NBA Mock Draft 2016: 76ers, Lakers Get Their Guy; Suns Reaching?

May 17, 2016; New York, NY, USA; General view during the NBA draft lottery at New York Hilton Midtown. The Philadelphia 76ers received the first overall pick in the 2016 draft. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
May 17, 2016; New York, NY, USA; General view during the NBA draft lottery at New York Hilton Midtown. The Philadelphia 76ers received the first overall pick in the 2016 draft. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
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Mar 27, 2015; Syracuse, NY, USA; Michigan State Spartans guard Denzel Valentine (45) shoots the ball against Oklahoma Sooners forward Ryan Spangler (00) during the first half in the semifinals of the east regional of the 2015 NCAA Tournament at Carrier Dome. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 27, 2015; Syracuse, NY, USA; Michigan State Spartans guard Denzel Valentine (45) shoots the ball against Oklahoma Sooners forward Ryan Spangler (00) during the first half in the semifinals of the east regional of the 2015 NCAA Tournament at Carrier Dome. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports

18. Detroit Pistons

Pick: Denzel Valentine, G, Michigan State 

At this point in the draft, this is where we see teams take a few chances with their picks. For a team like the Detroit Pistons, who will continue to get better on their young players progressing alone, they could be one home run to being a true player next season.

In Detroit’s case, I believe taking a shot on a player like Denzel Valentine could be huge. Valentine has drawn comparisons to Draymond Green, because of his versatility to play multiple positions, and play them effectively.

Valentine was one of the most productive players in the collegiate ranks a year ago and has all the tools to be a great leader at the next level. Detroit could use a player like Valentine.

Next: Denver Nuggets