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 19, 2017; Greenville, SC, USA; Duke Blue Devils guard Frank Jackson (15) drives to the basket against South Carolina Gamecocks guard PJ Dozier (15) in the second round of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 19, 2017; Greenville, SC, USA; Duke Blue Devils guard Frank Jackson (15) drives to the basket against South Carolina Gamecocks guard PJ Dozier (15) in the second round of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports

22. Brooklyn Nets- D.J. Wilson, PF, Michigan

The Brooklyn Nets can’t think about what could’ve been if they still had the No. 1 pick. Instead, they need to focus on finding the best available talent. A versatile forward like D.J. Wilson would add another dimension to their offense.

He’s a raw player with the upside to grow into something special. These are the type of players the Nets need to target.

23. Toronto Raptors- Frank Jackson, PG, Duke

The Raptors face the very real possibility of losing star point guard Kyle Lowry via free agency. That would open a huge hole on the roster and force some changes. Frank Jackson is a two-way player who can defend, score and distribute.

He wouldn’t be an immediate replacement for Lowry, but in time could develop.

24. Utah Jazz- Jawun Evans, PG, Oklahoma State

George Hill is a free agent and could find a new home. This would create a need for the Utah Jazz who are looking to build off of last year’s success. Jawun Evans might be undersized, but he plays with a spark.

His scoring ability would help the Jazz replace some of what Hill brought to the table. They may also look to use this pick on a euro-stash player.

25. Orlando Magic- Jarrett Allen, C, Texas

Big, tall and athletic players are always in demand in the NBA. Jarrett Allen fits that mold, but isn’t ready to contribute early in his career. His defense might be ready but the offensive part of his game is a mess.