 3. He may lack the long-term potential of a Joel Embiid or the freakish athleticism of an Andrew Wiggins, but his offensive polish and maturity makes him a highly regarded prospect. He’s both polished and versatile and understands what it means to be a professional having grown up around the game with his father a former standout, Sonny Parker. Parker is a much better athlete than he appears at first glance. He’s also sure to blow away the competition during team interviews, as he’s a mature, high-character guy. Parker lacks great foot speed and some scouts are worried about his ability to defend on the perimeter.
10. Gary Harris Shooting Guard / 6-4 / Michigan State / Sophomore17.1 ppg, 4.2 rpg
Harris played a little sporadic and there is some thought that he could fall into the late lottery because of it. Despite being just a sophomore, he plays with unusual maturity and poise. Though a tad undersized at 6-foot-4, he has solid length, athleticism and great quickness. He also shows a textbook shooting form and range from deep. He didn’t have the type of season shooting the ball as many anticipate, though he did finish the season strong and play well in the tournament.
