15. Indiana Pacers: Kenneth Faried – PF – Morehead State – Senior: Markieff Morris would be the optimal choice at this spot for the Pacers, who need more strength up front. However, with him off of the board, the NCAA’s leader in rebounds is a viable option as well. He reminds me of a better version of Renaldo Balkman with a larger offensive skill set, so he has the potential to fit in nicely next to Indiana’s Roy Hibbert.
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16. Philadelphia 76ers: Tristan Thompson – PF – Texas – Freshman: I don’t really know what the Sixers need, and I don’t think they do either. They have their future guard in Jrue Holiday, they have two very good wings in Iguodala and last year’s No. 2, Evan Turner. Their front court is a motley crew comprised of youth and experience: Elton Brand, Thaddeus Young, Spencer Hawes and Marreese Speights. So, unless they trade Iguodala prior to the draft, their aren’t too many wholes they need filling right now, they just need to get older and more experienced. Thompson is somewhat of a replica of Young, however, he is a better big man than Young is – which apparently is what the Sixers are looking for this summer.
17. New York Knicks: Josh Selby – PG – Kansas – Freshman: Right now, the 13-25 range is the likely destination for Selby; however, don’t be surprised to see this kid rise rapidly up the boards prior to draft night. He’s lighting quick, has great athleticism and has the potential to develop great point guard skills if placed in the right offense with the right teachings. He’s got all the tools one needs to succeed in a point guard’s league, so he’s got major room to grow over then next month.
18. Washington Wizards (from Hawks): Klay Thompson – SG – Washington State – Junior: Who better to pair John Wall with than arguably the best shooter in college basketball? No not, Jimmer Fredette, but Klay Thompson – who was Washington State’s leading scorer this season. Athletically, he doesn’t come close to Wall, but for Wall to be an effective PG, the Wizards need to surround him with shooters – and Thompson will unquestionably provide that presence in Washington.
19. Charlotte Bobcats (from Hornets): Trey Thompkins – PF – Georgia – Junior
20. Minnesota Timberwolves (from Grizzlies): Jordan Hamilton – SG/SF – Texas – Sophomore: The Wolves are loaded at nearly every position, unfortunately, they have no star power outside of Kevin Love, nor do they have much talent. Hamilton is a big wing who likes to score, which is what Minnesota needs – someone who wants the ball in their hands and can lead a charge. He probably won’t become anything too special, but given what’s being provided in this draft, the Wolves have to take what they can get.
Next: Picks 21-25
