NBA Mock Draft 3.0: Lakers jump into the top 3; De’Andre Hunter enters top 5

After acquiring Kristaps Porzingis just before the NBA Trade Deadline, there really isn’t a way the Dallas Mavericks can top that during the offseason. That was their major move. However, the development of Luka Doncic makes their immediate future all the more interesting.

With the 4th pick, adding a backcourt player to grow next to Doncic and Kristaps would be a great way to start – no offense to Tim Hardaway Jr., who is a solid young player, but he doesn’t have any star potential. Jarrett Culver fits the mold, as he’s a versatile guard with good size at 6-foot-6. He still may be a bit raw around the edges as an overall prospect, but landing with one of the best coaches in the NBA would be a great situation for him.

Landing in Dallas too, where Culver won’t be asked to start from day 1, would also be a huge plus. He could play behind THJ for a season or two, which could help him grow into his potential too. A trio of Culver, Doncic and Porzingis all of a sudden could be one of the best young cores in the Western Conference.