2017 NBA Draft Lottery Mock Draft 2.0

By Isaac Harris

May 17, 2017

Feb 26, 2017; Pullman, WA, USA; Washington Huskies guard Markelle Fultz (20) looks on form the bench during a game against the Washington State Cougars during the second half at Friel Court at Beasley Coliseum. The Cougars won 79-71. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports /

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March 18, 2017; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Arizona Wildcats forward Lauri Markkanen (10) reacts against the Saint Mary’s Gaels during the second half in the second round of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at Vivint Smart Home Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports /

. . PF. Lauri Markkanen. 7. 86

ISAAC: This was one of the hardest picks for me in our mock draft.

First off, I really believe that Minnesota will try to trade this pick before June comes. They are in a win now mode with a youthful roster and Thibs is needing a veteran to help stabilize the roster.

Second, if they do select a player, I believe it will be a player that will be ready to play on day one of the NBA season.

For that reason, I lean towards Lauri Markkanen out of Arizona.

Stats wise, Markkanen is considered the greatest shooting big man to ever come out of college basketball. Standing at 7’0″ tall and a sweet shooting stroke, Markkanen has unfairly drawn comparisons to a young Dirk Nowitzki.

In Minnesota, one of their biggest weaknesses last season was shooting from behind the arc. Markkanen would immediately step in and provide an upgrade on that end of the floor. His fit alongside of Karl Anthony Towns would be near perfect as he could spread the floor out and give Minnesota a weapon from three.

He might not be defensive minded like Thibs likes, but they need outside shooting more than extra defense at the moment.

Next: New York