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2017 NBA Draft: Instant reaction and grades from the first round

By Michael Saenz

Jun 22, 2017; Brooklyn, NY, USA; General view of the stage before the 2017 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 22, 2017; Brooklyn, NY, USA; General view of the stage before the 2017 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 23, 2017; Kansas City, MO, USA; Purdue Boilermakers forward Caleb Swanigan (50) shoots as Kansas Jayhawks guard Josh Jackson (11) defends during the second half in the semifinals of the midwest Regional of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at Sprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 23, 2017; Kansas City, MO, USA; Purdue Boilermakers forward Caleb Swanigan (50) shoots as Kansas Jayhawks guard Josh Jackson (11) defends during the second half in the semifinals of the midwest Regional of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at Sprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports /

26. Portland Trail Blazers (from Cavs) – Caleb Swanigan, F, Purdue

The Portland Trail Blazers traded the No. 15 and 20 pick in exchange for Zach Collins at No. 10, essentially. With No. 26, they add another big man that can move in Caleb Swanigan.

Swanigan is probably one of the most interesting prospects in this draft. He even drew a few comparisons to Draymond Green in the weeks leading up to the NBA Draft. At 6-foot-8, you can see why. He was the Big 10 player of the year, and was one of the most versatile players in the conference.

The issue will him is defense. Can he, being undersized, guard bigger power forwards?

Grade: B