NBA Mock Draft 2.0: Knicks, Bulls jump into top 3; LaMelo Ball to Wizards

NBA Draft Memphis Tigers James Wiseman (Photo by Steve Dykes/Getty Images)
NBA Draft Memphis Tigers James Wiseman (Photo by Steve Dykes/Getty Images)
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NBA Draft
NBA Draft prospect Vernon Carey Jr. (Photo by Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images)

14. Portland Trail Blazers: Vernon Carey Jr., F/C, Duke

This might be a bit of a reach, but I can’t help but be intrigued by Vernon Carey Jr. And perhaps the Portland Trail Blazers will be too. Even though Carey isn’t necessarily a big-name prospect, he’s certainly a player that has shown the ability to be an effective player at the next level.

Carey averaged 18 points, nine rebounds, and nearly two blocks per game during his freshman season at Duke, on 58 percent shooting from the field and 38 percent shooting from 3-point range (only on 0.7 3-point attempts per game). If nothing else, that 3-point percentage is an interesting number to keep an eye on.

There are real concerns about Carey certainly, but his offensive presence is enough to warrant a top 20 pick in the 2020 NBA Draft. Should the Blazers look to add to their frontcourt, Vernon Carey Jr. would be a solid addition.