Although the Timberwolves had the best odds, the Cleveland Cavaliers won the NBA lottery, jumping up to #1, using the Clippers ping pong ball which they obtained in a trade.
The Timberwolves will pick #2 while the Jazz move up to #3.
Cleveland will also have their own first round pick, #4 overall, giving them a chance to rebuild their organization after the departure of LeGone James.
It is hard to imagine the Cavs passing on Kyrie Irving at #1 but anything is possible. If they go with Williams they could land a PG in Brandon Knight at #4. If they go with Irving #1 look for them to take a big man, maybe Enes Kanter or Donatas Motiejunas at #4. It’s been a tough year for the franchise but now the excitement is back!
The Jazz, picking #3 and #12, also have two lottery picks thanks to the trade with the Nets. They should be able to reload their franchise in a big way. They’ve had success picking a point guard at #3 and I wouldn’t be surprised to see them take Brandon Knight. Another sleeper pick is Motiejunas, a talented seven footer from Lithuania.
The updated mock draft is now live!