2023 NBA Mock Draft: Big names go early in game-changing year

Jackson is a big old gamble on raw potential, as he was a bit inconsistent during his lone season in college at South Carolina. Portland is in dire need of frontcourt help, irrespective of if the front office decides to keep Lillard or move on as part of a bigger rebuild.

The Kings have a strong enough core on the offensive end to where they can afford to let a player like Miller germinate on the bench and slowly improve. A 6-10 forward with leaping ability and versatility, Miller is a player worth developing for a win-now outfit like Sacramento.

The son of Wolverines coach and former NBA great Juwan Howard, Jett might be the Dillon Brooks replacement this team needs. With or without Ja Morant in the lineup, Howard’s shooting and tantalizing frame might be enough to woo Memphis into making this pick.

Even with the emergence of Bennedict Mathurin and Buddy Hield on the wing, Indiana might need one more standout wing that can push Aaron Nesmith. Lewis profiles as a better prospect than former Waves sing Kessler Edwards, as he is in another level as a scorer.

The Hornets may have passed on Henderson at the top of the draft, but one more guard wouldn’t be the worst thing in the world. Sasser is a tiny guard with an itchy trigger finger, but when his shot falls, he can be a deadly shooter and generator of offense.

Rupert is a prime draft and stash candidate, as the Jazz have three first-round picks, and Rupert’s production was mid, at best, last season. He’s still worth developing, however, as his wingspan and feel for the game both stand out. Utah will eventually reap the benefits.

Bailey was one of the late risers who went from second-round coin flip to potential first-rounder. Bailey can take charge on the offensive end and make some very difficult shots, which could be all that it takes to sell Denver on a potential high-end Bones Hyland replacement, Jamal Murray backup, and Nikola Jokic running mate.

Clowney is an archetypical small ball center, and the only reason he is available at this point is the fact Brandon Miller took so much shine off him. Ivica Zubac will be a solid center, but Los Angeles would do well to add one more solid young player in the frontcourt.