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
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
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Mar 17, 2017; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Kentucky Wildcats guard Malik Monk (5) smiles during the first half in the first round of the 2017 NCAA Tournament against the Northern Kentucky Norse at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 17, 2017; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Kentucky Wildcats guard Malik Monk (5) smiles during the first half in the first round of the 2017 NCAA Tournament against the Northern Kentucky Norse at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

10. Sacramento Kings (via NO)- Harry Giles, PF, Duke

The Kings have some options with their second 1st round pick. They could take the safe route or gamble on the oft-injured Harry Giles. His knee problems are a cause for concern, but he is arguably the most talented player in this draft when healthy.

Sacramento knows they will never be a top free-agent destination and need to hit homeruns with their draft picks.

11. Charlotte Hornets- Malik Monk, SG, Kentucky

Malik Monk’s shooting ability means he’s in play anywhere past the No. 4 pick. There just aren’t many prospects who feature his range and upside as a shooter. He brings extra potential because  he’s also an elite athlete.

The reasons he might slip is because he’s streaky as a shooter and a little undersized.

12. Detroit Pistons- Dennis Smith Jr., PG, NC State

This would represent the best player available approach for the Detroit Pistons. Dennis Smith Jr. is an elite athlete who has a knack for scoring. He is a true combo guard who can put points on the board and also distribute.

There’s talk that the Pistons are looking to move this pick. If someone with Smith’s talent is still available that goal should be pretty easy.

13. Denver Nuggets- Zack Collins, PF/C, Gonzaga

The Denver Nuggets have one of the deeper rosters in the NBA and land another young talent here. Collins is a extremely versatile player who can defend, working in the paint and hit three pointers.

This type of versatile from a big-man is in high demand. The fact Collins came off the bench in Gonzaga will help him transition to that role in the NBA.