2017 NBA Mock Draft 5.0: Malik Monk, OG Anunoby fall
11. Charlotte Hornets select Zach Collins: PF/C – Gonzaga
Zach Collins is a boom-or-bust prospect. He’s an extremely skilled and raw prospect. He didn’t get a lot of time during his freshman year in college, so it’ll take him time to develop. Collins needs to add weight to his frame.
But there aren’t many NBA players that can shoot threes on offense and block shots on defense. These types of players are referred to as unicorns by the NBA community, and they’re extremely valuable. Collins is a long-term project, but could be Charlotte’s center of the future.
12. Detroit Pistons select Donovan Mitchell: SG – Louisville
Donovan Mitchell is also a boom-or-bust prospect that would fit in nicely in Detroit. I worry about his bust potential more than most, but I cannot overlook his high upside potential. Mitchell’s athleticism helps make up for his lack of size.
He should be able use his athleticism to his advantage on the defensive end of the court as a pro. Mitchell is a streaky shooter with the ability to score from all over the court. The Pistons have Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, but he may leave in free agency. Mitchell would be a good long-term replacement for Caldwell-Pope.