Joel Embiid had broken his foot and also having recurring back problems that have pushed his stock down. People are saying he may slip way down to #10 (paging Michael Jordan and Richard Cho!)

Anyways, with that said I decided to throw out just a quick draft, nothing special.

Updated staff picks:

• 2014 NBA Mock Draft & Analysis by Mitchell
• Post Lottery 2014 NBA Mock by Max H.

My picks below:

1. Cleveland Cavaliers – Andrew Wiggins
Drew Wiggins is the most athletic player in the draft, a crafty defender, and has the potential to be TMac 2.0. The only question is if his offensive game ever sticks. Not sure how he fits with Jack/Irving/Waiters, but two of those three players won’t play 100 more games with this franchise so it doesn’t matter.

2. Milwaukee Bucks – Jabari Parker
Jabari wants to be here, and they want him. I expect something to happen with Larry Sanders/OJ Mayo to clear up some of the odd energy on this team but other than that they’ll be rebuilding again next year.

3. Philadelphia 76ers – Dante Exum
Michael Carter Williams is getting traded. This is the worst kept secret of the draft. The Sixers aren’t winning the 2015 NBA title so it doesn’t do them any favors to keep a slightly above average NBA PG (who’s already 23) when a 19 year old physical freak like Exum is available.

4. Orlando Magic – Aaron Gordon
*SURPRISE PICK* Many people think he’s Baby Shawn Marion which is worthy of this selection on a team that will be rebuilding again in 2015.

5. Utah Jazz – Marcus Smart
What? They can’t select Embiid here because they already have too many big men. A guard is needed.

6. Boston Celtics – Joel Embiid
The Celtics will either keep this pick and trade Rondo, or trade the pick and get a veteran to put with Rondo. If they keep the pick and blow it up why not gamble on Embiid?

7. Los Angeles Lakers – Julius Randle
Another team that probably won’t keep it’s selection. Randle’s game has been described as “limited” but I still like him as a double-double guy once he figures the pro game out.

8. Sacramento Kings – Noah Vonleh
There has been much talk of Sacramento trading this pick because they’ve missed on all the blue chippers. The owner is going to put the pressure on them to compete after seeing how much the Clippers sold for, they have to trade this pick. Vonleh is here for holding purposes. They pick him and auction to the best bidder.

9. Charlotte Hornets – Elfrid Payton
WHA? WHO? This guy is described as the most competitive guy in the draft. He’s even rated higher than Marcus Smart on many boards. The Hornets desperately need a scorer to put with Kemba, and you KNOW how MJ loves competitors. The only other guy I see them taking is McDermott for scoring reasons as well, but then what do you do with McRoberts? They’re too similar. Payton is the pick.

10. Philadelphia 76ers – Gary Harris
Again, rebuilding and probably going to trade MCW.

11. Denver Nuggets – Dario Saric
Out of the race for a blue chipper and just has to roll the dice on an asset. Even if he doesn’t come over the Nuggets can still flip this contract for a veteran to help take the load off the injured Ty Lawson.

12. Orlando Magic – Doug McDermott
Here comes another big man, but a perimeter oriented one, to balance out the Aaron Gordon pick I have above. I think Victor Oladipo gets another season to prove he has the goods at PG and they surround him with bigger guys that can score in different ways.

13. Minnesota Timberwolves – Nik Stauskas
If they trade JJ Barea in the rumored Kevin Love trade then they’ll likely draft a replacement to his bench scoring here.

14. Phoenix Suns – James Young
Young has huge potential and played in a similar tempo at Kentucky. He’ll love playing with Dragic and Bledsoe. Corner threes alllllll day. All day.

Sit down

1. Cleveland Cavaliers (33-49) – Joel Embiid, C, Kansas

The Cleveland Cavaliers are all too familiar with the number one pick. After a shocking selection of Anthony Bennett last year, I think the Cavaliers will look to a big name player. With a solid backcourt between Kyrie Irving and Dion Waiters, I believe the Cavs will attempt to bolster their frontcourt. Joel Embiid is the large bodied athlete that can fill that defensive void. Additionally, with Spencer Hawes becoming a free agent the center position looks like it is Embiid’s for the taking.

