2018 NBA Draft: Instant reaction and grades from the first round; 60 picks

2018 NBA Draft: Instant reaction and grades from the first round; all 60 picks

TUCSON, AZ - DECEMBER 09: Deandre Ayton #13 of the Arizona Wildcats reacts after scoring against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the first half of the college basketball game at McKale Center on December 9, 2017 in Tucson, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

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Instant reaction and draft grades for all 30 picks as the 2018 NBA Draft unfolds

The 2018 NBA Draft is finally here. As the festivities get underway, we will track every pick and give some instant reaction. In addition to all the instant reaction that we’ll be providing you with, we also have an NBA Live Draft Rumor and Trade Tracker going on here.

Keep it here for all of your NBA Draft analysis.

1. Phoenix Suns – Deandre Ayton, F/C, Arizona

Deandre Ayton is a physical specimen that has the ability to to change the state of any franchise. During his freshman season at Arizona, Ayton averaged 20 points and 10 rebounds. He’s exactly what the Suns need at the center position. He’s going to fit right into what the Suns are putting together as a young core.

The one question revolving around Ayton is his defensive mindset. At times, it seemed as if he took plays off on that end of the floor – but perhaps that had more to do with the fact that he was carrying Arizona’s offense than his ability to read and run defenses.

In addition to his lackluster (at times) defense, Ayton still needs to prove that he can hit a consistent jumper.

However, the Suns appear to have another big building piece on their hand. The young duo of Ayton and Devin Booker will give Phoenix a great step in their road to redemption. As of note, the Suns also have the 16th pick in the 2018 NBA Draft (barring a trade).

Grade: A