2021 NBA Mock Draft 5.0 leading up to franchise changing night

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - MARCH 30: Evan Mobley #4 of the USC Trojans handles the ball against Anton Watson #22 and Jalen Suggs #1 of the Gonzaga Bulldogs. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - MARCH 30: Evan Mobley #4 of the USC Trojans handles the ball against Anton Watson #22 and Jalen Suggs #1 of the Gonzaga Bulldogs. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)
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Tre Mann, NBA Mock Draft, NBA Draft
LEXINGTON, KY – FEBRUARY 27: Tre Mann #1 of the Florida Gators (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images)

The Knicks are benefitting from the Kristaps Porzingis deal by using the Mavericks’ first-round pick to select one of the better international players in this class. On a team that preaches defense and versatility, Garuba would be an intriguing developmental player to add to the mix.

Garuba is pretty raw, as his lack of go-to moves on the offensive end could force him to spend some time in the G League before he is ready for prime time. If he can improve his face-up game and pair that with what he can do around the rim, the Knicks will have a backup power forward for the next half-decade, at the very least.

Los Angeles will need to get LeBron James and Anthony Davis a new running mate this offseason. Mann has sprouted up over the last two years, meaning that an electric scorer and shooter capable of becoming a primary playmaker with the ball in his hands now sports a robust, nearly 6-5 frame.

Mann’s lack of great defense, due in part to his average athletic ability, will make it tough for some teams to be sold on him. The Lakers, however, have enough defense to go around. With Dennis Schroder on the market, the Lakers can draft a replacement in Mann with legit All-Star potential.