2. Bucks (15-67) – Andrew Wiggins, SG/SF, Kansas

The Milwaukee Bucks were hands down the worst team of the 2013-204 season. Therefore, I think the Bucks will go with the best overall player: Andrew Wiggins.  Wiggins is one of – if not – the most athletic draft prospect in this draft. He jumps out of the gym and will be a threat at his prospective position of SG/SF. Especially since starting SG Ramon Sessions will become a free agent; Andrew Wiggins looks to be the perfect fit for the Bucks.

3. Philadelphia 76ers (19-63) – Jabari Parker, SF, Duke

‘Together We Build’ is the motto that the 76ers have embraced throughout this throw away season. The Sixers have been accused of intentionally ‘tanking’ to attain a high lottery pick, but this was denied by the organization. Nevertheless, the 76ers are atop the draft board with the 3^rd overall pick, and there is no other option besides the freshman Duke standout: Jabari Parker. Parker would join the young team as the starting SF, and be a weapon for rookie of the year Michael Carter-Williams. The 76ers are starting to put the pieces of their puzzle together, and Parker will be an essential piece.

4. Orlando Magic (23-59) – Julius Randle, PF, Kentucky

The Magic need an offensive weapon as well as power in the paint. These two needs are right up the alley of the powerful power forward from Kentucky. The Magic ranked 21^st in rebounding, and 25^th in scoring. Randle would provide both points and boards, but I expect some personnel movement because the Magic currently have 4 power forwards on the roster. This is a bold prediction, but I do not think Dante Exum will go here. Rather the Magic will look to a big man.

5. Utah Jazz (25-57) – Dante Exum, PG, International

Dante Exum the mystery man of the 2014 NBA Draft will become a member of the Jazz. Although Trey Burke has performed well as the starting rookie PG, Exum is a valuable option that will only enhance Utah’s backcourt. This 6’6 Aussie has the ability to play both PG and SG, and will excel playing alongside young Trey Burke. With Brandon Rush, Gordon Hayward, and Richard Jefferson all becoming free agents, I think Exum will make an excellent 1 or 2 guard for the Jazz.

6. Boston Celtics (25-57) – Aaron Gordon, PF, Arizona

Aaron Gordon was the standout freshman power forward for the Arizona Wildcats. Gordon is an amazing athlete. Although Gordon has a lean body type, he is extremely strong in the paint averaging 8 rebounds per game for the Wildcats. Meanwhile, Jared Sullinger, the Celtics leading rebounder, averaged 8.1 boards per game in the 2013-2014 season. Gordon will be a dynamic weapon for Rajon Rondo and the rebuilding Celtics.

7. Los Angeles Lakers (27-55) – Noah Vonleh, PF/C, Indiana

The Lakers have a clear weakness in the frontcourt. Vonleh will be a great defensive asset, and will be able to stretch the court with scoring. 11 Lakers will be free agents this summer, which is essentially the organization clearing house. Amongst those 11 players are 2 centers and 2 power forwards. This opening leaves a perfect space for Vonleh to plant himself in the Lakers’ historic organization.

8. Sacramento Kings (28-54) – Marcus Smart, PG, Oklahoma State

The Kings ranked last in the league in assists last season with 18.9 assists per game. Isaiah Thomas, the Kings’ starting PG, who lead the team averaging 6 assists per game, will become a free agent. Marcus Smart will provide a multidimensional improvement to the Kings. Smart can provide points, assists, and steals. With his raw tenacity for the game, I think Marcus Smart will be a great fit for the Kings.

9. Charlotte Hornets (43-39) – Doug McDermott, SF/PF, Creighton

The new look Bobcats… I mean Hornets surprised the NBA by making it into the playoffs. However after analyzing the roster, any knowledgeable NBA fan would admit that Charlotte has a solid roster. With the 9^th pick in the draft, the Hornets will look to get a fundamentally sound prospect that may potentially blossom into a role play, and even a starter. This player being Doug McDermott who is listed as SF, but I think could play a smaller PF for the Bobcats…I mean Hornets.

