2021 NBA Mock Draft 5.0 leading up to franchise changing night

This has been a popular selection in mocks to the point where some have deemed it “inevitable” that Wagner ends up in Sacramento. While the Kings could easily look to add a center due to their lack of rim protection, Wagner has a ton to like given his billing as a modern-day forward that can do it all.

Wagner can guard every position except point guard on the defensive end, but he pairs that with more of a handle than most forwards his size. Even though Marvin Bagley III has plenty left in the tank, the selection of Wagner could speed up his exit from Northern California, as the German Wolverine’s two-way potential is too enticing.

The backcourt of Tyrese Haliburton and De’Aaron Fox will keep Sacramento competitive, and the addition of Wagner as a small-ball power forward or wing player who can help with spacing due to his shooting ability might be the secret ingredient that finally snaps the postseason drought.

Memphis already has one of the best power forwards in the game in Jaren Jackson Jr. to go along with a star guard in Ja Morant. Players like Xavier Tillman and Desmond Bane prove this front office can surround Morant with talent, and they might add another solid youngster with one of the best scorers in the draft in Bouknight.

Bouknight’s stock has been rising over the last few weeks, so Memphis being able to snatch him up with a pick that they acquired from the Pelicans in the Jonas Valanciunas deal would be a tremendous victory for Zach Kleiman and a team that is looking to add even more perimeter scoring.

Bouknight can create off of the dribble, make all sorts of contested shots, and hold his own on the defensive end. Morant and Dillon Brooks will be the starting backcourt, but Bouknight could be some instant juice off of the bench with the potential to start if the Grizzlies are pleased by his development.