2017 NBA Mock Draft: A Football Guy’s Attempt

Feb 4, 2017; Seattle, WA, USA; Washington Huskies guard Markelle Fultz (20) shoots the ball as UCLA Bruins guard Aaron Holiday (3) defends during the second half at Alaska Airlines Arena at Hec Edmundson Pavilion. UCLA won 107-66. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports

With the First Pick is a football website, but we do follow other sports. This is why I’m taking a shot at a 2017 NBA Mock Draft.

The 2017 NBA Draft is this Thursday and we’ve already seen plenty of fireworks. It’s rare that we see the No. 1 overall pick traded which has happened in a deal between the Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers. This trade has shaken up everyone’s 2017 NBA Mock Draft.

1. Philadelphia 76ers (via Bos/Brook)- Markelle Fultz, PG, Washington

The 76ers make an aggressive move that promises to land them the top player in the draft.

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Markelle Fultz is an explosive athlete who put up impressive numbers in college. His combination of shooting and passing skills make him a versatile prospect.

Philadelphia has an extremely talented young core with Fultz, Joel Embiid, Ben Simmons, Dari Saric and others.

2. *Projected Trade* Indiana Pacers (via LAL)- Lonzo Ball, PG, UCLA

The Los Angeles Lakers know that Paul George wants to play for them, but that doesn’t mean he can’t change his mind. They would be taking a major risk by holding their assets and not making a trade now.

A team like the Los Angeles Clippers could jump into the mix and convince George to sign a long-term deal. It just makes too much sense for the Lakers and Pacers to get something worked out.

Indiana doesn’t want to lose George, but he has made it clear that he will not be returning to the team. Landing a high-upside prospect like Lonzo Ball would serve as a nice backup option.