10. Philadelphia 76ers (23-59) – Gary Harris, SG, Michigan State

Gary Harris is a dynamic 2 guard that has the pedigree to be a tremendous asset to the rebuilding 76ers. Harris is a perimeter shooter, but also has the capability of driving the lane and creating his own shots. This SG averaged 16.7 points per game for the Spartans, and I think he will continue to be a scorer for the 76ers. He might not be a starter first season, but he will certainly be a talented role player.

11. Denver Nuggets (36-46) – P.J. Hairston, SG, D-League

The Nuggets missed the playoffs this season for the first time since 2003. The Nuggets ranked 2^nd in the league in rebounding with 45.4 boards per game, this statistic suggests that the frontcourt is solid. However, the Nuggets were ranked 28^th in points allowed per game, which hints at the Nuggets’ defensive struggles. Hairston has averaged 21 points in the D-league, which proves his success at the next level. P.J. Hairston is an experienced SG/SF that would provide scoring and defensive help for Denver.

12.Orlando Magic (23-59) – Zac LaVine, PG/SG, UCLA

In many mock drafts, the Magic are projected to take Dante Exum at the 4^th spot. However, I see the Magic taking advantage of drafting a big man early and still being able to draft a talented guard. LaVine would be a good fit for the Magic because he can run both PG and SG. He may need a little more polish, but that will only come with experience.

13. Minnesota Timberwolves (40-42) – Dario Saric, SF/PF, International

The Timberwolves have been in the news lately because of trade talk surrounding Kevin Love. Additionally, with Dante Cunningham, Villanova alum, having a couple of arrests under his belt in early April, I think it is clear that the Timberwolves need to address the PF position. Dario Saric would do just that with his ability to defend and score. Saric almost averaged a double-double in international play with 16.2 PPG and 9.2 RPG. Hopefully, this success will translate into the NBA.

14. Phoenix Suns (48-34) – Nick Stauskas, SG, Michigan

The Suns had a tremendous turn around year, and were one game back from making the playoffs as an 8^th seed. The one aspect of the team that needs improvement is assists. The Suns ranked 29^th in the league with 19.1 assists per game. With Eric Bledsoe and P.J. Tucker becoming free agents, the Suns will look to add a dynamic SG with ability to play SF. Stauskas is a skilled guard that is lethal from the three, but also can distribute the ball too.

15. Atlanta Hawks (38-44) – T.J. Warren, SF/PF, N.C. State

The Hawks gave the Pacers all they had in the opening round of the playoffs, but fell short in game 7. The Hawks need a more consistent SF, as well as more rebounding. The ACC player of the year can provide both for the Hawks. Although Warren is criticized for his shorter wingspan and lack of athleticism, Warren has put up the stats to prove he is a solid draft pick. Warren has a deep passion for the game, which is portrayed in his sedulous work ethic.

16. Chicago Bulls (48-34) – Tyler Ennis, PG, Syracuse

The Bulls are centralized around a solid defense. Such attention on defense leads to a pedestrian offense. To improve the offense, the Bulls have to look to the quarterback of the floor: the PG. Derrick Rose is a franchise PG, but his injuries hold him back. With Kirk Hinrich and D.J. Agustin becoming free agents, the Bulls are almost forced to draft a PG. The young guard from Syracuse will provide quality offensive and defensive minutes for the Bulls.

17. Boston Celtics (25-57)  – James Young, SG/SF, Kentucky

Yet again, James Young is another freshman from Kentucky going in the first round of the NBA draft. Young proved to be an asset to the Wildcats when they made a deep run in the NCAA Tournament. The Celtics need a 2 man because Avery Bradley and Jerryd Bayless will become free agents. Additionally, Young has the length and dexterity to play SF too. He will be a great ‘young’ addition to the Celtics’ rebuilding club.

