18. T.J. Warren, SF, North Carolina State, 6’8″, 235 lbs
Warren used an impressive sophomore season to springboard into the draft. Leading NC State in scoring for two straight seasons, Warren doubled his scoring average while still shooting over 50% from the field. As a scorer Warren settles for his jumper a bit too much and must improve his accuracy but is smart scorer who knows how to use his body to create opportunities.
19. Kyle Anderson, SF, UCLA, 6’9″, 235 lbs
There are teams that believe Anderson might be a lottery pick but I tend to think he is a mid-first rounder. No doubt Anderson’s size creates a unique matchup opportunity for team,s his lack of elite athleticism is what holds him back from being a top-10 pick. Anderson improved as a shooter this season but still hangs his hat as being a facilitator, and its hard to see some team in the teens passing on him come draft night.
20. Clint Capela, PF, Switzerland, 6’11”, 220 lbs
Capela is not your typical European big man. With his size, speed, and athleticism, Capela draws some comparisons to Serge Ibaka — especially as a defender and rim protector. In time as his body matures, Capela should be able to play both big spots, but for now is mostly seen as a raw PF.
21. P.J. Hairston, SG, Texas Legends, 6’5″, 220 lbs
Hairston had a disappointing finish to his collegiate career, but as a prospect has teams salivating over his physical brand of play, ability to finish, and deep range. A key with Hairston will be his conditioning and his off the court makeup, but certainly there will be teams willing to roll the dice on him.
22. Rodney Hood, SF, Duke, 6’8″, 215 lbs
More than one NBA scout has told me how much they love Hood and his game. It’s hard not to agree when watching the tape of Hood because you see a smooth scoring wing with excellent length and a great stroke. While Hood will probably not become an All-Sta,r plenty of teams need a player with his skills on the offensive end who can simply catch and shoot.
23. K.J. McDaniels, SG, Clemson, 6’6″, 210 lbs
McDaniels is prospect who capitalized on a strong junior season. The thing that stands out about McDaniels is his tenacious brand of defense and ability to lock down on opponents. As athletic as McDaniels is, it’s easy to see why he translates to a plus defender, and if he can improve as a shooter could be a Danny Green-type of wing.
24. Cleanthony Early, SF, Wichita State, 6’8″, 215 lbs
Early is NBA-ready. At 23, he has the strength to step in and contribute on either end as a rookie. Early is the type of prospect that does a lot of things but is not elite at anything. However, teams have taken notice of Early’s performance in the NCAA Tournament and his improvement as a shooter this season.