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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Jan 21, 2017; Lexington, KY, USA; Kentucky Wildcats forward Edrice Bam Adebayo (3) dunks the ball against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the second half at Rupp Arena. Kentucky defeated South Carolina 85-69. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 21, 2017; Lexington, KY, USA; Kentucky Wildcats forward Edrice Bam Adebayo (3) dunks the ball against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the second half at Rupp Arena. Kentucky defeated South Carolina 85-69. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports

18. Indianapolis Pacers- OG Anunoby, SF, Indiana

This mock draft has the Pacers trading Paul George to the Los Angles Lakers for the No. 2 overall pick. They used that pick on Lonzo Ball which means they are set at point guard. OG Anunoby would be another long-term move.

He’s only available at this point in the draft because of his knee injury. It’s an injury that could keep him out the entire season.

19. Atlanta Hawks- T.J. Leaf, PF, UCLA

The Atlanta Hawks are a franchise in flux and are facing losing start Paul Millsap to free agency. His loss would be huge and create an opening at power forward. TJ Leaf is a talented offensive player capable of stretching the floor.

His shooting ability would fit in nicely along side Dwight Howard and replace some of what Millsap brought to the table.

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20. *Projected Trade* New York Knicks (via Por)- Bam Adebayo, PF/C, Kentucky

The New York Knicks are one of several teams talking with the Portland Trailblazers about acquiring one of their 1st round picks. I projected a trade here because it seems to make the sense for both teams.

New York could add a physically tough player like Bam Adebayo to play alongside Kristaps Porzingis. Adebayo could do the dirty work like defend and rebound.

21. Oklahoma City Thunder- Ike Anigbogu, C, UCLA

The Thunder are in a unique situation as they wait to see if Russell Westbrook sticks around. They need to focus on using all their resources to keeping him happy. Ike Anigbogu isn’t that type of player right now, but could be down the line.

He’s a raw interior player who can contribute early with his rebounding and defense.