(#21) Los Angeles Clippers
Selection: Keon Johnson (Tennessee)
Grade: D
Although folks have been consistently bullish on Johnson since the start of the college season, it's unclear as to why. He's a quality athlete but simply has glaring deficiencies within his game to warrant such a lofty draft position. While there isn't any who stands as an obvious pick here, it'll be interesting to see if the Clippers can get value out of Johnson.
(#22) Indiana Pacers
Selection: Isaiah Jackson (Indiana)
Grade: C
Initially, this pick seemed genius for the Lakers. Upon remembering the pick was actually traded, the grade goes down significantly. Make no mistake, Jackson is going to be a very useful player. The Pacers must envision him as a third big or potential replacement for Myles Turner, but neither route seems overly advantageous. Jackson would've been amazing for a team currently chasing a title, but he should still ultimately be a nice rotation-level piece.
(#23) Houston Rockets
Selection: Usman Gusman (Real Madrid)
Grade: C
Despite giving the Rockets a positive grade for their initial swings for the fences, Gusman isn't quite as sexy on paper. Sure, he possesses enticing physical tools and obvious upside as a versatile defender with toughness, athleticism, and shot-making potential. However, his stiff hips and lack of ball-handling leave some room for concern. If nothing else, Gusman will have ample opportunity to work out the kinks.
(#24) Houston Rockets
Selection: Josh Christopher (Arizona State)
Grade: D
Again, it's difficult to reward Houston for another extremely risky pick'this time with Christopher. Formerly a darling amongst high school media outlets, a lot of the sheen has worn off with the high-flying wing prospect. Christopher is still a powerful athlete and physical specimen, but there are glaring weaknesses worth noting. Maybe the idea of pairing two West Coast guys in Green and Christopher will be positive for the Rockets' culture.
(#25) New York Knicks
Selection: Quentin Grimes (Houston)
Grade: C
After bouncing back at Houston, Grimes reestablishes himself as a draftable prospect'something that seemed like a near-impossibility during his time at Kansas. Despite improvements, it's unclear if he could really move the needle for an NBA roster. However, shooting and secondary playmaking should make him a capable contributor in the right situation.
(#26) Denver Nuggets
Selection: Bones Hyland (VCU)
Grade: C+
The VCU product represents another guy who seems to align with the type of players Denver tends to pursue. If anything, Hyland feels safe. It's not a homerun pick, but solid nonetheless.
(#27) Brooklyn Nets
Selection: Cam Thomas (LSU)
Grade: B
Arguably the best situation for Thomas, Brooklyn should definitely be able to utilize the pure bucket-getter sooner than later. He won't be the guy we know from high school or college, but Thomas is a proven scorer on every single level. The Nets will need to reign him slightly, but there is only upside in drafting a potent scorer like him.
(#28) Philadelphia 76ers
Selection: Jaden Springer
Grade: C
Despite some inconsistencies at Tennessee, the 76ers add some backcourt depth by taking Springer. Given everything we've come to know through his high school years, folks should be willing to bet that Springer will eventually figure it out.
(#29) Brooklyn Nets
Selection: Day'ron Sharpe (UNC)
Grade: D
The Nets clearly want guys who are able to contribute right away, but folks are understandably torn on whether Sharpe fits that notion. Either way, he provides insurance for Nic Claxton.
(#30) Memphis Grizzlies (via Utah)
Selection: Santi Aldama (Loyola)
Grade: C+
After showcasing improved production across the board between his freshman and sophomore seasons (including becoming 15% more consistent from beyond the arc), Aldama actually finds his way into the first round. There's optimism surrounding his combination of size, skill, and various advanced statistics.
Notable Second-Rounders:
(#31) Washington Wizards- Isaiah Todd (G-League Ignite)
(#38) Chicago Bulls- Ayo Dosunmu (Illinois)
(#55) Oklahoma City Thunder- Aaron Wiggins (Maryland)