18. Phoenix Suns (48 -34) – Rodney Hood, SF, Duke

Rodney Hood flew under the radar most of the Duke season thanks to Jabari Parker taking most of the limelight. Nonetheless, Hood is a standout draft prospect that has the potential to bring another dimension to the Suns, who are on the verge of being a breakout team. Hood will most likely be a bench/role player, but in a few years Hood could be a full-time role player or spot starter. Not only can Hood score, but also has a knack for finding open teammates.

19. Chicago Bulls (48-34)  – Jusuf Nurkic, C, International

Although the Bulls already have an outstanding rim protector in Joakim Noah, Jusuf Nurkic is essentially a 7 footer that will turn a layup into a floater. With Nazr Mohammed becoming a free agent and Taj Gibson in trade talk, the bulls will need another big man that can defend the rim. Nurkic is big bodied center that possesses both brute strength and gentle finesse, and will hopefully provide both defense and offense for the Bulls.

20. Toronto Raptors (48-34) – Elfrid Payton, PG, Louisiana-Lafayette

In the opening round of the playoffs, the Raptors had an extremely intense series with the Nets. The obvious star of the Raptors is PG – and Villanova alum – Kyrie Lowry, but Lowry’s contract expires this offseason. Although the Raptors will likely re-sign Lowry, there are 3 other PGs that will become free agents. Therefore, Payton will look to be the Raptors’ backup PG, and even role player.

21. Oklahoma City Thunder (59 -23)  – Jerami Grant, SF, Syracuse

Practically the entire Thunder team will be back for the 2014–2015 season, excluding Derek Fisher and Thabo Sefolosha. The Thunder are a standout squad that will be most likely aiming for an NBA Championship. Grant is familiar with playing for a standout team, and aiming for a championship. Grant was an integral part for his Syracuse team, and showed tremendous improvement from his freshman year to his sophomore year. Grant will need to bulk up for the NBA, and he will likely be a backup SF for the Thunder. On a brighter note, there is no better mentor for a rookie SF than Kevin Durant.

22. Memphis Grizzlies (50-32) – Clint Capela, PF/C, International

The Grizzlies took the Thunder into 7 games, which is a testament to the Grizzlies’ immense talent. The aspect of the Grizzlies’ game that hurt them all season long was points per game. Memphis managed to score 96.1 ppg, which ranked them 27^th amongst the league. Capela jumps out of the gym with his athleticism, but lacks knowledge of the game. Nonetheless, Capela’s physical brand of basketball will enable him to find a spot on the Grizzlies physical team.

23. Utah Jazz (25–57) – Adreian Payne, PF, Michigan State

After the departure of Al Jefferson and Paul Millsap, the Jazz soon came to realize how much they miss having a dominant inside game. Drafting Payne would be a step in the right direction to reestablish the frontcourt of the Utah Jazz. Additionally, current starting PF, Marvin Williams contract will expire this offseason, which provides an opening for the Jazz to draft a big man. If the Jazz do not grab a big man at number 5, then they will surely pick a big man with the 23^rd pick.

24. Charlotte Hornets (43-39) – Shabazz Napier, PG, Connecticut

As I’ve previously stated, the Hornets are not a bad team. With Kemba Walker at the helm, the Hornets look to have a strong season next year. It would not be a coincidence if the Hornets look to draft another outstanding PG from Uconn. Shabazz Napier is the foil of Kemba Walker because both led their teams to NCAA championships, then declared for the draft. I wouldn’t be surprised if the Hornets, who need another PG because both Luke Ridnour and Jannero Pargo will be free agents, draft Napier. Why not let one successful husky take another husky under his wing? Also, it doesn’t hurt that Shabazz Napier is an extremely talented guard.

