2023 NBA Mock Draft: Mavericks go defense, Pistons surprise at 5

22. Brooklyn Nets acquire Noah Clowney

The Nets have back-to-back picks at 21 and 22, and the freedom to go in any direction. They have depth on the wing, and Nicolas Claxton is locked in as their starting center. Could Brooklyn add a point guard and power forward to enhance the role players on their roster?

Clowney was not even viewed as a one-and-done candidate coming out of high school, but playing a key role for the number one overall seed in the NCAA Tournament coupled with his size and athletic ability has scouts drooling. He is still 18 years old, and he could be a two-way standout at the next level.

Clowney might quickly become a stretch four with defensive versatility. The teenager has a 7’2 wingspan and the athletic ability to step out on the perimeter on switches. He must improve his jumper and add some mass, but the 6’10 big man is oozing with potential.

The Brooklyn Nets need a star player after the departures of Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving, but they have zero incentive to tank because they traded their picks to the Rockets. Brooklyn should be shooting for upside with one or both of their first-round picks this year, and Noah Clowney is the perfect option.