NBA Mock Draft: Raptors trade into top 3; Heat land star in blockbuster move

NBA Draft prospect Victor Wembanyama (Lucas Peltier-USA TODAY Sports)
NBA Draft prospect Victor Wembanyama (Lucas Peltier-USA TODAY Sports)
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NBA Draft
NBA Draft prospect Jarace Walker (Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports)

7. Indiana Pacers – Jarace Walker, F, Houston

It has become widely known that the Indiana Pacers have been looking for an answer at the power forward position since the NBA Trade Deadline. While the Pacers could look to make a move for John Collins or even Kyle Kuzma or Kristaps Porzingis in free agency, it would be almost foolish for them not to just take the chance on Jarace Walker if he’s available for the taking when they go on the clock with the No. 7 pick.

There are many that have shied away from Walker as a high-ceiling prospect considering he wasn’t a “star” player during his freshman season at Houston. However, I’d argue that he’s exactly what you want from a selection late in the top 10. While he may not hold much high-end “star power,” he’s also somewhat of a safe pick in the top 10. You know what you’re going to get from Walker on the defensive end of the floor. What can truly be the wildcard for him is his unlocked offensive ability.

Walke would be a good gamble for the Pacers to make with the No. 7 pick. He could end up being a really good player next to Myles Turner.