Mock Draft Compilation 06.19

We are now a week closer to the NBA Draft. There is excitement in the air as it approaches. The Jazz have continued bringing in their platoon of prospects. When it’s all said and done, Utah may very well have had a majority of those drafted on 06.27 in Salt Lake City.

First off, the Utah Jazz announced the details for next week’s NBA Draft party at EnergySolutions Arena. This is a fun event, one that has been a tradition for many Jazz fans. I was there when Utah selected Greg Ostertag. My father and I remember hearing the reaction as Gordon Hayward was picked (for the record, we did not boo; we were just shocked). And as the lockout loomed, we recall the excitement of having Enes Kanter and Alec Burks in Jazz uniforms. Come out and enjoy the evening. I’m sure some of the Salt City Hoops crew will be in the house.

Naturally the mock drafts are fluid, changing daily. Here is our effort to keep you apprised, with this week’s updates:

ESPN.com Mock Draft 5.0 (Insider), updated 06.18

Chad Ford took everyone by surprise, predicting that Brazilian big man Lucas Nogueira would be the Jazz’s choice at #14. In all the mocks, this is the first that he has been linked to Utah. While it would not be shock for the Jazz to select a big man with their first pick (best player available, right?), the fact that Nogueira has mostly be tabbed as a late first-round pick is what makes this interesting. Ford mentions that, while point guard is naturally the priority, Utah has not been enamored by the guys who may be available come #14: Shane Larkin and Dennis Schroeder. He also says that the “Jazz have been high” on Nogueira for sometime, with his Eurocamp performance helping his cause. The 7’0″, 218 lb center is about to turn 21. He is lithe and athletic. The Jazz have quite an international scouting crew, so who knows? He could be a sleeper.

Schroeder is Ford’s guess for #21. If the German guard’s workout was less-than-impressive, it is his upside that would make him a nice selection at #21. Ford also suggests that Utah has interest in Shabazz Muhammad, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Isaiah Canaan, and Kelly Olynyk.

Draft Express mock draft, updated 06.19

As of 06.18, DE had the Jazz addressing the backcourt, with Larkin at #14 and Jamaal Franklin at #21. Whatever the case may be come the 27th, it will be very interesting how head coach Tyrone Corbin moves forward with his guards. Does he feel Gordon Hayward is better suited as a shooting guard or a small forward? What role does Utah see Alec Burks playing? The Draft could help shed some light on these questions.

As of 06.19, however, things changed. They now have Mason Plumlee at #14 and Dennis Schroeder at #21. Plumlee is interesting, but they have Utah opting for him ahead of Muhammad, Larkin, and Sergey Karasev.

Fortunately, on the day of his update came out, Draft Express’ Jonathan Givony was on David Locke’s podcast. He offers some nice insights on the point guards in the Draft. While he doesn’t feel Larkin will be an NBA starter, he thinks he could be a solid rotation player. He also discusses Schroeder’s background, style, and upside.

Givony had guard Ray McCallum coming to the Jazz at #46. He could be a nice find late in the second-round, as he is steady. He’s another solid rebounding guard.

Hoopshype.com Mock Draft, updated 06.18

Aran Smith prognosticates Larkin and Antetokounmpo. He gives some high praise for Larkin, comparing his leadership to Trey Burke’s. For the Greek forward, it’s looked as an investment move, as it may take time (three seasons or so) for him to be able to contribute on the NBA level. Smith also suggests that the Jazz could leave over in Europe. That could be the luxury of having two first-round picks, but on the other hand, given the number of roster vacancies, is that something the Jazz would want? Interestingly enough, Norueiga moved way up on this one, too.

NBAdraft.net Mock Draft, updated 06.18

More votes for Larkin and Antetokounmpo (if he is the newest Jazzman, I promise to learn how to spell his name without looking). In the second round, they go with Pierre Jackson.

Hoopsworld Mock Draft, Consensus Ver 6.0

This is a different version, as the HW writers, Alex Kennedy, Steve Kyler, Yannis Koutroupis, and Joel Bingham each give their picks. Three of them see Utah matching up with Schroder. Two predict Kelly Olynyk.

Sporting News Mock Draft, updated 06.17

Tuesday saw Michael Carter-Williams workout for the Jazz. Here, Sean Deveney says MCW falls to Utah in a “dream scenario.” His size and passing certainly intrigue, but Walt Perrin also said he needs to work on his shooting and strength. At #21, they have Olynyk Utah-bound.

CBS Sports Mock Draft, updated 06.19

Matt Moore’s update has the Jazz front office going with Larkin and shooting guard Reggie Bullock. Bullock is interesting. He has good size (6’7″), is a nice shooter (43% 3s), and has a solid all-around game (6.6 rpg, 2.8 apg, 1.2 spg).

There you have it. As always, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section. What would be your dream scenario? Who do you want the Jazz to avoid at all costs? Will any Draft day deals be made?