25. Houston Rockets (54-28) – Kyle Anderson, SF/PF, UCLA

It is surprising to see Anderson fall to the 25^th pick because he is a very talented and versatile player. However, Anderson’s athleticism has been deemed pedestrian, which has hindered his draft stock. The Rockets are a talented bunch with the preset goal for next season of winning the NBA championship. The starting five for the rockets are solid and the team should look to add depth to their bench. Anderson will be just the guy that will deliver the extra bench depth, and in some years maybe more.

26. Miami Heat (54-28)  – Jordan Clarkson, PG/SG, Missouri

The Heat will be re-signing and signing in the offseason, but surely some departures will occur. Ray Allen will most likely retire, and Toney Douglas and Mario Chalmers contracts will expire. The parting of a hall of famer and potential parting of two PGs leaves the Heat looking to add depth to their backcourt. Clarkson has the ability to play both PG and SG, which makes him a viable option at the 26^th pick in the draft. Although the Heat’s rebounding game needs major improvement, I believe the backcourt issue will remain top priority because the Heat are looking for a 3-peat and lackluster rebounding has not stopped them yet.

27. Phoenix Suns (48-34)  – Glen Robinson III, SF, Michigan

The Suns have the most picks in the first round, and I think they will overlap some positions with their selections. It’d be great if the two Michigan men, Stuaskas and Robinson, were both able to bring their talent to Phoenix. Robinson’s ability to play above the rim makes him an attractive final first round pick for the Suns. Robinson is defensively sound and offensively motivated in his gameplay. The Suns need an energy guy, and Robinson can be that defensive explosion.

28. Los Angeles Clippers (57-25)  – Kristaps Porzingis, C, International

Underneath all the media attention on the Clippers, lies an organization that has tremendous potential to make a championship run next season. The only weakness on the team — besides the senile former owner – is the lack of depth at center. The duo of Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan are phenomenal as big men, but backup center Ryan Hollins is becoming a free agent. Leaving the Clippers to look for another backup, this is where Porzingis comes in. This sturdy 7 footer from Latvia will provide blocks and boards for the Clippers. Also, he will be a solid backup.

29. Oklahoma City Thunder(59-23)  – Vasilije Micic, PG, International

The Thunder are essentially sound at all aspects of the game. With Derek Fisher probably retiring this offseason, Russell Westbrook will be the only true PG. Although Reggie Jackson runs PG from time to time, Westbrook — who has gone down to injury before– will be left alone. Therefore, the Thunder must look to snag a PG in the draft, and I believe Micic will be a reliable backup to Westbrook. Much like Westbrook, Micic is a tall PG that is not afraid to get physical. This unbounded mentality will be much appreciated on the mighty Thunder squad.

30. San Antonio Spurs (62-20) – Mitch McGary, C, Michigan

The Spurs are the classic fundamental team of the NBA. Coach Popovich instills fundamental in his players, and looks for guys with great attitudes to learn from the hall of fame coach. McGary from Michigan will be a perfect fit for San Antonio. Matt Bonner and Boris Diaw are becoming free agents, leaving the Spurs in search of frontcourt depth. McGary is a proven player who has the potential for greatness in the future. In Popovich’s system, McGary seems as though he could blossom into a firm backup, and eventually a role player.

Without further adieu let’s get into it:

1. Guard Play is at an All Time High

From Kemba Walker, to John Wall, to Damien Lillard, Russell Westbrook, etc. the future of the NBA is in the back court. In the future having just one of these guys isn’t going to be enough. Teams like the Clippers have tandems of All Star Caliber guards they can play together. Phoenix, who missed the playoffs, exceeded expectations behind the combination of Goran Dragic and Eric Bledsoe.

Teams will be salivating to get their hands on Andrew Wiggins for this reason. Wiggins struggled a bit during the beginning of the season but got on his game towards the stretch. Placing Wiggins on a team with maybe a… Trey Burke or Victor Oladipo suddenly makes things interesting.

Though I believe Oklahoma City will win this NBA Championship, I have no doubt they traded away certain long term dominance when they parted with James Harden. The days of teams playing with 3 defensive guys and two scorers is all but done. Looking at you, Grizzlies.

