From all appearances, the Suns will take Arizona center Deandre Ayton with the top pick on Thursday. However, there’s quite a bit of intrigue in terms of what the Kings will do at No. 2.
For months, Euro guard Luka Doncic was considered the likely selection at that spot. His stock has seemingly fallen this month, as Shams Charania of Yahoo Sports reported Monday that Doncic could still be on the board at No. 4.
The Kings could use help in a lot of areas, of course, and they’re not chock full of dynamic playmakers. They were tied for 24th in the league in assists per game last season. But they are apparently committed to last year’s lottery pick, De’Aaron Fox, as their main ballhandler.
Instead, they’re in the market for big man who can stretch the defense. Duke’s Marvin Bagley III has emerged as the leading candidate to fill that need. He’s a near-lock to be their selection, according to the Dallas Morning News’ Eddie Sefko (Twitter link).
The 6’11” Bagley put up big numbers in his lone college season, averaging 21.0 PPG and 11.1 RPG. He didn’t take a lot of threes but he knocked down 39.7% of the ones he attempted.
Michigan State’s Jaren Jackson, who reportedly had a very impressive workout for the Suns, is another enticing prospect. Texas center Mohamed Bamba has zoomed up many draft boards and is currently ranked No. 3 overall by ESPN’s Jonathan Givony. Michael Porter Jr., despite his health risks, could be the wildcard in the equation.
It’s no lock the Kings will even hold onto the pick. GM Vlade Divac is reportedly willing to deal the pick in order to acquire additional assets. When Kawhi Leonard made public last week his desire to be dealt from the Spurs, the Kings made the list of potential landings spots. They are reportedly willing to give up the pick as part of a package to land the star forward.
This brings us to our question of the day: Assuming the Suns draft Ayton with the top pick, which player should the Kings select at No. 2? Or should the Kings deal the pick for additional draft choices and/or players?
Please take to the comments section to weigh in on this topic. We look forward to what you have to say.
Never rely on a Duke player to become a star. After Grant Hill (and I’ll accept Kyrie) there’s nothing.
JJ Reddick hasn’t been a star but he’s been a very good NBA player. Tatum is on his way to stardom.
How many Duke players have been “on their way to stardom?” I remember people saying that about Luol Deng and Jahlil Okafor. Heck, lots of people were criticizing Minnesota for taking KAT over Okafor and even more were criticizing the Lakers for taking Russell over him.
Are you comparing Tatum to Jahlil Okafor? That is literally insane
6’11”…
No need to be risky with Porter or making Doncic a 3. Even Kawhi is a risk. Bagwell will be like a Chris Webber with 3pt range which, could be hard to control… I recall Webber fritzing out at GSW. But it should be fun with Fox and fresh 2Gs.
Would that be Jeff Bagwell or former wrestler Buff Bagwell?
Whichever, as long as Bagger Vance is coaching.
Bagley
“From all appearances…” Time to call for that mulligan.
Trade the pick (and filler) for an established star player in the league. Throughout their history, this organization can’t seem to draft well to save their life. Hit up Washington and if they can’t afford to keep their core together because they’re going after Cousins, go for either Beal or Porter. If anyone is on the table in Toronto because they don’t have a pick, go for DeRosen. Check in with Minny about Wiggins. Ask Portland about CJ. This team needs another Chris Webber type player to take them to the next level.
At least DeRozan is a star, but Beal, OPJ & CJ ain’t stars, Wiggins probably will & he is the only one of this that make sense, as is young & rising, but how can you swap a #2 potentially picking a franchise player like Bagley or MPJ for an OPJ or any of the others that you suggested man that should do it to fire the entire FO. They need this pick & to start building a young team, looking to compete hopefully for the playoffs in 3-5 years.
Good lord I hope the Kings trade the 2nd pick for Kawhi. That would be hilariously shortsighted