2020 NBA Draft mock 5.0: First 31 picks in early October

2020 NBA Draft mock #9: Washington Wizards- Onyeka Okongwu

The Wizards could go in multiple different directions here depending on their feelings on two players. Bradley Beal is the team’s centerpiece, but John Wall should return from injury in 2021. Do the Wizards think he can stay healthy and return to his All-Star form? How much do they believe in Thomas Bryant? The 23-year-old played extremely well during the restart, but is he locked in long-term as the starter?

Bryant’s weakness is his defense. The Wizards finished 29th in defensive rating this season and need someone to anchor their D in the paint. Onyeka Okongwu may be the best option in the 2020 NBA Draft. He is already a strong rebounder and rim protector. Scouts believe in the 19-year-old’s potential as a defensive linchpin. Okongwu may struggle a bit early on, but his prime could be special.

The 6’9 big man will be a vertical spacer and lob target on the offensive end. He dominated the paint in his lone season at USC including averaging 16.2 points and 3.3 offensive rebounds per game while shooting 61.6 percent from the field.

The Wizards add Onyeka Okongwu in hopes he can grow into a defensive anchor that propels them back to the playoffs.

Next: No. 10