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

Jaquez is another Spurs-type player. Experienced, versatile, and willing to be an effective player on the offensive end without dominating the ball.

Even when Morant comes back from suspension, Memphis could use one more guard. Miles is undersized, but he can score at a level up there with any point guard in this class.

Livingston was a poor offensive player at Kentucky, but he is such a unique from a physical perspective that Atlanta would do well to snatch him up and see what he’s made of.

Strawther was lighting it up from deep last season, so much so that the shooting-needy Lakers would be foolish if they went elsewhere with him on the board.

Walsh was a dominant defender at Arkansas, but he never seemed to get into a groove on offense. The Clippers will try to find out how much talent on that end still needs to be mined.

Yet another Razorback who gets picked this year, Council fits in well with Cleveland due to his electric play on the perimeter and the Cavs’ need for more scoring.

Timme’s measurables are not that of an NBA player, but a team like OKC has enough picks to burn to where they can see if his gaudy numbers will translate to the pros.

NBA Mock Draft: Will Emoni Bates work out?

Bates never put it all together in college, but the Nets will likely see his talent as a ball-handling big man and take a shot in the dark. It’s not crazy to say he has All-Star potential.

This pick may get rerouted to Washington, but the Suns can use this to replenish their frontcourt depth behind (or without) Deandre Ayton with a shot-stuffer like Castleton.

Phillips is likely going to spend most of this season in the G League, but Minnesota has enough star power to where they can be patient with an elite athlete like this.

Mike Brown and Jordi Fernandez have developed a great system for getting high-end guard play. With a big frame and wet jumper, Lundy could be an ideal addition.

Thsiebwe can rebound as well as anyone in this draft, but that is all he can do right now. The Pacers will give him every opportunity needed to develop a second standout trait.

The Grizzlies have had success with forwards that have this similar build. Think of the experienced Gueye as a lesser version of Memphis stud Brandon Clarke.

Shepherd’s 3-point shot is what will get him paid in the pros, and Washington could roll the dice on him at this point with the content of stashing him in the G League.

The draft ends with a tremendous success story, as Johnson dominated on the court just a few months after collapsing. The Bucks will make him a pro player.