2. There is Still a Premium on Big Men Who Can Score

Speaking of the Grizzlies, there will always be a premium on the big guys. Whether just or not, guys like Marc Gasol, big Al Jefferson, and Marcin Gortat make eight figure salaries.

We’ve seen in 2009 what happens if you place a few shooters around a great big man. The Orlando Magic made the NBA finals that year with average talent around Dwight Howard. Those type of teams could still dominate today with the lack of GREAT centers in the NBA.

Teams love the potential of Joel Embiid, but the “smart money” is on the left handed post player, Julius Randle. Randle will produce immediately for a young struggling club. It may be years before Embiid becomes a dominant offensive player professionally.

3. The Talent Gap is Closed

This is a theory I began to develop during the NCAA tournament. I noticed that every game was extremely close, much more competitive than I could ever remember. In 2014 when teams like Mercer beat the Duke’s of the world it no longer feels like an upset. With the culture of AAU ball and summer leagues the average players are much closer in talent level than ever.

In the league we are seeing Atlanta put the hyped Indiana Pacers on alert with a game 1 win AT Indy. The NBA’s median talent level is not as wide as you think. The reason Kobe and Lebron are Kobe and Lebron is because they are THAT MUCH BETTER than everyone else.

Draft wise this means teams should hold off on drafting known names from big schools. Guys like the Harrison twins from Kentucky, Duke’s Rodney Hood, etc. are not worth top lottery picks when you can get an equally talented player such as OSU’s Marcus Smart or Dario Saric with a pick in the teens. If a team comes calling with a trade full of future picks to overdraft a Harrison twin or comparable, then by all means teams should trade out and rob them blind.

Guys like Andrew Wiggins (Kansas), Jabari Parker (Duke), and Julius Randle (Kentucky) way exceeded expectations after their first college games. However where are the NBA comparisons? Where are the scouting reports?

I got you covered:

Andrew Wiggins, Guard, Kansas
What he does well: Explodes towards the hoop with athleticism. Elite jumper and a smooth scorer. Can also handle the rock under pressure.

What he needs work on: Needs to work on strength. Will get pushed around in the NBA due to slight frame. Big guards like Chauncey Billups will post him up deep in the paint.

Andrew Wiggins Best Case NBA Comparison: Kobe Bryant, Guard, Lakers
Andrew Wiggins Worst Case NBA Comparison: Desmond Mason, Guard, Bucks/Sonics (Retired)

Jabari Parker, Forward, Duke
What he does well: Smooth scorer. Gets to the rim using his length. Smooth jumper from 20 feet out. Willing rebounder.

What he needs work on: Needs to work on passing. Can he make the right pass out of the double team?

Jabari Parker Best Case NBA Comparison: Kevin Durant, Forwawrd, Thunder
Jabari Parker Worst Case NBA Comparison: Danny Manning, Forward, Suns (Retired)

Julius Randle, Forward, Kentucky
What he does well: NBA size. Plays deep in the post. Wants to play with his back to the basket. Doesn’t settle for jumpers, mauls his way to the paint.

What he needs work on: Needs to work on motor. Can he stay motivated if he’s not getting his touches?

Julius Randle Best Case NBA Comparison: Zach Randolph, Forward, Grizzlies
Julius Randle Worst Case NBA Comparison: Anthony Bennett, Forward, Cavailers

With that said young Mr. Wiggins will be taking his talents to the campus of…..

BREAKING: Andrew Wiggins, No. 1 player in the class of 2013, announces his commitment to Kansas. Kansas has the No. 2 class in the country.

— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) May 14, 2013

….Kansas.

According to RealGM, if Wiggins were available in this years’ draft he would be the #1 overall selection… that’s right, over Nerlens Noel.

“I’ve heard 20 teams say they’d take him right now and start him,”  said one NBA scout, speaking on the condition of anonymity.

Wiggins has been heralded as the best amateur prospect since LeBron James.

Read more: http://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/227166/NBA-Scout-Wiggins-Would-Be-Top-Pick-If-Eligible