NBA Mock Draft 3.0: NY Knicks get franchise star; Blazers find help for Lillard

NBA Draft prospect Paolo Banchero (Rob Kinnan-USA TODAY Sports)
NBA Draft prospect Paolo Banchero (Rob Kinnan-USA TODAY Sports)
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NBA Draft
NBA Draft prospect Paolo Banchero (Rob Kinnan-USA TODAY Sports)

3. Houston Rockets – Paolo Banchero, F, Duke

One of the most well-known prospects in this NBA Draft, mostly because he plays at Duke, it would be a massive surprise if Paolo Banchero is not selected in the top 3 – and there’s still a chance he could be taken No. 1, especially if he puts together a strong NCAA Tournament run.

Banchero is averaging 17 points, nine rebounds, and three assists on 47 percent shooting from the field so far this season for the Blue Devils. He’s putting up professional numbers with professional offensive moves.

As the Rockets continue to compile talent toward a rebuild, Banchero would be an interesting fit next to Christian Wood, who the team elected not to move at the NBA Trade Deadline.